DATE DUE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AT AMHERST SB 21 M48 A22 1854 hQ>^ /e&i REPORTS COMMITTEES FOR 1854, Jiis5at|ii5ctte P0rliciili«nil ^Qdt% WITH THK SCHEDULE OF PEIZES 1855. BOSTON: PRINTED BY BUTTON AND WENTWOllTH, No. 37. CoNGRKSS SiKKET. 1855. ^9s REPORTS COMMITTEES FOE 1854, Hssadjitsdts |f oilkntoral ^m% WITH THE SCHEDULE OF PRIZES 1855. BOSTON: PRINTED BY BUTTON AND "WENTWORTH, No. 37, Congress Street, 1855. MSB 854/57-59 REPORTS. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON GARDENS, Awarding Premiums for 1854. The Committee on Gardens respectfully Report that they have attended to the duty assigned to them hy examining all the Grounds to which they were invited agreeably to the rules of tlie Society. Owing to the extreme drought, during the summer, every place visited by your Committee appeared more or less to disadvantage — but still they can- not very well over-rate the high state of cultivation and general fine ap- pearance of the Grounds and Graperies of Nahum Stetson, Esq., of Bridge- water. The premises of Mr. Stetson including the buildings contains about two acres, in which the Committee found 108 grape vines, of the choicest varieties, in the grape-houses ; 207 standard and dwarf pear trees ; 33 peach trees ; 14 cherry trees ; also some plum, apricot and nectarine trees, to which may be added a choice collection of all the small fruits, and a good collection of flowering shrubs, roses, herbaceous plants, &c. The great quan- tity of water on the premises, brought a considerable distance by the power of an hydraulic ram, enables Mr. Stetson to give such a liberal supply of water to every part that it is almost impossible for his Garden to suf- fer materially from drought. The vines, trees, plants, indeed every thing on the premises of Mr. Stetson, was in the highest state of cultivation, and was very satisfactory to your Committee. Your Committee visited tlie Fruit Garden of Captain W. R. Austin, con- taining about two acres, one half acre of which is occupied by buildings : in the grounds were upwards of 600 trees — about 500 of which are dwarf pear trees. I'he trees generally were loaded with fine specimens of fruit, and, taken as a whole, your Committee believe no cultivator in the State could exhibit so much fine fruit on the like number of trees of the same age and size Your Committee consider Mr. Austin's grounds as a model Fruit Garden. The Garden of Mr. Parker Barnes, of Dorchester, had suffered very much from the continued drought, and the foliage of his roses much more from the slugs ; his phloxes and pansies were among the best specimens. Mr. Barnes' collection of shrubs, roses and herbaceous plants is quite exten- sive, and if they had been seen under favorable circumstances would have shown to much advantage. The Garden and Grounds of Mr. T. P. Chandler, of Brookline, so much improved under the direction of Mr. R. Morris Copeland, Landscape Gar- dener, was examined by your Committee, but as the grounds were not fin- ished we forbear going into details. We trust Mr. Copeland will furnish a plan and a description of the grounds for publication. After a hasty visit to our friend Joseph Breck, Esq., and his son-in-law Mr. W. C. Strong, we proceeded to the extensive grounds of Hon. J. Wiley Edmands, of Newton. These grounds have been tastefully laid out and planted under the plans and supervision of Mr. Copeland. Your Committee close their Report with the following award of prizes and gratuities. PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED. To Nahum Stetson, Esq., of Bridgewater, for the most economically managed, best cultivated, and most neatly kept Garden, a piece of plate valued at twenty-five dollars, .... $25 00 For the second best, to T. P. Chandler, of Brookline, fifteen dollars, 15 00 For the most economically managed, and best cultivated Fruit Gar- den, to Captain W. R. Austin, of Dorchester, twenty-five dollars, 25 00 To Mr. Parker Barnes, of Dorchester, a gratuity of ten dollars, 10 00 Amount of prizes awarded, ..... $75 00 For the Committee, Saml. Walker, Chairman, REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FLOWERS, Awarding Premiums for 1854. The amount allowed by the Society to be appropriated by your Commit- tee was seven hundred dollars. Of this sum, three hundred and thirty-two dollars have been awarded in premiums, and two hundred and forty-eight dollars in gratuities — making a total of five hundred and eighty dollars ; leaving a balance of one hundred and twenty dollars unappropriated. The season has been an unusual one in many respects. In the first place, in the early part of the season, particularly in the month of May, it was cold and Avet, and vegetation was so backward that the opening of the Hall was delayed a fortnight. The cold wet spring was succeeded by a remark- ably dry summer. The drought was so severe as almost to ruin floral pro- ductions, which would otherwise have been oiFered for premiums. This may account for the small amount awarded in premiums. A great effort was made to induce contributors to bring in flowers, plants and decorations, to give interest to the great exhibition under the Pavilion, on the Common ; it was necessary, therefore, to expend a larger amount in gratuities than usual. The following premiums and gratuities have been awarded during the season : — PREMIUMS AWARDED DURING THE SEASON. Greenhouse Plants. — For the best collection, to M. P. Wilder, $15 00 Fuchsias. — For the best six varieties, to Evers & Bock, . 6 00 For the second best, to M. P. Wilder, . . . 4 00 Pelargoniums. — Gratuity equal to second prem., to M. P. Wilder, C 00 Cut Flowers. — For the best display, to James Nugent, . 6 00 For the second best, to A. Bowditch, . . . 5 00 For the third best, to Winship & Co., . . . 4 00 For the fourth best, to John Kenrick, . . . 2 00 Hawthorns. — For the best display, to Winship & Co., . . 3 00 For the second best, to John A. Kenrick, . . . 2 00 Azaleas. — For the best display, to Winship & Co., . . 6 00 For the second best, to Evers & Bock, . . . 4 00 For the third best, to John A. Kenrick, . . . 3 00 Shrubby Pj:onies. — For the best six varieties, to M. P. Wilder, 5 00 Herbaceous Pa:oNiES. — For the best ten varieties, to M. P. Wilder, 5 00 For the second best, to A. Bowditch, , . . 4 00 Roses. — Class I. — Hardy Roses. For the best thirty distinct vari- eties, to M. P. Wilder, . . . . . 8 00 For the second best, to Winship & Co., . . . 6 00 Amount carried forward, $94 00 Amount brouglit forward, .... Class III. — Hardy Perpetual Roses. For the best ten varieties, to A. Bowditch, .... For the second best, to M, P. Wilder, For the third best, to James Nugent, Prairie Roses. — For the best display, to Winship & Co., For the second best, to J. Nugent, . For the third best, to A. Bowditch, . Carnations and Picotee Pinks. — For the best ten varieties, to C. F. Chaplin, .... For the second best, to Evers & Bock, For the third best, to J. Nugent, Double Balsams. — For the best display, to J. Nugent, Phloxes. — For the best ten distinct late varieties, to A. Bowditch For the second best, to E. M. Richards, For the third best, to J. Nugent, German Asters. — For the best display, to J. Nugent, For the second best, to W. Blake, . For the third best, to P. Barnes, Dahlias. — For the best specimen bloom, to C. Copeland, For the best single bloom of scarlet, tipped, crimson and rosy purple, $1 each, to J. Nugent, For the best shaded and light purple, to P. Barnes, . For the best white, dark purple, shaded and variegated, to C Copeland, .... Flowering Shrubs. — For the best display through the season to Winship & Co., For the second best, to John A. Kenrick, . Bouquets. — For the best display through the season, to J. Nugent, For the second best, to E. M. Richards, Herbaceous Perennials. — For the best display through the season, to Winship & Co., For the second best, to A. Bowditch, For the third best, to- J. Nugent, Annuals. — For the best display through the season, to J. Nugent, For the second best, to B. V. French, For the third best, to M. & F. Burr, #94 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 4 00 2 00 4 00 8 00 6 00 6 00 5 00 8 00 6 00 4 00 8 00 G 00 4 00 premiums awarded at the annual exhibition. Vase Bouquets. — For the best pair, suitable for the Bradlee vases, to Evers & Bock, . . . . . 10 00 For the second best, to J. Nugent, . . . . G 00 For the best pair of bouquets for the Society's vases, to Win- ship &, Co., . . . . . . 10 00 Amount carried forward, $254 00 Amount brought forward, .... Parlor Bouquets. — For the best, to M. P. Wilder, For the second best, to Evers & Bock, For the third best, to J. Nugent, .... For the fourth best, to Winship &. Co., Pot Plants. — For the best display of not less than twenty pots, to J. P. Gushing, ..... For the second best, to T. Page, .... For the third best, to A. Bowditch, For the fourth best, to M. P. Wilder, Coxcombs. — For the best six pots, to J. Kelly, . Cut Flowers. — For the best display, to Messrs. Burr, . For the second best, to J. Nugent, For the third best, to Winship & Co., For the fourth best, to A. Bowditch, $•254 00 8 00 G 00 5 00 3 00 12 00 10 00 8 00 5 00 3 00 6 00 5 00 4 00 3 00 GRATUITIES AWARDED AT THE ANNUAL EXHIBITION. Pot Plants.— To Winship & Co., 8 00 ; to Evers & Bock, 5 00 ; to Geo. W. Collamore, 2 00 ; to Mrs. Goreby, 1 00 ; to M. B. Williams, for thirty pots asters, 8 00 ; to M. P. Wilder, 5 00 ; to J. Mason, 1 00, . . . . . 30 00 Floral Designs. — Mrs. Wm. Kenrick, 5 00 ; to Miss Russell, 2 00 ; to W. C. Strong, 7 00 ; to do. 1 00 ; to Miss Fanny Wright, Dedham, 5 00 ; to Carter & Lincoln, 6 00 ; to Miss Mary M. Kenrick, 3 00 ; to A. Bowditch, 8 00, . . 37 00 Bouquets.— To W. E. Carter, 2 00 ; to C. S. Holbrook, 2 00 ; to Messrs. Burr, 4 00 ; to J. Morris, 5 00 ; to A. G. Read, 2 00, 15 00 Cut Flowers. — To Joseph Breck & Son, 8 00; to C. Copeland, 4 00 ; to Jona. French, 2 00 ; to T. Page, 4 00 ; to Miss Tay- lor, 1 00 ; to W. J. Underwood, 2 00, . . .2100 Additional. — To Messrs. Stone & Co., 1 00; to Miss Kenrick, 1 00; to Hovey & Co., 2 00, . . . . 4 00 gratuities awarded during the season. To Hovey & Co. for camellias, To P. Barnes, for plants in March, To a. Bowditch, for a collection of plants. To M. P. Wilder, for azaleas, . To J. S. Cabot, for fine tulips, . To Miss Russell, for basket of flowers. To Mary M. Kenrick, for the same, To E. M. Richards, for bouquets. To J. F. Allen, for Cattleya, To J. Nugent, for Russelh'a jiincea, Amount carried forward, 3 00 3 00 5 00 3 00 3 00 2 00 2 00 1 00 3 00 2 00 . t4G6 00 8 Amount brought forward, To J. Nugent, for Erica ventric6sa sup6rba, To Winship &, Co., for Amaryllis crocea. To Evers & Bock, for collection of plants, " . To E. S. Rand, for fine Sweet Williams, To Mrs. Wm. Ashley, for the same, and columbines, To R. M. Copeland, for hyacinths. To M. M. Kenrick, for displays of flowers, To Miss Russell, for the same. To C. Copeland, for displays of roses. To L. Davenport, for the same, . To Thomas Page, for hardy roses, To W. E, Carter, cut flowers, 5 00 ; dahlias, 1 00, To E. M. Richards, for the same. To J. W. Clark, for seedling verbenas, . To M. & F. Burr, for the same, To P. Barnes, for displays of dahlias, 5 00 and 3 00, To J. Nugent, for the same, 3 00 and 1 00, To C. Copeland, for dahlias, To M. P. Wilder, for large Weigelia, To Winship & Co. for VirgiKa, 5 00 ; Erythrina, 2 00, To Evers & Bock, for various fine plants in pots, To Wm. Whiting, for Scotch roses. To A. Bowditch, for Night Blooming Cereus, To John Dunklee, cut flowers, . To P. Barnes, for pansies, $466 00 4 00 1 00 5 00 2 00 4 GO 5 00 6 00 6 00 6 00 8 GO 3 00 6 00 3 00 2 GO 3 00 8 00 4 00 3 00 3 GO 7 00 15 00 2 00 3 00 2 GO 3 GO #580 00 During the last seven years, the Messrs. Hovey have exhibited a great variety of seedling Camellias, some of them beautiful and perfect. The alphabet has been nearly exhausted with the letters applied to designate the various sorts considered worthy of trial and perpetuation. The Committee are disposed to denominate some of them fine, and two of them very fine ; but the most perfect, in their estimation, is the one designated by the letter (I), already noticed in the report of the Flower Committee of 1853, as worthy the Society's large gold medal, provided " its high character should be sus- tained another season." This your Committee report has been the case, and therefore now recommend the award of the Society's Large Gold Medal, for this seedling Camellia, to the Messrs. Hovey. The Chairman having examined specimen plants of this variety in the conservatory of these gentlemen, gives the following description : — Leaves. — Large, five inches long by two wide, ovate acuminate, deep green, smooth and glossy on tlie surface, finely nerved, slightly wavy, and large and coarsely dentated. Wood buds. — Long, green, moderately stout. Flower huds. — Obtusely ovate, with clear greenish scales. Floivers. — Very large, nearly four and a half inches in diameter, full, and perfectly double to the centre, and of great depth. Color. — Rich vivid crimson scarlet, a nearer approach to scarlet than any variety with which we are acquainted, and decidedly tlie finest dark variety we have yet seen. Petals. — Large, bold and beautiful, imbricated, symmetrically arranged, and nearly entire on the edge. Habit. — Very robust and vigorous, flowering freely. Mr. Haggerston, in his weekly report, Feb. 2d, 1850, thus describes this seedling : — " From Hovey «& Co. a seedling camellia, very fine, form of flower rounding to the centre, and full ; petals broad, smooth, and generally very perfect ; color a bright crimson scarlet, much the shade of bractaj of Poins6ttia pulcherrima ; size of flower large. This is decidedly the most showy seedling camellia that has been exhibited ; the color is new, beauti- ful and very rich ; foliage large, pointed, and acutely serrated." For the Committee, Joseph Breck, Cliairman. 10 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE TWENTY-SIXTH ANNUAL EXHIBITION. The Committee of Arrangements submit the following Report : This exhibition of the Society was held under a large Pavilion on Boston Common, and notwithstanding the drought which has proved so fatal in every direction, was one of the most successful in the rich display of Fruits, Flowers and Vegetables, exceeding any former exhibition of the Society. In consequence of the extreme drought considerable anxiety was manifested by most of the members, as to the feasibility of holding an Annual Exhibi- tion, but the Fruits from our largest contributors were not only as large, but equally as fair as at any former exhibition, while tlie smaller collections brought in from our immediate vicinity plainly showed that an increased at- tention to the cultivation of Fruits has been given by newly enlisted mem- bers. It seemed evident to the Committee that other attractions than Fruits should receive especial attention as proving attractive to the public and re- munerative to the Society, and with a view to meet this exigency, your Com- mittee would recommend that a liberal sum be appropriated for Floral De- signs of superior merit, regard being had to the architectural beauty, as well as the artistic arrangement of the materials. By the grand display of Pot Plants it is evident to your Committee that it only needs additional encour- agement to render this part of the Exhibition most attractive, and your Com- mittee would recommend a liberal appropriation seasonably made known, in order that sufficient time may be allowed for growing them. Your Commit- tee would again urge the necessity of procuring dishes, marked with the name of the Society. This would prevent, in a great degree, large quanti- ties of glass ware being lost or mislaid, not only at the Annual Exhibition but during the season. Your Committee deem it desirable that all premi- ums and gratuities awarded at any future Annual Exhibition, should be be- stowed in plate, medals, or books, as redounding more to the object for which the Society was established, and proving an incentive to new contrib- utors, by receiving a more lasting testimonial. Ample accommodation was made for the Pomological Convention, but from the small amount contribu- ted it was apparent that all parts of the country had equally suffered from the prevailing drought. Profiting by a suggestion made in a previous Report, the Committee advertised for proposals to furnish the lumber, execute the work &c., by which means a large saving was made. Notwithstanding all the economy consistent was practised, the expenses were somewhat larger than at the previous Exhibition, an important item of which was the glass ware. The amount of expense in hiring the glass alone was #212 51 ; the contract for flooring and tables, $437 50; the use of the Pavilion 11 $250 00 ; while all other requisites, such as labor, advertising, &.c. amount- ed to 1089 49. The whole amount taken at the Door, . . . $1624 75 Draft on Treasury, . . . . . . 364 75 $1989 50 Sundry Expenses of Exhibition as per Bills, . . $1989 50 For the ^^ramittee, F. Ltman Winship, Chairman. 12 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FRUITS, Awarding Premiums for 1854. The Committee on Fruits present to the Society a Report of their doings for the past year. So far as the weekly exhibitions were concerned, the drought of the past season has most seriously affected the show dependent on open culture. Apples have generally ripened previous to the usual season, giving us small and immature specimens. So early as the last week in July, Samuel Walker placed on the table specimens of the Gravenstein, a September apple, and, with the exception of the annual exhibition, this department of fruits has been exceedingly meagre, as compared with former years. These remarks will apply more fully to the summer and early autumn apples, since the same cannot be said of the late autumn and winter apples exhibited at the weekly exhibitions, subsequent to the annual exhibition. In consequence of the continuous rains in September and early part of October, the apple was much improved in size, and we have seldom seen finer specimens of the various varieties, than has been shown the few weeks last past. Dec. 23. — Dr. Webb presented fine specimens of several varieties of ap- ples, from one of the Kansas Missions, near the city of Lawrence. The varieties were originally from this vicinity and from localities bordering on the Hudson River, such as the Baldwin, Hubbardston, Fall Pippin and New- town Pippin. They were not in excess of size, but were fully equal to like kinds grown here, and of remarkable density. Few or no seedling apples have been presented during the season, worthy of particular mention. Mr. Stetson having been enabled to show fine specimens of apples, at a very late period of the season, we requested information of his experience, and he kindly consented and has furnished an account of the same : — Method of Preserving Apples. — "The fruit must be taken from the tree by hand, wrapped in paper, (thin shoe or tea paper is best,) and packed in cork dust — costing $1 25 per barrel. One barrel of this dust is sufficient for four barrels of fruit. It is not necessary to head the barrel. By this method apples will retain the flavor for six or eight weeks longer than by the ordinary way. It is perhaps unnecessary to say that the fruit must be sound, and not over-ripe when put in. Tlie fruit, when barrelled, must be kept in a cool place ; but, by experiments, it is a matter of no consequence whether the place is damp or dry. I have tried this method of preserving apples for three years, and have from time to time, exhibited them at the Horticultural Rooms. The cork dust will retain its efficiency for years. — A. W. Stetson, East Braintree. 13 Apricots. — The show in this department was so much inferior to former years, that the Committee did not deem it advisable to award a single premium. Blackberries. — The " High Improved" were exhibited somewhat in abundance, though lacking the size of those of former seasons, and we were pleased to find a more general attention given to this, one of the most de- sirable fruits of its season. The Committee have, from year to year, (since its introduction,) urged a general cultivation, believing it eminently remu- nerative. Cherries, with the exception of the "Black Tartarian," have been wanting in size. This variety, as well as Mr. Walsh's Seedling, for some reason, did not seem to have suffered so much as most other varieties, from the continued dry season. The Committee had proposed to visit Mr. Walsh's garden, during the season of the fruiting of the cherry, with the view of con- sidering his cherry under the head of " Special Premium for the Loivell Gold m.edalJ'' The Committee notified Mr. Walsh of their intention, and he had promised to assign a day ; but in consequence of the ravages committed by the birds, the visit was obliged to be deferred till another season. Some few seedlings have been offered to the notice of the Committee, but, with the exception of one presented by J. S. Sleeper, being the same which he has shown heretofore, little praise could be awarded. Currants. — Those exhibited and receiving a premium, were very supe- rior; so also were the White and Red Dutch, as shown by several contrib- utors ; but as there is only assigned tivo premiums to this fruit, the awards were given, agreeably with a standing rule, to the contributor outside of the Committee. Figs. — The contributions in this fruit are mainly from the same source, year after year. Gooseberries. — The awards to this fruit were given for seedlings, there not having been those of foreign variety equalling them. For some reason or other, the contributions of " Houghton's Seedling" were not brought forward to compete, though we feel assured from past ex- perience, that this variety, had the growers chosen to come forward, would have carried off the palm. Grapes, forced previous to the first Saturday in July, were contributed somewhat in abundance, during the earliest part of the season, vieing well, in earliness, size and coloring, with any former year. Many new contrib- utors, from houses recently erected, are bringing in small contributions, showing a diligence of culture highly commendable ; while the specimens of culture shown subsequent to the above date, have been marked as of superior size, both in bunches and berries, to former contributions of like date. Jidy 22. — Ignatius Sargent exhibited bunches of " Black Hamburg," several of which weighed upwards of four pounds each, and the largest, seven and one-half pounds avoirdupois weight. This was probably the largest bunch of this variety ever shown at any exhibition of the Society, 14 and for which your Committee awarded a special premium of the Society's Silver medal. Saturday, Dec. 30. — M. H. Simpson, Saxonville, made a fine display of grapes, well grown and ripened. They were the White Nice, White Frontignan, Muscat of Alexandria, Syrian, Chasselas Musque and Black Hamburg, being from vines from which a good crop was taken in March last. This we believe is the first instance here of two crops having been produced in one year. It is not presumed that this process could be con- tinued without certain destruction of the vines, and the fact is not men- tioned on that account only ; but, Mr. Simpson's object has been to change the time of the ripening of his grapes, so as to give his entire crop in one of his grapehouses, about the last of December, or by the first of January — at a season when grapes have not been procurable at market. These grapes commanded only $2 50 per pound at retail, not an advance on what they would sell for in the month of March ; while in England we notice quota- tions of grapes (last December) so high as two pounds, (#10,) while the same grapes were quoted in March, at one pound ten, ($7 50,) per pound. We understand Mr. Simpson has just sent out by steamer to England some of this crop of grapes, to show what can be done in our climate with the aid of glass. Believing the manner of the growing of the grape, as practiced by Mr. Simpson, would prove valuable, we solicited a communication on the sub- ject from him, and, he having cheerfully given the article, we have the pleasure herewith to add it : — Boston, January 8, 1855. To the Chairman of the Fruit Committee of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. Dear Sir, — In accordance with your request I herewith give you the modus operandi of growing grapes under glass, to ripen them by the De- cember sun. My former practice, to ripen grapes about the 1st of April, was the same as is practiced by others, say warming the roots by hot manure, in the middle of November, and continuing the heat in the border by fresh supplies of manure, until the grapes ripened. I notice the roots are injured from this practice, and the expense is very great, not only for the manure but also for the labor of looking after the border, and replen- ishing it. Not being satisfied 1 concluded to try the following plan, which has proved quite successful, and gives me the grapes earlier. We will sup- pose the vines were started in November of last year, — to get them in this state their habits have been changed from the natural time of starting. Now we will encroach still further, and start them in August, say the first. You will find no delay in the pushing of the bud after pruning, as the roots are warmed by the summer sun, and no danger of killing the young rootlets from hot manure. The progress of the vines will surprise you ; in a week they will require tying up to the rafters, and very soon after you will be assured of a good crop of grapes, from the fragrance of the bloom. It is now of the utmost importance to attend in season to keep the heat in the border, which the sun has so generously supplied, and a plan suggested 15 itself to me from the practice of keeping ourselves warm by a blanket, of which I have manufactured some COO pairs a day for the past ten years. It is therefore very natural that I should have thought of a blanket to cover the border to keep the heat in ; but it would require a great many woollen blankets to cover a border 100 feet long and 40 feet wide, and a great many thicknesses to give sufficient protection. However, we have the principle in the thought, and now for the practice. Instead of the woollen blankets I substituted two tons of meadow hay, very dry ; this covered the border about one foot in thickness, and in order to keep it dry I placed upon the top of it about six inches of waste and manure, to absorb the rain, until the frost should make it a more perfect protection. This has an- swered the purpose ; the heat has passed from the border, about three de- grees a week from the 1st of December, at which time it was sixty, and the fruit has ripened perfectly. It was generally supposed by grape growers that I should fail in color and flavor, as well as size, from want of sun, in December ; but my experience proves a plenty of pure air is quite as im- portant. My mode of ventilating is entirely new, and appears favorable to the growth of the grape. The warming apparatus inside of the house, is simply a stove at each end, consequently the ventilation is complete, as the heavy bad air is constantly rushing to the stoves, and passing out of the funnels. I do not, in speaking of this mode of ventilation, recommend stoves for heating in preference to the common furnace and hot water pipes ; but refer only to the principle of ventilation, which can be applied to the common furnace, by conducting the air from the house to supply the coal instead of the outside air; this plan would as effectually draw off" the bad air as my stoves. It has been stated that I get two crops of grapes in one year from the same vines. It is true that this year I have, but as 1 have not practiced this mode of growing grapes, I cannot recommend it, but should have appre- hensions, if followed up, the vines would soon show injury. My present judgment would be rather to receive from them one crop in two years, than two a year. You will notice from this statement that the real advance in Horticult- ure, which I think is secured to us, is, that we may supply ourselves with delicious grapes during the months of January, February, and March, which heretofore was considered impracticable by our best grape growers. Respectfully yours, M. H. Simpson. In this department the Society has been mainly indebted to J. Fisk Al- len, W. C. Strong, Mrs. F. B. Durfee, M. H. Simpson, Jos. Breck & Son, Azell Bowditch, James Nugent and Thos. Page. Grapes. — Open Culture. — This has, indeed, been an awakening season for seedlings, and all outdoor grapes. It is the first of a perfect furore or mania, in bringing out of slumbering varieties, and tliough your Committee have been obliged at the tasting board to make " wry faces" sometimes, yet they have been well recompensed in believing that a few of the many may 16 prove essentially valuable, enabling almost every cottager to produce enough for " home consumption," and though some of the seedlings may not rival the Isabella in flavor, still the Committee think there are five or six varieties which 7/101/ prove sufficiently early in ripening to enable a sure culture, where the Catawba and Isabella have in vain been attempted. The " Concord," a seedling raised by E. W. Bull of Concord, Mass., has attracted much attention during the past year, and believing you desired all the information which we could bring to bear on this one variety, the chairman signified to Mr. Bull, that an invitation from him to the Committee to visit his premises, with full privilege to examine and scrutinize all and every fact at hand, (which might bear on the subject,) would prove accept- able to the Committee — and in the event of his seedlings proving valuable or not, the Committee, one and all, believe in the honesty of Mr. Bull. There was on this occasion, as on all others, a modest bearing, free and frank an- swers to each and every inquiry from the Committee. Mr. Bull responded to our request, and on the 7th September all the Committee having been duly notified, visited Mr. Bull's garden at Concord, The locality of the vines is on a southeast exposure, protected on the north and northwest by a hill ; the soil sandy. The first vines examined had received a coating of clay to a part of the vines. On this the growth was twelve feet on the average. On other vines was superadded a coating of horse manure. The bunches averaged seven inches in length. The next vine examined had been manured with animal manure, viz., two dead calves. On this vine the bunches were from six and a half to thiiteen and a half inches in circumference, while the berries were two and a quar- ter inches in circumference, though not so highly colored as on other vines where no animal manure had been applied. Well water alone had been applied since the spring manuring. The vine was allowed to mature sixty bunches, many of which were, in the estimation of those conversant in the growth of the Black Hamburg, deemed to weigh a pound, if of that variety. Another set of vines had received one peck of guano to fifteen hundred and eighty-four square feet of ground. In the rear of a row of vines, one hundred and twenty-seven feet in length, Mr. Bull had placed barrels, allowing one barrel to every two vines, which had been filled with leaves collected indiscriminately from the adjoining woods, well pressed down, on the top of which he put a peck of wood ashes to neutralize the acidity, and tlirough each barrel leached a bucket of water twice a week previous to the first of June. On a portion of the vines the grapes appeared ripe, and those tested the following Saturday were in condition. Of its seasonableness and productiveness the Committee are favorably impressed. Mr. Bull had an Isabella vine at tlie southwest end of his resi- dence, on which the berries were just beginning to color, which he con- sidered as occupying a more favorable locality for ripening tlian the former. The Committee would have been pleased to have found growing side by side, the Concord and Isabella, as more surely testing the ripening. Should 17 this grape in otlier localities prove early, as in the hands of the originator, we predict a general cultivation, where the Isabella fails to ripen. Mr. Cull has some fifteen hundred seedling plants, showing a great variety of leaf. From the sample of wine made from this grape, we were fully of the belief that this grape will prove exceedingly valuable as a wine grape. It is known that A. W. Stetson, Braintree, has given much attention to the raising of seedlings, with the view of producing hardy vines, and in order to accelerate the fruiting he has grafted the most promising (judging from the leaf,) on strong vines under glass. This season he fruited several of them, two of which were of such marked superiority as to elicit high praise from all those who tested them, many of whom were members of the Pomological Convention. The two above referred to are " Winship," a dark grape of good size, high flavored, and free of pulp ; and " Wight," a white grape, of the size of the White Chasselas, well flavored, and free of pulp. Those shown by Mr. Stetson this season are additional to those hereto- fore spoken of in the fruit reports, all of which Mr. Stetson believes will prove hardy, or at most requiring a slight protection of the roots. J. Fisk Allen, Salem, has also presented several seedlings of great promise, and which he believes will prove hardy, or at least with a slight protection of the roots. The " Allen Hybrid" is a white grape, delicious of flavor, and free of pulp. Mr. Allen has given a full account of this and other hybrids of his raising, which is incorporated in our Report. Oct. 14. — Joseph Breck exhibited for the first time the " Wyman " grape, of great promise, having large berries, thin skin, saccharine flavor, and free of pulp. The Committee placed so high a value on this grape, that they at once voted to Mr. Breck the Society's silyer medal for its introduction to notice. Mr, Wyman claims that this is a seedling of the Catawba. It is now for the first time brought to the notice of the Society. From the success which has attended the hybridization of the grape, may we not hope ere long to have out-door grapes equalling those grown in grapehouses. Mr. Waterman again presented the " Breck" grape, which, for hardiness and early ripening, fully sustains the character given in the former report. It was presumed that it might prove the " Winne ;" but on comparing the two the past season, such does not prove to be the fact, and Mr. Waterman, believing it a seedling, gives it the name of " Breck." The same charac- teristics given of the " Winne," will apply to this grape. Salem, December 20, 1854. To the Chairman of the Fruit Committee of the Mass. Hort. Soc. Sir, — In answer to your note of the 16th instant, received yesterday, I will say that, generally speaking, the past season has been one peculiarly favorable for ripening grapes. I shall refer only to such varieties as have ripened their fruit under my own care. The old established varieties, such as Hamburgs, Chasselas, and Muscats, have fully sustained their reputa- 3 18 tiona. The seedlings from the Hamburg', Wilmot's No. 16, and the Vic- toria, have proved fully equal to their parent in respect of bearing qualities, with proper cultivation its superior. Wilmot's new Black Hamburg is variable in quality and bearing, and requires full sunshine and a free circulation of air to make it set its blos- soms. It should hang upon the vine long after the color has become black, before it is fully ripe and fit for the table. When grown in this manner, it is quite equal to either of the other Hamburgs. The " Cannon Hall," the seedlings of the Muscat of Alexandria, has likewise proved every way equal and probably superior to that variety. The other sorts in common cultiva- tion, so far as I am aware, have not varied from the usual method or con- dition at ripening, and may still be recommended to cultivators seeking a number of kinds. Several seedlings have fruited in my collection ; the largest proportion of them proving small, (although of good flavor) have been discarded. One, a very sweet, rich Black Grape, is reserved for further trial, for cultivation under glass. The Bronze grape, introduced by the Mayor of Boston, Dr. Smith, from Syria, who brought the seeds with him from that country, has fruited for the first time this year. The fruit closely resembles the Queen of Nice. It ripens sooner, and does not keep as well. Two or three seasons should be given before giving a complete description. At present it promises well. The seedling referred to in a former communication, raised from Wil- mot's New Black Hamburg, has been this year discarded, having proved too sour. Of the recently imported varieties said to be seedlings, I have fruited the Gross Bleu, and cannot distinguish any difference between it and the old Black Hamburg. " Cambridge Botanic Garden Grape" is like the " Black Prince," and not worthy of being considered a distinct variety. " Gross Gromier du Cantal," is nothing but the " De Candolle." These vines were received from the best sources, and it is presumed they are correct. " Perle Rose" is another name for the same variety. For early forcing, the " Pitmaston" White Cluster, and " Musque Verdel" yet remain the best. The " Macready Early White" is inferior in flavor and uncertain in bearing. The new White grape, which I call " Allen's Hybrid," promises to be at the head of the list for early forcing. For retarding I find a diflference in the ripening and keeping of the same varieties from year to year. By comparing the list now given, with that of last year, this may be seen. At the head of the list, (and as they are named the one for the other, may be considered as most valuable for their keeping or hanging in a fresh condition,) is the " Wortley Hall Seedling," the same as last year. " Prince Albert," generally a poor bearer, but as it becomes old bears well, this year has a great crop. " Poiteau Noir," large berry, lacks flavor. " Queen of Nice," very handsome and good. 19 " Syrian," when fully ripe a rich grape. " Black Lombardy." There is an uncertainty about this grape. It has been said that West's St. Peters and tliis are identical. I have the two, both late kinds, and very unlike. The " Black Lombardy" has a larger berry, and is not so black. It is a valuable sort. " West's St. Peters." Part of the bunches have dried some, and part are fresh ; has not done as well as in previous years, in respect to keeping. " Xeres," or " White Nice," this year has kept well. It is however un- certain. "Muscat of Alexandria," and the " Cannon Hall," both of them have dried somewhat ; but the flavor of both, if anything, is improved by the process ; the berries being large. This drying is not so objectionable as in small grapes. " Ferrar," or " Black Portugal." A large part of the bunches have this year decayed or dried. Some bunches remain fresh and full. The old " Black Hamburg" never has kept so well. Some vines have the entire crop yet on, fresh and full, while on the other vines the fruit is much dried. " Wilmot's New," and the " Victoria Hamburg" have not kept so well as the old. In previous years they have kept rather the longest and the freshest. Hardt Grapes for cultivation in the open air, have had several seedlings added to the list this year. The most beautiful one undoubtedly is the " Concord " grape. I do not cultivate it myself, and can only speak of spe- cimens as they have come under my observation. In flavor it ranks in my estimation after the " Isabella." For Massachusetts I should place " Diana" first, and " Isabella" next. Further south, " Catawba" first and the others in same order. Hybrid Grapes. The past season I have fruited several hybrid vines. Some of them have given fruit of fine flavor, and free of pulp. Several of these have been shown at different Horticultural exhibitions. As early as 1848 it was stated in print that I had planted an Isabella vine in a grapery, for the purpose of impregnation, with the expectation of obtaining a variety that would mature early and be an improvement upon the kinds of hardy grapes which we already had in cultivation. At that time the seedlings, be- tween forty and fifty in number, were growing, and presented such a marked variation of foliage, as to give good hope of success. Had this been other- wise, further trials by impregnation would have been made. Being aware of the incredulity of many, in the certainty of the origin of a seedling, par- ticularly when it presented a great change from the parent, every means were taken to make the case certain. The parent vine was the only one at the time in the house, it being occupied with peaches and nectarines ; part of these have since been removed and vines substituted. To be sure that bees or no external cause could effect the impregnation and thus defeat my efforts, the vine was forced in January and blossomed before vegetation commenced in the open air. When the embryo bunch approached the time of blossoming, a few of the strongest were selected and the others, at least 20 all near those bunches, were cut away. Before the blossoming the buds were thinned out, leaving only one fourth part of the strongest and best placed of them. As they expanded, they were constantly watched and the anthers at once cut away with sharp scissors. With a soft brush the pollen from the European kinds was applied. This was collected from a forcing house and was mixed together in a box, having been taken from " Chasselas," " Black Prince," and Black Hamburg. When the impregnation took ef- fect, the embryo swelled at once ; when otherwise, it remained as it Avas. Thus I was assured that any seed obtained must produce a hybrid vine. When the fruit ripened, the seed was collected and planted in soil which I felt certain could not have any other seed of grapes sown accidentally. The young vines have always been under my care. I potted them and re- potted them, and planted them out. Those already fruited have proved black in color, all but one, and this being so remarkably early and a very sweet fine fruit, that I at once considered it an acquisition. The seedlings were exposed to the winter, after they had become somewhat grown. The tender ones were killed out, leaving over twenty that have proved sufficient- ly hardy to withstand our winters, with a slight covering of straw around their roots. This grape has been named " Allen's Hybrid." It must be proved now in exposed situations before it can be fully known that it is adapted to culture in the open air in our climate. The vines that have fruited have all been under glass, not forced however, and in a very favorable situation, fronting north of east, and shaded by large trees. It is questioned if " Black Hamburgs " or Chasselas would ripen in this house. There is no doubt of this grape proving a valuable one for early forcing and the cold grapery. It has been questioned that this is the origin of this variety, and the fact that a white can be produced from a black grape denied. It is said that a seed of some European varie- ty must have been in the soil and produced this vine. I cannot deny that this may not be the fact. I do not think so, however, and the foliage shows every indication of a hybrid. N. Longworth, Esq., of Cincinnati, has raised white seedlings from our natives, and a fine white from the Catawba. He thinks so at least ; the doubters probably will say in his case, also, that he is deceived. The foliage of American kinds is so unlike the European, that the charge of a Chasselas or Sweetwater seed having been in the soil, can- not apply in his case. It will require two or three seasons yet before those hybrid seedlings will be so tested as to warrant their introduction into cultivation in the open air. If you consider these remarks relative to grapes to be of any public value, you can make what use you please of them. Respectfully Yours, John Fisk Allen. Melons have proved almost an entire failure. Nectarines, having the advantage of being grown under glass, have proved equally attractive with former seasons. Peaches, grown under glass and exhibited early in the season, were size- able and well colored from all sources. 21 Pears, Sdmmer. — As with early apples, so was it with the early pears, and it was not till the last day for bringing in specimens for premiums did the Committee meet with fruits worthy of premiums. On the last day (the last Saturday in Aug.) Hovey & Co. presented fine specimens of the " Boston," and Winship & Co. " Winship's Seedling ;" both varieties proved far better than on any former occasion and took the premiums. Autumn. — In consequence of the late rains, these proved not only size- able, but as a general thing better colored on tlie sunny side. Winter. — There seems to have been a premature ripening of the winter pears brought in for exhibition. What few specimens have been brought in the past few weeks have been well grown and of a high, rich coloring, particularly the basket of "Glout Morceau," exhibited by J. E. Lodge. The basket of " Beurre Langelier," exhibited by President Cabot, were ex- tra fine. We have the pleasure herewith to present a list of several varie- ties of pears, which have fruited in the grounds of our President, he being the only one who has responded seasonably to incorporate in the Report. Salem, December 24, 1854. To the Chairman of the Fruit Committee of the Mass. Hort. Soc. Dear Sir, — Below is a brief description of eight varieties of pears that fruited with me last year. They are not, perhaps, entirely new, and may have been already described. If the list is of any use to you it is at your service, being all tliat can be furnished by Yours, very truly, J. S. C. JVew Pears, or such as, though not new, have fruited unih Hon. J. S. Cabot, President of the Society, for first or second time. Serrurier. — Smooth yellow skin, nearly covered with spots or blotches of russet ; calyx, small, open ; flesh, white, melting, juicy ; of a pleasant subacid flavor, (not new.) Season, November. Beurre Betmont. — Obovate, smooth, yellowish green color, some blotch- es of russet; flesh, fine grained, melting, juicy ; flavor, subacid, pleasant, good. November. Conseiller de la Cour. — Green, or yellowish green in color, with rus- set specks, and sometimes some blotches of russet; flesh, yellowish white, melting, juicy, of a sharp, subacid flavor. November. DuMORTiER. — Green russety skin, some blotches of russet ; flesh, white, juicy, melting, sweet. November. De Bavay. — Thick, yellow skin, with russet specks, bronzed in sun, rus- set at calyx, and sometimes with blotches of russet; flesh, white, very juicy, tender or melting, of a pleasant subacid flavor. Poire des Deux Sceurs. — Elongated, pyriform shape, yellowish green color, when ripe ; flesh, solid, but tender and juicy. Dr. Bouvier. — Yellow skin, with russet specks, and some stripes or blotches of russet; flesh, white, fine grained, juicy, tender, pleasant, though with a slight astringency. 22 Broom Park. — Of a bergamot form, with a yellow skin, nearly covered with blotches of russet ; flesh, yellowish white, juicy, tender, of a sweet bergamot, and rather high flavor. Plums, Raspberries, and Strawberries suffered severely from the drought, and the weekly exhibitions were most sadly deficient in these three fruits. We pass over the various Seedling pears, and Seedling strawberries, which have heretofore received commendation, on account of the unfavora- ble season, and a prospect that in the succeeding season they may come up under the head of the '• Special Premium List." PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED FOR FRUITS. For the best and most interesting display of fruits during the season, to M. H. Simpson, the Lyman plate, twenty dollars. Apples. — For the best twelve summer apples, to Messrs. Burr, for Red Astrachan, . , . . . . #6 00 For the next best, to G. B. Cutter, for Williams, . . 4 00 Gratuities. — To Bowen Harrington, for Early Harvest, . . 4 00 To A. D. Williams, for Williams, .• . . . 4 00 To M. H. Simpson, for Red Astrachan, . . . 4 00 For the best Autumn apples, to B. Harrington, for Gravenstein, 6 00 For the next best, to Josiah Stickney, for Melon, . . 4 00 For the best Winter apples, to D. C. Bacon, for Roxbury Russet, 6 00 For the next best, to A. W. Stetson, for Baldwin, . . 4 00 Gratuities. — To B. Harrington, for Baldwin, . . . 4 00 To J. W. Foster, for the same, . . . . . 4 00 To John Gordon, for the same, . . . . . 4 00 To E. M. Richards, for the same, . . . . 4 00 Blackberries. — For the best, to J. Nugent, for Iniproved High Bush, . . . . . . . . 5 00 For the second best, to J. Richardson, for the same, . . 3 00 For the third best, to G. Merriam, for the same, . . 2 00 Gratuity. — To C. E. Grant, for the same, . . . 2 00 Cherries. — For the best, to G. B. Cordwell, for Black Tartarian, . 5 00 For the next best, to Wm. Bacon, for the same, . . 3 00 For the third best, to J. W. Foster, for the same, . . 2 00 Currants. — For the best, to Geo. Wilson, for Victoria and Dutch, 5 00 Fof the next best, to J. W. Foster, for Cherry, . . . 3 00 Figs. — For the best, to J. Fisk Allen, for various, . . . 5 00 For the next best, to W. C. Strong, for various, . . 3 00 Gooseberries. — For the best, to J. W. Foster, . . . 3 00 Grapes, Forced, — (previous to 1st Saturday in July.) — For the best, to Mrs. F. B. Durfee, for variety, . . . . 8 00 For the next best, to Nahum Stetson, for the same, . . 6 00 For the third best, to W. C. Strong, for the same, . . 4 GO Amount carried forward, . . . . $117 00 23 Amount brought forward, . . . . $117 00 Gratuity. — To J. Nugent, for the same, . . . . 4 00 Grapes, under Glass, — (subsequent to 1st Saturday in July.) — For the best, to W. C. Strong, for variety, . . . 8 GO For the next best, to Jos. Breck, for the same, . . . 6 00 For tlie next best, to Saml. Bigelow, for the same, . . 4 00 Gratuities. — To Thos. Page, for extra fine Syrian, . . . 2 00 To Ignatius Sargent, for extra fine bunch Black Hamburg, the Society's silver medal. Native Grapes. — For tlie best Isabella, to G. B. Cutter, . .5 00 For the next best, to C. E. Grant, . . . . 3 00 For the best Diana, to E. A. Bracket, . . . . 5 00 For the next best, to Diana Crehore, . . . . 3 00 To E. W. Bull, for his liberal show of Concord grapes, . 10 00 Gratuity. — To Jos. Breck, for best Native grapes during the season, called " Wyman's Seedling," silver medal. Musk Melons. — For the best, to E. M. Richards, for Christiana, . 5 00 For the next best, to A. D. Webber, for the same, . . 3 00 Gratuity. — To Nahum Stetson, for extra fine Christiana and Persian, the Society's silver medal. Nectarines. — For the best, to W. C. Strong, for variety, . . 5 00 For the next best, to J, Fisk Allen, for variety, . . . 3 00 Peaches, (Forced previously to 1st Saturday in July.) — For the best, to C. S. Holbrook, for variety, . . . . 6 00 For the next best, to W. C. Strong, for the same, . . 4 00 Open Culture. — For the best, to J. S. Sleeper, for Late Crawford, 5 00 For the next best, to Wm. Bacon, for the same, . . 4 00 For the next best, to Edward Richardson, for Seedling, . 2 00 Gratuity. — To Nahum Stetson, for superior specimens Stetson's Seed- ling, the Society's silver medal. Pears. — For the best Summer, to Hovey & Co., for the Boston, . 6 00 For the next best, to Winship & Co., for Winship's Seedling, . 4 00 Gratuity. — To Henry Vandine, for Muskingum, . . . 4 00 For the best Autumn, to John Gordon, for Beurre Diel, . 6 00 For the next best, to Josiah Richards, for Duchess of Angouleme, 4 00 Gratuities. — To Henry Vandine, for Marie Louise, . . . 4 00 To S. Driver, for Dix, . . . . . . 4 00 To J. Fisk Allen, for Duchess of Angouleme, . . . 4 00 To J. A. Stetson, for Dix, . . . . . 4 00 For the best Winter, to W. R. Austin, for Easter Beurre, . 8 00 For the next best, to J. S. Cabot, for Beurr6 Langelier, . 6 00 For the next best, to H. Vandine, for Glout Morceau, . . 4 00 Gratuity. — To J. E. Lodge, for extra fine Glout Morceau, silver medal. Plums. — For the best, to Henry Vandine, for variety, . . 4 00 For the next best, to Geo. Walsh, for Green Gage, . . 3 00 For the next best, to Geo. Putnam, . . . . 2 00 Amount carried forward, .... $271 00 24 Amount brought forward, .... $271 00 Quinces. — For the best, to Henry Vandine, . . . 4 00 For the next best, to J. W. Foster, . . . . 2 00 Raspberries. — For the best, to J. W. Foster, for Knevett's Giant, • 5 00 Strawberries. — For the best, to J. B. Moore, for Hovey's Seedling, 6 00 PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED AT THE ANNUAL EXHIBITION. Apples. — For the best thirty varieties, of twelve specimens each, to Messrs. Burr, the Lyman plate, valued at thirty dollars. For the second best, to B. V. French, . . . . 20 00 For the third best, to estate of Josiah Lovett, . . . 10 00 For the best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each, to B. V. French, the Society's plate, valued at twenty dollars. For the second best, to J. B. Moore, . . . . 15 00 For the third best, to Messrs. Burr, . . . . 12 00 For the fourth best, to John Gordon, . . . . 8 00 • For the best dish, twelve specimens of one variety, to J. Guild, . 6 00 For the second best, to Francis Marsh, . . . 5 00 For the third best, to John Gilbert, . . . . 4 00 For the fourth best, to B. V. French, . . . . 3 00 Pears. — For the best thirty varieties, of twelve specimens each, to M. P. Wilder, the Lyman plate, valued at thirty dollars. For the second best, to Hovey &. Co., . . . . 20 GO For the third best, to Josiah Stickney, . . . 10 00 For the best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each, to Josiah Stickney, the Lyman plate, valued at twenty dollars. For the second best, to Josiah Richardson, . . . 15 00 For the third best, to W. R. Austin, . . . . 12 00 For the fourth best, to J. H. Stetson, . . . . 8 CO For the best dish of pears, twelve specimens of one variety, to N. Stetson, for Beurr6 Diel, . . . . . 6 00 For the second best, to Josiah Richardson, for Flemish Beauty, 5 00 For the third best, to John Gordon, . . . . 4 00 For the fourth best, to J. A. Stetson, for Flemish Beauty, . 5 00 Assorted Fruit. — For the best basket of fruit of various kinds, to M. P. Wilder, 8 00 For the second best, to Azell Bowditch, . . . 4 00 Grapes. — For the best five varieties, two bunches each, to W. C. Strong, . . . . . . . 12 00 For the second best, to Mrs. F. B. Durfee, . . . 8 00 For the third best, to Charles E. Grant, . . . 5 00 For the best two varieties, of two bunches each, to T. Page, . 6 00 For the second best, to J. Pritchard, . . . . 2 00 Peaches. — For the best dish of not less than twelve, to W. Bacon, 5 00 For the second best, to D. E. Jewett, . . . . 3 00 Amount carried forward, #480 00 25 Amount brought forward, .... Gratuities. — To G. W. Willis, for peaches and nectarines, To J. Richardson, for the same, To N. Stetson, for the same. To H. Y. Gilson, for the same, . To E. C. Stevens, for the same, To E. M. Richards, for baskets of assorted fruit To W. A., Crafts, for the same. To N, Stetson, for the same. To Misses Cordwell, for the same, To W. Blake, for grapes, To J. Breck & Son, for the same, To W. C. Strong, for the same, To A. D. Williams, for apples. To Bowen Harrington, for the same, To Samuel G. Hyde, for the same, To Josiah Stickney, for the same. To W. R. Austin, for Northern Spy, . To John Parker, for Blue Pearmain, To Josiah Richardson, for Ribston Pippin, To Levi Brigham, for Nonpareil, To E, M. Richards, for Gravenstein, . To Theodore Clapp, for Gravenstein, . To John Gordon, for Grand Sachem, . To Josiah Stickney, for 20-ounce Pippin, To A. W. Withington, for St. Lawrence, To Benjamin Bliss, for Porter, . To Peter Lawson, for collection, To Thomas Page, for the same, To A. W. Stetson, for the same, To C. S. Holbrook, for the same, . To Cheever Newhall, for the same, To John A. Kenrick, for the same, To James Eustis, for the same, To Evers & Bock, for the same, To E. Winslow, for the same, . To Eben Wight, for the same. To Josiah Newhall, for the same. To Thos. Waterman, for Breck grape, To J. Cass, for Isabella, To G. B. Cutter, for the same. Pears. — To George Southard, for Louise Bonne To Samuel Downer, for fine specimens. To Samuel Walker, for collection, Amount carried forward, 4 #480 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 2 00 5 00 3 00 10 00 6 00 8 00 6 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 5 00 3 00 7 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 7 00 6 00 3 00 6 00 3 00 5 oa 3 Oft 5 00 3 Oft 10 00 10 00 $055 00 26 Amount brought forward, . To J. S. Cabot, for collection, . To J. S. Sleeper, for the same, To Josiah Lovett, for the same, To Winship & Co., for the same, To William Bacon, for fine specimens, To Henry Vandine, for collection, To Robert Manning, for the same, #655 00 . 10 00 5 00 5 00 5 00 5 00 5 00 10 00 #700 00 For the Committee, Eben Wight, Chairman. 27 REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON VEGETABLES, Awarding Premiums for 1854. In regard to the quantity of vegetables, exhibited at the weekly exhibitions, it has been small; probably occasioned by the excessive drought. The Committee would recommend every one to show any good specimens raised, and not be prevented from so doing, by imagin- ing some one may show better. The weekly exhibitions, in this particular, would thus much increase in interest. The Annual Show exceeded expec- tation ; the quantity abundant and quality excellent. The Committee have awarded the Society's gold medal (value $60) to Mr. Davis for his Seedling Potato, which has stood the test for five years. Bowen Harrington has pro- duced a new Seedling potato (the Worcester) which, although not yielding as well as the Davis, is a potato of excellent quality. A communication was received from Rev. A. R. Pope, as to two new varieties of Summer Squash on exhibition at the Annual Show. The communication is attached to the Report. A. W. Stetson, Esq., of Braintree, is entitled to great credit for his success in hybrydizing squashes. PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED FOR THE YEAR Asparagus. — For the earliest and best, to J. Tuttle, For the second best, to H. Bradlee, . Beets. — For the best blood beets, to J. B. Moore, Beans. — For the best string beans, to J. Nugent, For the best early shell beans, to J. B. Moore, For the best Lima beans, to H. Bradlee, Cabbages. — For the best Drumheads, to J. Crosby, For the second best, to J. W. Stetson, For the best Savoy, to J. B. Moore, Carrots. — For the best exhibited, to J. Crosby, Cauliflowers. — For the best, to J. Crosby, Celery. — For the best, to J. Crosby, For the second best to Bowen Harrington, Corn. — For the earliest and best, to J. B. Moore, . For the second best, to Bowen Harrington, Cucumbers. — For the best grown under glass, to J. Nugent, Egg Plants. — For the best, to A. D. Webber, Lettuce. — For the best six heads, to J. Crosby, . Potatoes. — For the best and earliest peck, to J. Crosby, Peas. — For the best and earliest peck, to A. D. Webber, Rhubarb. — For the largest and best, to A. D. Williams, For the second best, to G. Merriam, . Amount carried forward, .... $3 00 2 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3*00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 $75 00 28 Amount brouglit forward, . Canada Squashes. — For the best, to B. Harrington, Tomatoes. — For the best and earliest, to J. Nugent, Vegetables. — For the best and greatest display during tlie sea son, to J. Crosby, .... For the second best, to B. Harrington, Cucumbers. — For the best, open culture, to J. Crosby, Gratuities. — To H. Bradlee, for forced cucumbers, To Azell Bowditch, for the same, To J. B. Moore, for fine display of vegetables, To T. McCarty, for sweet corn. To B. Harrington, for variety of potatoes, To A. Bowditch, for tomatoes, To B. Harrington, for Summer squashes, To J. B. Moore, for Champion of England peas, To Geo. Everett, of Concord, for fine asparagus and rhubarb. For the best seedling potatoes, for five years' trial, the Society's large gold medal for the Davis Seedling, to Mr. Davis. p5 00 3 00 3 00 5 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 2 00 3 00 3 00 premiums and gratuities awarded at the annual exhibition. For the best display and greatest variety, to B. V. French, . For the second best, to H. Bradlee, ..... For the third best, to Stone '& Co., ..... For the fourth best, to J. B. Moore, ..... Mammoth Squash. — To A. W. Stetson, for the largest and best, the Society's silver medal. To Messrs. Derby, for the second best, .... Pumpkins. — To Timothy McCarthy, for the largest and best, the So- • ciety's silver medal. For the second best, to Geo. Nelson, Gratuities. — To John Gordon, for fine display, To Josiah Crosby, for the same. To Nahum Stetson, for the same. To H. L. Shattuck, for Davis Seedling Potatoes, display. To A. Bowditch, for the same, . To Josiah Stickney, for the same, To S. B. Pierce, for the same, . To C. S. Holbrook, for the same. To Jas. L. Little, for Sea Kale, display, To Timothy McCarthy, for the same. To James Nugent, for tlie same, To Winship &l Co., for squash, . To A. W. Stetson, for Hybrid squashes. To Messrs. Burr, for display of corn, Amount carried forward, 10 00 8 00 6 00 4 00 3 00 3 00 2 00 3 00 4 00 2 00 5 00 4 00 2 00 2 00 1 00 3 00 3 00 3 00 10 00 2 00 #196 00 29 Amount brought forward, . To Bowen Harrington, for display of vegetables, To A. D. Williams, for the same, To Galen Merriam, for the same, To A. D. Webber, for tiie same, To Samuel Jordan, for Lima beans. To Jas. Hyde & Son, for display of potatoes, To A. R. Pope, for the same. To Bowen Harrington, for celery, , To J. B. Moore, for Davis potatoes. To E. M. Richards, for display of squashes, To G. R. Sampson, for the same, To P. Lawson, for tomatoes, To B. V. French, for potatoes, (new variety,) To H- Bradlee, for Summer squash, To B. V. French, for Black Spanish melons. To N. Stetson, for melons, To Josiah Stickney, for the same, • To Galen Merriam, for the same, To A. D. Webber, for the same, To H. Bradlee, for the same, . . $19G 00 . 4 00 . 4 00 . 4 00 . 4 00 . 1 00 . 8 00 . 2 00 . 2 00 . 2 00 . 1 00 . 2 00 . 1 00 . 2 00 . 3 00 . 1 00 . 3 00 . 2 00 . 1 00 . 2 00 . 2 00 #247 00 For the Committee, Henry Bradlee, Chairman. SCHEDULE OF PRIZES FOE 1855. Boston, January 6, 1855. The Committee for establishing Prizes respectfully submit and recom- mend the following Schedule of Prizes for the year 1855. For the Committee, JOSEPH S. CABOT. To the Executive Committee. AMOUNT OF PRIZES. Prospective Prizes, ..... . $750 00 For Gardens, Greenhouses, &c. 200 00 For Fruits, ...... 700 00 For Plants, Flowers, and Designs, 700 00 For Floral Designs, at the Annual Exhibition, . 200 00 For Vegetables, ..... 250 00 #2800 00 JOSEPH S. CABOT, President. W. C. Strong, Rec. Sec. PROSPECTIVE PRIZES, For objects to be originated subsequent to A. D. 1846, and which, after a trial of Jive years, shall be deemed equal or superior, in quality and other characteristics, to any now extant. For the best seedling Pear, the Society's large Gold Medal, valued at $G0 00 Apple, " " " " " Hardy Grape, " " " . " Plum, the Appleton Gold Medal, " Cherry, the Lowell Gold Medal, " Tree Peony, the Appleton Gold Medal, " Herbaceous Peony, the Lowell Gold Medal, " Potato, the Society's large Gold Medal, Amount carried forward, .... #400 00 . CO 00 . GO 00 . 40 00 . 40 00 . 40 00 . 40 00 . GO 00 33 Amount brought forward, After a Trial of Three Years. For the best seedling Strawberry, the Lyman Plate, « " " Raspberry, tlie Bradlee Plate, « " " Hardy Rose, the Society's large Gold Medal, « " " Camellia, the Society's large Gold Medal, " " " Azalea indica, the Lowell Gold Medal, " " " Blackberry, " " " Gooseberry, « " " Currant, Red or White, . #400 00 50 00 40 00 1, 60 00 GO 00 40 00 40 00 30 00 30 00 #750 00 PRIZES FOR GARDENS, GREENHOUSES, &c. Amount appropriated, Two Hundred Dollars. Ordered, That the following Prizes, to be awarded in 1855, be offered by the Society, viz. : — For the most economically managed, best cultivated, and most neatly kept Garden or Grounds, through the season, . #25 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 15 00 For the most economically managed, best cultivated, and most neatly kept Fruit Garden, through the season, . . 25 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 15 00 For the most economically managed, best cultivated, and most neatly kept Flower Garden, through the season, . . 20 00 For the second best, . . . . . . • 10 00 For the most economically managed, best cultivated, and most neatly kept Vegetable Garden, through the season, . . 20 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 10 00 For the best managed, most economically conducted, and well kept Greenhouse, through the season, . . . 20 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 10 00 For the best managed, most economically conducted, and well kept Grapery, through the season, with or without fire heat, 20 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 10 00 #200 00 RULES AND REGULATIONS. 1st. All applications for a visit must be made to the Chairman, on or before the 1st of May, stating the extent of grounds, number of fruit trees, whether offered for a prize, and such general outline as to give to the com- mittee some idea of the premises. 2d. No Fruit Garden or Grounds of less than one acre (and this well stocked and under fine cultivation) can occupy the time of the Committee. 33 3d. No farm will be visited, unless there should be connected with it a fine Fruit Garden, Vegetable Garden, Flower Garden, Greenhouse, or Graperies, in which case these alone will be examined. 4th. It shall be the duty of the Committee to select from the applica- tions those which may seem most deserving of notice, and to visit as many places, and as often, as they may deem expedient and necessary. 5th. In making all examinations, tlie utmost regard must be paid to economy and general thrift ; in cases, however, of pleasure, landscape, or fancy grounds, more allowance must be made for taste and design, and a gratuity or complimentary notice may be made at the discretion of the Committee. Gth. No place will be visited officially, with reference to an award, without a written invitation. 7th. All visits will be conducted without previous notice to the owner ; and if made out of season, or under unfavorable circumstances, due allow- ance will be made. 8th. No person shall be a competitor for the highest prize for more tlian two years out of seven. 9th. The Committee may, at their discretion, give gratuities or substitute gratuities for prizes, in either case which may best serve the objects of the Society, and meet special cases, always of course within the limits of the appropriation. 10th. Competitors for the prizes shall furnish to tlae Committee, if re- quired, a written statement of their mode of cultivation, quantity and kind of manure applied, amount of labor, including their own, and other particu- lars called for, under the penalty of a forfeiture of such prize if witliheld. llthi The expenses of the Committee shall be paid by the Society, and a record shall be kept by the Chairman of all places visited. PRIZES FOR FRUITS DURING THE SEASON. Amount appropriated, Seven Hundred Dollars. For the best and most interesting exhibition of Fruits during the season, the Lowell plate, valued at . . . . $20 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 12 00 Apples. — For the best twelve Summer Apples, on or before the last Saturday in August, . . . . . 6 00 For the next best, . . . . . . 4 00 For the best twelve Autumn Apples, on or before the last Sat- urday in November, . . . . . 6 00 For the next best, . . . . . . 4 00 For the best twelve Winter Apples, on or before the third Sat- urday in December, . . . . . 6 00 For the next best, . . . . . . 4 00 Amount carried forward, 5 $62 00 34 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 Amount brought forward, .... #62 00 Apricots. — For the best twelve, on or before the last Saturday in August, ...... For the next best, ..... Blackberries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes For the next best, ..... For the next best, ..... Cherries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes. For the next best, ..... For the next best, ..... Currants. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes, For the next best, ..... Figs. — For the best twelve specimens, For the next best, ..... Gooseberries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes. For the next best, ..... Grapes. — For the best specimens grown under glass, on or before the first Saturday in July, .... For the next best, ..... For the next best, ..... For the best specimens grown under glass subsequently to the first Saturday in July, .... For the next best, ..... For the next best, ..... For the best specimens of Native Grapes, For the next best, ..... For the next best, ..... For the next best, ..... For the next best, ..... Musk Melon. — For the best Musk Melon, open culture, on or before the last Saturday in September, For the next best, raised by open culture, on or before the last Saturday in September, Nectarines. — For the best twelve specimens, For the next best, ..... Peaches. — For the best twelve specimens, grown under glass, on or before the second Saturday in July, For the next best, ..... For the best twelve specimens, grown in open culture, . For the next best, ..... For the next best, ..... Pears. — For the best collection, not exhibited before this year, with a written description of the same, the Society's plate, For the next best, ...... For the best twelve Summer Peara, on or before the last Satur- day in August, ...... Amount carried forward, .... $22Q 00 8 00 6 00 4 00 8 00 6 00 4 00 6 00 5 00 4 00 3 00 2 00 5 00 3 00 5 00 3 00 6 00 4 00 5 00 4 00 2 00 10 00 6 00 6 00 35 Amount brought forward, For tlie next best, ..... For the best twelve Autumn Pears, on or before the last Satur day in November, ..... For the next best, ..... For the best twelve Winter Pears, on or before tlie third Satur day in December, ..... For the next best, ..... For the next best, ..... Plums. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes, For the next best, ..... For the next best, ..... Quinces. — For the best twelve specimens, For the next best, ..... Raspberries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes. For the next best, ..... For the next best, ..... Strawberries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes For the next best, ..... For the next best, ..... . $226 00 4 00 6 00 4 00 . 8 00 6 00 4 00 4 00 3 00 2 00 4 00 2 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 6 00 4 00 3 00 PRIZES FOR FRUITS. To he awarded during the Annual Exhihilion. Apples. — For the best thirty varieties, of twelve specimens each, the Lyman plate, valued at ... For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... For the fourth best, ..... For the best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each, the So ciety's plate, valued at ... . For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... For the fourth best, ..... For the best dish of Apples, twelve specimens of one variety, For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... For the fourth best, ..... Pears. — For the best thirty varieties, of twelve specimens each the Lyman plate, valued at ... For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... Amount carried forward, . 30 00 . 25 00 . 20 00 . 15 00 . 12 00 . 10 00 8 00 6 00 5 00 4 00 3 00 2 00 . 30 00 . 25 00 . 20 00 $492 00 36 Amount brought forward, For the fourth best, . . . - . For the fifth best, .... For the best twelve varieties, of twelve specimens each, the Ly^ man plate, valued at . . . For the second best, .... For the third best, .... For the fourth best, .... For the best dish of Pears, twelve specimens of one variety For the second best, .... For the third best, .... For the fourth best, .... Assorted Fruit. — For the best basket of Fruit, of various kinds For the second best, .... For the third best, .... For the fourth best, .... For the fifth best, .... For the sixth best, .... Grapes. — For the best five varieties, two bunches each, For the second best, .... For the third best, .... For the best two varieties, two bunches each, . For the second best, .... For the third best, .... For the largest and best collection, not less than eight varieties For the second best, .... Peaches, — For the best collection. For the second best, .... #492 00 15 00 12 00 20 00 10 00 8 00 6 00 5 00 4 00 3 00 2 00 15 00 12 00 10 00 8 00 6 00 4 00 12 00 8 00 5 00 C 00 4 00 2 00 15 00 8 00 5 00 3 00 #700 00 OC^ The Prizes and Gratuities will be awarded on the following days : — For Cherries, forced Grapes, forced Peaches, and Strawberries, on the last Saturday in July. For Summer Apples, Apricots, Blackberries, Currants, Gooseberries, Sum- mer Pears, and Raspberries, on the last Saturday in August. For Foreign and Native Grapes, Nectarines, Peaches, Plums, and Musk Melons, on the last Saturday in October. For Autumn Apples, Figs, Autumn Pears, and Quinces, on the last Satur- day in November. For Winter Apples, Winter Pears, New Pears, and for the " Exhibition during the season," on the third Saturday in December. 03^ Competitors for Prizes are particularly referred to the Rules and Regulations, which will be strictly adhered to by the Committee. 37 PRIZES FOR PLANTS, FLOWERS AND DESIGNS. Amount appropriated, Seven Hundred Dollars. DISPLAY OF GREENHOUSE PLANTS, IN POTS, To he exhibited at the opening of the Hall, on the second Saturday in May. Pelargoniums. — For the six best varieties, grown in pots, a pre- mium of . . . . . . . $8 00 For the second best, . For the third best. Fuchsias. — For the best six varieties, in pots. For the second best, . For the third best, Calceolarias. — For the best six varieties For the second best, . For the third best, Cinerarias. — For the best six varieties. For the second best, . For the third best. Heaths. — For the best varieties, . For the second best, . For the third best, Epacris. — For the best varieties, . For the second best, . For the third best. Greenhouse Plants. — For the best display of not less than ten pots, regard to be had to new and rare varieties, and well grown specimens, a prize of . . . For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... Cut Flowers. — For the best display, a prize of For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... For the fourth best, ..... Hyacinths. — Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in May For the best display, not less than twenty varieties, . For the second best, ..... Tulips. — Prizes to be awarded the third Saturday in May. For the best thirty distinct varieties, a prize of For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... Amount carried forward, . . . $150 00 6 00 4 00 8 00 6 00 4 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 1 1 . 15 00 . 12 00 . 10 00 6 00 5 00 4 00 2 00 5 00 3 00 G 00 4 00 2 00 38 4 00 3 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 6 00 4 00 3 00 5 00 4 00 3 00 Amount brought forward, . . . $150 00 Pansies. — Prizes to be awarded the fourth Saturday in May. For the best twelve distinct varieties, a prize of For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... Hawthorns. — Prizes to be awarded fourth Saturday in May. For the best display, a prize of . . . For the second best, .... Hardy Azaleas. — Prizes to be awarded fourth Saturday in May For the best display, a prize of . . . For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... Shrubby Peonies. — Prizes to be awarded fourth Saturday in May For the best six varieties, a prize of . For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... Herbaceous Peonies. — Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in June. For the best ten varieties, having regard to the number of varieties, a prize of .... For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... Aquilegias. — Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in June For the best display, a prize of . . . For the second best, . - . . . For the third best, ..... Pinks. — Prizes to be awarded third Saturday in June. For the best six distinct varieties, a prize of . For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... Hardy Roses. — Prizes to be awarded third Saturday in June. Class I. For the best thirty distinct varieties, a prize of . . 8 00 For the second best, . • . . . . 6 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 4 00 For the fourth best, . . . . . . 3 00 Class II. For the best twelve distinct varieties, a prize of . . 5 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 3 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 2 00 Class III. Hardy Perpetual Roses. — For the best ten varieties, a prize of 5 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 4 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 3 00 5 00 4 00 3 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 Amount carried forward, $264 00 39 00 00 00 00 00 3 00 5 00 4 00 3 00 Amount brought forward, . . . $2Gi 00 Prairie Roses. — For the best display, not less than six varieties, a prize of . For the second best, not less than four, For the third best, not less than four. Summer Phloxes. — Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in July. For the best ten distinct varieties, .... For the second best, ...... For the third best, ...... Carnations and Picotee Pinks. — Prizes to be awarded third Saturday in July. For the best ten varieties, a prize of . . . • . For the second best, ...... For the third best, ...... Hardy Rhododendrons. — For the best display of the season, a prize of . . . . . . . 6 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 4 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 3 00 Double Hollyhocks. — Prizes to be awarded third Saturday in July. For the best twelve varieties in spikes, a prize of . . 5 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 4 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 2 00 Double Balsams. — Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in August. For the best eight varieties in spikes, a prize of . . 3 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 2 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 1 00 Phloxes. — Prizes to be awarded third Saturday in August. For the best ten distinct varieties, a prize of . . . 5 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 4 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 3 00 German Asters. — Prizes to be awarded first Saturday in Sep- tember. For the best ten varieties, not less than twenty-five flowers, . 4 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 3 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 2 00 Antirrhinums. — Prizes tobe awarded first Saturday in September. For the best display, a prize of . . . . 5 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 3 00 For tlie third best, . . . . . . 2 00 Amount carried forward, #361 00 40 BOUQUETS, WREATHS, DESIGNS, &c. Prizes to be awarded at the Annual Exhibition. Amount brought forward, Vase Bouquets. — For the best pair, suitable for the Bradlee Vases, a prize of the Bradlee plate, valued at For the second best, ..... For the best pair for the Society's Marble Vases, For the second best, ..... Parlor Bouquets. — For the best pair suitable for the parlor. For the second best, ..... For the third best. For the fourth best, ..... Cut Flowers. — For the best display and best kept through the exhibition, a prize of ... . For the second best, ..... ' For the third best, ..... For the fourth best, ..... Pot Plants. — For the best display, of not less than twenty pots, a prize of .... . For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... For the fourth best, ..... Coxcombs. — For the best six pots, a prize of For the second best, ..... Balsams. — For the best six pots, a prize of For the second best, ...... Dahlias. — Prizes to be awarded fourth Saturday in September. Division A. Premier Prize. — For the best twelve dissimilar blooms, a prize of ...... . Specimen Bloom. — For the best flower. Various Colors. — For the best yellow, buff, or orange ; purple or maroon ; crimson or claret ; very dark ; white ; edged or tipped ; scarlet ; pink or rose ; striped lilac, a prize of $1 00 each, ....... Division B. — Class I. For the best twenty-four dissimilar blooms, . For the second best, ...... $361 00 . 10 00 6 00 . 10 00 6 00 8 00 6 00 5 00 3 00 6 00 5 00 4 00 3 00 . 12 00 . 10 00 8 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 8 00 3 00 12 00 7 00 5 00 Amount carried forward, #513 00 41 Class II. Amount brought forward, ..... $390 00 For the best eighteen dissimilar blooms, . . . 6 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 4 00 Herbaceous Perennials. — For the best display through the season, a prize of . . . . . . 8 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 6 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 4 00 Annuals. — For the best display through the season, a prize of . 8 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 6 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 4 00 Camellias. — Prizes to be awarded third Saturday in January. For the best twelve varieties of cut flowers with foliage, a prize of . . . . . . . 8 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 6 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 4 00 Greenhouse Azaleas. — Prizes to be awarded second Saturday in March. For the best six varieties in pots, . . . . 8 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 6 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 4 00 Flowering Shrubs. — For the best display through the season, a prize of . . . . . . . 8 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 6 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 4 00 BouquETS. — For the best display for the season, . . . 6 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 5 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 3 00 Amount appropriated as Gratuities, to be awarded at the Weekly Exhibitions, . . . . . . 73 00 #700 00 FLORAL DESIGNS, To he awarded at the Annual Exhibition, on condition that the Exhibition is held under a Pavilion. For the best design, a prize of . . . . . $60 00 For the second best, . . . . . . 40 00 For the third best, . . . . . . 30 00 For the fourth best, . . . . . . 25 00 For the fifth best, . . . . . . 20 00 For the sixth best, . . . . . . 15 00 For the seventh best, . . . . . 10 00 $200 00 To be awarded as gratuities, in copies of Allen's Victoria Regia, 100 00 6 42 PRIZES FOR VEGETABLES. Amount appropriated, Two Hundred and Fiftt Dollars. Asparagus. — For the earliest and best, not less than three bunch- es, a prize of ...... For the second best, ...... Beets. — For the best (pure blood beet,) during the season, not less than twelve roots, a prize of . . ... Broccoli. — For the best three heads, a prize of . Beans. — For the best and earliest peck of string beans, a prize of For the best and earliest Lima beans, not less than two quarts, For the second best, ..... For the best and earliest variety of shell beana, Cabbage. — For the best Drumhead cabbage, during the season, not less than three heads, a prize of For the second best, ..... For the best Savoy cabbage, during the season, not less than three heads, a prize of ... . For the second best, ..... Carrots. — For the best exhibited, a prize of Cauliflowers. — For the best and largest, during the season, not less than three heads, a prize of . For the second best, ..... Celery. — For the best and largest blanched, not less than six roots, a prize of . For the second best, ..... Corn. — For the best and earliest sweet corn, not less than twelve ears, a prize of .... . For the second best, ..... Cucumbers, — For the best pau: under glass, previous to the first Saturday of June, a prize of . . . For the second best, ..... For the best and earliest of open culture. Egg Plants. — For the best display during the season, a prize of For the second best, ..... Lettuce. — For the best six heads, before the first Saturday in July, a prize of .... . For the second best, ..... Onions. — For the earliest and best three bunches. Potatoes. — For the best and earliest peck, previous to August 1 For the second best, ..... Amount carried forward. $S 00 2 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 3 00 2 00 2 00 5 00 3 00 5 00 3 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 3 00 2 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 #90 00 43 Amount brought forward, .... Peas. — For the best and earliest peck in June, a prize of For the best peck of late, .... Rhubarb. — For the largest and best, previous to the first Satur day in July, not less than twelve stalks, a prize of For the second best, ..... Squashes. — For the best pure Canada squashes, not less than six in number, a prize of ... . For the greatest variety exhibited during the season. Tomatoes. — For the best and earliest, not less than one dozen. Vegetables. — For the best display and greatest variety at the weekly exhibitions, during the season. For the second best, ..... For the best display and greatest variety at the Annual Exhi bition, ...... For the second best, ..... For the third best, ..... For the fourth best, ..... For any new variety of vegetable suitable for the table, and worthy of cultivation, other than seedling potatoes, 5 00 4 00 5 00 3 00 3 00 5 00 3 00 5 00 3 00 . 10 00 8 00 6 00 4 00 5 00 To be awarded at the Annual Exhibition. Mammoth Squash. — For the largest and best, the Society's Sil- ver Medal. For the second best, . . . . . . 3 00 Pumpkins. — For the largest and best, the Society's Silver Medal. For the second best, . . . . . . 3 00 For gratuities. #165 00 85 00 $^50 00 45 RULES AND REGULATIONS. 1. All Fruits, Flowers and Vegetables, offered for Prizes, are to be grown by the competitors. 2. Articles exhibited for Prizes must be placed in the Stands by 11 o'clock, A. M. 3. Contributors of Fruits, for exhibition or Prizes, are requested to pre- sent the same in dishes or baskets of tlie Society, or in suitable baskets or boxes of their own. 4. All contributors exhibiting Plants, Flowers, Fruits, or Vegetables, who desire a full report of the same, are requested to hand a list to the Chairman of the respective Committees. 5. After the articles are arranged, they will be under the exclusive charge of the Committees, and not even the oivners will have liberty to remove or touch them until the exhibition is closed, when they will be deliv- ered as the contributors may direct. 6. No Flower, Fruit or Vegetable will be entitled to a Prize unless it possesses points of superiority ; and the Committees have the discretionary power of withholding Prizes, if, in their opinion, the articles exhibited do not merit them. 7. Plants in Pots to be entitled to Prizes, must give evidence of skilful culture, in the profusion of bloom, and the beauty, symmetry, and vigor of the specimens. 8. Successful competitors will be expected to furnish remarks on their mode of cultivation, {/peculiar; and candidates for the Fruit Prizes will be required to present specimens for trial. 9. Premiums can be awarded only to exhibitors who have complied with the published Rules and Regulations. 10. No article for which a prize has been once awarded, can receive an- other during the season. 11. The Committees are authorized to award Extra Prizes for any new or rare Fruits, Flowers, Vegetables, Plants, or Designs of merit, and for which no Prize has been offered. 12. The Fruit Committee, in making their awards, will consider the flavor, beauty, and size of the specimens ; and each of these properties as compared with a fair standard of the variety. 13. In deciding on the merits of a Fruit or Vegetable, its value for gen- eral cultivation will be taken into account ; but superior specimens of any good variety will not be excluded from Prizes, even though they may not flourish in all situations. 46 14. When specimens are presented for a name, the exhibitor is requested to comJftunicate all the information he possesses, as to the origin and the local appellation. 15. It will be the duty of the Committees to exclude from Exhibition all inferior specimens. Also, all such Designs as, in their opinion, evince an incorrect taste. 16. The Committees have power to change the time of exhibition for any article, if an earlier or late seasoil renders such change necessary, by giving seasonable notice thereof to the Society. 17. Any person to whom a prize has been awarded, whether in money or plate, may receive either, of like valuation, at his option ; all prizes, not applied for within one year from the time of award, shall revert to the So- ciety for its own use and benefit. 18. Gratuities shall not be awarded for Flowers, Fruits, Plants, or Veg- etables, unless the same are offered for competition for the respective pre- miums, as advertised by the Society, except for objects for which no prizes are specified, or which may be new or rare, or show superior skill in culti- vation ; and in no case shall such gratuity exceed the amount of the Soci- ety's silver medal. 19. In order to afford the Committees an opportunity to examine and report on the articles exhibited, no other person can be admitted to, or remain in, the Hall, between the hours of eleven and a half, and twelve o'clock, on the days of exhibition. 20. The Society earnestly invites the cooperation and competition of cultivators. The prizes are open to all, and the Society is instituted for the benefit of all. ()5*'The foregoing Schedule of Prizes, having received the approval of the Executive Committee, and the Regulations confirmed by a vote of the Society, is now published as the List of Prizes for the current year. Boston, January, 1 855. JOS. S. CABOT, President. W. C. STRONG, Recording Secretart. 233 1 U25 OFFICERS MASSACHUSETTS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. President, JOSEPH S. CABOT. Vice Presidents, BENJAMIN V. FRENCH, EDWARD M. RICHARDS, CHEEVER NEWHALL, JOSIAH STICKNEY. Treasurer, WILLIAM R. AUSTIN. Corresponding Secretary, EBEN WIGHT. ^ Recording Secretary, W. C. STRONG. Professor of Botany and Vegetable Physiology, JOHN LEWIS RUSSELL. Professor of Entomology, T. W. HARRIS. Professor of Horticultural Chemistry, E. N. HORSFORD. STANDING COMMITTEES. On Fruits. — Eben. Wight, Chairman; Joseph Breck, C. M. Hovey, W. K. Austin, F. L. Winship, W. C. Strong, A. W. Stetson. On Flowers. — Fearing Burr, Chairman; A. McLennan, E. A. Storj', Tliomas Page, Azell Bovvditch, G. Evers, J. F. C. Hyde. On Vegetables. — Henry Bradlee, Chairman; D. T. Curtis, A. C. Bowditch, Peter Lawson, J. B. Moore. On Library. — C. M. Hovey, Chairman ; Azell Bowditch^ W.S.King, Samuel Knee- land, Jr., R. McCleary Copeland, Librarian. On Synonyms of Fruit. — M. P. Wilder, Chairman; P. B. Hovey, B. V. French, Samuel Walker, Eben. Wight. Executive Committee. — J. S. Cabot, Chairman; W. R. Austin, M. P. Wilder, Samuel Walker, P. B. Hovey. For Establishing Premiums. — Eben. Wight, Chairman; Fearing Burr, Henry Bradlee, Samuel Walker, ex officio , F. L. Winship, P. B. Hovey. On Finance. — M. P. Wilder, Chairman ; Josiah Sticknej', Otis Johnson. On Publications. — Eben. Wight, Chairman; Josiah Stickney, Joseph Breck, Hen- ry Bradlee, C. M. Hovey, VV. C. Strong, F. L. Winship. On Gardens.— Samuel Walker, Chairman; William R. Austin, F. L. Winship, Thomas Page ; — Eben. Wight, Fearing Burr, Henry Bradlee, ex officio members. Committee of Arrangements —Lyman Winship, Chairman ; W. R. Austin, Eben. Wight, C. M. Hovey, W. C. Strong, J. F. C. Hyde, D. T. Curtis, E. A. Story, Azell Bowditch, A. McLennan, P. Brown Hovey, Henry Bradlee, A. C. Bowditch. ^OCAlv,b'MO'; nil I •< O I J'hEV/"',',' :