:.::>^' -m m: 'J^! ^^ :t*>. :.^-^' :^>'' ym ^^m. .s - ^^ ^^z>\ ,^^j> ^^fssigj ~22 =3€^. v>2 » ^'"i^ •• ::5>^- m^^^' ^■■^r^ > 1SS>'^_ j>:>^ ^■^'•J :i'-^' 1,^ ^.J^ ■^Z^^ ^■'^W^: WL/Ul ::2pEWY0RKBOTANICAL0AI$i ,1/VVi ■laM.fe :,^^- \:fiis*,: ?1« J'-'^i^ ^t^^^>> \ ' ■ <> - .. i.y^h.t'-'^j^-^ ■ -^ ^^yyy • • ■ •^ : fi ^' .- ---— ^-^y]^^k^_ ^e^' ■ ■ --^^^v-^^^^-t c': ■/.>> L ^^u ^^fm m^i^':. ^^^ THE COTTAGE GARDENER, COUNTRY aENTLEMAN, BEE-KEEPEU. AND POULTRY CHliONIOLE. A JOUENAL OF GAEDENING, UUEAL AND DOMESTIC ECONOMY, BOTANY, AND NATURAL HISTORY. CONDnCTED BY GEORGE W. JOHNSON, F.KH.S., a^d ROBERT HOGG, LL.D. THE FRUIT AND KITCHEN GARDENS, by Mr. J. nobson, (iardener to Viscount Holme?d.ilc, ]\I.P.. Liutou Park; aud Mr. T. Weaver, Gardener to the Warden uf Winchester College. THE FLOWER GARDEN, by Mr. G. Abbey ; " Ayrshire Gardener ; " and Mr. J. Wills, Ashburnham Park Nursery, King's Road, Chelsea. STOVE, GREENHOUSE, and WINDOW GARDEN, by Mr. R. Fish, Gardener, Putteridge Bury, near Luton. FLORISTS' FLOWERS AND FLORICULTURE, by the Rev. H. H. Dombrain. GARDENING CALENDAR, by Mr. WilKam Keane. POULTRY-KEEPING, by Mr. J. Baily ; E. Hewitt, Esq. ; and ot'acr well-known contributors. PIGEON.^, AVIARY BIRDS, &c., by "Wiltshire Rector;" W. A. EUkston.Esq., and others. BEE-KEEPING, bv H. Taylor, Esq.; T. W. Woodbury, Esq. "B. & W.;" and Mr. S. Bevan Fox. HOUSEHOLD ARTS, by the Authoress of "My Flowers," and others. LIBRARY NEW YORK BOTANICAI QARUEN. VOLUME XV., NEW^ SERIES. VOL. XL., OLD SERIES. LONDON : rUBLISIIED FOR THE rROPRIETORS, 171, FLEET STREET. 18(58. / VJ /pse LONDON : PRINTED AT THE JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE OFFICE, 171, FLEET STREET. TO OUR CONSTITUENTS. The fortieth ■\'olume bciug closed, the two Editors offer themselves for re-election; and they trust that you will consider their care for your interests during the last twenty years entitles them to a continuance of the confidence you have hitherto reposed in them. It is needless, after so protracted a service, for them to enter into minute details of their principles ; but there are a few points on which it may at this time be considered desirable that they should be explicit. They will vote for the proposed inquiry whether a Head Gardener should be established in every parish of Ireland at the parish expense ; and they seek for your opinion whether a Gardener should be thus established. They will oppose uncompromisingly the use of the Ballot in Gardeners' Clubs, because every one voting ought to act upon conviction ; and only those who are afraid then- conviction is erroneous, or who have promised yet wish to be unfaithful, would resort to secret voting. If the question is brought before them, whether Gardeners should wear particularly coloured Aprons, they will give that question their earnest attention, and endeavour to divest themselves of any preconceived opinion that the Master's appreciation of a Gardener's services can be or cannot be influenced by the colour of his apron. All other questions brought to the notice of the Editors will receive their candid and unprejudiced consideration; and where they have any doubt, or where they require fuller information, they will, as heretofore, consult and co-operate with the party with whom they have previously acted, and who deservedly have your confidence and approbation. That party, they rejoice to say, remains not only undiminished but strengthened ; and thus sustained, they hope for many future years to appear again before you confident of re-election. ton ;lcS,o :5H0 IDi. ;0I> ,StlU£"- I Mi: ' -lo5d ;08c- 11 ■:.',3 riaoo3 irra INDEX. Abbott's Castle, cou.egtion of I'l.ANTS tuehk. '24H Aliutilouft —repotting', 486; vexilla- riuiit, U Aciicijisnot hiirily. -ISfi Acnuttniii vir^'iiiii'iuii. VIA Ai-oriis for iiuiiUi.v lunl i'it,'s. GCl A(rri(Iociir]iua iinIiinliUH, .HNl A(lv'. Wi Acrittos tiiitnitiini, '2liT Amiliiivlii staiiin.ii. 441 A^'tiiuinUnia uiiilii-llutiis culture, 27, 1(69 Asave (lasylirioidort. 44 A^e, murks of in fowls, 200 Air--'iviii(,' iu winter, 424 ,U, 22i). 328 Aplidandra — Jjeopoldi leggy, 460; niteuB, 381 Apples— Bunvard's seedling, 190; for poultrv, 2(Ht; Gunter's tart. 21S; for an orchard. 231; from Tasmania, 247; American, 301; btat required to ripen, SOI ; dwarf, 302 ; Paul's Beedling. 342; list of 845; keeping from frost, 401; 8tor;nj.'.410 ; in an orchard house, 441 ; stocks for, 447 ; forming pvramidHi, 4t>G ; Karly Non- pareil. 264, 323; Mtlon. unfruitful, .S28, 485; Hivers's Eailv Nonpareil, 284; Smalls Admirable, S23; Stir- ling Castle. 247, 823 Apricots. 184 : their merits. 57 ; stewed, 88; for south wall. 251 ; Japanese, 405: castini: fruil, 4tiO AQuarinni tnuibles, 255 Aquatics for stove, 326 Araha japonica culture, 283 Arancaria partly brown, 486 Arbor-Vitn?-managemcnt of seedling, 118; prupauiiliun, 174,288; pruning, 213; from cuttings, 231; seed, 389 Arctostaphylos uva-urai, 77 Ardisiaa, scale on, 410 Areca Baueri, 2C4 Arranging and planting shrubs, 277 Artichoke seed, sowing, 154 Ashford Poultry Show, 472 Aaparai,'us — thinning seedling, 154 : manure for, VJ'i; culture in Eugluud and France. 4SG Aftplenium trichomanos culture, SOI Asters for exhibition, 13 Aucvibas, from cuttings, 327 ; berries, 487 August, plants in flower. 184 Auricula— John Waterston, 44; raising from seed, 506 Australian — paroquets, 70 ; Boeils, Bowing, 425 Aylesbury Poultry Show, 254 Azaleas, 77 ; Sir K. Napier and Lizzie, 44; list of, 213; scale on. S(l6; soil for, 847 ; repotting, 8S8, 425, 447 ; cul- ture, 411; leaves falUug, 4-17; lorc- ing, 604 Bachelor noisEnoLD, my, 217 Badminton Poultry Show, 139 Bailey, H.f de;Uh of. 204 Balm, variegated, planting, 194 Bantams— dubbing Game, SG; Japan- ese, 67, 83, 124; legs of Game, 124; Red Game, 218; other than Game, 232; hfttchmg. 236; grey and tufted, 23fi ; Game, 334 ; black and white, 852 ; Black and Game, 494 Barbarea vulgaris variegata, 485 ; for winter, 417 ; as a decorative plant, Ci 440 ^— ^ Barnstaple Poultry Show, 84 askcta— plants for hanj;' windows, plimts for. 41u ' Bath and West of England and South- k ^ eru Couutit;^ Atibuciutiuu, 175 Biittersea Park. 131. 167, 298; subtro- pieal plants at, 321 Bedding' plants— Ilm-lieiited pit for, llil; frame for prui.ctiiic. i;t8 ; pro- pagating, 230 ; trciitiiiciii of cuttingB, 2liH; tcnip< ratiire for, 327 | Bedding -out plants, cuttings of, 287 Bedding without wintering under gliiss, 495 Bees— in America, 142; Asiatic, 86; from Cape of Good Hope, ^51, 392; Mexican native, 331 ; Aic they car- nivorous V 197 ; comb fallen, 142 ; comb broken in bar-hive, 218; in a cask, 1)9 ; in a house roof, 218; in a wall, 25G; supposed Christmas phe- nomenon, 514; Darmstadt, meeting of apiarians, 452; decamping. 236; destroying, 142 ; disaster, 17; drone- slaughter early, 17 ; Do they hunt bv scent or sight? 334; exhibiting, 236 ; changing floor - boards, 7U ; glasses. 17, Gil: invasions of, 69; irregularities, 104, 216 ; keeping pro- fitably, 70 commencing, 276; Koeh- ler's secret revealed, 141; lecture on, 200; Pettitt's gratings, 180; re- moving, 124, 352: restless in %vinter, 515 ; robber. 352 : Southcme on, 454: not thriving, 293 ; transferring, 352, 871; at Woodstock Show, 225; at Clogheen, 276; in Lanarkshire, 275; near a manufacturing town, B14; in a rosery. 276; in Somerset- shire. 313; in Wicklow, 276; waxen sheets for, 161. 192, 217, 89.% 474. Drivings^, 106, 124, 162, 198, 292. F(:vrf(;i(7-256; in winter, 894. Foul- brood-35, 53, 276, 434, 514; Baron von Bcrlcpsch on. 86, HI4 ; micro- scopical investigation into its nature and origin. 311, 372, 494 ; Schieberle's method of curing, 493. Hivrs— two to one super 18; communica- tions with supers too small, 124; Berkshire, 293, 351, 293 ; large, 123, 833, 394, 414, 451. .513 ; moveable comb, 514; moving, 256; Nutt's, 106; Petti- grew's, 314; queenless, 372; Stew* arton, 314: storitied, 215; straw, bulging. 36; Woodbury, 161. Honey— crystallised, 162; depriving of, 180; the German centrifugal honey-ex- ti'ucting machine, 36, 123; harvest, 236, 351 : in Hants, 256; in Lanark- shire, 294; larKC, 123; from one hive, 293 ; in the north, 141 ; im- ported, 162; sale of, 70, 162. Liffu- riaus — 53; new mode of propagating. 141 ; cheap queens, 180 ; raising, 255 ; as htiney-patberers, 331 ; introduc- ing queens, 893 ; Lignrianising an apiary, 180.2^6. Queens— tv/o in one hive,18; cheap Litiurian, 18j unpro- lific, 372; introducing Lipunan, 893. Sicarm*!— causing second and third, 36; not sent forth. SG ; uniting se- cond, lOG ; eccentric, 41 ; from su- f^ered hivo, 200 ; friim infected eo- oniea, 434 ; fightinp, 494. Suprrs— preventing breeding in. 161, 180: iToiid in, 215 ; their miinagement of, 434, 474; their uses, 2)G; communi- cations with hives too small, 124; glass, 36, 69. Uniting— 124, 198, 2y2, 334; failures in, 216; autumnal, 255 Bee-mnth, 105. 106 Beet, Dell's, as an ornamental plant, 110; as a beddcr, 323, 356, 398; in- sects on leaves, 860: storing, 426 Begonia manicata culture, 868 Bellord Canary Show, 449 Belladonna Lilies — culture, 251; not flowering, 327 Benyalies, red-collared, management, 162 Bentley Priory, 133, 186. 361 Berbens nepaienaiB, propagating, 410 ; the common, 380, 41)6 Beverley Poultry Show, 14 Bideford Poultry Show, 84 Bingley Poultry Show, 178; Pigeons at, 195 Birmingham Rose Show, 23 Birmingham PhiloperisteronSociety'a Show, 370 Birmints'ham Poultry Show, 253, 870, 427. 448. 450, 451 ; meeting of poultry exhibitors, 507 Blandfordia Cunninghomii, 264 Boiler— cost of heating, &c., S60; heat- ing without a, 481 Bones — dissolving, 270; potash for dissolWng, 828; boiled or unboiled for manure. 426 Borecole, culture of, 175; variegated, 223 Boronia serrulafa, scale on, 12 Botanic diuviil) Society's Sln.w,G, 40 Bottom heat, 4iim ; Imw to olitain for forwai'ding and propagating, 119; failures in, 283 Boueainvillea glabra and Bpccioaa, culture, 271 ; lateritia to flower in .Tune, 447 Bow^nan. Mr. D., 172 Box edging. 605 Brahma Pootras- vuUure-hockcd, 18. 218, SG9, 432 ; for exhibition. 70 ; Dark cockerel, 88; points in, twist- ed-winged, 106; Light, at Hasling- den. 142; for exhibition, 180: self- plucking, 200; legs paralysed, 218; colour of legs, 218: marking. 256; not roosting, 314; licht-coloured,848; Combs, &c.. 412; trimming vulture- hocked, 432; eharacteriaticB, 494; colour of eggs, 494 Breda fowls, .54 Brewers' grains for chickens, 236 Briars, planting. 389 Bridlington Poultry Show. 102 Britrhouse Poultry Show, 83 Brisbane Botanic Gardens, 321 Bristol and Clifton Poultry Show, 348, 510 British Ferns, prizes for, 175 Broodiness, subduing, 308 BryanthuB ereetus, 78 Buclrw'heat for fowls. 200 Buddintr, 191: experiments, 92 Bude Haven Poultry Show. 67 Eulb'ing, 106: laving soft eggs, 121; plucking each other, 142 ; dying, 142; rearing young, 160, 180; marked and varie- gated, 160; young and old together, 200 ; parasites on, 294 ; black legged, and beaked, 294; groafS for, 294; feathers bent, 814; food for exhibi- tion, 314; varieties of, 351; disorder- ed breathing. 351; asthma in, 371; Norwich and Yorkshire, at York, 371 : Goldfinch Mule. 892, 493 ; colour- ing ; breeding from weak-eyed, 494 ; management, 514 Canary aviary, gas stove in, 52 Carbolic acid among plants, 847 Carnations— seedling, 48; seed-sow- ing, 101 ; pipings failing, 231 ; layers, potting, 252; tree, for winter, 411 Caasiope tetragona. 78 Cauliflowers, protecting, 304 Cedar, Deodara, 280 Cedar of Lebanon, 280 Celery— blanching, 183, 249; culture, 210. 343 : Dwarf ^Vhite Incompa- rable. 229 ; good white, 486; San- dringham White, 602 Celosia aurea pyramidalis culture, 419 Centaurea candidissiraa culture. 366 CentranthuB macrosiphon in a hot season, 97 Cerastium tomentoBum, planting, 194 Chalk, ground, 199 Chamieledon procumbcns, 78 Charcoal making and using, 401 Chelmsford Poultry Show,15, 290 Cherries— for cxliibition, 66 ; and birds, 72; Bigarrcau not stoning. 100; Bigarrcau apparently dying, 138; miniature trees, 843; aa pyra- mids, 425 ; utocks. 447; covfering, 505 Chchhirc J'.Miitrv Show, 255 Chester I'oiiltrv Show, 850 Chieken-fcidiiii,' fold, Crook's, 52 Chickens— hatched in June, 30 ; droop- ing suddenly, 54; feathering, 70; April-hatched, 88; and the weather, 139 ; separating different breeds, 142 ; their feathers, IHO Chicory culture, 344 Chippenham Poultry Show, 431 Chnstchurch Poultry Show (New Zea- land), 291 ChriBtma8,475 Chrysanthemums- exhibiting, 347 ; Ja- panese, 368, 498 ; Salter's. 381 : losing Jeaves, 388 ; Mr. Forsyth's, 401 ; Temple Gardens, 402 ; mildewed, im- perfect, 410; propagating, not quite hardy, 411 ; in the orchard houiie» 419; notes on, 498 Cider, sweet, 334 Cinerarias — leaves curling, 46S, 502 ; thrips on, 446 Clarke's inacct-destroying powder, 859 Claw, loss of a fowl's, 294 CieaniuK-up, 504 Clematis— Jackmanni naked, 252; not flowering, 252; John Gould Veitch, 44 Clerodcndron culture, 326 Clethra arborea, 411 Clifton Horticultural Show, 326 Climbers— for a London garden, 137; for summer house under trees, 138; for W. and N.W. waUs, 175 Clitheroe Poultry Show, 177 Cliveden, bedding-out at, 284 cioudben-y, 411 Club root. 847 ; in Cabbages, 327 Clumps of trees, planting, 446 Cochiu-China — cockerel, weight of, 814; management of Bufl", 3.^2; hen not laying, 894; Grouse, 414; vui- ture-hocked, 463; cock's comb, 494 Cockatoo self-plucked, 18 Cocki'oaches, dcstrojing, 368 Cocoa-nut sowing, 486 Coleuses— the hybrid, 440; GoldeD varieties. 385, 462; wintering, 346, 466: seed sowing. 505 Commelina eailestis, wintering, 251 Conifers for Queensland, 138 Conservatory— arranginp, 231 ; climb- era for, plants for with Vines, 271 ; heating, 426 Convolvulus mauritanicus, 146; in a hot season, 97 Cordons — training, 154 ; tightening wires for, 252; vertical v. lateral for Apple trees, 840 ; vertical Plum and Pear tree, 457 •'Cottage Gardeners' Dictionary Sup- plement," 76 Cottingham Poultry Show, 179 Couve tronchuda cooking, 314, 374 Covent Garden Market,l2, 31,47, 66,81, 100, 118, 137, 153, 178. 193, 212, 23(J, 251, 269, 287, 306, 325, 345, 367, 387, 409, 425, 446, 465, 484, 504 ; its measures and weights, 100 Cow, feeding in winter, 374 Craven Poultry Show, 179, 194 Creve-Cceurs— White, 36; points in, 256 Crickets, destroying, 868 Cripps's Nurseries, Tnnbridge Wells, 95 Crocus — seeds, sowing, 100; filling holders, 232 Crook Poultry Show, 235 CrvptococcuB alveans, 311 Crjstal Pal ace Show, 148 Cucumber troubles, 75 Cucumbers— for winter, 32, 288: depth of soil for bed, 137; bitter, 100; cul- ture, 100, 466, 467,496; soil for, 154; uses of house for, 271; after Potatoes, 846; good varieties, 378; leaves in- jured, 888; out of doors, 411; ear- liest, 447 : forcing, 488, 486 CupresBUB macrocarpa/ protecting, 446 Currants— second crop of, 284 ; prun- ing, 806, 346 : a new red, 323 ; Black, 346 ; trees, moss on, 426 Custard Apple seedlings, 154 INDEX. " Cat flowers, twelve boncheB, diatinct varietieaj" what meant by, 21S Cuttings of bedding-out plants, 287 Cyoas revoluta, 75 CyclamenB — propagatine, 1S5; forc- ing, 32fi ; sou for, Zi7 ; after flower- ing, ilO : persicura in a cold pit, 447 CyperuB altemifolius variegatus, 49 DACTYLIS GLOIIERATA rROPAGATION, Dahlias, Belfs.ttc, 82 Darwinian theories, 224 Deflnitii'DS, 155 Deodar Cedar, 280 Derby Poultry Show. 232 Dewsbury Poultry Show, 15G Diarrhcea in fowle, 18 Digging, 444 ; in winter, 8S3 Dinner-table decoration, 154 Dioacorea batatas culture, 411 Dioapyroa virginiana, 402 Dogs, my, 68, 199, 373 Dorkin;,' Poultry Show. 448 DorkingH, 68 ; cockerel's growtb. 35 ; rate of chickene' growtb. 67; exiiibit- ing AVhite, 70; Silver-Greyn. 70; ear-lobes, 291; one-eyed, 834 ; \Vhite. 834; selecting a White cock, 352; uaeful cross with, 453 Dorsetshire, a fragment of, 242 Doyenne or Doyeune? 441 Drainage from cow house, 446 Draining. 487 Driffield Poultry Show, 103 Drigblington Poultry Show, 177 Dublin ( Royulj bociety's Poultry Show. 471 Ducks, 453 ; diarrhoea and ci*amp in, 106; eggs dark-coloured, 874, 413, 433,434; keeping, 412 414; Mnscovy, 514 Durham Coon ty Poultry Show, 102 Earth heat, 3, 837 East Sutton Park, T Ecclesfieid Agricultural Society's Poultry Show, 274 Echeveria metallica propagation, 252; cultm'e, S26; secuuda culture, 863 Eggs— preventbig soft, 36 : preserving, 70 ; bens pecking, 124 ; producers or, 894; s.if 1,494 EleplianL'a Foot culture, 467 Ellesmere Poulti'y Show, 291 Elm injured Iiy insects, S28 Emigration, a (ew words on, 461 Endive, S04 Entomological Society's Meetinff, 7, 131, 403, 441 Entry fees, 253 Epacrises, list of. 306 Epideudrum pauieuhitum, 207 Epipbylluras, gi-aftiug, 4t;7. 486 Eriuus lychnjdea cctlture, 66 Escallonia niacrautha, 261 Espalier fniit trees, 155 Eston and Normauby Canary and Pigeon Show, 177 Eucalypti, gigantic, 113 Eucharis amazonica not flowering,307, SG8; dividing masses of, 410 Evaporation from the soil, checking, 818 Evergreens— cutting down and. trim- ming. 97 ; propagating. 270 EvtrlastingB— dr>-Lng, 138; gathering, 175 Faesworth Poulxrv Show, 271 Fasciatiou, 31 Feathers, cleaning white. 494 Fernery —site for hardy. 82 ; subBtitute for turf in, 154 ; heating, 251; erect- ing, 270 ; climbers for, 425 Ferna— mildewed, 13; sjTinging, 82; insects on, 231; drainage for, 306; culture of, 395, 501; prizes for British, 402 ; aome hardy, 437 ; fronds disfigured, 439, 466; packing tree for importation, 447 ; culture of tree, mixed with dung lor hotbeda, 486; oulture of some, 501 Ferrets, management of, 124. 142, 199 Feverfew, propagating Golden, 194 Figs — flavoui-leaa. 100; falling. 231; JD'Ageu. 284; culture, 316, 3^6; pot- ting, 346 ; for vineiy, 4bJ ; in pots, 426; pruning, 447 Filberts— bearing of, 73 ; pi-uning, 367 Fires, management of, 12:1 Fisher, Holmes. & Co.'a NurBerieB,260 Florist, who is an amateur? 270 Flower beds, planting, 90 ; in autumn, 296. 322 ; borders during last sum- mer, 398 ; digging borders, 410 ; gar- den, altering, 504 FlowerlesB and dicecioua plants, 230 Flowers— darkening colours of. 258 ; for cutting, 3s9 ; popular namus of, 410 Flue— not acting, 174; a fight with n, 354 : management of, 423 Fowl-fancying, nieht aide of, 347 Fowls — foreign, 54 ; plucking each other. 106, 256, 514; ovt-r - fat. 121: tiieir evening meal, eating sheep's dung, 230; black-legged. 311, 848; trespassing, 814; catarrh in, 3S4; Fowls— Continued : feeding, 874, 394 ; management of, 374 ; feeding Golden-Hpangled Ham- burghs, 374; promoting size, 394; dunti as a manure, 446 ; throat, noise in, 474 Frames, protection for, 409 France, fruits from, 82 Fraudulent exhibiting, 469 Frost, effects of. 325 Friiitcrc-rs' Company, 207 Emit — crops, 11 : bow to dispose of, 111 ; new and notable, 133 ; gather- ing early, 173; keeping, 19') : cause of excellence, 226 ; storing. 2;)0 ; cause of flavour, '.'58 ; gathering and forwarding out-door, 269 ; anionnt of heat required to ripen, 801 ; weigh! of, 323: gi'O'wing for market at Little Sutton, 3%, 459 ; borders for trffS, 11; ripening wood, 89; bush, 304 ; selection for walls, 326; priming hardy, 346; a large garden of, 376 : arranging, 387, 411 ; out of tloors in pots, S8l : at Liitle Sutton, 3%, 459; garden arrangemcnf, 426, 505 ; fornear Manchester, 426 ; p.vra- mid 1'. bush, 447 ; planting miniature, 479 "Fruit Garden, The Miniature," 359 Fruit room— constructing. 154; neces- sity of cleanliness in, 173 Fuchsias — new, 6 ; seed saving and sowing, 82 ; training', 100 ; select, 119; unhealthy, 119; losing their leaves. 1S8: for exhibition. 270: Rio- cartoni, 317 : cuttings. 346 ; cutting down stragglin;;. 340 ; coccinea, 881 ; watering. 411.485 Fungi— connected with disease, 224; leetui'e on parasitic, 244; classifica- tion of, 246; book about, 864; on tau, 368,879 Fyide Poultry Show, 254 Galvamsed-iron wntE, 155; lor fniit- tree training. 505 Game fowls— preparing for exhibition, 70, 101; I'eedin;,' for exhibition, 83 ; not digesting their food, 124 ; dub- bins iind trimming stags, 271; cock's leg broken, 2^4 ; breeding Duckwing, 8'iy; Cock's beak broken, 852. 874: breeding Piles, 390; Pile and Duck- wing, 412 ; characteristics, 467 ; cock's wiug8 drooping, 494 Gander, breeding ago of, 314 Gapes in chickens, 18 Garden— airangement, 218; planting a. 328 Gardeners' Roysl Benevolent Institu- tion's anniversary. 6 Gardeners' examinations. 45; re- sponsibilities, 99; troubles, 841 ; wages. S60 Gardening, instruction in, 212 Gard'^nins in the far west, 403, 458 Gas, heating by, 465 Geese, 453; Chinese, crossing Tou- louse and Nortidk, 394 Gentiana pyrenaica, 881 ■ Geography for gardeners, 379 Gesnera exonieusis, 240,265 Giants of the ve«etable world, 113 Gishurst Compound, 447 Gladioluses-exhibition. 41, 90; prizes for, 45: M. Souchet'B. 56, 95; spawn, S06 ; varieties. P.07, 369. 496 ; planting, 869; Lady Alic.- HiU. 381 Glass — Newington'a screens, 207; washing, 424 Glazing, 366 . Gloucestershire (West) Poultry Show, 235 Glow-worms,31 Gloxinias to flower in June, 326 Gold fish- fungus on. 474 ; manage- ment, 514 Goolc Poultry Show, 102 Gooseberries— influence of the hot weather over, 71 ; exhibition, 78 ; in- fluenced by the season, 141; mis- named by Frenchmen, 828; moss on trees, 42^ "Gooseberry Grower.^' Register," 859 Goslings, weight of. 374 Gourd — culture. 101 ; the Mammoth, 175; unfruitful. lyS Grafting. 191 ; blending Bpeciea and varieties by, 163 Grapes— in AuTie Show, 422 ; notes on. 292; in the olden tinie, 203; showing pairs, 215; a pair of, 256; peas for, 514; prizes for, 34S; roupy, 256; sitting in wintf-r. 514; yearl"ing, 510; varieties, remarkson, 121: Antwerps, 16. 52. 84, 197, 235; their poinU and tramintr. 140 : Bah'- heads and Beards, 874, 432 : Can-iers not hatching, "0 ; Dragoons. 16, 52, 84, 152. 197: Fancy, notes on, 422; Jacobins' eyes, 142 ; Knnts, keeping, 276 ; Tumblers. 891, 474.492, in gene- ral, 330 : Turbit characteristics, 434 Pine Apple— culture. 175. 289 ; a large Cayenne, 343 ; pit for, 212 ; for frmt- ing, pit and Cucumber house com- bined, 138 Pink— pipings failing, 231; autumn- flowerine white, 242 Pipes, joints of hot-water leaking, 505 Pits, turf— 4S, 137 : flue-heated for bed- ding plants, 119; cold, 237; for plants, 271 : heatintr, 271 ; earth, 286 Plan disquaUfied, 212 Plane tree, plants under, 486 Pantations f< r ornament ani shelter, 307 Plant houses, constructing economic- ally, 208 Planting. 250,364. 366; early, H Plantsof prey.l Plants— growing when inverted. 137 ; given by Government, 247 ; select lists. 388 Plalyloma flcxnosum. 888 i Pleroma macranthum, 114 j Plums, 184; standard, for dinner-fable decoration, 154; Kentish orchard. ' 164; a new, 171; imfruiifnl, S07 ; I Cherrv, 296, 860: Late Bluek Or- leans,* 301; the Mirabelle, 359; San- dalls, 247 Plymouth Poultry Show, 490 Poinsettiapulcberrima, leaves falling, 827 ; poisonous, 479 Polands — white-created Black cock, 88: cockerel with crooked tail, 142; plucking each other, 494 Pomegranates. 301: ripeninir unpro- tected, 243 : ripening on a standard, 861 ; in the open air, 479 Pomological gleanings. 171, 190, 207, 247, 301. 323, e42. 360, 405, 441, 479 Pomoloidcal Society, rules of the American. 205: American, 248 Pontefract Poultry Show, 84 Portulaca Thellu8oni.l27 Postage stamps, paying wiih. 272 Potatoes- trial of at Chiswick, 22; Veitch's Early A.shleaf. 48; snpertn- ^ boratint:, estimate of varieties, 74, 239: disease, 115: culture of, 146; acres of in Great Britain. 288; super- tuberating, \i20: crop, saving seed, 257, 268 ; two crops of, 824 ; at Wood- stock Show, 225 : for early crops, 466 Potted plants, treatment, 466 Poultry Club. 236 Poultry— prolit able, 32; culture, -facts coneeming, 49 ; for table and laying, 70; for u Be, 88; judges, 162, 389; judging, 253; co&t of food, 256; tres- Poi'LTiiY— Continued : passing, 276; at the yeor*8 decline. 289; diseased, 29^1; commencing to keep, 294; .at the approaeh of winter, 3fl8 ; fancier's sonftWB. 30H; show detailH. :^2!^. 370, 448 ; market in Kdward I.'rt reign, 848 ; show frauds, 869: secretary exhibiting, 389 ; show management,' 412; food, 468; on a farm, i^-i ; fntteninfc'. 514 Prr-btoe. Mr,, death of. 885 Primulas— Knibrt dtstrojing, 281 ; fari- uosa in border. 251 Prionium Palniita, 114 Privet, propayatint:, 288 Prizes, awarded withheld, 187; post- in c lists of awarded, 102, 120 Protector for tree, 501 PrunuH mvrohalana, 29G Pulleiiie, Rev. R.. death of, 40C Puya Whytei, 201 Pyrethruui, propagating Golden, 194, 410 QtnXCES, 252 J THE POETUGAL, 82 Rabbits — i.EKOTtiE^fiNO eaus, 200 ; diseases, 294; Eel^ian, 414; attack- ing Firs, 466; lop-eared, a cannibal doe.494 ; judginir at Leeds, keeping not in hutches, 512 Rain, absfnce ot, 33 Ranunculuses — not sncceeding, 346; protecting, 447 EaphanuB caudatus, cooking, 138 Raspbemes— planting'. 174, 213, 347 ; Belle de Fontenay, 299 ; digging be- tween. 410 ; pruning. 446 Rating garden stnicturee, 82 Rats— in gardens, destroying, 297; in Pigeon house. 514 Red spider— en Vines, C6. 100; on Peach, Pear, and Apple trees, C6 ; on Plum trees, 100; destroying, 193 Rendle's tank heating, 231 Rhipidopteris peltata culture, 12 Rhododendrons— select, 112, 213; cul- ture, 150; budding. 191; injured by 193 ; for a town garden, after forcing' 388; grafting, 407 Rhubarb forcinc, 232, 445 Ricinus seeds, 307 Ridging, 44* Ringing to induce roots, 479 Rivers' Nui'series, Sawbridgeworth, 169, 240 Rochea falcata not flowering. 270 Rockwork arch, jilants for, 12 Bollisson & Sons' Nursery, 480 Rooks and crows. 403 Root-pruninc,229. 305, 422 Rope, to make pliable, 834 Rose lore, 397 Roses— at Birmingham show, 23 ; budding, 48, 92, 387 ; influence of charcoal on colour; 119; forming a collection, 137 : compost for potted, 48; culture, 325. 367, 484; cuttings, 48, 288, 410 ; sadden decay, 368 ; for exhibition, 346: forcing in cold pits, 288: fungi, 460; galvanised wire arches for, 138; gross shoots, 466; wrubs 466; at Jlr. Keynes's nursery, 11*8: for London, 137; manures for, 119. 270, 327. 446; for market, 2.'d ; merits of, 78. 119, 327 ; mildew, 154, 806: mulching. 410: new, 110, 127, 151, 227, 278 ; notes on, 92 ; at Oke- ford Fitzpaine. Ill; over luxuriant, 81; paleness. CH; pegging down, 12, 288.326; preparing ground for, 425; planting. 327; in pots. 48, 213, 425, 426; protecting, 368. 466: prunine, 466: in unfavourable soil and cli- mate. 219; removing, 174, 193,368; at Salisbury. Ill ; seed and seed- hngs, 499; prospects of, 438; sow- ing, 828; select. 48, 66, 101, 288,316, 326, 409, 425; shoots, 368; soil for, 137 ; stocks, 2, 119, 145. 388. 446 ; Ma- nelti, 48, 155, 174, 193, 213, 270 ; black spot on leaves. 19 ; on east wall, 367; Alfred Colomb, 298; Blairii No. 2 not flowering, 138 : old Cab- bage. 86S; Cai-dinal Patrizzi. 81 ; climbing, 174.252; Gioire de Dijon culture, 138, 270; Hybrid Perpetual, dark and pink, 81; white. 17 J; La France. 114; MadameAlice Durean. 261: Madame FiUion, 280; Marechal Niel, 138, 155, 2.38,291; Narcibse cul- tnre, 138; Reine du Portngal, 181; yellow, 66; leaves dj-ing, 367 Rotation of crops, 444 Roup, 814 SACCOLABrUM AMPCLLACECM EOSECM, 44 Safl'ron Finch, what is it? 142 Saco Palm, 75 Salvia argentea seed sowing, 101 Sanchezia nobilia variegata, soil for, 467 Sarcocaalon Bumianni. 207 Scale, plants infested with white, 4.s6 Scarlet Runners, storing roots v. seed sowing. 175 Seaford Grange, 376 Sea-kale— manure for, planting, 198 ; forcing, 408. 445 Benson— the, In Korf-Ik, 76; cn- coiinteriiiK its dryne«H, 'jP ; leKgf.nK from the paht. 191 ; mildio-N ..'. 49i Sedum califomicuni prtipat-aM. n, 62 Seeds — failing, 64 ; adult^rrauon of, 281, 824 ; of trees, sowing, 503 S-fUm P.irk, 42 September, plants in flower In, 282 Shading bv whitening the^'lasB. 81 Shelheld Colnmbarian Society's Show, 370 Shepton Mallet Show fchodnle, 155 Shrubbery, ir.-es, Ac, f<.r. HW Shrubs— omaiiiental mid ll'iv.ering, 96,112,150; tranhphuiled lat/ in the season. 108; tor a town garden, 271 ; arrangingfand planting, 881', 489; as standards, 435 Silkworms— cocoons, 18 ; rearing In Kngland, .''.8,87, 123 Skipton Poultry Show, 179 SluvH. excluding, 488 Snaith Poultry Show, 84 Soil, culture of cohl stiff, 883 Solanum capsicaHtrnm. 447 Southampton I''iultr> Show, 891 Southporl PcKiltrv Show, 195 Spalding Poultry Show, 10 Spanish fowls— weitrht. 18; crossing Black, 124: and Minorcas, White, 200 ; cock blind, 2SG Spirrea palmata. 206 Spring, flowers, 477; gardening, notes on. It) Staehys lanata propagation, 327 Statice, Holfordi, propagating, 40 : latifolia, 126 Staveley Poultry Show, 14, 8C, 67, 290 Steam condensed in a vinerj'j 81 StcphaiioUs floribimda in u warm greenhouse, 66 Stirring the soil deeply, C5 Stocks— cultare of, 41; sowing for spring flowering, 118; transplanting, 889; Intermediate, culture, 32C Stocks— for pome fruits, 447 ; lor graft- ing, planting. 505 StocKwood Park, 2 Stoke Newington Chrysanthemum Show. S57 Stoke-on-Trent Poultry* Show, 214 Stonehouse Poultry Show, 15 Stove— heating a small, 101; flucless, 194 Stii\vmarket Poultry Show, ."il Strawberries— for light soil, 12: an'!" culture, 37, 154, 175 ; list for ^lU'r-- sion. 48: notes on various, 5*">: f r show. 6G; beds, old. 32; Tdat.tir.j.-, K-O; rambles m England, 107 ; cul- ture at Okeford Fitzpaine. Ill : torn- ing, 126. i:'.7, 11:2, 2SS. 3C:.. ^^■^4 : form- ing beds. 174: potting, 211: ir.'i'r:;-- ing witli seaweed, 2r,2 ; f'^jr. cold pits, 288; too deeply t 280: Cockscomb, 155. 174, : it : 1 do MalakofT, 96, 166. 204; Du!:c vi Edinhnrgh. 107; Early Prolific. K7; I Frogmore Late Pine. 4*^; SuU;'.!;, 107 ; William James Nicholson, 107 i Subtropical Hardening, 357; in the ! north, 398, 408 Sulphur, .ipplj-ing to Vines, S46 Suluhuring hot-water pipes. 400 , Summer— effeet 3 this year, $'22 ; rty suits of tlie past, 342 ; consequences of last, 438 Summers of ia^5 and l&CS, 413 ! Sunday work. 129. 231 Sunderland Bird >how, 492 Sunderland Working Men's PonUry Show, 510 Sunflower seed saving, 82 Surface-stirrinc, 152 Sweeping the floor, S34 Sweet ■Williams, transplanting, 389 Tacsotha Vax-Volsbmt, PRr?tTNr. 174 ; not flowering, 231 ; bmls failing, 252 ; mollissima not flowering, 485 Tails of fowls awry. 494 Tan hotbed, making, 12 T.ank heating. 389 Tea plant management, 81 Thinning, 10 Thistles, cutting down, 45 Thuiiidou, Mr. D., 284; preseniat.on to. 358 Thorns dying after budding, 2S8 Thripa ori Cinerarias, 101 Tobacco — powder, 32; effects, 11; growing, 101; dr>ing, 213' Tomatoeft— in a greenhouse. CC; cul- ture, 165, 206, 271; proservhig, 218: jam, 236; Common Red. -JTO: The Orangefield, 200, 270; the TtVher:k- berrj\ 205 Trachelium crcnilemn, 128 Training wall trees, 4;il Transplanting trees, 464; time for, 213 Tredegar Poultry Show, 330, 473 Trees— overshado\\Tng a neighhoar's garden. 230; right lo remove, 270, 306; in pots. 447 Trenching, 3S6. 444 Triehomanes radicans culture, 4SC Trimming, poultry, 412; and other artifices at shows, 487. 4S8; (o-rI.; for exhibition, protest rtsahst, UH, 508 rUl INDBX, Tropffiolum JaiTatti grandiflorum for window, 252 Troubles, masters', fG4 Trowbvidffe Show schedule, ISS Truffle -hunting, f!C4 Tumour ill lowrs eye, 514 Turfing. 409 Turf management, 494 Turkeys— Buffeiing from cold, 124; for cooldng. 41^:4 Turnips, storing, 446 Tjdaea cultui'e, 347 TJlvekston Pocltbt Snow, 178 Umbrella Pine, 411 Uttoxeter Poultry Show, 173 Vallota pubptteea, cri-TUKE. 13 ; not flowering, 307 : dividing, 410 Vases, plants for. 213 Vegetable s. what a gardener is allowed to take. U"IJ Vegetable Marrows after Potatoes, S4C Ventilating, 446 Verbenas — species v. varieties, 55 : venosa, wintering. 194; seed sowing, 232; cuttings, 269 Veronicas, hardy, 447 Vilmorin, Madame Eliza, 134 Vinery— covering' back wall, ISfi; erect- ing. 82. 251 ; flue constructing, 307 ; heating by a stove, 3S8 ; potting- shed converted into, 174; glazed cylinder, 326 ; ground, growing Melons in, 127. planting, 271 Vines— stripping bark from, 426; bor- ders asphalting, 368, watering, 425. inside. 322, outside, 426; compost lor, 175; planting cool hou«e, 411; consei-vatory, 81 ; cut back not start- ing, 48; twenty years on the exten- sion system, 317; from eyes, 194; flowering. 252 ; forcing Black Ham- burgh, 389; forced too much, 425; fmiling canes, 486 : fruit on, 828; for fiTiiting in May, 2aS; glass en- closure for, 447 ; grafting to bear the same season, 447 ; in ^een- house. 307. 505; in ground vinery, 271 ; inarching, 252, 347 ; layering, ir.4; leaves falling, 410. shading Grapes, 101, removing, 306, warted, 388; management, routine, 12; what to do and avoid in, 353 ; manuring, 389, 410; mealy hug on, 411 : mildew, 82, 112; one-year-old produce. 360; in orchard house, 307 ; nut of doors, 13. 252, 446, 459; planting. 271, 411, 4S5; in pots. Black Haniburghs, 342, planting out from, 440, 4GC, top- dressing, 346; pruning, 137, 194, 425, '147, 486; red spider on, 138; root pruning. 146; roots diseased, 252; scale oil, 188; soil for, 328; stem re- moving, 252; stopping, 12; thrips on, 410; top-dressing, 316, 426; train- ing, 81, 82.410,446; unfruitful, 252, 347 ; watering, 425; winter dressing, 3U6 Viola comuta, failures, 3,25,68; aaa bedder,384 Wakefield Potji-trt Show. 136 Walk of fowls, what is a ? 200 Wallflowers — transplanting, 889 ; sow- ing for spiing flowers, 407 Walls— fruit tr^^es for north, 4G6 ; pro- tection, 478; plants for a south, fruit ti'ces for various, 231 Walnut tree, heading back, 194 Washing fowls for exhibition, 18 Wasps, 212; destro>'ing, 117, 119, 173; protecting fiiiit from, 117, 119 Waterer, Mr. John, death of, 364 Watcrford Poulti-y Show, 255 Watering, 29, 4G, 79, 80; in winter, 402 Water — impregnated with iron. 101 ; conveying. 116; supply, 135; soften- ing hai'd, 154 Waterproofing— calico, 307 ; ■uith tar, 347 Weather, the hotj 39 Weeds, 303 ; and insects, 21 Weeks & Co.'s heating apparatus, 154 Week, work for. 9, 28. 45. GS, 78, 97, 115, 134. 151, 172. IHO, 209, 228, 2^9. 267, 285, 302, 324, 343. 364, 3S5. 407, 422, 443, 463, 482, 502 : doings of the last, 10. 29. 46, (i9, 79, f:8. 116, 135, 152, 173, 191, 210, 229, 350, 268, 236. 308, 325, S44, SC5, 386, 408, 423. 444, 4(;4. 484. 503 Wellington Poultry Show, 235 WcUingtonia gigantea, protecting, 4-lH Wells. SI Whitby Poultry Show, 156; Canary Show, 235 Whitehaven Poultry Show, 294 Whitworth Poultry Show, 157 TMiortlebenies, 282 Wiltshire, a iragment of, 170; to Glas- gow, 481, 511 Window-gardening exhibitions, 27 Wine fining, 70, 88 Wines, Greek, ISO, 3?4 Winter, the present, ."jOI, 502; orna- mental gardening, 477, 499 Wireworms, 193 Wirral PoulU-y Show, 233 Wistaria smensis, shelter for, 259 Wolverhampton Pon2tr>- Show, SID Wonderful, beware of the, 75 Wooden leuce or fruit-tiee training, 4^6 Woodlicp. destroying, 174, 368; trap- ping, 438 Woodstock Poultry Show, 233 Worms in pots, destroying, 118 Wounds ol trees, trcauuiOit, 4^ YAMAMO-Mr.KI, 207 Yangmac fniit, 207 Yates's Nurserieb. 259 Yew, removing a large, 527 Yews, pruning Irish, 467 York and District Kabbit York Poultry Show. 491 Yucca flowering, 846 WOODCUTS. PAGE. JEcidinm 24fi Apple, Eunyard's Seedling 190 „ Early Nonpareil 284 Bees, Berkshire hive 351 „ Comb-building guide 70 Bentley Priory, flower garden 363 Chickeu-feediug fold, Crook's 52 Cliveden, Succulent bed 285 East Sutton Place, flower garden at 8 Erysipliei 246 Flower-garden plans 8, 285, 363, 385 Frame, span-roofed 2'26 Fungi, types of 246 Fruit trees, pruning and training 266, 267, 302,303, 404,421,442 Gas Oven, SUrewsbury's portable 275 Hardenhuish Church 170 Heating by hot water without a boiler 4h1 Ij adder, fruit gathering 26 Lever, a handy 73 PAGE. Pencb, Nectarine 204 „ tree, training 2G6, 267, 802, 803 „ mode of bearing and pruning 404, 442 Pear, Amiral 114 „ Ananas 114 „ Madame Treyve 227 „ Summer Eeurr e d'Aremberg 171 Peronosporei 24G Pits, cold 238 Plant Houses, economical 20?, 209 Puccinisei 246 Sashes, economical 209 Tree Protector 501 Urcdinei 248 Ustilaginei 246 Vandyke border 365 Wall, hollow 2C8 Wall trees, training 421 Window garden 27 Joly a, 1868. 1 JOUBNAL OP HORTIODLTUaB AND COTTAGE GARDENER. WEEKLY CALENDAR. D»y Day of ol Month Week. •2 Th 3 P 4 S 5 Son a M 7 To 8 W JULY 2-8, 1868. Royal Rotanig Society's Show closes, Loutll Horticultural Show. Uiivftl Horticultural Society, Promonatlo. 4 Sunday At-rEu Trinity. Mcetintr of Entomolof^'ical Society. Itoyal Horticultural Society. Fruit. Floral, [and General Meeting. Averaire Temperature near London. Rain in last 41 years. Day. 7.S.S 74.1 7fi.l 77.3 76.3 73.7 78.8 Nlcht. 50.9 60 1 5J.3 60.G 61.1 60.8 49.9 Mean. 6-2.1 G2.1 68.2 63.9 68.7 62.'2 61.8 Dava. 16 18 14 17 19 22 20 Snn Rises. m. h. .10 af 8 51 8 Sun Sets. m. h. 17a«8 10 8 Moon Rises. Moon Sets. m. h. m. h 1 af 6 I 19 12 Moon's Age. Days. 12 18 o 15 10 17 18 Clock before San. m. fi. 3 47 D.T LlBRARV Year fieW YORl 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 liOTA.N»CA From observations taken near London dnrinR the last fnrty-ono years, the average day temperature of the week is 74.9'; and its night toinporature6U.5 . Ihegroatest heat was 97', on the 5th, 1852 ; and the lowest cold 35 , on the 7th, 1804. The greatest fall of ram was O.'/S inch. PLANTS OF PREY. RTUNATELY a throt through all nature, an inherent lovo of mis- chief for its own sake. In some it may be said to constitute the whole warp, while in others it only crops-out here and there among a host of good and noble traits. It shows itself in a thousand forms, many of them harmless, and some criminal in the highest degree. The miss in her teens who tries to break hearts " just for the fun of the thmg," or the lU'chin who, reaching his switch through your iron paUng, tries to knock oif the heads of your Rhododendrons for the same reason, both receive the impulse to do so from the same source as the incendiary or bushranger, who will fire a stackyard or shoot a traveller from no other motive than the gratitication of this propensity. Were it needfid, many proofs might also bo adduced to evidence that something near akin to this is also inherent in the lower annuals : but that plauts and (lowei'S, which have for ages been emblems of beauty, purity, and grace, should show traces of this moral perversion is something very hard to believe, yet some species do exhibit traits of character which inevitably lead to this conclusion were there not many reasons for suspecting that there are functions connected with the economy of plants scarcely yet dreamt of in our philosophy. As instances may be cited the well-known Pitcher- plants, or Nepanthes, found in the tropical swamps of India, Cliina. and elsewhere. N. distillatoria may be taken as the representative plant of the order, although upwards of twenty species have been found and described by bo- tanists. After divesting its history of all those fabulous stories which have gathered around it in bygone days, when travellers' tales were not what they now arc, it still remains one of the most curious plants in existence. It is of a half-shrubby character, 4 or Ti feet in height, and the flower is a panicle of greenish yellow ilorets, about which there is nothing remarkable ; but the oblong leaf has attached to its extremity by a gracefully-coiled tendril a pitcher-like vessel of chaste and elegant form, furnished with a close-fitting lid, which opens on a membranous hinge when fully developed. This pitcher contains a quantity of sweetish but wholesome water, and is generally found a little less than half-full. It was once thought that this liquid was an accumulation of dew stored up by the plant during the night, and kept to sustain its flagging energies under the next day's sun, or that it was intended for the use of wearj', panting beasts and men, from which suppo- sition comes the name Nepenthes, sorrow-soothing. It is now known, however, to be a secretion from the plant itself, though for what purpose has never been clearly explained ; but from the fact of the plant never being found except where there is water, we may infer that it is not a provision of nature for quenching the thirst of animals : indeed, from the shape of the vessel, and from its never being full, very few of these, except man, could avail themselves of its contents even if they required to do so. No. 879.-VOL. XV., New Seeies. But perhaps some may say. Do the pitchers not serve for drinking fountains to moths and butterllies, and all the myriad forms of insect life with which tiiose regions teem ? and would it not be more in keeping with the order of things in these lands to see a gaily-painted humming bird sipping from a fairy cup growing on a tree, instead of drinking at a muddy pool '.' Perhaps it would. At any rate we have ample proofs that the contents of these vessels are highly appreciated by flies, moths, and other insects. Attracted by the slightly saccharine nature of the secre- tion and by the always-open lid, they descend, but it is only to taste the bitterness of death, for they never return. Their egress is prevented by reversed glands placed roimd the inside of this treacherous pitcher, which pointing downwards, are no obstruction so long as the victim is going in that direction, but when, from fright or satiety, an ascent is attempted — sad thought to bibulous men and moths — it is all but impossible. The existence, conformation, and arrangement of these glands put a verdict of accidental death altogether out of the question. It has been said that the dead insect when decayed or during decomposition ministers to the health of the plant; but this is also highly improbable, for some of those in this country which grow most luxuriantly in our stoves produce no pitchers at iill, and even those which do have comparatively few opportunities of gratifying their insectivorous appetite, yet live and thrive like other honest plants ; so that the case seems to stand thus : These dead flies either are or are not necessary or benelicial to the plant : if it be proved that they are not, then most as- suredly the fly is not the benelited object, and the only legitimate inference we can draw is that the death of the insect is all that is sought. Another plant, a briglit tiny thing, with a gladsome name, against which a similar charge might be preferred, is to be found growing plentifully on some of our own bogs and marshes ; but as the evidence against it is not so conclusive I will not press for a conviction. Minute flies are said to have been often found within its suspicious- looking little tentacles, but they may have got there by accident, and not being able to release themselves have been the means of bringing down the breath of slander upon the pretty little Sundew. In the case of another member of the same familJ^ however, these reasons do not obtain, consequently it cannot be so gently dealt with. The Dionica musoipula is known in tliis country only as a very tender greenhouse or cool stove plant, diflicult to grow, yet well repaying all the care and attention it may receive by its curious structure and habits. The leaf con- sists of, or rather the true leaf is terminated by, a toothed apparatus composed of two lobes hinged together in much the same fashion as the shells of the mussel or oyster, and in general appearance resembling nothing so much as a common u'on rat-trap. The inner surfaces of these lobes are covered with a gummy substance, and on each are placed three or four bristles in such positions that any fly entering must touch tliem, wliich springs the trap ; for these hairs being highly irritable, they in some way com- municate the touch to the nervous system, if such there No. 1031.— Vol. XL., Old Seeies. JOURNAL OP HORTICDLTTJEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ July 2, 1868. he, of the plant, and the two lobes instantly close up, the bristly teeth interlock like clasped hands, and the unlucky creature is crushed to death. That they have not the power, however, of distinguishing the touch of an insect from that of anything else is evidenced by the lobes grasping with equal aridity the head of a pin when inserted between them ; but the same want of judgment may be seen in the case of the Sea Anemone, which, though possessed of animal life, will enfold within its tentacles a small stone with as much eagerness as it does a piece of the daintiest food. When the leaves of the Dionffia begin to grow old, they by degrees lose their irritability, and it is curious, almost painful, to watch one that is fast passing into the " sere and yellow leaf," how it will feebly clutch at a tly that has been put within its reach when the power to kill is altogether gone. We can understand something about the various mems of self-defence with which many plants are provided ; why the Thistle presents at every point a threatening spear, and why the Eose stands armed to the teeth with hooked spines ready to lacerate the incautious hand which may try to pluck one of her peerless flowers ; but when, instead of these, we find plants fitted up with engines of destruction, seemingly for no other €nd than to destroy, we are naturally not a little surprised. The two described, together with a few more which present somewhat similar characteristics, have often been commented upon by botanists, without any very definite conclusion having 'been arrived at concerning their spider-like propensities. Yet why should they not be accepted for what they really seem to be ? — instruments provided by Nature for helping to preserve the balance of insect life. Our world is flooded with vitality in innumerable forms, and " the reaper, whose name is Death," uses weapons of diiifereut kinds to cut the strings of life in every form which it assumes ; and having fluttered "through a life-time — the length of a summer's day — is it not better for the little fly or moth to expire in a cup of neetar, or in the arms of a tiny flower, than to die by disease or starva- tion ? No doubt the number thus destroyed must be very small, compared with that of those which die from other causes ; but that variety is the watchword of Nature is a truth illustrated as forcibly by the varied means of death as by the myriad forms and modes of existence. — AiESuir.E Gat.denek. where they get heat without the direct rays of the sun. How beautifully are they blooming here under these circumstances now ! If " C-vniL " hud these Eoses, or any of them, he will be pleased with them. I believe I have here 4.50 plants of Charles Lefebvre, Senateur Vaisee, Prince Camille de Eohan, Jules Margottin, and W. Grifliths. One cannot have too many of them. They never go wrong at any time, and charm every- body. — W. F. Eabclyffe, Oh'ford Fitzpaine. ROSES SUITABLE FOR VARIOUS STOCKS. " Ctf.il " wishes to know the names of the best Eoses for budding upon the "Dog Eose, some for Manetti stocks, also for Celine stocks." Before I attempt to answer this, I must make a few obser- vations. The Dog Eose is an excellent stock for unctuous clays. It will do respectably in light, rich land, provided the owner wiU go to the expense of mulching and watering copiously in summer. It does not like its roots burned. For bad or mo- derate-growing varieties it is the only suitable stock. For those of strong growth, with the rarest exceptions, Manetti and Celine stocks are adapted. Moreover, the Dog Eose likes strong- growing kinds, and is kept healthy by the strong growth of the Eose. Weak growers will in due time destroy the Briar. 1. Eoses that succeed extremely well on a Briar, even in light lands, on their own roots, and on Manetti stocks : — Gloire de Dijon, Celine Forestier, and Triomphe de Eennes. These are yellow Eoses of the highest excellence. 2. Eoses that I know bloom and grow splendidly on Manetti : — Brilliant Crivison or itn aliadrs. — Charles Lefebvre, Senateur Vaisse, Lord Macaulay, Maurice Bernardin, Alfred Colomb. Duchesse de Caylus, Madame Victor Verdier, Lady SuilJeld, Baronne Adolphe de Eothschild, Madame Boutin, Jules Mar- gottin, Globosa, and Man'chal Vaillant. Dark Maroons. — Prince Camille de Eohan, Ssuveuir de Dr. Jamain, and Em- pereur de Maroc. Darl: Crimsons. — Due de Cazes, Pierre Net- ting, Vicomte Vigier, and Souvenir de Comte Cavour, superb, but not quite full. Blush. — Caroline de Sansal, and Marguerite de St. Amand. Rose Colour or its shades. — Baronne Prevost, Comte de Nanteuil, W. Griffiths, Comtesse de Chabrillant, Charles EouiUard, new and fine, and Duchesse de Morny. The above are here in abundance ; they are the elitf of the Eose kingdom. There are others very good, but I could not recommend them to any but experienced persons. Some are only fit for first-class soils. Some are most splendid under certain conditions — for instance, JIadame JuUe Daran and Leopold Premier. The first loses colour under strong sun in the early part of the year, and both open well in a shady place, A FEW HOURS' OUTING. Unless in particular cases, all visits to gardens at this season should be confined to as short a time as possible, that the time of the gardener visited may not be encroached upon. By-and-by, when all is straight sailing, an extra hour will not be of the same consequence as now. 'The four places I called at have been already described in these pages, and, besides shaking hands with old and new friends, my principal object was to see how the dry weather had affected their gardens. I will not enter into particulars, but chiefly confine myself to that one point of observation. At Stockwood Pake, standing on elevated ground, there used to be a great want of water in dry summers. Sometime ago a huge brick and cement tank, or rather reservoir, was formed in the park, and part of the park drained into it, and that has never been dry since. Water from this reservoir can be con- veyed to other parts of the park by pipes for the service of cattle. I presume this cannot bo done in the case of the gar- den, and I suppose could not be done unless the water was first pumped into an elevated cistern. But for the labour of carting, however, the garden is now well supplied. Except in some cases, in order to apply it to the flower beds in the flower garden, the water is not taken from the cart and used, for in that case there is apt to be either a waste of horse power in keeping the horse standing, or a waste of men's time in coming and going to another job, so as to empty the cart as soon as possible, and when this must be done considerable care must be taken to have other work at hand that the time spent in moving from one piece of work to the other may be as little as possible. In most of the watering at the garden this is avoided at Stockwood by having in the water barrel a large tap which soon runs the water into tanks, and from thence one man may pump and take it away in a small barrel as wanted. This plan also permits of the watering chiefly being done towards the evening, when it has greater eiiect than when done during the day. when horse power can chiefly be obtained. Here, considering the season, the flower garden looked re- markably well, and I could not help wondering where the young gardener conld manage to keep such multitudes of strong plants. Amongst the many of Mrs. Pollock Pelargonium I was struck with fine beds of a bronze-leaved kind called Top6. Some of your readers may recollect of a small enclosed flower garden with glass houses on two sides. Here the beds have been greatly enlarged, and well planted, but for want of being able to look down on them, &c., they will seem too much like one bed in Mr. Eobson's style, without showing the same unity in arrangement. As to looking well, there can be no doubt, only I think there would have been a more distinctive beauty if the beds had occupied only some fourth of their present ground. The weather, thanks to the watering, had not affected either the Strawberries or the other crops ; the houses were very neat, the fruit houses well supplied, and in excellent order ; and here I noticed a simple thing worthy of record. In a Peach honse the chimney passed through the back wall. Near the chimney fruit was gathered some weeks earlier than from the same tree further from the chimney, but the extra heat almost always induced the presence of the red spider. To counteract this, the wall was faced with wood as a nonconductor, and, in addition, a semicircular wire trelhs was brought out a foot or so from the chimney, and thus, though the wood trained over it ripened earlier as before, it was not subject, as previously, to the attacks of red spider. At Luton Hoo I did not see much of how the weather had treated the flower garden, as this is made less a point than formerly, and more efl'ort is concentrated on the kitchen garden, fruit in-doors and out of doors, and house plants of all kinds, hardy flowers out of doors, and fine shrubs and trees. The park in some places seemed much parched, but there was no , sign of such being the case in the garden. The whole of the I houses, rich with rare plants, and attractive from the fine show July a, 1868. ) JOUBNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. of Grapes, chiefly the Muscata, Teaches, Melons, &(:., had a peculiar charm about them in tho humid atmosphere that met ■ you BO pleasantly after being nearly parched out of doors. This was more particularly the case in tho tropical orchard house, where a large tank in the centre was kept supplied with moving ■water, heated with pipes when necessary, and almost all the bouses were shaded with line tillany, Ac, which contributed to the pleasant sensation, the same rolls of tiffany coming in for covering the Peach and Apricot walls in the spring. I'ine.s, a -new feature here, were also doingwell in a narrow house, not >the best fitted for them. But whilst giving all due honour to tho energy, and the in- dustry, ond the intelligence of tho gardener, ho would own that one cause of his success was tho good supply of excellent water. Naturally he was no better situated that many of us, but a water-ram at a fall in tho river Lea sent up a good supply of water for house, garden, and farm. If one ram should be iusullicient, a second would only involve a fresh set of pipes for a mile or so. What a pleasure it is to be able to dash water along paths, on stages, over foliage, &o., and not be troubled with the thought that if you act so lavishly to-day, you may have plants starving for what you cannot give them to-morrow. The HviiE stands equally high, not quite so far from the Lea, but with no cascade or waterfall so near. Its gem of a little flower garden promises to ha as fine as in Mr. Donald- son's time, and would only be more pleasing if the huge raised terrace walk in the middle of it were removed. The want of plenty of water has always been a drawback ; and does not the gardener almost dread to use it in this weather, and plumb his tank every day, fearful that he will quite run out and be dependant on carting up a steep hill from the river ? And yet much has been done to meet the want ; a huge pond, puddled and concreted, near the farm has been made, and it holds the water drained into it well, and held a great body of water in its centre on our visit. A deep large tank about 20 feet deep and 15 feet or more in diameter had been sunk at the back of tho garden, and as the ground above it shelves all round like the sides of a basin, the bricking and cementing that ground would nearly double its size. It was considered wasteful to have such a large tank bricked and cemented at first, but on our visit there was not more than 2 feet at the narrowed bottom, and well might the gardener look on every drop used as valuable as tho finest vintage. This is supplied by drainage from the garden and park, and the over- flow of house cisterns, &c., but large as the tank is, and large as the widening shelving basin around it, it soon gets full and water runs away by the waste-pipe every winter. How valuable that wasted water would be now. I had not seen the pretty old place for some years ; its kitchen garden, with its trellises for common fruit, was and is an example of how much can be obtained from little room. I have lived to see the realisation of many a musing dream. Some day we may seek for the much-praised old terrace walk and find no trace of it left. The dream of a comfortable cottage home, close to the garden, for the gardener and his helpmate has already been realised, and most likely when I return there some day I shall find a piece of ground outside the walls appropriated to garden purposes and means secured for even more water than now. Neither in plant houses, fruit houses, nor even out of doors among flowers and excellent vegetables had the drought told very injuriously, but that was a fortnight before this will be read. KrMPTox Hoo. — Spirits of envy and covetousness, stand aloof ! I will nought with you. Surely we may admire the blessings that others have without detracting from the value of our own. The mansion and flower garden, like our own and the places mentioned, stand on the highest ground in the neighbourhood. Turning from the dusty road, and through a wood in which Rhododendrons and some of the best I'inuses are growing luxuriantly, we come ou the little flower garden in front of the mansion, and every sense of the oppressive heat and the stifling dust leaves you as by enchantment. You might even fancy you were enjoying all the luxuries of a shower bath, as a man, after watering the roots, was sending a shower of spray water over the flower beds. The water comes on turn- ing a tap from a cistern ou the top of the house, supplied by a water ram from the lake. Just think of taking hold of gutta percha tubing, and giving what your plants require, and how they require it, with so little wear and tear even to the physical machine. These flower beds showed the perfection of keeping. There were three things here that were gratifying to me. When I described tho place tho flower garden was on three Hquares of lawn. Now mark ! It is concentrated in one square. 1 do not say but that all three squares might not have been eifually good, but tho same hands could not have done for the three what they would have done for tho one. Secondly, an elegant conservatory has been built, which will bo a great acquisition to the house, and more especially as it is intended to keep the bulk of the floor for promenading purposes, the back wall being set out with Derbyshire ragstono for growing Ferns in the interstices. Thirdly, the ugly sunk ditch and wall close to the principal walk liave been removed and the lawn extended, which isagreat improvement, as anything would have been which would have prevented the ditch, tho ha-ha being such a prominent object. The kitchen garden is near tho river, but as the water here had to be carried some crops were showing the effects of the drought ; but what surprised me was a quarter of Peas just snelliug and showing no distress, though never watered. Dr. Hogg and Premier Strawberries were in fine condition ; and the luto Kleanor was looking well, even though water had to be carried. It was delightful to see the water at the bottom of the garden and over the outside part of it pretty well all round it. In such a position the subsoil could scarcely ever be very dry. It was not on the low part, however, that the fine Peas stood ; no mode of preparing the ground would have enabled me to have had them equally good in such a season without watering. It is pleasant to see improvements. I called on Mr. Cox when he had only a small vinery and a few frames. Now there is the flower garden and the conservatory at the mansion, almost a new gardener's house, numerous suitable sheds, fruit rooms, &o., and a good supply of glass in the shape of span- roofed houses and brick pits and houses ; and, as in most other places, most additions sho'.v that some other little addition would be desirable. — R. F. VIOLA CORNUTA AND ITS FAILURE IN DRY SEASONS. My experience of Viola cornuta is exactly opposite to that of Mr. J. Kobson. Last year our summer was wet, and my Viola hardly flowered at all. This year (the plant has been out all winter) it has been a mass of bloom tor the last six weeks, and looks like continuing for weeks. I am satisfied that, if pos- sible, it does better if not moved after flowering. — H. A., Frestaich,Maiieliester, EARTH HE.\T. Much was at one time written about the supposed discovery of a natural means for the preservation of plants from frost, and for enabling us to attain greater perfection in the production of early and late crops. 'Through its agency many plants treated as half-hardy, or requiring protection by fire heat from frost were to be kept unharmed over winter, and in summer we were to grow many plants and fruits which are. only ob- tained in perfection from heated and costly glass structures. The so-called discovery, however, was recognised in this country as a means well known, and extensively utilised for all the purposes it was to aid in, and about which some of our oldest and best horticulturists were able, retrospectively, to say far more than the discoverer. The new name of the discovery I will not employ, but shall content myself with calling the means earth heat, though this seems to me neither more nor less than the absorption and retention by the earth of the sun's rays. It is absurd to consider the earth, so far as vegetation is concerned, in the light of a heat-supplying medium, for the earth so far as it conduces to the growth of plants, is entirely dependant on the sun for its warmth. The sun being the ote great centre of light and heat to the earth, it is evident the earth's internal heat has a very insignificant, if any, influence on the temperature of the earth's surface. It is very interesting, and even desirable, to know that the further wo descend into the earth the higher the temperature is. Facts, however, in connection with the earth's upper or surfacial temperature are of far greater consequence to the gardener than the knowledge of the earth's internal formation and heat. We know that coal and other mines have a greater mean temperature than the surface of the earth, and that the temperature increases with the depth. Earth heat proper, then, is distinct from the heat derived by the earth from th.e sun : the former has no essential JOUKNAIi OF HOETIOULTUBH AND COTTAGE GABDENER. I Jaly 2, 1888. effect on the beat at the surface, and it is entirely the latter upon -which the horticulturist is dependant. Taking the sun as the one great and only source of heat we necessarily must arrive at the conclusion, that to make the san's heat available in cold and dull periods, it is essential that Ihe heat produced in bright weather be retained, and for its retention it must be absorbed. In general terms, the earth is the only absorber of the sun's rays, but as the sun's rays are direct, and the earth does not present its surface to them ver- ticBlIy in our latitudes, a large per-centage of them is not absorbed, but reflected ; but walls surrounding a garden would giTe a slight increase of temperature, for there will be a greater absorbing, and, consequently, radialing surface. An enclosed space, whatever the material forming the enclosure, will neces- sarily have a higher temperature than an open space, because the heat absorbed is retained longer through the check given to the air passing over the enclosed space ; there is shelter, a greater absorbing, and, of course, a greater radiating surface, and a sensible increase of temperature is afforded plants in the area enclosed. It will have been noticed that trees against a wall invariably posh their shoots directly towards the point whence they have the greatest light, or opposite the diiect rays of the sun ; this is commonly termed the shadow of the wall : or rather the growth of the shoots is induced by the shadow being cast in that particular direction. I simpjy name this, so that solar light and heat may not be confounded ; for solar light, however macfa it may contribute to a plant's growth, is not to be treated as heat, though it is simultaneously transmitted. Solar light is the governing power of a plant's growth ; the plant, whatever it IF, will p sh its growth in the directiun of the light, but the light being equally diffused the plant will make equal growths in all directions, subject, of course, to the formation of the plant and its natural habit. Solar heat does not, on the con- trary, appear to have any great influence on a plant's direction of growth. It is the great natural stimulant to activity of growth, and upon it depends the perfection of vegetable life. Plants live and grow for a time without light, but never thrive, and it is in that point of view that we must look at earth heat resnlting from sun heat being absorbed and radiated — absorbed when the surrounding atmosphere-is hotter, and radiated when the atmosphere is colder than the earth's surface. The surface of the earth is the culminating point, so to speak, of the extremes of heat and cold. The temperature is greater there than higher in the air upon an average of annual means, for though a thermometer will read 3° or more lower at the ground than at 4 feet from the ground by night, it will read several degrees higher by day than one at -i feet. From a carefnl register of the readings of thermometers at different heights, I find that the temperature progressively decreases with the height, being led to the experiment from noticing some time ago a statement in a contemporary, that at 10 or 12 feet from the ground frosts, and especially spring frosts, are never so severe as at or near the surface, consequently the blossoms of fruit trees would be less liable to destruction if tlie trees were cultivated as standards than as dwarfs. Assuming this to be the ease (and it is incontestiblej, there is still a dead loss to the tree of several degrees of temperature by day, and thongh sensibly warmer at night, in cases of sudden frosts, the trees at that height experience a greater loss on account of their not being immediately within the reach of the heat constantly radiated from the earth. The frosts most destructive to fruit-tree blossoms are those which are of long continuance, and in dull periods the blossoms most distant from the earth are those chiefly destroyed, whilst those nearer the earth, from the constant radiation from its surface, enjoy a higher tem- perature, and are very often preserved. Hence Pear and other fruit trees, as dwarfs, almost invariably produce fruit, whilst the same kinds cviltivated as standards do not yield a crop. Indeed, many kinds of Pears that do not succeed as standards, thrive and produce fruit admirably as dwarfs on the Quince, and even on the Pear stock. It is, then, useless grasping at the air for heat ; if we desire it, we must look to the earth. The temperature of the atmosphere decreases proportionately upwards ; that of the earth increases downwards. The mean temperature of the earth at 1 foot from the surface is equal to that of the atmosphere at 4 feet. It never in this country, at 1 foot from the surface, is reduced to i he freezing point by the cold of winter, at least not in my . xperience, and if we de- scend the temperature is higher, su that nothing further is required than to make an excavation deep enough, and we have at length a temperature sufliciently high for the preservation of plants from frost. We must bear in mind that in penetrat- ing the earth we have not only a source of heat but of damp, and that the heat thus secured, or I ought in this case to say attained, will be speedily lost unless it be prevented from ra- diating. We must also bear in mind that plants must have light, particularly when growing, and this is one of the greatest obstacles to the employment of earth heat generally ; but it may be more employed as an agent in the preservation of plants than it has hitherto been, for we have in the earth suffi- cient heat to enable us to winter most, if not all, of the plants known or cultivated as half-hardy, and by that heat we may cultivate successfully the Vine and other fruit trees. With half-hardy plants damp must be avoided, and snfBcitnt pro- tecting material provided to prevent the radiation of the earth's heat and to keep out cold ; whilst with fruit trees the points are to provide a medium for absorbing the sun's rays, and to give the plant the full benefit of the heat absorbed and being always radiated. I hope in subsequent papers to show some of the variona uses to which earth heat has been applied, and how mishaps maj- to some extent be obviated. — G. Abbey. (To be continued.} JUDGING AT THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SHOAV. How can " P." call zoneless Pelargoniums true Variegated Zonals ? The gentlemen named in his letter had an un- doubted right to exhibit ; but that is no reason why they should obtain a prize if they did not exhibit in accordance with the schedule. If the schedule of any society is not to be the guide for both exhibitors and judges, of what use is it? Undoubtedly there is plenty of room for improvement in the arrangement of the schedules of our horticultural societies ; but wiien the schedule remains unaltered up to the day of the exhibition, it is the duty of both exhibitors and judges to abide by it.— J. W. ROYiiL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. Rose Show, Jutw 30/A. — This Exhibition, with which is incoi-po- rated the National Rose Show, was a success, both as regards the nomber of the competitors and the qnaUty of the flowers which they produced at a time when, owing to the gi-eat heat and drought which have so long prevailed, the beauty of a Kose is gone in an hour. The majority of the flowers had snfiered from these causes, and very many of them were quite different in colour from that which they usuallv jtresent ; still there were trusses, for instance those shown by Messrs. Paul A: Son, Messrs. Perkins, of Coventry-, Mr. Cant, and the Rev. E. Pochin, such as are rarely surpassed ; but even these had gi'eatly deteriorated in beauty before the close of the day, notwith- standing the awning employed to keep off the sun. As regards the attendance of visitors, the Show was also very successful, for the gar- dens, which are just now in high condition and extremely gay with bedding plants, were thronged with a large and fashionable company; and in the afternoon, besides other eminent personages, their Koyal Highnesses the Prince and Princess Christian, the Prince and Piincess Louis of Hesse, the Princess Lotuse, and other members of the Royal Family were present. Class 1, was for seventy-two single trusses, and for nurserymen only. In this Mr. Cant, of Colchester, took the tirst prize with, among others, excellent examples of Fisher Holmes, Mrs. Rivers, Comtesse de Chabrillant, Horace Vemet, Madame C. Crapelet, Mathurin Regnier, Marie Banmann, very tine ; Anna de Diesbach, President, Yicomtesse de Cazes, Senatexu- Yaisse, Queen Victoiia, Marechal Vaillant, -Jean Lambert, Lord Macanlay, fine colour ; Paul Verdier, La Bonle dOr, OUvier Delhomme, Rubens, Beauty of Waltham, Dr. .\ndry, Madame Deneux DonvUle, Exposition de Brie, Mdlle. Bonnaire, Charles Lefebvre, fine, but touched with the sun ; Marichal Niel, very fine ; Alfred Colomb, Madame Bravy, Leopold Premier, Mdlle. Marie Rady, Souvenir d'Elise, Niphetos, very tine ; Duchesse de Caylus, Xavier OUbo, Madame Victor Verdier, Cloth of Gold, Marguerite de St. Amand, and Souvenir dun Ami. Messrs. Paul & Son were second, pressing very closely for the fu-at place, and had Exposition de Brie, very tine ; Mdlle. Marie Rady, Madame Vidot, Madame Furtado, Camille Bemardin, P;-ince de Portia, Felix Genero, Xavier Olibo, Mdlle, Marguerite Dombrain, Alfred Colomb, Horace Vernet, Madame Victor Verdier, Pierre Net- ting, Black Prince, Maurice Bemardin, Monsieur Furtado, and Leopold Premier, the last very fine, Mr. Eraser, of Lea Bridge Road, who was third, had, among others, Madame Bellenden Ker, a pretty white; Gloire de Vitry, small but good; Andre Leroy, fine velvety crimson purple, but rather open ; Jean Lambert, Dr. Andry, Senatenr Vaisse, and Due de Rohan. Messrs. Francis, of Hertford, were fourth, and Mr. Clarke, Streatham Place, Brixton, also exhibited in this cla8»_ July 2, 18C8. ] JOURNAL OF HORTICULTOBE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. In ClauB '2, for throe trnsaes of forty-eight varieties, Messrs. Paul Bud Son were first with trnsBes which for eiTeot and general excellence censtitnted the finest exhibition seen ou this occasion — indeed, there ■was hardly a truss which was not iiuo. The most notable were Duke of WeUiufjton, t'omte do Nantcuil. Miinchiil Nicl, 8i>lundid, Alfred Colomh, Jean Lambert. Souvenir d'uu Ami, Maurice lioniardiu, Com- tcsse de Chabrillant, Victor Vcrdicr, .1 oscidiiue Beanharnais, Dr. Audrv, Madame Caillat, Monsieur Bonceune, fine velvety crimson, .John" Hopper, Madame Margottin, Xavier Olilio, very fine, Lielia, Madame Morcau, Mdlle. Bonnairc, Duke of Kdinbur{;h, rich scarlet. Prince de Portia, Puchesse de Caylus. Senatcur Vaisse, Leopold I., Ijueen Victoria, Baron Gonella, Gloiio do Santenay, Antoine Duchor, I'ierre Netting, Marguerite de St. Amand, Millie. Marie Rady, Tri- omphe de Keuues, Clement Marot, and Marie Baumann. Mr. Cant, to whom the second prize was awarded, bad also a remarkably fine .stand, in which were La Brillante, La Boulo d'Or, Exposition do Brie, Madame Victor Verdier, Camille Bemardin, Mrs. Rivers, Devouiensis, Maurice Bemanlin, Lord Clyde, Mdllo. Bonuaire, .lean Lambert, Madame Vcrschaffelt, President, Marie Baumann, Xavier Olibo, splendid, Marcchal Niel, beautiful in colour, Niphetos, Duchesse de Caylus, Pierre Netting, John Hopper, Alfred Colomb, Thorin, bright rose, Rubens, Fisher Holmes, Souvenir d'Elise, and Monsieur Boneenne. Messrs. Francis, who were third, had very good trusses of .Kavier Olibo, Madame Boutin, Alba Mutabilis, Triomphe de Rennes, Mdlle. Bonnaire, Charles I.cfebvre, Pierre Netting, Louise de Savoie, Madame Victor S'erdier, Dr. Andry, Duchesse do Caylus, and some others. The fourth prize went to Mr. William Paul, who had splendid trusses, hut owing to the hot weather mostly overblown. Still they were very effective, especially Marie Baumann, Lady Suffield, Black Prince, a splendid Rose, Abel Grand, Marcchal Vaillant with a brilliant glow of scarlet. Lord Macanlay, Louis XIV., Fran(;oi3 Lonvat, and Madame Victor Verdier. Class 3 was for twenty-fonr Hybrid Perpetnals, three trusses of each. In this the first prize went to Messi-s. Perkins, of Coventry, who furnished fine trusses in beautiful condition, the kinds being Sreur des .-Vnges, Lord Clyde, Prince de Portia, Ltelia, Beauty of Waltham, Camille Bemardin, Madame Victor Verdier, Mdlle. Margue- rite Dorabrain, John Hopper, Due de Rohan, Pierre Netting, Duchesse de Caylus, Baron Gonella, MiUle. Marie Rady, Mdlle. Bonnaire, .Jean Lambert, Senateur Vaisse, Marguerite de St. Amand, Alfred Colomb, Madame Moreau, Charles Lefebvic, Victor Verdier, Mathurin Regnier, and Madame Charles Wood. Mr. Cant, who was second, and Messrs. Lee, who were third, had tine fiowers of several of the above and other varieties. A fourth prize was awarded to Mr. Clarke. Class 4 was for single trusses of twenty-four kinds. Here Mr. Camt was first with a stand in which were Charles Lefebvre, Rubens, Mdlle. Annie Wood, Madame Rival, Beauty of Waltham, Anna de Diesbach, Maurice Bemardin. Niphetos, Jean Bai-t, Souvenir d'Elise, Madame Charles Wood, John Hopper, Horace Veruet, Marcchal Niel, splendid. La Brillante. Mdlle. Marguerite Dombrain, Xavier Olibo, Marie Baumann, ilathurin Regnier, Madame PuUiat, Madame C. Crapelet, Marcchal Vaillant, Gloire dc Vitry, and Dr. Andry. To Messrs. Perkins, of Coventry, the second prize was awarded for a stand in which were Dr. Spitzer, a showy bright red Rose, Rushton Radclyffe, fine, Mrs. John Berners, Antoine Ducher, Alfred Colomb, Pierre Netting, and good blooms of several other kinds. Mr. Clarke, of Brixton, took the third prize. The beat stands in the amateurs' class for forty-eight single trasses came from the Rev. S. Reynolds Hole, Caunton Mauor, Newark, and contained John Hopper, Souvenir d un .\mi, Madame Charles Wood, Mathurin Regnier, the best bloom of the kind in the Show, Fisher Holmes, splendid, Madame Moreau, Senateur Vaisse, -Juno, Marcchal Vaillant, Triomphe de Rennes, Gloiro de Vitry, Gloire de Santenay, Leopold Premier, very fine. Lord Raglan, Alfred Colomb, Comte de Nanteuil, Prince Camille de Rohan, Antoine Ducher, Marcchal Niel, Madame Victor Verdier, a splendid Due dc Rohan, Charles Lefebvre, Pierre Netting, Lord Clyde, and Louise Magnan. The second-prize stand of Mr. Hedge contained excellent examples of some of the above, Madame Willermoz, Lamarquo, Cornelia Koch, Marie Bau- mann. Arc. Mr. Chard, gardener to Sir F. H. Bathurst, Bart., Salis- bury, was third ; and Mr. Porter, gardener to P. Hughes, Esq., Wal- thamatow, fourth. In Class 6, for thirty-six single trusses, Mr. Keen, gardener to J. G. Sheppard, Esq., Campsey Ash, had a magnificent bloom of Due de Rohan, by far the largest in the Show. Alfred Colomb, Queen Victoria, Johu Hopper, Madame Victor Verdier, Pierre Notting, Niphetos, and several others were also good. The Kev. S. R. Hole was second with fine examples of Sophie de Coquerelle, Alfred Colomb, and other kinds already named as being exJiibited in his stand of forty-eight. Mr. Ingle was third ; Mr. Hedge, fourth. In Class 7, for twenty-four single trusses, the Rev. E. Poehiu, Sileby Vicarage, Loughborough, gained a well-merited first prize with a stand in which all the trusses were in fine condition. Maurice Bemardin, Alfred Colomb, and Vicomte Vigier, among crimson kinds were remark- ably good, so was Charles Lefebvre, though showing a little eye. Xavier Olibo was splendid, and of other kinds we noted Pierre Notting, Francois Lacharme, Felix Genero, Francois Louvat, Devoniensis, Loaise de Savoie, Niphetos, Madame Willermoz, General Pelissier, very good, but not often so ; Baron Gonella, Due de Itoban, Gloire de Vitry, Marcchal Niel, Madame Boutin, Anna de Diesbach, Louise Peyronny, and Madame Boll. Mr. Postans, of Brentwood, was second, and had excellent trusses; Mr. Skinner, gardener to Capt. Chnstie, Westerham Hill, and Mr. Stoddart, Wivenhoe Park, being third and fourth. . For twelve trusses the Rev. E. Pochin was again first, exhibitini: beautiful exftmiilen of Leopold Premier, Louise Peyronny, Charles xamplos of Leopold Premier, Louise Peyronny, Lefebvre, Gloiro de Vitry, Due de Rohan, Marcchal Niel, Pierre Nottiug, Madame Derrcnx jlouville, M. Boncenue, Madame C. Crapelet. Alfred Colomb, and Baron Gonella. Mr. Sodor, gardener to O. Han- bury, Esq., Brentwood, took the second prize, the tliird was withheld, and the fourth went to Mi. tioinneU. The next Class, 0, was for eighteen new Roses of 1KR.5 or 1866. After a continuance of such hot dry weather as we have lately had, very little can with safety bo said about them and their colours. Still, as a rule, it may bo concluded that varieties which are good under such circumstances will also be good in more favourable seasons. Messrs. Perkins, of Coventry, took tho first prize for a stand in which Black Prince, shaded dark crimson, largo and full, was conspicuous as one of the finest Roses in the Show. Among others were Gloire da Ducher, bearing, as shown, considerable resemblance to Black Prince, but not so full ; Horace Vernot, shaded crimson and scarlet ; Jean Lambert, Mdllo. Marie Rady, Camille Bemardin, and Prince de Portia, crimson scariet ; Alfred Colomb, cherry red ; Thonn, bright rose ; Mdllo. Marguerite Dombrain, Comtesse de Jaueourt, Charles Verdier, and Madame Eugene Appert, shades of rose and piuk. Mr. Cant, who was second, had besides some of those just named, Madame George Paul, crimson scariet ; Mdlle. Annie Wood, fine red ; Hip- polyte Flandrin, salmon rose ; Exposition de Brio, Antoine Ducher, Napoleon III., Mrs. Berners, lilac rose with a glow of scarlet in tho centre ; Mrs. Ward, peach ; and others. Messrs. Paul and Son were third ; Mr. Coppin, fourth. The first prize in Class 10, for twelve trusses of any new Rose of 18i;6, was adjudged to Mr. Cant for An- toine Ducher ; and extra prizes were awarded to Alfred Colomb, from Messrs. Lee and Mr. Fraser. This Rose from both exhibitors was splendid, and especially the trusses shora by Messrs. Lee, and would have taken the first and second prizes had it not been considered a Rose of 186.5. ., , , Of vellow Roses shown in Classes V2 and 13, beantitul trusses came from "Messrs. Cant, Fraser, Hedge, and Stoddart. Marcchal Niel from Mr. Cant was remarkable, not only for tho size of the trusses, but its rich golden colour. Other kinds well represented were G\mT0 de Dijon, Ccliue Forestier, Vicomtesse de Cazes, La Boule d'Or, Cloth of Gold, SoUaten-e, Madame Falcot, and Narcisse, of which Mr. Hedge had fine trusses. Mr. Cant took first prizes in both classes ; Mr. Fraser and Mr. Hedge being second in Classes 12 and 13 respectively. ^ Of Tea-scented and Noisette Roses tho best twelve in the amateurs class were contributed by Mr. Hedge, and consisted of Souvenir d ml Ami Triomphe de Rennes, Moiret, Souvenir d'Elise Vardon, Marcchal Niel Cornelia Koch, Gloire de Bordeaux, Niphetos, Devoniensis, La Soule d'Or, Gloire de Dijon, and Adam. Mr. Stoddart, who was second, had Homer, pale yellow edged with pink, Niphetos, and Adam. In the nurserymeus class for the same Roses Messrs. Paul & Son and Mr Cant took the first and second prizes, each with very fine examples of varieties just named. Monsieur Furtado, Madame Margottm, La- marque, Rubens, and Madame Bravy. The best stand of twelve single blooms, shown m the open Class lb, came from Mr. Cant, and consisted of Charles Lefebvre, Marechal Niel, Marechal Vaillant, Anna de Diesbach. Xavier Olibo, Alfred Colomh, Madame Caillat, Madame Moreau, Niphetos, .John Hopper, Mad. C. Wood, and Exposition de Brie, all of which were fine. Messrs. Perk-ins were second, and Mr. Coppin third. , „ ^ • Of vases and baskets of Roses but few were shown. The first pnze went to Mr. Chard for a prettv arrangement, along with Fems, in a March stand, the stem of which was entwined with the young growth of Biononia argj-reo-violeseens, presenting a vciy agreeable change from the Japanese Honeysuckle generally employed. The second prize went to Mi-. Soder for a simUar stand with Japanese Honey- suckle round the stem, and the third to Messrs. Paul & Son, tor a large basket on a wickerwork si and. Several fine bouquets of five trusses of Roses were exhibited, mostly in Hyacinth glasses, the best beuig from Messrs. Paul ected from Mr. Cannell, of the Fuchsia Nursery, Woolwich, in tho same direction, Mr. Cannell being at present the largest cultivator of the Fuchsia. We hope, then, soon to see the cause of this most graceful and useful flower warmly advocated ; when once set in motion, there will be many ardent admirers and cultivators to give an additional impetus. May a Fuchsia mania soon show itself among us. Paxton Mehoeial. — A few days since an address was pre- sented to Lord Charles Russell \>y the "Working Men's Mutual Improvement Society of Leighton Buzzard, sustaining his Lordship's suggestion that a memorial of Sir Joseph Paxton should be erected. We hope to give full particulars next -week. ROYAL BOTANIC SOCIETY'S SHOW. The last Show of this Society for tho season opened yesterday, and will be continued to-day. In addition to a fine display of flowering stove and gi-eeuhouse plants furnished by Mr. Peed, Mr. Williams, Mrs. Cole & Sons, Mrs. Glcndinning & Sons, Mr. Tanton, Mr. Donald, and other exhibitors, there are in the collections of omamental- foliflgcd plants from Mr. Fairbairn, gardener to the Duke of North- umberland ; Mr. Smith, gardener to T. Nixon, Esq. ; Mr. Williams, and Mr. Baines, gardener to H. MichoUs. Es(|., some remarkably fine specimens. The Sarraceuias from Mr. Baines form masses such as have only been exhibited by himself. Heaths are again numerously shown ; and of Pelargoniums, Show, Fancy, and Zonal, excellent collections are furnished by Messrs. Eraser, Ward, Catlin, Weston, Stevens, Watson, and others. Mr. Penny and Mr. Wilson, gardener to W. Mar?ha]l, Esq.. send fine Orchids, and hardy Ferns are largely exhibited by Messrs. Ivery & Sou. Messrs. Veitch have a very extensive and interesting collection of new and rare plants, one of which, a species of Puya, has bluish flowers with a metallic appearance and lustre, and prominent yellow stamens, alto- gether a very remarkable plant. Ampelopsis Veitchii, a very orna- mental hardy climber, the new Coleuses, Gloxinias, and a large number of other novelties are includ'^'l in this collection. Mr. Williams also sends several new plants in addition to his fine contributions of older plants, and Messrs. E. G. Henderson have a large grouj) of bedding plants beautifully arranged. The fruit, however, confltitutes the gi-eat feature of the Show. Among collections, a very fine one comes from Mr. Miller, gardener to Lord Craven, Combe Abbey ; in it the Black Hamljurgh and Foster's White Seedling Grapes, and the Violette Hutive Peaches are especially worthy of remark, Mr. Bannerman, gardener to Lord Bagot, Bnge- ley, and Mr. Johnson, gardener to the Marquis of Ailesbury, Saver- nake, have also excellent collections. Of Pines there are several very fine specimens from Mr. Barnes, of Bicton, who has Black Prince, weighing 10;^ and 12 lbs., Queens of nearly lbs.. Charlotte Roths- child of 5} lbs. Mr. Young sends remarkably fine heavy Queensland Smooth-leaved Cayenne, and Mr. Davies and Mr. Kemp beautifully ripened Queens, whilst Mr. Hannen, Cyfarthfa, has large fruit of the Providence. Of Grapes Mr. Hill, Keele Hall, Mr. Meredith, and Mr. Henderson, Cole Orton. send baskets of Black Hamburgh ; and very fine dishes of the same variety come from Mr. Meredith, Mr, Meads, Mr. Henderson, Mr. Miller, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Squires, and some others. BacMamd Sweetwater is shown in fine condition by Mr. Meredith ; and of Royal Vineyard very large bunches come from Mr. Kettlewell. Mr. Meads has excellent Black Prince, and Messrs. Standish finely ripened Muscats. Other exhibitors show large bunches of these, but not exhibiting the beautiful golden tinge of perfect ripeness. Messrs. Standish & Co. again exhibit their excellent Royal Ascot Grape, and bunches of Ascot Citronelle, a delightfully flavoured white Grape, which promises also to form good-sized bunches. Of Peaches Mr. Miller has splendid fruit of Royal George and Violette Hative ; and Mr. Bailey, Shardeloes. has several fine dishes of Strawberries. Mr. Barnes, of Bicton, has quite a novelty at exhibitions — the im- mense cone of Araucaria imbricata weighing 5 lbs., also male catkins of the same plant, cones of Picea nobilis weighing 2 lbs., and tJiose of other Coniiers. GARDENERS' ROYAL BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION. The twenty-fifth Anniversary Meeting of this lustitutiou was held at the London Tavern on the *2-lth of June, M. T.Bass, Esq.,M.P. in the chair. The company was more than usually numerous, and the room in which the dinner took place was even gaj-erthan usual with flowers and fruits from Sandringham and other gardens. Behind the Chair- man was a fine display of flowering plants, with large tree Ferns on each side, and other parts of the room as well as the staircases leading to it were studded with fine-foliaged plants, the whole being the con- tributions of Messrs. Veitch, Lee, Williams, Turner, and Eraser. The usual loyal toasts having been di-unk, the Chairman in propos- ing the toast of the evening, " Success and Prosperity^ to the Institu- tion " urged its claims to support, and expressed a confidence that that support would not be wanting, for, said he, '' show me a man who takes pleasure in his garden, and I will show you a kindly fellow. Show me a lady who is fond of her garden, and she will be found to be possessed of the most elevated tastes and acquirements. It is the ladies who lead the way in gardening, it is the ladies I wish to enhst in the cause of the Institution, and wherever the ladies lead, the menmust follow." Sir Robert Peel, Bart., M.P. in proposing the health of the Chair- man expressed gratification at seeing around many who had supported himself at the last Aaniversary, but there was one whom he missed, ill-. Veitch, who, Le r.^gi-ctted to learn, was absent from illness. It July 2, 1808. ] JOURNAL OF HOBTIOULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENEE. was at Ilia (Sir Itohort rcol's) recommendation tlmt Mr. Bass had consented to take the chair on the occasion, and there rouM not have been a better Chairman than ouo who furnished so bright an example of liberality of conduct, whose parse was ever open, whose hand was never closed. The next toasts ^iven were the " ITonsos of Loppslatnro," coupled with tho name of T. \V. Kvans, Ksq.. M.P. ; "The Treasurer," Mr. Wrench; " Tho Seeretarj'." Mr. Cutler; and Tho Jlortienltural and Botanio Socioties of London, coupled with tho name of Mr. O. F. Wilson. Mr. Wilson in replyinf;, said that he had onco before had tho pleasure to respond to the same toast on ft similar occn.'iion. but since that time the Koyal Horticultural Society had been eiertinf; itself in two very opjiosite direction?^, in ouo of which it had already met with a marked success as exemplilied in tho new Coleuses, and in tho other tho new Scientitic Committee promised most favourably. Sir Robert IVel then proposed " Tho Nursery and Seed Trade," to which Mr. .John Lee, Mr. Nash, and Mr. Harry Veitch replied, the last- named remarkin}:: that his father's indisposition was brought on by overwork and would probably soon pive way to rest. The douations amounted to nearly .t'-lOO. and included tho follow- ing :— M. T. Bass, Esq , .fio r,s. ; Mrs. Bass, £10 10s. ; A. Bass, Esq., £10 10.«. ; Lord Sondes, XW ICls.: Baron Rothschild, £10 lO.?. ; Sir Robert Tecl, Bnrt., £10 Ws. ; .1. C. Evans. Esq., £'21 ; F. Wigan, Esq., £10 10s. ; O.K. Cozier. Esq., £10 10s. ; W. Banbury. Esq., £10 10s. ; J. Foster, Esq., £10 10s. ; Thomas Moore, Esq., £5 i>s. ; Dr. Hogg, £5 5s. ; Messrs. Veitch & Sons, £10 10s. ; Messrs. Lee, .£5 5s. ENTOMOLOGICAL SOCIETY'S MEETING. Thk Juno Meeting was held at Bnrlington House, the President W. H. Bates, Esq., in the chair. Amongst tho douations to the Society's library received since the last meeting, were tlie publications of the Zoological and Botiuiicnl Society of Vienna, the Entomological Society of Stettin, the work of Ilerr Thomsen on the Insects of Scan- dinavia, &c. The Secretai-y called the attention of the meeting to the proposed exhibition of economic entomology during the month of August next, the progl-amme of which is of a very extended character, and promises to render tho exhibition a very valuable one. It is to be held in the great building in the Champs Elysees. Mr. McLachlau exhibited the caterpillar of one of the Phryganidie, which was taken by Mr. Fletcher crawling about the bark of a Willow tree near Worcester, thns differing from the aqnatic habits of the re- mainder of the tribe. He considered that it was the larva of Enoycila pusilla, which has been ascertained on the Continent to be a non- aquatic species, and of which the female is wingless. Mr. Butler exhibited specimens of Otiorhynchus picipes, which had proved very injurious by biting off the young shoots of Roses and Horse- chestnuts. Mr. Jennev called attention to a report of the Proceedings of the Scientific Committee of the Horticultural Society, in which the operations of the larvae of Coleophora Hemerobiella were detailed, and in which it was erroneously stated that the insect acts in the same manner as a leech, in sucking the leaves, and rolls up the leaves like a cigarette. Mr. Keays exhibited Psyche crassioreUa from Hornsey Wood ; also. Oak leaves, portions of which had been rolled up into egg-cases by Attelabus Curcnliouoides. The Hon. T. Do Grey exhibited larvre and pupa^ of Hj-percallia Christiemaua, the former found during the months of April and May, upon Polygala vulgaris, near Shoreham . One of the larva? had changed to the pupa state during the sitting of the meeting. Mr. H. Burmeister, jun.. exhibited drawings of the larva; and pnpie skins of many species of Brazilian Butterflies. He had detenuined the true character of the pupa; of the genus Ageroma, which Mr. E. Douldeday had from false characters created into a distinct family. The pnpa is, however, simply suspended by the tail like those of the ordinai-y Nymphalidro. He had also ascertained that the larva? of the anomalous genus, Castnia, feed on the bulbous swellings at the base of the stems of Orchidaceous plants in Brazil. Mr. Edward Sheppard read a note relative to the formation of small balls of earth by the curious Beetles belonging to the geuus Meloe, and Professor Westwood gave an account of tho manner in which the sacred Beetles form and roll large pellets of dung and earth, which they bury in the sand, as recently observed by himself at Cannes and Pompeii. Mr. De Grey also exhibited specimens of the longicom Beetle, Agapanthea Cardni, which he had bred from the larva; which reside on the dead stems of Thistles in the Norfolk fens. EAST SUTTON PARK. Is travelliuf; from London to Dover by the Sonth-Eastern Eailway, it will be found that the line from Tunbridge to Ash- ford passes in a great measure through a flat country, more especially beyond the Paddock Wood station ; but the traveller will perceive a more hilly country two or three miles to the north of the line. This rising ground soon appears to assume the character of a ridge of considerable elevation, ■which extends for some miles parallel or nearly so to tho railway, and three or four miles from it. The base of theridpe forms the northern boundary of the district called the Weald of Kent, of which geologists speak so much, and which may be described as a rather flat district, though not a dead level, in which the soil has a heavy clayey sub.soil, and in most places is highly culti- vated. Tho riilgo differs considerably from tho valley, although it is not on tho chalk formation met with elsewhere, Kentish ragstone cropping out as well as being (luarried in many places ; while in others the .surface is thickly strewn with a hard kind of stone in pieces not much larger than road metal, the soil in tho latter case partaking more of an oolitic character, and water is less plentiful in this description of surface than where ragstone predominates. Eoth soils, however, are favourable to the growth of certain kinds of trees to a degree which their appearance would not indicate, most deciduous trees and hedges thriving remarkably well. The heights have for many years been favourite places to build residences upon — not on the top, which is perhaps too bleak, but on the southern slopes, which overlook the Weald above mentioned for many miles. Among the mansions which adorn these commanding positions one of the most ancient is Sutton Castle, no longer a dwelling house, but an Ivy-clothed ruin. It is said to have been the residence of Aymer de Vallance, Earl of Pembroke, soon after the Conquest, and the adjoining village still retains the name of its once-proprietor, being called Sutton Vallance. This pleasantly situated village as well as the Castle is built on a steep declivity, there being as much as two storeys difference in the height of the bouse on the lower and upper sides. Modem improvements aided by the disciples of McAdam have removed many of the romantic features of the place, but its lovely view over acres of orchards and hundreds of acres of Hop gardens remains the same, if, indeed, it is not improved; but as my journey is still further eastward I must dismiss the village and its venerable ruin, and u short and pleasant walk, the greater part of it through the park, brings me to the place I more par- ticularly wish to describe. East Sutton Place the seat of Sir Edmund Filmer, Bart., is one of those commodious mansions erected in the time of the seventh Henry. The brick house enriched by angles and re- cesses, windows plentifully furnished with stout mullions, and gables and chimney stalks to match, constitutes a building of large extent, stamped with the marks of .antiquity, yet not so much so as to create a feeling that di.scomfort must exist inter- nally, and improvements judiciously introduced have rendered the interior all that could be wished. The mansion is snugly and delightfully situated in a park, which of itself presents more diversity of surface and features of interest than most enclosures of the kind, and commands a view of a dozen miles or more to the south, east, and west. It is built on the slope of the ridge alluded to, about four miles from the Head- corn station on the South-Eastern Bailway, and about the same distance from Staplehurst. The carriage front is on the south- ern side, which is open to the park, and near to the house this is moderately level, but it soon begins to descend rapidly to the south, and a piece of ornamental water occupies the lowest corner on the south side ; while the steep and irregular ground is here and there plentifully furnished with timber trees of great size and age, many of those near the house being 'SVa.l- nuts, whose whitened bark has evidently been blanched by many a winter. Oaks, Chestnuts, Elms, and other trees also abound, and I incidentally measured an Ash tree that promised to do duty yet for a century or more, and found its circnm- feaence in the smallest part between tho root-claws and the branches to be 27 feet. There possibly might be many lar,ger, but this one happened to be near at hand. A herd of deer reposing in the valley formed an appropriate feature ; while the eye had only to extend its research, and thriving orchards, Hop gardens, and the appearance of a highly cultivate4 country bounded the view far and wide. Having said that the carriage front is open to the park on the south side, the dressed ground may be said to surround it on all the other sides. A neat geometrical flower garden occu- pied a position facing the west. The beds were all well filled, and had evidently been very gay at an earlier period in the year ; Stella Pelargonium retaining the highest position amongst its class here as well as at most places that I have seen it, even when competing with newer kinds. As an ornament to the flower garden it is questionable whether it is more necessary to general effect than Christine or a similar variety, of which there were excellent examples ; but it was rather painful to witness, amidst the general success o£ plants so used, that Cal- 8 JOUBNAL OP HOBTIOULTUBE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEH. [ July 2, 1868. ceolaria Aurea floribunda was a failure in some degree, though not to the same extent as at eome places, Lintou for one. The blanks left by plants partly dying off, or at all events ceasing tlooming long before they ought to have done, led Mr. Skinner, the very able and intelligent gardener here, to threaten to do away with if, as another variety of taller growth seemed not to be so affected. Among Verbenas Purple King and Crimson King were the greatest favourites; while a seedling Petunia, or, rather, plants propagated from a seedling of a former year, seemed to have prospered better than this plant usually does in most places. A large flower bed in another place now caught my eye, and I left this interesting group and proceeded to the new attrac- tion. I found that it was a circle placed so as to be well seen from an important window facing the north, which, notwith- standing what may be said about looking out in that direction, is certainly the very best point to view flowers from ; for as many of them open to the south only, the brightness they present on that side contrasts strongly with the appearance which they have when viewed in the contrary direction. Of course the bed was far enough from the house not to be shaded by it, and the flowering was all that could be desired. This bed, repre- sented in the accompanying figure, is 4.j feet in diameter, and is annually planted with bedding plants arranged to form a pattern, of which that now given is perhaps not the best ex- ample, as it is altered each year ; a fresh disposition of plants for winter ornament is likewise made. The bed is placed on the lawn, trees and shrubs being at no great distance from it ; but it is not bounded by any walks. Its appearance from above must be like a piece of rich embroidery, and with the exception of the Calceolaria the plants seemed to have all done well. FLOWEK BED AT EAST SUTTON PLACE. a. Pelargrinium Stella, edged with a tall yellow Calceolaria called Visco- sissima. and in the centre of all a group of Humea elegans, 2. Verbena Purple King In eight compartments, edged with the same Calceolaria ns that used in No. 1. 3. Pelargonium Shottlsham Pet, silver-edged, forming the groundwork. As will be seen by the above, the varieties of plants used were not numerous ; nor is it advisable that they should be so, as the most pleasing results are often obtained by a judicious selection of the most simple colours. In the present arrange- ment I believe an outer edging of Golden Chain was contem- plated, but abandoned for want of sufficient plants, and it is 4. Calceolaria Anrca (lol'ibuuda in a single line or ring, separating the centre from the ■ 'iter band. 5. Verhena Crimson ! r.g in thirty-two circles, each edged with Ceras- tium. Lobelin Lieniosa forms the groundwork on both sides, as well as an edgiL,^ next the turf. questionable whether it would have been any improvement. The single line of Calceolaria Aurea floribunda (4), after flowering well in the early part of the season, died off very much, and thus in some degree injured a design which, as those who have such things know, is rarely perfect in all its parts ; but, taken as a whole, the bed may be regarded as a great success, the Jnly 2, 1B68. JOUBNAL OF HOBTIOULTUEE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. other plnnts, including tlio taller j'ellow Culccolarin, beioR nil that could bo dusireJ, and when at its best muBt have been much admired. In another part of the grnnnds I noticed a flower border on a rather steep bank planted very effectively. The border was about 12 feet wide, and was divided into dinmond-fbaped and triangular compartments by diaj^onal cross lines of Cernstium, making a good-sized diamond shaped compartment iu the centre, and triangles of half the size at tbo outside. The diamond-shaped portions were planted with Tom Thumb Pe- largonium, which still retains a good place in the bedding-out flower gardener's estimation, and the triangles with Lobelia speciosa, the whole being edged with Cernstium. Consisting of only three kinds of plants of as many colours — namely, red, white, and bUio, this arrangement had a very pretty effect. Another border, not so wide, was arranged differently, the lines of demarcation forming a sort of zigzag or serrated iiattern ; but it was on the whole less effective, n, greater number of plants being used : and although all had done well, the sim- plicity of the design previously noticed was preferable. Some other beds in the grounds wero very attractive, par- ticularly one — a raised bed of three circles united at the edges ; the central one. larger than the other two. was very good. The only plant showing symptoms of going off was Centaurea can- didissima, which, as with mo both last year and this, was anything but healthy. In another place was Centaurea gym- nocarpa, luxuriant enough, but not so much to be depended on as Cineraria maritima, to which Mr. Skinner, as well as myself, and I believe Mr. Fish, give the preference : for although the Centaurea is of more free growth than the Cineraria, the aptitude of the autumn-struck plants to run to seed early in summer, and when in that condition their liability to die off without making foliage, leave a greater number of ugly gaps than is pleasing. Centaurea candidissima is crrtainly not subject to this, and is less prone to flower and seed than any of the three ; but with me during the last two years the points of the leaves have become crumpled and dead, and a sickly appearance pervades the whole plant. Tbis is much to be regretted, as we have no plant so white, and its habit and other features are all that can be desired. Mr. Skinner had discarded Ireiine Heib^tii ; but Coku-!, Araarontlius, Porillfi, and other plants were introduced with good effect where wanted. In the grounds I noticed some good specimens of Conifer;e, particularly one of the best specimens of Taxodium semper- virens that I have ever seen, and which was standing out pro- minently amongst others, while there was no lack of Boses and other shrubs. The kitchen garden, which adjoins the eastern side of the pleasure ground, also' contained good examples of ribbon borders by the side of one of its principal walks, and the glass •structures excellent Black Hamburgh and Muscat of Alexandria Grapes. A new vinery devoted to late Grapes showed unmis- takeably that the very popular Lady Downe's requires almost the same amount of heat as the Muscats, for its condition was less satisfactory than that of the Hamburghs, which, as well as the Muscats in another house, were all that could be desired Peaches had been gathered early in the year from another house, and in a central one greenhouse plants were grown as extensively as the house would allow. Perhaps the most in- teresting feature was another kitchen garden separated from the first one by a road passing between. This garden was only formed about four years ago, and yet the walls, 11 feet high, are quite covered with excellent bearing Peacii and Apricot trees on the south and west aspects. Tlie Apricots had done remarkably well in ISGG, but less favourably in 1867, which was amply made up by the heavy crop of Peaclies, some con- tinuing iu bearing till October ; a fine crop of Late Admirable was showing well at that time. The central aud cross walks of this garden were lined with Pear trees trained as pyramids, most of which were in fruit. Of other crops common in kitchen gardens, not the least conspicuous was a fine breadth of Bed Beet, the tops of which might vie with any of the occupants of the flower beds for depth and richness of colour. Strawberries for forcing occupied a sunny corner, and amongst them Sir Charles Napier was conspicuous ; while in the open ground the same variety was much esteemed for its bearing qualities, as well as that of enduring travelling well — a qualilication not sufliciently valued in every case, but an important one in most. The general good appearance of the garden crops, not less than the trimness of the flower beds, and the abundance of everything required for a large family, showed that the head as well as the hands of the manager was judiciously and skil- fully employed. In looking round it would be diflicult to point to anything which indicated what was the gardener's hobby, which is often enough evident, for at Sutton Park all things were equally well cared for. — J. Eobson. WORK FOR THE WEEK. KITCHEN OAm>EN. Thf. principal sowings aud transplantings will now soon be over for this seoson, and as the nights lengthen a more vigor- ous growth will commence. Hverything lately planted out ought to be watered occasionally till the plants begin to grow freely. Birds are very troublesome to the early fruits, and must be watched, and although the garden has been kept free from weeds all the season, there are thousands of seeds of weeds now floating on every breeze, and those which fall on good ground will soon become troublesome if not looked after. Cabhai/e and CauHflotn'r plants for autumn use should be trans- planted at regular intervals ; those last planted out should have the ground well stirred about them, and a little soil drawn round their stems. Celcnj, the main crop might now be planted out, and the rows formerly planted should have a little earth drawn to them, first taking the precaution to stir the soil on each side of the rows which has been battered into a crust with the watering. If the earliest row does not throw np seed stalks, you may assist it very much by a good dose of liquid manure. Cucumbers under hand-lights, and Vegetable Marrows, should have a little long litter spread over the soil before the shoots are pegged out to their full extent, which will keep the fruit clean, save watering, and bring up the Mush- rooms quickly where spawn was inserted. I'eas and Bcaiis, {ev/ people think of sowing Peas after next week, and this is about the time that mildew is so troublesome on Peas. A liberal supply of water is the best preventive. SiKccxswn Crops, these are now reduced to salad plants, which are always sown according to the demand and the state of the last sowing. IRUIT OARDEN. Those who thought proper to attend to the stopping of the shoots of Pear trees, &c., against walls, will be gratified by perceiving the buds swelling beautifully at the points of the small spurs, and at the bases of the shoots shortened. Allow the young shoots which have started from the foremost bud of the stopped shoot to grow a little longer, or, if becoming long, merely pinch out its point, as any sudden check to the flow of the sap after such genial rain, would be apt to break into shoots those promising buds which you would rather see adorned with blossom and fruit next season. It is a general observation that fine-looking old Pear trees against walls produce sparingly, and th.at chiefly on the points of the branches. This is partly owing to the fact that the other parts of the tree are so smothered with breastwood during the best part of the summer, that the buds finally left cannot be ma- tured by the juice-elaborating influence of light, and to the ob- jection of employers to leave the borders uncropped ; the conse- quence of which is, that the roots are incited to go so deeply that they absorb juices of so rank a character that our longest and best summers are insufficent to ripen the buds on the puny shoots. The remedies for this are raising the roots nearer the surface, timely foreshortening, and slight or no cropping. By taking off the young wood from every alternate branch on old trees, choosing good shoots about a foot apart on the other branches, and, commencing at the top of the tree, tying these shoots in a pendant position to the denuded branches, and taking out these branches in the succeeding year, in a year more, other circiamstances being favourable, the tree will be regularly covered with young fruitful wood. The prin- cipal work now is to guard' fruit from birds, i-c, to gather and preserve Strawberries, and to procure plants of these for next forcing time. Fill a number of GO-sized pots with rich compost, take a dibber and make a row of holes alongside of a row of Strawberries, push a pot into each hole down to the rim, then single out the runners and pinch-off the tops just below the newly-formed plant, double the runner on the other side of the plant, aud with the forefinger push the doubling down to the bottom of the pot, and by this means the bottom of the young plant is just brought within the soil, and is firmly- pegged down by its own runner or string in half the time you could do it with a peg, or with a stone or lump of soil. FLOWER GARDEN. There is little to attend to in this department at the present 10 JODENAL OF HOBTICULTUEE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEB. [ July 2, 1868. time except cleaning and keeping everything and everyplace as neat and tidy as possible. Attend to the removal of Uowers as fast as they decay, as nothing looks so untidy in a well-kept garden as dead flowers. Brompton Stocks must be sown im- mediately, but Brompton Ten \Yeek Sleeks should be sown in the first week in August. This is favourable weather for bud- ding, and where the buds are properly matured, as they are in most places, it must be attended to immediately. Established plants of Koses that make very strong branches which hide the flowers, should have them shortened-in below the level of the flowers. Tulips ought now to be safely stored ; those which are seeding on the bed must occasionally be examined. AVhen the stalk assumes a yellow tint the roots may be taken up, and the stems with capsules attached may be placed in an airy room till they become perfectly dry. Plant out the first crop of pipings, if proper attention can be given them, such as shading, watering, &c. Take advantage of the first showery weather to plant out young Pansies. GREEXnOUSE AND CONSEEVATOET. If the plants in the greenhouse are all of the true greenhouse kinds, give them as much air as the house will admit ; but if, as is generally the case at this time, they are a mixed collec- tion of half stove plants, annuals, &o., they may be Kept close at night with a very damp atmosphere, and the house may be allowed to become well heated by the sun before giving air in the morning. Training and staking plants, surfacing pots, and all routine work, must be attended to. Climbers in the conservatory, if they are what they should be, will now require the greatest attention ; training, thinning, and arranging them properly occupies much time, and should never be done in a Lurry. Formerly it was customary in many places to tie up climbers close to the pillars and rafters, &c., in a stiff formal manner; hut now it is thought they can hardly be allowed too much freedom, providing that they do not injure other plants with their shade. Orange trees and many other large speci- men plants require less water about this time, but diminish the quantity very gradually. A cool refreshing air loaded with perfumes in this house is always agreeable in summer, and the only way of obtaining this is by large portions of air, by slight shading, and by pouring large quantities of water over all spare places round the house. Stove plants brought in here for flowering do not require half the quantity of water which gieenhouBB plants do in the same place. STOVE. For the next six weeks or two months, according to the •weather, stove plants ought to have more air and light than at any other period. After this time shade as little as possible, with the exception of Orchids and young or newly-propagated plants. COLD PITS Are warm enough to allow of the glass or canvas being taken off at night to give the plants the benefit of the night dews, which seem to suit them better than any sort of artificial moistening. When the sun shines strongly — that is, if it con- tinues to do so as of late, throw a slight shade over the Ca- mellias, Azaleas, Ehododendrons, and similar plants. — 'SV. Keane. DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. With the exception of a dull day and a shower on the 22nd, the drought has still continued, and on this day, the 27th of June, has been more trying to most things than on any pre- tIous day, KITCHEN GARDEN. After the shower took the opportunity of planting-ont strong plants of Brussels Sprouts, Broccoli, and Winter Greens, and sowing Turnips, Lettuces, Sec. Those growing freely were snrface-hoed to preserve in the soil the little moisture that fell. It was down, however, to such a sUght depth that the ad- vantages of the shower were more owing to the cool and shady atmosphere than the quantity of water that fell, though in the space of a quarter of an hour we added a good many gallons, collected from our glass roofs and sheds, to the supply in our tanks. Lettuces of various kinds have been very good hitherto, chiefly those sown thinly and left to grow, as they have scarcely needed a drop of water, but looked after themselves — a great advantage in such weather over transplanted ones, which could not grow without watering and even shading. Our two first crops of Cauliflower have been excellent owing to the deep mulchiiig, and a bed of a third crop wiU be fair-, but we fear for our next succession, unless there be a change of weather, as we can scarcely give them enough of water to keep them from becoming blue in the foliage in the hottest days, and ia such circumstances they are apt to throw up their heads too soon. Even the next crop, standing between rows of early Peas, we can hardly keep from showing distress, though shaded by the remains of the Peas on each side of them. These Peas we would remove, turn up the ground on which they grew, and plant it with Cauliflower again so as to have two successions on the same piece, but we are unwOUng to lose the benefit of the shade of the Peas as yet. We have sown Turnips, Lettuces, Carrots, &c., but we drew the drills, watered before sowing, and after covering-in spread over the ground a slight layer of litter. In such heat and dry- ness it would be vain to expect young plants to grow or get above the soil, unless where there was an abundance of water, or an easy mode of applying it where wanted. Our Peas have as yet been very good, but some of the succession crops refused to set the bloom without watering, and we have helped in this way Peas, Dwarf Kidney Beans, and Scarlet Eunners, watering at the root and mulching with grass or litter im- mediately afterwards. Thiiuiinf]. — Finally thinned all our crops of Onions, Garrets, Beet, Parsnip, Salsafy, &c., as they were more easily moved after the rain on the Monday, but these had all been partially thinned some time ago. Ouions were very easily thinned when the ground was hard and dry, as the roots broke when touched, close to the ground, but those thinned later will be more useful, as when laid in rows thickly they will do for salads ; and many will just grow enough to give a good supply of buttons, a thing we can scarcely obtain from our strong ground in any other way. All these root and bulb crops look well, though they have never received any watering. By running a Dutch hoe along the surface weeds have been kept from appearing, and a couple of inches beneath the surface the soil is moist enough to keep on growth. In thinning Carrots at this season, the Carrots if from a quarter to half an inch in diameter, if laid in thickly in rows, as stated above for Onions, come in well for soups when the main crop would be much too large. From the middle to the third week in June is a good time to sow a piece of Carrots, as for many purposes such Carrots are sweeter and better than the spring-sown crop, and they are less likely to have a speck on them from the attacks of Carrot enemies. One of our best gardeners always sows a good breadth of Carrots in June, but this year he grumbles that the seedUngs will not show above ground. In such weather they would have no chance unless the drills were previously watered and the ground slightly shaded with litter, &c., afterwards. Onions for salading we find come like points of needles without this protection. Much against our will, we will prick out quantities of Cauli- flower and Winter Greens in beds, as there we can attend to them with watering, &a., much more easily, and lift them after- wards when the ground is more suitable to receive them. In trying to dig a piece of ground on which there had been a heavy crop of Spinach, it was too much for the spade, being as hard and dry as if clay had been baked in an oven. We find even our Celery, though strong, must have more shade, as well as more water, or it will stand still, or do what Celery rarely does with us, will run up its flower stalks, which must be pre- vented, if possible. We have been forced to water Turnips, as we found that otherwise they would be hard and stringy, in- stead of sweet and succulent, as a young summer Turnip ought to be. But for the labour in carting and carrying, it wiU be some time before we are so badly ofi for water as we were four years ago, though depending entirely on r.'iin and drainage stored up in tanks and ponds ; but many farmers in this neighbourhood have already to drive water for their animals fiom three to four and more miles. This is a serious affair, and shows the importance of having more means of storing up what falls freely from the heavens in the course of the season. FECIT GARDEN. In the open air. Strawberries with us will be too much of a glut, as the crop will not be so continuous, on account of the dryness, and smaller fruit will look nothing alter the large fruit of 'the first few weeks' gathering. Many of ours are drying up from the drought. It is right to state here, that an old favourite of ours, as one of the best of bearers, and from its hardness valuable for preserving, the Black Prince, is one more sen- sitive to drought than any other we have met with. We generally force a few for their earliness, but in-doors the least dryness injuriously affects them, when Keens' Seedling, Pre- July 2, 1868. J JOURNAL OF HORTIOULTURB AND COTTAGE QARDENEB. ^11 Bident, Britisli Queen, &o., woulJ not show any baJ effects under similar circumstances. When wo gathered from ft heavy crop for preserving, the berries were actually flagging and withering, when other kinds close to them were showing no distress, though treated exactly aUke. This Strawberry, there- fore, is peculiarly fitted for u damp position. Of course, in our case, the myriads of succession fruit would not come to much, but in a damp season, or where plentifully supplied with water, this kind continues a very long time in bearing. Late kinds, as Elton, Eleanor, &c., will be most useful this season, especially where they could be kept moist. They are not to be compared with others in tiavour, but then they aro Btraw- berries, and their comparative acidity may bo neutralised by Bome pounded sugar. A great epicure in Strawberries, even as respects these late ones, was very particular that each berry should be gathered by touching the stalk merely, and be sent in the basket in which it was placed, or merely re- versed on a plate, without any attempt being made to give a neat appearance iu dishing. So particular was ho iu this respect, that he often gathered his Strawberries himself ; and then, seated with a small vessel of cream, and another of pounded sugar, beside the Strawberries, as ho dipped the Strawberry by the stalk in the cream, and then in the sugar, before disposing of it, he used to say that the ancients never tasted such a luxury, or they would not have talked such wild romance about ambrosia and nectar as food and drink fit only to be partaken of by their divinities. Fruit Crops. — Of Gooseberries there is an extraordinary crop, far too thick after thinning for tarts and preserving, and they should be thinned before ripening, to give the wood a chance of growing sufEcieutly ; and Currants would have been equally thick but for the birds that cleared them rather un- mercifully when quite green, and in their case we will thin and shorten the shoots as soon as possible. Baspberries only want a thorough watering to make them nice, and without it the fruit will be small. Cherries are ripening sooner than we want them, and all our netting will not prevent our bird Tisitors from having a few. What makes the stupid things sing out when, inside a net, they see any one approaching '! Is it because they have a strong consciousness of wrong-doing, and are crying for mercy? Our Cherries, especially the earliest, as we could not water theru, are smaller than usual — much smaller than similar kinds in the orchard house iu pots, where they had what watering they needed. Plums and these iruit mentioned have mostly received their summer dressing, and if we cannot attend to all, we will at least shorten the shoots at the top of the trees, and let the lower ones have a little more growth. Apples are dropping their fruit a little, partly owing to the dryness, and thus thinning the super- abundance are doing for themselves what should have been done for them. Most of our dwarf Apple, Pear, and Cherry trees would have been benefited by a good watering, and this is just one of the cases where the amateur with only a few trees may be able to do better for them than a gardener who has much to look after, and affords an evidence why most improvements in all trades and professions are more due to the amateur enthusiast than to the men who engage in the profession as mere work- men in a trade by which they must live. Went over the most of our Apricots and Peaches out of doors, removing strong shoots, or what would be too strong for fruiting next season, as it is now quite late enough to stop- back such shoots in order to secure two or three of less robust strength, which would ripen their wood for next season. This early stopping of very strong shoots is one of the best means of filling up gaps in trees, and of regulating the strength of growth all over the tree, as every one of these strong shoots, if allowed to grow, not only robs the rest of the tree of its due strength, but proves useless of itself, as such extra growth can rarely be so matured in our climate as to be fruitful in the succeeding year, whilst if stopped early and from one to two or more shoots taken from it, the stopping would divert the strength of growth into other channels, and the one or more shoots that came from the stopping would have the chance of being perfected and ripened, so as to jjroduce in the following year. We have not watered such trees as yet out of doors, but we see we must do so ere long if there be not a change of weather, or there will be a risk of the fruit falling. This is neutralised so far iu our case, as the borders, some 5 feet from the wall, have been cropped, and the crops needed a little water. We woidd have no objection to deep borders for fruit trees, nay would rather prefer them, provided we could so treat them that wo could by mulching and watering entice the i> uts within a reasonable distance from the surface. In such seasons as this, where the above means cannot bo resorted to, the roots will go down iu search of moisture, just as we sink a well deeper when the shallow one becomes dry ; and the conse- quence of the roots going deep, where they obtain moisture without much of the oxygen of the atmosphere, and especially iu dull seasons, is the production of gross watery wood, which our seasons are not bright and hot enough to mature, and the result is either fruitless wood, or wood so soft, juicy, and im- mature as to be killed by the frosts of winter. Iliuce where such care as above cannot be given, the most fruitful borders for trees will be those where the roots cannot go too deep, and where the means for securing due strength can be communi- cated from the surface. If we plant an Oak or a Pear tree for timber we may treat them nearly alike ; but if we plant a Pear tree and wish to eat fruit from it as soon as possible, we must treat it dilferently from the Oak. Again, as respects Pftieli trees. Aprieots, ifc, on waUs out of doors, let it not be forgotten that next year's frultfulnee& depends on having the bearing wood of next season as much exposed to the sun of the present as possible, and, therefore, that all extra and useless wood should be removed as soon as this can be done. We sometimes offend in this respect, just because among conflicting claims some things cannot be at- tended to as soon as they ought to be. We have heard of cases where the gardener used to be nonplussed what to senc! his men to do, everything was in such good order that he actually was troubled to find a job. But we must say that in our own observation and experience we never met with such an instance. The great trouble is to do work in sufficient time so that nothing may suffer from being passed over. Never- theless, when one sees the shoots of Peaches, &c., against walls hanging in a natural state in July and August, and being fixed up to the wall when the sun is declining in power, we need not wonder that year after year the trees produce less and less, and only want a sharper winter than usual to destroy them al- together. Such winters as 1860-01 killed or much injured many trees well treated. We saw the other day a wall that was a picture iu 185'J, and which has never recovered, and never will recover, the injury sustained at the Christmas of another year of the period named, even though treated in summer iu the very best manner ; but if such was the effect of the frost on trees well treated, what can we expect from the watery wood hanging like a thicket from the wall in July and August ? The great secrets for securing wall fruit are — stop strong robber shoots early, get the bearing wood exposed to all the sun poFsible, anfl keep the trees clean by clearing off all insects before they establish themselves, and for a rough and ready and effectual means for doing this latter cleaning, though valuing tobacco dusts, grains, and liquids, commend us to a good lathing with soft-soap water from a syringe or engine. Tohacco Powder, &c. — Here, in passing, let ns state, that we had some of the kinds advertised as made up free from duty, and there may be differences in the mixtures sent out by dif- ferent makers, but for certain things we wiil use them with great care especially under glass. Not wishing to fumigate, nor yet under the circumstances to syringe overhead, we dusted some fine shows of British (Jueen Strawberry on which the green fly had presented itself, but for such a purpose we will not use it again. In most oases the dusting killed the fly, but the young fruit on which it chanced to light never grew after- wards but became hard and shrivelled. Orchard House. — In last week's number we should have stated, that we used the soap water at a temperature ranging from 120' to 130°, and with no bad effects. Yesterday we selected ten leaves near the top of the house most affected with the red spider, and though closely examining these leaves with a magnifying glass, we found only one red spider alive. Though depending something on the daubing the wall with sulphur and soft-suap, we will ere long give the trees another good lashing. It will not do to use soap water after the fruit is swelling to ripening, especially Peaches. The fruit has mostly been gathered from the front of the Peach house, and there, too, the red spider has been making its appearance lately, but we cannot resort to very severe measures there until the ripening fiuit is all gatherec". Vineries. — In re-arranging plant houses, itc, we have been able to clear out all plants from the vinery from which we are now cutting. The most tender sorts will not, therefore, be 12 JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GAKDENER. [ Jvdf 2, 1868. damped or split, as reepecta the berries, from the watering necessary to plants beneath them. This honse will also be kept drier inside. The stage and every portion of the back wall that could be reached has also been lime-waphed, and plenty of air left on night and day, so that the fumes of the lime should not be felt. The white surface thus presented will throw more light to the foliage than if walls or stage had been of a duller, dingy colour. Though these walls are regularly washed every spring, the growing of many plants in the hou?e, Strawberries, &c., renders them anything but bright by this time of the year, and according as opportunity offers we make the walls and stages whiter for the extra light that will thus be reflected. Proceeded with thinning Grapes in the late houses and orchard houses. In our vineries, to obtain huge bunches we want fresh borders and replanting, meanwhile we have plenty of fruit, for after cutting off bushels of bunches before thin- ning, we have left still far more tlmn enough. These vineries, contrary to what we would wish, have the roots outside, the stems taken through a hole in the front wall in the old- fashioned way, and the outside borders we have had watered after merely breaking the surface. The first vineries covered with litter, and used with ohl sashes, for bringing on bedding plants, had no watering, until lately the covering was removed, after the Grapes were colouring. Many early vineries, with the Vine roots out of doors, suffer from removing the covering too early. In some cases it would be better to give no covering except a little dry litter, in preference to clearing all off too early. Some of our best gardeners prefer mulching all the summer, instead of watering much, if any, faither than what the rains supply, and these they exclude from early houses by August and September, by means of tarpaulin, sashes, &c, ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. To this we will return with more minuteness nest week, meanwhile our flower garden, with a little water at the roots of the most needy plants, for eight or ten days, is looking as well as could be expected, we are assured better than where the plants have been watered well every day. It is so easy to give too much of a good thing. — R. F. C0\T:NT garden market.— July 1. Falling prices and a slow demand rule here, nnd this, coupled with the astonishing quantitiesof some descriptions of produce, such as Peaches, Nectarines, and Pines, renders it difficult to effect sales for one-half nf it. How long this may last we cannot say ; but it is very unsatisfactory at present. Kent Shaw Potatoes bring 4s. per bushel, Regents 5». Apples '^ sieve Apricots doz. Cherriee lb. Chestnuts bnsh. Currants i^ sieve Black do. Figs doz. FUberts lb. Cobs lb. Gooseberries .. quart Grapes, Hothouse, .lb. Lemons 100 B. d. B. 1 (UoO 2 4 :t 1 5 8 9 1 4 5 12 FRUIT. . d Melons each ; Nectarines doz. 4 Oranges 100 12 d. Oto6 Peaches doz. Pears (dessert) .. doz. Pine Apples lb. Plums 1^ sieve Quinces doz. Raspben-iP9 lb. Strawberries . . per lb. Walnuts bush. 10 do per 100 1 VEGETABLES, Books (Pomona). — "Fruit Gardening," which you can have free by post from our office for five postage stamps, wo think would suit you- {G. E. B.). — As you do not stipulate as to the price, we recommend Me'Intosh's *' The Book of the Garden," Johnson's " Cottape Gardener's Dictionary," the new edition, with supplement. Smith's " Ferns, British and Foreign." Supplement to Cottage Gaedekers' Dtctionary (A Gardener and Othtrs).—'Ihe Supplement will be publithed by tbo end of next week. Peas— Strawberries {A. J?.).— There are loo mnny varieties of Peas for us to be able to name one from a few pods. The size of your Empress Euemie Strawberries is a full average. The gardener who talked about a Strawberry weighing six ounces must have been joking. Ho never saw one of half that weight. Black Spots ok Rose Leaves (E. F. TT.).— "The black spots on the Rose leaves are said to be caused by some fungus, but I have never yet been able to detect a spore. I never saw them under glass, but I have more than I like on my Roses now. It is not improbable that the cause may be sudden and extreme atmosphericchanges. The leaves invariably fall off in course of time. After a Rose has bloomed you may cut buck to the first fresh plump eye. If a bad start and loi k pointed, cut to the nest plump eye. — W. F. Radclyffe," Roses for Pegging-down on a Lawn (Idem). — "I recommend the following thirteen Roses for pegging-down on a lawn ; they are very free bloomers. For this purpose they must be plants with pliable wood. Stiff, erect growers are not so suitable, Pink'—3i\]cs Margotlin; Maroon — Camille Bernardin ; Vermilion — Maurice Bernardin ; While — Baronne de Maynard, mot^t beautiful; Yellow— Celine Foreetier, it must not be cut much, and requires great room; Rose colour— Comie de Nnnteuil; Eed — Sanateur Vaisse ; Scarlet Crimson — Baronne Adolphe de Rothschild (not Baron), beautiful: Purple Crimson, dark xhaded-Dxic de Cazes ; Purplish or Brilliant Crimson — Marechal Vaillant : Waxy Flesh — Mrs. Bosanquet; Bhixh — Marguerite de St. Amand; Eosjf (.Vimpon— Lady Suffield. From these thirteen Roses selection is safe. — W. F. Radclyffe.'* Sowing Peas [S. B ).— There is nothing new in the plan you adopted to keep off birds. Thread or string stretched over seed beds may be seen jn almost everj- cottager's garden. Skeleton Leaves and Seaweeds {E.E.). — It is impossible for as to tell the value, so much depends on the specimens and their condition. Such things, as a rule, are just worth what the buyer pleases to give, unless you fix a price and wait a long time to effect a bale. BoRONiA SERRtjLATA Infestcd WITH ScALE (Drina). — The Specimen IS much infested with scale. You will find It upon the stems and under sides of the leaves, appearing as a small, browui^ih, slightly raised long speck, that couus off readily when touched slightly with the point of a knife. The gummy substance is honeydew caused by the scale insect, and the black substance is the honeydew infested with b)ack fungus. We cannot say what is the cause of the attack, but it probably is the plant being kept in too close and warm an atmosphere. The best remedy is to pick otF all the insects with the point of a knife, then lay the pot on its side, syringe the plant forcibly with water at a temperature of 140^, tnm. ing it and the pot round so as to thoroughly syiinge it on every side. This repeated a few times at intervals will free the plant of the scale- W'e advise you to keep it in a cold pit or frame during the summer. Making a Tan Bed (A Younff Beginner). — The tan or bark we presume is old and spent, as it ought to have heated before it had lain "some time," which we presume is some weeks. If fresh it would become heated within a fortnight if the heap was Inrge enough. No sprinkling with water would cause it to ferment or heat, nor ought Jt to be screened — indeed we consider it worthless ; but tan may be spread out too thinly, and there may be too little of it for fermentntion. For the width of bed you name the tan should not be less than 4^ feet in depth, and it should s. d. B. d I Artichokes doz. 2 to 3 i Asparagus 100 2 6 Beans, Kidney ^. sieve 4 Beet, Red doz. 2 8 Broccoli bundle Brus. Sprouts ''- sieve Cabbage doz. 10 16 Capsicums 100 Carrots bunch 6 10. Cauliflower doz. 3 6 | Celery bundle 16 2 . i Cucumbers each 4 10 Endive doz. 2 Fennel bunch 8 Garlic lb. 8 ; Herbs bunch 8 Horseradish . . bundle 3 5 i Leeks bunch Lettuce .... per score Jlushrooms .... pottle Mustd.A Cress, punnet Onions per doz bchs. Parsley per sieve Parsnips doz. Peas per quart Potatoes bushel Kidney do. Radishes doz. bunches Rhubarb bundle Sea-kale basket Shallots lb. Spinach bushel Tomatoes. . . . per doz. Turnips bunch d. B. 4 toO fi 1 n 4 a n n u 4 9 1 9 1 fi (! n fi 6 4 n n 8 s n 4 6 1 TO CORRESPONDENTS. We request that co one will write privately to the depart- mental writers of the ''Journal of Horticulture, Cottage Gardener, and Country Gentleman.'* By so doing they are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All communications shotild therefore be addressed solebf to The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture^ dCf 171, Fleet Street, London^ E.C. 1 be fresh, putting about a foot of screenings of old tan— that remaining in a half-inch sieve— on the surface for plunging the pots in. Cheilanthes fragrans (odora) is a somewhat scftrce Fern, being rather difficult of cul- tivation. It is iucluded in the catalogues of our principal nurserymen, and is not high-priced. Impregnating Melon Flowers (T. TF.).— It is scarcely necessary at this period to imi>reguatc the flowers, but it is well to practise it at all seasons. The process is a very simple one. All that is necessary is to take the male flower, wh=ch'is that without fruit, nnd nipping it off the plant, strip it of the corolla, leaving the centre entire. This will be covered with a fine yellow powder. Taking the flower by the stalk, place it in a flower having a fruit beneath it. Twist it gently round a few times, and the pollen or yellow dust will be diPtributed on the sti^>ma of the flower. The flowers Vhould be impregnated when they are fully open and fresh, and during tbo early part of a fine day. going over them fre. quently for the purpose, so as to perform the opt-ration before they shut. Stopping Vines (JI. £.1.— It is not desirable to stop the leading shoots until they reach the top of the house or length of rafter ; then they ought to be stopped, and not turned back as you seem disposed to do. We invariably pinch out the point of the leading fchoot when about 1 foot from the top of the house or rafter, and allow the laterals to grow to some extent before stopping. Strawberhies for Light Soil (OrTTistirA).— Forpreserving we recom- mend Sir Charles Napier ; and for table use. Eclipse, La Con^ante, and Frogmore Late Pine. Roses cannot be successfully cultivated in a draw- ing-room. RHiprDOPTEBTs PELTATA CULTURE (S. A. ]\I.).—It is a very rare Fern from the We^t Indies, succeeding admirably in a rather close moist atmo- sphere. Avoid wetting the fronds more than can be helped. A moderate amount of air is necessary, and shade from bright sun. When growing freely water liherallv. and always keep the soil moist, but drier in winter than'in summer. Keep it near the glass, and afford plenty of room. Give a liberal amount of drainage; and for soil use a compost of brown, sandy, fibrous peat torn m pieces with the hand and made fine, adding silver sand freelv. The temperature may be from r.5- to ^5= or 70' in winter. and from GD^ to 65^ at night in summer, and from 80- to SS*^ by day with sun. Plants for a Eockwork Aechwat [A Twrlre-years Suhscriber).— Your rockery archway being in the shade will answer very well for some of the hardy 'Ferns; but there are no Lyeopods that would succeed, except, perhaps, Selaginella denticulata planted in a sheltered cavity or crevice. July 2, 1868. J JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 13 Tho following Ferns would probably succpod, providing tbe rockery is not subjected to tho aun's riijfl, but Hhaded from thorn, and can be kept moist :— Allosorus crispus, Aaplonium ndiautum niKTiim, A. ruta-muraria, A. trichomanos, A. virido, ('yHtoptcris fratfilifl, P.dypodium iilpestre. P. vulRftro, P. dryoptoris, Bldohnuni Bpicant, PolyHticbum aculeatuin, P. annulare, and itn varictioH proliltrum and cristatura, and Pulystichum lonchitis. The rockwork, on tlio othi-r band, huiuR in tho full huu, will need plants aceordinsly, and n<.t I'mis— js Anbrititift doltoidca, Aronaria verna, Arabia iilbida, iJampanuIu f'arctanica, Coraatium tomentoBum, Cbeiranthus alpinuH, Druba aizoidoH, Erinus alpinus (slionld be planted liberally), Linaria cymbalaria, Oxaiia tropieoloides, Polyj^alu vulparis, Saxifraga affinis, S. aizoon, H, cymbalaria, and S. juniperina; Sedum acre, S. aunlicura, S. For.sterianuni. and S. kmntHclmticnm ; and Sem- pervivum aracbnoideum, S. Rlobulilerum, and S. calif oraicum. They can be procured throuKb any of the principal nurBeryniou. Fern Frokds Mildf.wkd (O. A. S.).— We nro obliged by tho Fern fronds. The plants should have thorough and frequent syringings. The mildew or fundus would then disappear. L\DY DowNE's GRAPF.fl Skttino Badly (S. C.).— The Lady Downe*s Vine should bavo ii higher teniponture to set its fruit well, and the floors and other surfaces should bo sjirinkled with water twice or tbriee a-day. Rocjuiring a higher temperature than tho Black H;iinburghs. I.ady Downe's Vine onght not to be p-own in the same house, but the Hauiburghs will succeed with the treatment required for the Laily Dnwne's, only the fruit owing to the temperature may be ripe earlier thau desired. Gansel's Beroamot Pear (A Subscribt'r).—li would not succeed as a standard if you reside in tho northern counties. Your planting it in a warm sunny orchard would be feuccessfnl if your locality is mild and not far north. CuTTiNo-iN Oleanders (C M. Jl/.).— Xow is a good time to cut-in tbe old Oleander trees, but we should have preferred doing so a month or six weeks earlier. In pruning leave some young wood if you can, as they do not push freely from such thick stems as you describe. We should prefer putting in cuttings, shoots of the current year that have com- pleted their growth being taken off when the wood is rather firm. Cut them below a joint, take oif tbe lower leaves for about two-thirds the length of the cutting, and insert the cuttings in a compost of equal parts of turfy loam, sandy peat, and silver sand, with an inch in depth of silver sand on tbe surface. Place tho cuttings in a hotbed, and they will be well rooted in about six weeks, and may then be potted-oflF. The young plants will serve your purpose better than cutting down the old plants. Watering Amaryllis (Idein).-— Watering shouhl be continued until the plants show signs of going to rest, which you will notice by the alter- ation in tbe colour of the leaves. The seed wiU ripen fully without giving water specially on their account. As a rule, watering will bo re- quired until September. We fear vou have destroyed the seed pods by too liberal supplies of water overhead. Give only enough water to keep the foliage from flagging, and when tbe leaves turn yellow ceise watering altogether, placing the plants near the glass in the full sun. Vallota purpurea PoTTiNr, {Idem) — For autumn fiowering no time should be lost in having tho plants repotted ; but unless tbe drainage is bad we would not repot, but leave tho bulbs as they are. If the drainage is bad repot, but do not give a largo shift, as Vallotas and all bulbs never do so well as when tho roots are confined and touching the sides of the pot. Ipomjea heoer.efolia (A. CI/.).— Yon have the plant we meant by German Ivy, and when it flowers we will thank you for a specimen. The I true Ipomipa hedertefolia has paie lilac flowerw, and i» very like a Con- I volvulus.— G. A. I Passies for Flowerino at the Esn or June (^■'nfiirMn).- To have I Pansics in flower at tbe end of June cuttings should be put in late in the I previous autumn, and planted at tho end of Miirch or early in April. I These plants should be kept well supplied with water, and shaded from j bright sun during hot dry pcriofls. so that thny may grow well during Jliiy and the early part of June. Instead of flowering. To prevent their exhauhting theni'aelvcs pick ofi" tho early blooran. Top-dreHsiJigs of rich , compost should bo given in April and iMay. i Asters for Exhiuition (fi. C.j.- Tbpy must be grown in good, rich well-manured, and deeply-dug ground. The aeed should be sown at such ' ft time that they will be in flower at the time required. Sow in gentle heat, keep the seedlings near the glass, prick tbem off when large enough to handle, and plant them out when of gufficient size. Afterwards attend well to them with water, shade from bright snn, nnd take every means to encounigo free vigorous growth, giving libera! supplies of liquid manure, and a top-dressing of rich compost when the flower buds are formed. The treatment is not difi'erent from thac for Asters grown ' in borders, only moro pains are taken with tlicm. Traisino Melons (/rfcni).— It is impossible for us to tell how many shoots ought to bo left on a plant. The main hranches should be trained about 1 f.)ot iipart, and from them you will have lateral or secondary shoots, on which the fruit is produced. The surface of the bed, therefore, should be covered with main branches not nearer than 9 inches, nor ex- ceeding a foot apart, which will be equal to about three main shoots per plant, two plants being planted under a light. One fruit will be sufficient on each branch, but we never leave more than two fruits on a plant, or three at tho most when it is exceedingly vigorous, and only one on a main shoot or branch. OuT-DOOR ViNE-GROWiNO {All Amateur Vine-ffroii-rr). — " Hoare on tbe Vine " is a good work on out-door Grape-growing. It chiefly refers to the cultivation of Vines on walls. Mr. iioare's system is practically that of the rod, now so much written about under the title of the " extending system of Vine-growing," as if it were a novelty. Tbe information in air. Hoare's book is sound ; but with tho introduction of cheap glass has come superior and extended culture of all fruits. We shall have an article on the culture of Vines in the open air in an early number. Turf Pits (L J. P.).— We shall publish some notes on these shortly. Your letter we reuret having mislaid. Insects (F.) — The small snail-like insects on your Jargonelle Pear leaves are the slimy larva.' of a black-winged Sawfly, Tonthredo ..EthiopSi Dust the leaves well with powdered lime, or syringe them well with strong lime water. (Centurion). — Your Pear leaves are attacked by the slimy larvie of a small black-winged Sawfly ; your Rose leaves by those of another kind of Sawfly; and one of the leaves sent enclosed the empty chrysalis skin of a small Moth (Tortrix sp.). Lime water and powdered lime will destroy the former. For the latter, in addition to hand-picking, we would sprinkle or dust the bushes with white hellebore powder, or they may be syringed with a solution of one peck of lime and 2 lbs. of soft-soap to thirty gallons of rain water. The Pear trees may be treated in the ?ame wav, svringing them in the evening. The Pear leaf is evidently that of Winter Nelis, but we cannot name fruit trees from leaves. Names of Plants (J*7norrtmws).— We have repeatedly stated that we cannot name plants from leaves, nor florists' varieties. METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS in the Suburbs of London for the week ending June 30th. Date. THERMOMETER. BABOHBTEB. Air. Earth. Wind. Rain in General Remarks. Max. Min. Max. 1 Mia. 1 «. tip. 1 a ft. dp. Wed... 24 Thnre. 25 Fri. .. 26 Sat. .. 27 San. ,, 28 Mod... 29 Tnes. . 30 29.998 8l).ie7 30.252 80.220 30.159 80.250 30.250 29.916 30.050 30.054 31C90 30.083 30.177 3a.l47 75 78 81 85 79 80 76 40 41 43 53 46 43 53 63 63 fS 68 6? ' 68 63 61 69 60 60 6D 61 60 s.w. w. E. S. S.W. N.E. N.E. .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .0) .01 Clear and fine ; overcast, very fine at night. Overcast, cloudy ; overcast ; clear and fine. Hazy, fine ; very fine ; clear and very fine. Very fine ; exceedingly hot ; very fine, clear. Slightly overcast ; fine: very fine, cloudy. Clear and fine ; very fine ; fhie at night. Very fine ; clear anil fine ; cloudy, cold wind. Uean 30.185 30 075 78.85 45.57 63.00 60.14 •• 0.01 POULTR Y . BEE, and HOUSEHOLD CaRONICLE. HOUDANS. EEDEEsnsG tbe promise we vanie last week, we continue onr notice of tbe Frencb breeds. We dtj so, repeating we are re- sponsible only for translation, the description still belongs to M. .Jacque. Nevertheless, as very old breeders, we will guaran- tee tbe truth of tbe description be gives. It may be that when we speak of ourselves as very old breeders it will be thought we should say something of our own experience. It is that tbe Houdan is tbe hardiest of all the Frencb fowls introduced to us of late years. It is an ex- cellent layer, a fowl easily and cheaply kept, bearing any amount of confinement, but determined to have its own way, and to seek a substitute for anything that is lacking. Thus, ! we cannot tell whether it was from drought and consequent j lack of green food, or that tbe efforts of our English feeder were unpalatable to tbe French taste of our imported stock, but they certainly lacked something, spite of grass and lettuces. and from results it would appear that the nearest approach to a substitute was feathers. The hens have eaten all tbe cock's feathers, tbe cock has eaten tbe ben's. It is lucky the moult- ing time is at hand, that the damage may be repaired. 'There is a peculiarity in tbe French breeds, which will be understood by all who keep them : the difficulty, almost im- possibility, of keeping tbe cocks healthy. We have given it up with tbe unfortunate La Fl'^-che. Tbe cocks will be well in the morning, moribund in tbe evening. Who has not read Sponge's sporting tour? Who has not noted the difference between .Jawle^ford addressing his tenantry, and tbe same .Jawleyford getting himself up to put off that " horrid Mr. Spraggon." The unlimited costume and great flow of spirits in the first place, the downcast face and handkerchief-bound head in tbe second, are fair representatives of the Frencb cocks. In the morning they are seen gay and cheerful, and you are tempted to believe they are greatly libelled, or (and this is the most pleasing interpretation), that others do not understand the management of them so well as you do. You give your opinion freely during tbe day to your friends, and offer one of them an unUmited supply of strawberries and cream if be will go 14 JOURNAL OF HORTICULTUHB AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ July 3, 1 with you and see the birds after office is over. Yon increase the bribes till he consents. The first visit is to the poultry. Where is the bold bird that cried defiance at you in the morn- ing? Yon cannot see him ; but on close examination you per- ceive a sort of semicircular bunch of feathers in the corner of the pen. There is the gallant bird of the morning. His tail is on the ground, his head as near it as may be. You can only say, "It is very odd." He will, and does recover; but those ■who keep them know this is a common case. Now for M. Jacque. Proportions and general characteristics :— Body slightly rounded, of ordinaiy proportions, tolerably near to the ground, standing firmly ou large feet. Breast high, legs and wiugs well developed, large head, half top-knot, whi&kersand beard, triple transversal comb, five toes on each foot. Plumage splashed or spotted white, black, or straw colour ; in chickens, black and white only. An adult cock should weigh from to 7 lbs., made up prin- cipally of flesh, the bones weighing only an eighth. He should be put up to fatten at sixteen, and be killed at eighteen weeks old. His comb should be triple and transversal to the direction of the beak, composed of two lengthened, rectangular, and flattened spirals, opening from right to left like the leaves of a book ; they should be thick and fleshy, and notched or uneven at the sides. The third spiral should grow from the middle of the other two, be about the size of a lengthened nut, and shaped like an irregular strawberry. A fourth, independent of these, and about the size of a tare, grows above the beak and between the nostrils. Deaf ears small, and hidden by the whiskers ; half crest inchning backwards and to the fides. Beard begins between the wattles under the beak, and should he larger at bottom than at top. Physiognomy of the head differing from that of other breeds in many remarkable particulars. The head forms with the neck a very close angle, so that the beak takes the appearance of a nose. The square and flattened comb looks like a fleshy forehead, the cheeks are surrounded with curling feathers that look Uke whiskers, the drooping corners of the beak look like a mouth, the feathery cravat joined to the gills simulates a beard, the top- knot looks like a luxuriant head of hair, and the whole face immediately gives the idea of that of a man. In the adult the legs should be of a leaden grey, in the chicken bluish grey and white, with rose-coloured spots. The plumage of both sexes should be entirely composed of black, white, and straw colour ; those that show any red should be pitilessly got rid of. The plumage of the Houdan should be either spotted or splashed, irregularly made up of alternate black and white feathers, sometimes of black tipped with white, sometimes of white tipped with black. The adult hen should weigh from 5 to lbs. Both sexes must have five toes on each foot. The hen is an abundant and early layer of large eggs. This is truly a hardy fowl, and is reared more easily than any other French fowl. They are also more domesticated and less destructive to gardens and crops than any other. the loth of June, five weeks from the 11th, the first goshngs appeared, and the others came out during the following day. — L. B. NOTES ON HATCHING. The necessity of keeping eggs damped previous to hatching is adverted to in page 396. I find doing so very beneficial, and very rarely lose a chicken at hatching time. I sprinkle the eggs at intervals with flowers of sulphur, but not when the eggs are ready to hatch. Just before I expect them to do so I take a bowl of water, and try the eggs, put them all in, and it, after carefully watching them for a few sescnds, there is no movement, remove the bad ones ; it gives the others more room, and facilitates hatching. I seldom sprinkle the eggs during this hot weather, but pour half a hand-bowl of water over them. " Nemo," in the same number of the Journal, thinks an easterly wind prejudicial to hatching. I cannot now call to mind the time the east wind prevailed. It is said about this part of Sussex (near Uckfleld), that if a Goose sits when the wind is easterly she will require five weeks to hatch. My Geese have hitherto hatched in about thirty or thirty-one days. One of mine laid a second time, and sat on the 11th of May. Of this I am positive, as I put the date on all the eggs. I found she did not hatch at the usual time, and would have taken her eggs away, but she sat in a damp place out of the way near a bed of rushes, and not far from a pond. On STAVELEY POULTRY SHOW. Having entered a pen of birds for the Stp.7eley Show, which was fixed for June 23rd, I was somewhat surprised on the •22nd by receiving a letter from the Secretary, stating that '• owing to the small number of entries the Committee are soiTy that they cannot see their way clearly to holding the proposed Show at the present time," and returning the amount of my entry fee. The entries, it appears, closed on June 13tb, therefore the Committee must then have been aware of the " small number of entries." Why, then, I ask, did they not immediately signify the abandonment of the Show without waiting eight or nine days, and until almost the day of the Show ? Had they done so, I for one should have been less displeased. I would suggest to the Committee of the Staveley Show, and the same suggestion may apply to some other committees, that in their advertisements they should state more definitely where the place is situated. After ferreting through a gazetteer and Bradshaw's Guide I concluded that this Staveley was either in Westmoreland or Derbysbue. I, however, addressed my ap- plication for a prize list simply " Staveley," and in due course received a list, but by which I was not further enlightened. Seeing, however, that the list was printed at Chesterfield, I concluded it must be the Derbyshire Staveley. — Lex. BEVERLEY POULTRY SHOW. The entries at Beverley this season, -were scarcely so nnmerous as in previous years, no doubt from the dates for the Spalding and Stareley Shows being almost simultaneous. The latter matting was withdrawn by the Committee all but at the last moment, on acconnt of the paucity of entries, and. consequently, many intending com- petitors were thrown entirely out in their calculations, and from this cause only a large number of excellent fowls that would otherwise have been at Beverley, remained at home. Kven with this disad- vantage, there were "290 entries, and with the single exception of the Game classes, the birds <^juite maintained the reputation which this meeting has enjoyed for eleven years. This year's Show was held in the grounds of W. Croaskill, Esq., of Walter Gate, and certainly a moie beautiful spot for such an ex- hibition could scarcely he imagined. Very extensive tents were pro- vided, the arraogements were complete, and although at repeated in- tervals a thunderstorm seemed imminent, the weather fortunately proved fine throughout. The Honorary Secretary, Mr. Harry Adams, was as indefatigable as ever, and the most complete order and regu- larity prevailed. A veiy extraordinary effort to surreptitiously obtain possession of a much-coveted premium at this year's Beverley Show deserves a mo- ment's notice at our hands. An exhibitor who. we are informed, holds a very good social position, within a few days of the Show addressed a private letter to the Judge, directing his particular attention to hoth the class and likewise number of his pen that he purposed to exhibit for a silver cup, and then very modestly requested its appropriation. The letter also contained a post-otHce order drawn by the exhibitor in the Judge's favour. The sequel will, we trust, teach most expressively, that such conduct will never receive the sanction of any pai-ty worthy of the position of a public arbitrator. The course pursued by the Judge was this : The evening before the Show he read alond the letter to a full meeting of the Committee, signed the post-ofiice order in their prf sence. and at once handed it over to the funds of the Show, expressing his unalterable determination "to pass over" this par- ticular pen, good or bad, as an empty one. when engaged in hia decisions of the morrow. This done, the Committee passed unani- mously a resolution, that the exhibitor should not be permitted again to exhibit at any future meeting of the Beverley Poultry Society. It is but justice to the birds themselves to add, they proved a very ex- cellent pen, but from this cause only they were (as foretold), '' passed '' unheeded by the Arbitrator, though they did not at all lack the especial attention of visitors generally. We pass without comment, for it needs none, from this really unpleasant affair. ilost of the Game fowls exhibited were birds of high repute, and again added other laurels to the many they had preriously obtained, but the rapid moult that is taking place this season so unusually early, caused the Game classes, to an unpractised eye, to appear of far less interest than on former occasions. Six weeks or even a couple of months must now elapse before the fowls can again recover their usual condition and essential hard feather. The silver cup for A^i«7(iV; fowls was awarded to an extraordinarily good pen belonging to E. Jones, Esq., of Clifton, the competition being at the same time unusually severe for the remaining premiums in this class. Of Cochins ^ the display was excellent, and the emulation for the cup proved that the breeders of Cochins were fully aware of the value of its possession, both as to the sale of extra stock, and also as an addition to their July 2, 18G8. : JOURNAL OF HOnTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 15 Sideboara. W. A. Taylor, Esq., of 23, Turner Street, Mnncbcsler, Proved tliu winner, with an excellent you shown in first-vate feather. All Iho Uamhmyh classes wero woU lilled, JIi-. BeUlan takinf the Irnlk (if the premiums, anil the silver cup was awarded to a pen of Golden-pencilled, shown in perfect condition hv Mr. .1. K. Jessop, of Hull. In the " Variety class," a pen of Ptarmigans were shown of eioellont quality. The Diuhs. with the exception of tho.so iu the '• Variety class, " were not so good as customary at the Beverley Shows, bat the Pigeons throughout were so unexampled for good quality as to create quite a public interest in this portion of the Exhibition, and a reference to the list of awards will best prore that the competition throughout the whole of these classes was without a precedent at former meetings of this Society. There was also a very good display of Cunanc-f and singing birds generally. Game (Black-breasted or other Reds).— First, W. Boycs, Beverley. Se- cond, S. Matthew, Stowmarket. Commended, H. M. Julian, Hull. Game (.\nv other varietv).— First, H. M. Julian. Second, A. K. Bnggs, Bradford. Commended, W. Boves ; W. J. Cope, Barnsley ; S. Mitthew. Game.— CocA-.— First and Cup, S. Matthew. Second, H. M. Julion. Highlv Commended, G. Sutton. Bootham, York. Commended, W. Boyes. Spanish.— First nnd Cup E. Jones, Clifton. Second, H. Beldon, Biagley. Highly Commended, J. Walker, '(Volvcrhampton ; J. Thresh, Bradfo'rd; T. J. Hanison, Singleton Park. DOKKINBS.— First, J. White, Warlaby. Second, H. Lingwood. Needbam Mni-ket. Highly Commended, Rev. G. Hustler, StillingBeet ; Miss Milne, Ottarburn. Commended, Rev. J. F. Kewton, Kirby in Cleveland; H. Pickles, Earby. Cochins (Cinnamon or Buff).— First and Cup, W. A. Taylor, Manchester. Second, H. Mapplebeck. Woodfield, Birmingham. Highly Commended, J. H. Dawes, Moselev Hall, Birminabam ; W. A. Taylor. Commended, R. White, Sheffield ; C."W. Brierlev, Middleton, Manchester. Cochins (Any other variety).— First. T. Stretch, Ormskirk (Partridge). Second, E. Tu'dman, Whitehurcb. Salop. Commended, C. W. Brierley. Hamborghs iGold-spansled).- First. H. Beldon, Bingley. .Second, G. Holmes, DrilHeld. Hiahlv Commended, J. White, Whitley. Netherton. Commended, J. Elgar^ Newark : W. X. Hvde, Hurst, Ashton-under- Lyne ; H. Beldon, Binglev; J. Walker, Hava Park, Knaresborough. HjiMBUROHs (Silver-spangled:.- First. H. Beldon. Second. J. Walker. Highly C.mimended, H. Beldon. Commended, J. A . Taylor, Manchester. HiMBuncns I Gold-pencilled;.— First and Cup, J. R. Jessop, Hulk Se- cond, H. Beldon. Hambcrbhs (Silver-pencilled).— First, H. Beldon. Second, H. Pickles. Polish.— First, H. Beldon. Second and Highly Commended, Miss Proctor, Hull. Any other Vakietv.— First. R. Loft. Woodmanaey (Ptarmigan). Se- cond, R. White (Brahmas). Highly Commended, L. Biney. Manchester (Brahmas) ; H. Beldon (Cochin Bantams). Commended, Key. G. Hustler (Unlays). Game B-^ntams. — First and Cup, J. R. Robinson, Sunderland. Se- cond, W. F. Entwistle, Leeds. Commended, T. C. Harrison ; E. Toder, Little Carlton. Bantams (Black or Whitel.— First, Mes.srs. Tonkin & ITuckey, Bristol (Black). Second, J. R. Jessop (White). Highly Commended, W. H. Tdmlinson, Newark-ou-Trent. Commended, A. Jones, Stapleton, Bristol. Game Banta.m Cock. — First, J. Bamber, .\ccrington. Second. J. Donglas, New Delaval. Highly Commended, L. Biney. Commended, T. C. Han-ison. DncKS (Aylesbury).— First, Messrs. Bowman & Fearon, Whitehaven. Se- cond, M. Harrison," Warter. Highly Commended, Rev. G. Hustler. DcrcKS (Rouen). — Second, Messrs Bowman &, Fearon. DtrcKS (Any other variety). — First and Second, T. C. Harrison (Pintails and Cnrohnas). Selling Class (.^ny variety\ — First, H. M. Julian (Game). Second, J. Walker (Silvev-spangled . ' Highly Commended, G. Holmes; T. C. Harrison (Bantams) ; J. Walker (Gold-spangled). PIGEONS. eAERrER.-roct-.— First and Second, R. Fulton, Dcptford. Third, H. Beldon. Highly Commended. R. H. Artindale, West Derby, Liverpool. Commended," H. Yardley, Birmingham. Hfn.— First and Second, R. Fillton. Third, H. Yardley. Highly Commended. F. Graham, Birkenhead, Pouter. — Cock. — First and Second, R. Fulton. Third, H. Beldon. Commended, H. Beldon ; H. Y'ardley. JToi.— First, H. Beldon. Second and Third, R. Fulton. Highly Commended, J. EUetson, Thorngumbald, York. Commended, H. Y'ardley. Almonds.— First, F. Key, Beverley. Second and Third, R. Fulton. Highly Commended. W. Winter, Derby. Tdmblers (Any other variety). — First, Cream Jug, and Third, R. Fulton. Second, Jesse Thompson, Binglev. BARBS.- Fu-st and Second, T'. H. Frean, .4.nfield Spore. Third, F. Graham. Owls. — First, H. Y.ardley. Second, T. Newell, -\shton-under-Lvne. Third, R, Mole, Hull. Highly Commended, J. Clark, Thirsk ; T. Statters, HqU, Commended, J. Walsh, Halifax. FANTAILS.— First, H. Yai-dley. Second, E. Mole. Third, J. T, Lishman, Girlington. Jacobins. — First, J. Thompson. Second, T. Newell, Ashton-nnder- Lyno. Third, R. J. Bell, Hull. Highly Commended, C. Lythe, Cotting- ham. Trumpeters. — First, J. T. Lishman. Second, Messrs Beaumont and Stephenson, Beverley. Third, H. Y'ardley. Commended, J. Campey, Beverley. TCRBITS.— First. H. Y'ardley. Second, G. H. Pickering, Driffield. Thurd, J. Thompson. Highlv Commended, J. T. Lishman. Commended, R. Wilson, Thirsk ; H. Beldon. Nuns.- First, C. Lythe, Cottingham. Second. H. Yardley. Thli-d, E. Mole Highly Commended, R. Wilson, Thirsk : J. Thompson. Dragoons. — First, F. Grsham, Birkenhead. Second, J. Thompson. Third and Highly Commended, H. Y.ardley, Any other Variety.— First and Second, J. T. Lishman. Third, H. Beldon. Highlv Commended, H. Yardlev; J. Clark (Swiss); R. Mole (Black Spots) ; T. Statters, (Red Swallows):' C. Lvthe (Blue feather-legged jackerlins). Commended, R. Wilson ; T. Newell. Sellino CLAS.S.— First. W. Watson, Beverley. Second, H. Beldon. Third, J. Thomson, Highly Commended, K. Dawaon, Beverley. The Judges were— for Pou/(ri/, E. Hewitt, Esq., of Birmingham; for Piiifons. Dr. Boulton, of Beverley ; and for Canaries, ire, Mr. J., Moreton, of Hull. CHELMSFORD POUI-TRY SHOW. This Show was held in conjunction with the Essex Agricnltnral , Society's Meeting, on .Tune ■2.5th and *Jtjth. The following is a list of the prizes awarded : — Dorkings (Coloured).- First, Cup, and Second, for best pen of Dorkings. D. C. Campbell, M.D., Brentwood. Third, H. Lingwood, Barking, Need- ham Market. HiKbly Commended, F. Parlett, Great Baddow, Chelmsford, Commended, C. Tmner, Chelmsford ; F. Parlett. Dorkings (Any other variety).- First, H. Lingwood (White). Second. D. C. Campbell, M.D. (White). iThird, Rev. E. S. Tiddeman, Childerditch Vicarage, Brentwood (Silver-Grey). Cochins (Buff or Cinnamon).— First and Cup for best pan of Cochins, H. Lingwood. Second, H. Mapplebeck. Woodfield, Hoselcy. Third, Mrs. Christie, Glvndeboumo, Lewes. Highly Commended, W. A. Gibbons, Chiddington; J. H. Dawes, Hasoly Hall, Birmingh.am. Cochins (Any other variety).- First, H. Lingwood iPartndge). Second, A. O. Worthington, Burton-bn-Trent (Partridge). Third, J. K. Fowler, ,\vlesbury (Partridge). . t, tt _i 'Brahmas (Dark).— First and Cup for best pen of Brahmas, A. F. Hart, Alderwasley, Derby. Second, J. K. Fowler. Third, H. Lingwood. Highly Commended, J. H. Cuff, Metropolitan Cattle Market; F. James, Peckham Rve 'Beahsias (Light).— First and Second, H. Dowsett, Pleshey, Chekasford. Third, A. O. Worthington. „,,_. j t, x. GA3IE (Black-breasted and other Reds).— First and Third, Bev. i. Watson, Messing, Kelvedon (Brown Red). Second, S. Matthews, Stow- market (Black Red). Highly Commended, U. Loe, Appuldurcomba (BlacK- ^ breasted Red I : W. B. Jeffries, Ipswich. Gajie (Any other variety).- First and Cup for best pen of Game. b. , Matthew (Duckwing). Second, Rev. F. Watson (Pile). Third, T. Dyson, Halifax (Duckwingi. , rr.ii, Spanish —First. P. H. Jones, Fulbam. Second, F. James (Black). Third, R. Ede, Worthing (Black). Highly Commended, H. Lingwood;- F. James (Black). . , Hamburohs (Gold or Silver-pencilled).— First, W. K. Tickner, Ipswich. Second and Third, C. Havers, Insatestone (Golden and Silver). Hambcrghs (Gold or Silver-spanaled).- First, Bev. F. Tearle, Gazeley Vicarage, Newmarket (Silver). Second, Mrs Pattisson, Maldon. Third, T. Penfold, Newhaveu (Silver). ^ /t., ■ French (.\ny variety).— First, Ladv L. Charteris, Attleborough (Black Creve-CcEurl. 'Second, Col. Stuart Wortlcy, Grove End Road, London (French). Third, J. K. Fowler (Creve-Coeur). Game Bantams (.tay variety). -First, W. Dale, Weston-super-Mare. Second, W. B. Jeffries (Black Red). Third, E. B. Edwards, Brentwood. Highly Commended, Mrs. Sheerman, Chelmsford ; Mrs. Holmes, Shep- herd's Bush (Brown-breasted Red) ; J. Parlett (Black Red). Bantams (Any other varietyl.- First, Rev. F. Tenrle (White). Second, T. Burgess, Br'ighouse. Third, G. Manning (Golden Sebright). Com- mended. J. Allen, Ampthill. Any other Variety not PHEvionsLv Mentioned.— First, P. H. Jones (Polish). Second, Mrs. J. Mayhew. Great Baddow (Pea Fowls). Third, D. Mutton. Brighton. Highlv Commended. J. Pool, Little Waltham (Pea Fowls) ; Mrs. Tippler, Dukes, Roxwell (Guinea Fowls) : Col. Stuart Wortley (Frizzled Japanese); J. K. Fowler (Silkies) ; LadyL. Chariens . (BuffPoUsh). Decks (Rouen).— First, Second, and Third, H. Dowsett. DrcKS (Aylesbury).— First, J. K. Fowler. Second, W. Tippler, Dukes, Eoxwell. Thud, Withheld. lirCKS (.Any other variety).- Prizes withheld. Turkeys.— First, Mrs Mayhew. Second, H. H. Tippler,i'Dnkes, Rox- well. Third, R. Pigott, South Weald. . Geese.— First, J. K. Fowler. Second, Mrs. Upson, Rivenhall. Third, H. H. Tippler. , , Sklling Class (Any variety).— First, Miss A. L. Dowsett, Pleshey. Se- cnnd. D. C. Cimpbell, M.D. (Coloured Dorkings). Third, G. Simpson, Chelmsford (Colotired Dorkings). Highly Commended, E. Bice, Sand- wich (Black-breasted Game); G. Simpson (Coloured Dorkings). Com- mended, E. Rice (Duckwing) ; .K. Barker, Eoxwell iBuff Cochin). PIGEONS. C.lBRiERS.— First, H. Yardley, Birmingham. Second, E. Sheermau. PocTERS.— First and Second, P. H. Jones, Fnlham. Tdmblers.— First. P. H. Jones (Almond) . Second, H. Yardley. Jacobins.— First, P. H. Jones. Second, H. Y'ardley. Trumpeters. — First nnd Second, E. Sheerman. Fantails. — Prize. H. Yardley. Any other Variety.- First, P. H. Jones (Barbsl.'^Second, H. Yardley. Highly Commended, P. R. Tippler, Dukes, Roxwell (Turtle Doves); H. Y'ardley. Commended, P. H. Jones (Turbits). Selling Class- — First and Second, E. Sheerman. Judges. — 'W. B. Tegetmeier, Esq., Maswell Hill, London, and J. Monsey, Esq., Thome Lane, Norwich. STONEHOUSE POULTRY SHOW. June '26th akd 27th. The Judges, Mr. Matthew Hedley, of London, and Mr. 'Wmii Rone, of Bristol, awarded the prizes as follows : — Spanish.— First, Third, and Commended, R. Barrett, Stroud. Second, E Bhck, Stonebouse. Dorking.— First. W. Sims, Stroud. Second. D. Darke, Stonebouse. Cochin-China iLisht).— First, G. E. N. Rawlinson, Gloucester. Second and Commended, B. Barrett. Cochin-China (Dark).— First. R. Blick. Second, J. E. Borghope, Stroud. Highly Commended, T. Gee, Hardwicke. 16 JOUBNAL OP HORTIOULTDEE AND COTTAGE QABDENEB. [ July 2, isee. Beahma Pootra (Light) —Prize, IL H. Tyte, Minchinhnnipton. Bhahma Pootka (Dark).— First. W. Sims. Second, R. Blick. Game (Blackbreasted and other Reds).— Prize, R. Blick. Hambdeohs (Golden-pencilled).— First, J. S. Hoggs, Tetbary. Second, B. Blick. Hahboboiis (Golden-spanKlodj.— First, J. S. Maggs. Second, R. BUck. Commended, R. Blick; C. Webb. Hambcrghs (Silver.spanRled). —First, R. Blick. Second, J. S. Maggs. Polish (Silver).— First, Mise K. Barrett, Stroud. Second, R. Blick. Ant other Distinct Variety.- First, Mrs. Barnes, EnHtingtnn (Silkies), Second, R. Blick (.^ndalu.sians). Highly Commended, E. W. Winter- botham. Commended, .T. Burghope. Single Cock (Any variety).— First, W. Knee. Second, R. Blick. Com- mended, R. Barrett. Best Chicken.— First, R. Barrett. Second, R. Blick. Highly Com- mended, R. Barrett. Commended, J. Brinkworth. Ducks.- First and Second, J. Webb, Strond. Highly Commended, S. S. Dickinson (Muscovy Duck and drake). PlGEON8.— ''arri<'r8.— Prize, R. Blick. TmmpcU'rs.—Vnze, E. Blick. Black and IC/iitc. -First and Second, W. Knee. Canaries.— iit*8( Cage of Birdi. — First and Second, Mrs. Smith, Stone- house. Sltuile Cock. First, G. Cummiug, Gloucester. Second, Mrs. Stephens, Stouehouse. Any other Variety of Foeeion Bird.- Fiist, Miss E. Hayward. Second, R. Blick. Best Case of Stuffed Birds.- First, R. Blick. Second, Miss Hay- ward. ^___ SP.VLDING POULTRY SHOW. The second aunanl meeting of the Spalding Society was held June 25th, and being combined -with a Floricultural Esliibition, it was unusually attractive. The weather being most favourable, the at- tendance was very good. Every effort was made by the acting Com- mittee to promote the comfort of the poultry and the convenience of visitors. Turner's pens were used, and, consequently, the display was effective, whilst an ample tent accommodated all the sightseers, and wonld have sheltered them had the weather been bad. For Durkiii^/s, Dr. Campbell took the cup with some excellent speci- mens, and not without a severe competition from his rivals. Mr. J. Fletcher, of Stoneclough near Manchester, sent a collection of Game fowls calculated to fully support the high reputation of that gentle- man's yard, and they proved to be in wonderful condition, and one of the greatest attractions in the Show. All the pi-incipal Game prizes were secured by these birds, and it took the Judges a considerable time to determine to which of these particular pens the silver cup for the best pen of Game should be awarded, the Judges, of course, little supposing that the whole of those so closely-competiug pens belonged to the same individual. We can speak in the same high terms of commendation of the Cochin classes, Mr. Taylor, of Manchester, taking the Cochin cup in an unusually excellent class. Some veiy beautiful Cuckoo-coloured Cochins, and also some Black ones, were shown. BniJimas were good, more especially the dark-feathered ones. J Spanisli were excellent as a class, and hero Mr. Beldon was the cup- | ■winner. Some first-rate Cochin Bantams were shown, and also some I of the best White ones we have seen for a long time. The collection of Fancy Ducks was a chief feature of the Show, all the prizes being taken by the well-known exhibitor. Mr. Harrison, of Hull, and by another Mr. Harrison, a local resident. Of Piiji'd'ns, we cannot speak too highly, as a reference to the names of the winners would lead any lover of Pigeons to anticipate, and those persons who missed the opportunity of viewing this division of the Show, where so much was calculated in other portions of the meeting to arrest the attention, lost a treat they little imagine. The Iluhljits were especially good, and the entries in this department were numerous. The Committee were everywhere congratulated on the success of this year's K xhibition, and with similar attention no doubt future meetmgs vnll prove equally well supported. Doekinos (Coloured).— First and Cup. —Dr. Campbell, Brentwood. Se- cond, H. Lingwood, Ncedham Market, Barking. Third, J. Vorley, Wood- bouse, Holbeach, Commended, G. Clarke, Long Sutton. Dorkings (.Anv other variety).— Prize, H. Lingwood iWhitel. Game (Black-breasted Reds .—First and Cup, J. Fletcher, Stoneclough, near Manchester. Second, J. Fletcher. Third, J. Laming, Cowburn, Spalding. Game (Brown Reds).— First, J. Fletcher. Second, J. Laming. Third, J. Shepherd. Spalding. Game (Any other variety).- First, .1. Fletcher. Second, J. Laming (Duckwing). Third, S. Mattliew, Stowmarket. Cochins (Cinnamon & Buffi.— First and Cup,W..\.T.aylor, Manchester. Second, H. Lingwood. Thir I, H. Mapplebeck, Woodfield, Moseley, near Birmingham. Highly Commended, J. W. Harrison, Spalding. Com- mended, J. Vorlev (Bulil. Cochins (Partridge and Brown'.— Fii-st, Rev. G. Gilbert, Claxton, Norwich. Second, J. Stephens, Walsall. Third, B. S. Lowndes, Stonoy Stratford, Bucks (Partridge). Cochins i Any other variety).— First, G. Furness, Accrington (Cuckoo). Second. H. .1. Godfrey, Melton Mowbray (Black). Third, Mrs. WiUiam- 80n, Leicester (White). „ „., ., , Bbahmas (Dark).— First, E. Leech, Rochdale. Second, W. Whitcley, Sheffield. Third, G. P. Hobsou, Long Sutton. Highly Commended, .1. Dring. Gedney Marsh. Commended, H. C. Woodcock, Rearsby, Leicester ; J. W. Harrison. Beabmas (Light;.— First, J. Pares. PostEord. Guildford. Second, H. Dowsott, Plesbey, near Chelmsford. Third, Miss E. S. Maples, Spalding. Spanish i Any variety).— First and Cup, H. Beldon, Bingley. Second, J Marchant, Halifax. "Third, F. .James, Peckhnin Rye (Black). Highly Commended, Messrs. T. C. & E. Newbitt, Epworth, near Bawtry. Hambdeohs (Gold and Silver-pencilled). — First, J. Laming. Second, G. Dykes, Spalding. Hamburghs (Gold and Silver-spangled). — First, Second and Cup, J. Laming. Third. Rev. F. Tearle. Newmarket. Highly Commended, J. F. Loversidge, Newjirk-on-Trent. French Fowls (.\ny variety). — First, T. Hardy. Crowland (Creve- Crt-ur). Second, Col. Stuart Wortley, Grove End Road, Loudon. Third, H. Beldon. Any othee Distinct Variety not previously mentioned. — First, H. Beldon. Second, G. W. Boothby, Louth. Third, S. S. Mossop. ,—^ Local Class (Any variety). — Chickenn. — First and Third, J. W. Harrison. Second, J. Reynolds, Cowbit. Selling Class (Any variety). — First, J. Laming (Red Game). Second, E. Vine, Spalding (Black . Third, Miss E. S. Maples (Light . Ducks (Ronen).—First, E. Leech. Second, Rev. G. Gilbert. Third, J. J. St. tt, Rochdale. Ducks (Avlesburv). — First, J. W.Harrison. Second, E. Leech. Third, Rev. G. Hustler, Stillingfleet. Ducks (Any other variety). — First and Third, J. W. Hanison. Second, T. C. Harrison. Hull. Highly Commended. Messrs. S. & R. AshtoD, Mottram ; J. W. Harrison. Commended, .1. W. Harrison. Bantams (Game). — First, W. F. Entwisle, Leeds. Second, J. Parlett, Huntingdon. Third, G. Maples. Highly Commended, W. F. Entwisle: .J. Laming (Cup). Commended, J. ^V. Harrison ; A. Storrar, Peter- borough. Bantams (Any other variety). — First and Cup, Rev. T. Tearle (White). Second, H. Beldon (Pekin). Third, H. C. Woodcock (Japanesel. Highly Commended, T. C. Harrison ; H. Dravcott, Humberstone, near Leicester (Silver-laced); X. Storrar (Black I ; Cotnmeuded, J. W. Harrison. (Sebright). Geeee (Any variety).— First, G. Hustler. Second and Third, T. Hardy, Turkeys (Any variety). — Prize and Cup, E. Leech. Pheasants, Guinea Fowls, and any Variety of Ornamental, Foreign, or Domesticated Poultry. — Prize, G. G. Maples, Wavertree (Pea Fowls). Sweepstakes foe Single Game Cock.— Prize, C. Ulyat, Spalding. SwtEPsTAKE FOE GAME BANTAM CoCK. — Prize, C. Mum'o, Stamford. PIGEONS. Carriers (Any colour).- First. F. Crossloy, Elland, near Halifax. Se- cond. R. Fulton, Deptford. Highly Commended, R. Fulton ; F. Crossley ; H. Yardley. Commended, R. Fulton.. Pouters (Any colourl.— First, Cup, and Second, R. Fulton. Highly Commended, H. Snushall (White) ; P. Cro.ssley ; H. Yardley. Tumblers (Any variety). — First, R. Fulton (Short-facedi. Second, F. Crossley (Almondl. Highly Commended, T. Ashbumer, Dalton-in-Fur- ncss (Black); J. Fielding, jun., Rochdale (Almond); R. Fulton (Short- faced). Commended, J. Hawley ; R. Fulton (Short-faced). Barbs (Any colour).— First, F. Crossley. Second, R. Fulton. Highly Commended. H. Yardlev. Jacobins (Any colour).— First, R. Fulton. Second. Messrs. T. C. & E. Newbitt, Commended, J. Thompson, Bineley ; H. Yardley. Fant-uls (Any colour) — First, J. Hawley. Second, H. Yardley. Highly Commended. Messrs. T. C. & E. Newbitt. ANY other Distinct Variety.— First, .1. Fielding, juu., (Owls). Se- cond, J. Thompson. Highly Commended, Miss F. Easten, Hull (Blue- tailed White African Owlsi; F. Crossley (Owls): H. Yardley; H. C. Woodcock. Commended. J. Thompson ; T. Asbburner. Selling Class (Any variety).— First. D. Young, Leamington (White Dragoons), second, G. Clarke. Highly Commended, J. Barnes : J. Queenboro, jun., Boston (Sandv Antwerpsl ; H. Yardlev; Messrs. T. C. and E. N'ewbitt. Commended, H. Dravcott; H. Snushall: J. Queen- borough ; J. Thompson. CAGE BIRDS. Canaries (Clear Yellow and Bu£f). — First and Cage, E. S. Smith, Boston (Yellow Belgian). Second, E. S. Smith (Boffj. Highly Com- mended, G. C. Oshorn. Canaeies (Variegated Yellow and Buff).— Fir.st, J. Green, Spalding. Second, W. Cross, Spalding. Highly Commended, E. S. Smith (Buff Belgian, Buff Norwich, and Yellow Norwich). Commended, J. W. Harrison. Linnet, Goldfinch, or other English Finch.— First, W. Bingham, Deeping, St. Nicholas (Bullfinch. Second and Highly Commended, E. S. Smith (Linnet and Goldfinch). Commended, W. Ringham (Linnet); E. S. Smith. Blackbied, Theush. Staelino, Lark, oe othee English Cage Bird.— First and Second, E. S. Smith (Thrush and Blackbird). Highly Commended, E. S. Smith (Lark): J. W. Harrison (Thrush, Nightingale, and Blackcap). Commended, J. W. Harrison (Wood Lark). Paeeot, Paeaqcetto. Lory, oe other Foreign Bied.— First, G. E. Storr, Spalding (King Parrot). Second, G. Ecclesfield, Spalding (Para- quetto). Highly Commended, C. A. Cartwright (Parrot) ; E. S. Smith ( Paraquettojl; J. Watson, Spalding (Grey Parrot); J. Barnes, Spalding (Lorv). ^ R.iBBlTS. Heaviest.— First, P. Booth, Spalding. Second. J. Taylor. Sheffield. Highly Commended, T. Boor, Wykeham. Commended, A. H. Easten, Hull; R. W.arner. Sjialding. „ ,, „ Lop-EAEED.— First and Cup, M. Millington, York (Yellow Buck). Se- cond A. H. Easten (Yellow and White Buck). Highly Commended, M- Millington (Yellow Buck and Black and White Doe); A. 1. Easten (Black and White Doe. Fawn Buck, and Fawn Doe) ; H. Yardley; J. Taylor; W, Allison. Sheffield. „., „ , „ Fancy Variety.- First, R. Wise. St. Ives, Hunts fSilver-Grey). Se- cond W. S. Hornby, Clifton Garth, York (Himalaya). Highly Commended, A. H. Easten (Silver-Grev Cream Shade and Silver-Grey) ; R. 'Wise (Silver- Grey) ; J. Hockerston. Commended, J. W. Taylor. Mr. Edward Hewitt, of Sparkbrooli, Birmingham ; and Mr. Eichard Tecbay, of Fulwood, near Preston, were the Judges. DEAGOON AND ANTNYERP PIGEONS. I .va very glad that my remarks upon the above varieties of fancy Pigeons have called forth a few words from two writers, for in this way knowledge is increased. Perhaps it may be thought right for me to add a word or two in reply. July 2, 18«8. ] JOUBNAL OF HOBTICULTUKB AND COTTAGE OABDENEB. 17 " A FonKiGNER," aa a rigeon -fancier, takes a different view from myself, an English fancier. The fact is, we view the subject from dillorcnt points of night, for from all I have read or heard, Pigeon opinions on the continent are very different from ours in England. The old writers called the Pouter the English Pouter, and they might have pr.'tixed the word English to other varieties ; the continental Tumbler, for in.stunce, was always different from our JOnglish bird To mark the differences now-a-days 1 will quote the descrip- tion given of " The Hamburgh Pigeon Show " in our Journal of August 'i'.Hb, 1H(!7. There I read, " The Carriers were very poor indeed in quality, but an improvement on the German idea of them a few years since," and " the Pouters, according to German ideas, were all that could be desired. In my eyes the true English Pouter was very badly represented." " The Tumblers, according to English ideas, resolved themselves to two pairs !" " Of Barbs much cannot be said." " Turbits were awfully low in quality," and so throughout. Nations differ in opinion, and it is right they should ; national feelings vary, well they may, and may they always ; it would, indeed, be a dull world if every nation were exactly like every other nation. Further, at the end of the article I have quoted is an account of forty thousand visitors who met to see two or three hundred Antwerps tossed off; in England the men would not have been nearly as numerous as the birds. Then mark the conclusion, " The attractions of the Pigeons seemed immense, and in many a group of some half dozen staid-looking men one would have imagined that the fate of kingdoms was being discussed, rather than the produce of some particular bird." All this would not have happened in England. We love in poultry and Pigeons to breed pet birds with Sue and remarkable points and properties. We delight to reach a certain difficult standard of merit in marking and colours, and only a small class of fauciers care for plain-looking but sharp-flying birds. I am sorry I cannot recede in any way from what I have said. I have kept Antwerps, and did not find them as interest- ing, from my point of view, as other varieties. Two years since I saw the Birmingham Show, and think with " J. I. B." that "some Antwerps were little better that Blue Rocks." I am also happy to agree with the author of " Pigeons," where he says, page 82, '• Antwerps often have a class given to them at the poultry and Pigeon shows ; a very absurd arrangement, as they have no qualities that can afford any criteria for a judge to decide upon in a show pen." These words are stronger than mine. Again, this writer says, page 83, " Speed and en- durance are the objects to be attained, and colour is altogether disregarded, another proof, if any were wanting, of the ab- surdity of offering a prize for a pair of well-matched Antwerps in a show pen, a prize which is generally given to a pair of birds that would never be seen again if let out fifty miles from home." The right way would be to exhibit Antwerps that had per- formed very long journeys, these performances being duly cer- tified and authenticated, not merely the written word of the owner; then, being sure they had done a great feat, they would be regarded with great interest, and would deservedly have much notice. But as a fancy bird I cannot for one mo- ment place the Antwerp on the same level with the very grace- ful, striking-looking English Dragoon, a bird which merits much care and pains, and without which it cannot be bred to perfection. " A Foreigner" is quite entitled to his view, and so also is an English fancier. — Wiltshire Rector. P.S. — I see Eaton says of Antwerps, " The more ugly they are the better they perform their work — that is, of flying." Ugliness is an unfortunate qualification for a show pen, unless the admirers of Antwerps regard them as a man who had an extraordinarily ugly wife did bis spouse, for he said, " I am very proud of her ; no man has such an ugly wife, and there- fore she is unique. Oh ! I am very proud of her." — W. R. EARLY DRONE SLAUGHTER. Upon looking at my bees on .Tune 23rd, at noon, I noticed that in one of my hives, a Woodbury nine-bar and frame hive all glass, placed inside a summer house, the bees were killing the drones. The hive has not yet swarmed, but is very strong both in bees and honey. For several days I have seen the queen U| oi the top of the bars inside, surrounded by her at- tendants ; she will stay about half an hour at a time and then go down again, and perhaps in an hour or two will re-appear. Can you tell me the cause of the drones being killed so early ? The queen looks well and lively, not languid or slow in her movements. The bees hang out in thousands at the front of the hive, but still she does not seem inclined to lead them off. I passed last winter with fifteen stocks and did not lose one. I have had several swarms, but none before May Slat. — A South L.\scAsniuE Bee-keei'ER. [This somewhat premature massaore of drones arises from the recent break-up of fine weather putting a stop to the honey-harvest, and indicates that however populous the hive maybe it is not likely to swarm naturally. Kvery available cell being, doubtless, filled either with brood, honey, or pollen, the queen's occupation is for the present gone, and she, there- fore, idles much of her time at the top of the hive. The true remedy for this unsatisfactory state of things is to make an artificial swarm, which we should do immediately in the manner described by Mr. Woodbury, in page 80 of " The Gar- dener's Almanack " for 1868. The swarm should, of course, be fed it the weather is unpropitious, in order to enable it to proceed with comb-building.] A BEE DISASTER. '• By other's faults wise men correct their own." I think I remember this proverb being on my copy slip long, long ago, and it is in the hope that others may profit by my woeful ex- perience that I send you the account of to-day's disaster. I took a pin swjirm of Ligurian bees last September, after it had been in the rain all night, hived it in the only hive at hand, a rotten old affair, brought it home, added two or three (I forget which) common swarms to it, fed them to the amount of 25 lbs. of food during the winter, and had the pleasure of seeing them thrive to my heart's content. When this unlucky day, June 13th, 1 attempted to drive an artificial swarm — the bees had been hanging out for days, and as I was obliged to go from home, I feared they would swarm, and go off in my absence — so I turned up the rotten old hive, when down fell all the precious combs full to overflowing with honey, brood, and bee bread. The hive was so tender that the pressure I used in attempting to invert it, though 1 thought I was most careful, was too great, and a confused mass of bees, combs, and honey, was all that remained of my so lately pros- perous colony. No words can describe my distress. I have packed up as much as I can, and placed it in a super, in the forlorn hope that the bees may rally round it. If you can advise me what to do, I shall be grateful ; if not, publish this to warn others against a like disappointment. — An Unfortunate Bee-keeper. [We fear that this is a hopeless case. The probability ia, that the combs had become attached to the floor-board, and that the catastrophe might have been averted by the use of a moveable floor-hoard which could have been inverted with the hive.] BEE GLASSES. My attention has been directed to the very admirable sketch of a glass of honey which was given in your Journal for June 4th. With a little further improvement this glass would prove a great acquisition. First of all, supposing that the hole of communication by which the bees enter from the hive below is at the base of the glass, as it stands in the engiaviug, and that the upper part is quite open, would it not be better for the top to rest upon, and not within the marginal rim, as it appears to do in the engraving? Methinks, too, it would be better made of wood than of glass, in which case the bees would make their combs adhere to it, and we should nut, as now, see the bees constantly obliged to repair their labours, when the comb breaks down from its own weight, and from the difficulty of making it adhere to the glass. Then, I should like to know how the bottom hole 3 inches in diameter is closed, so as to prevent the honey from oozing out when on the breakfast-table, which without some sort of stopper it will certainly do, as soon as the comb begins to be eaten. A cork would probably suffice, but then some allowance must be made in the stand below for the recepii' n of the projecting part. But for some arrangement of this kiod the glass, how- ever beautiful as " a drawing-room ornament," will be practi- cally useless where it is most wanted, "on the breakfast-table." I have long given up glasses as odjuncts to ny apiary, find- ing practically that those in common use are on extravagance. Often the bees will not work in them, and when tbey do, the industrious insects are constantly baffled by the difficulties they meet with in constructing and securing their combs, Vl8 JODKNAL OF HOETICULTDBE AND COTTAGE GARDENEK. [ July i!, 1868. ■ wasting much time and wax in repairs. If this new glass had • only a flat wooden top, and were otherwise improved according to the suggestions I have ventured to offer, many of these - difficulties would be removed, and the glass would be all but perfect. Will your correspondent, " A Eesfp.ewshike Bee- I KEEPER," kindly state where these glasses can be procured, and '.at what prices ?— E. & W. WILL TWO HIVES OF BEES WORK IN THE SAME SUPER? ■ Place the hives back to back, with a space of, say, 6 inches between. Place on them a super having holes to communicate with each hive through which the queens cannot pass. Divide the box in the middle with perforated zinc, and have the same over the entrance holes. Then first draw away one slide and allow one lot of bees to pass up, then in a day or so let the other bees come up. There then being free communication between the two hives, divided only by the zinc plate, the smell of the one will mingle with the other. After a short time would the bees know the dii3ference in each other? The zinc ■ plate if stopped up by propolis could easily be exchanged for another, and if the plate were entirely removed, what then ? "Would they fight ? Or is the experiment worth trying or no ? The object of this would be, I presume, an immense number of bees at work in the same super. Of course, they would go out of either hive, but always return into their own, I suppose. — X. [The same idea has occurred to us, but we have been deterred from trying it, by the expectation of a quarrel. There is also the risk of regicidal attacks being occasioned by the inter- mixtm'e of the bees of two different hives. We know of an in- stance in which the attempt was made to work a large glazed super by dividing it into four compartments, and admitting into each the bees from the same number of hives. The result was not encouraging, for all would not commence at the same time, so that the work in the different compartments advanced at a very unequal rate, then some of the queens went up, and a large quantity of brood appeared. Finally, one or two colonies swarmed, and declined to continue the work, until in the end the huge super had to be taken off with its contents in a very chaotic condition.] TWO QUEENS IX ONE HIVE. The following instance of two queens in a hive will probably be of interest. Premising that of nine young queens which I have lately raised from a Liguriau imported by Mr. Woodbury the half are remarkably Ught and well marked, and the other of a dark mahogany colour, with hardly a vestige of rings, I may state that having formed a nucleus with two combs, I saw 'on the 30th of May two royal cells sealed, the first of them on the 22nd. On the 2nd of June I found a young queen, which I consider to have been hatched May 31st, and very large, remarkably light-coloured, and with the hind extremity very black. 1 did not remark the condition of the royal cells, but put the box into the cellar, according to the receipt of " M. J.," for impreg- nation, and which, I may remark, has in two nuclei on which I have tried it in second-rate weather, proved a failure. On June .5th I showed the queen to your correspondent "E. S ," when she appeared very large, but her bright yellow a little dimmed by confinement, as was that of the workers. On the 8th I looked at the queen, and was astonished at the change in her appearance; she was now of a dark mahogany colour, and very slight, which change I ascribed to the confine- ment, which ended three days previously. On the 11th I again saw the queen under the same aspect, and on the 18th observed her entering the hive about noon, the day being calm and cloudless, and remarked that sho had quite recovered her pristine looks and condition. In the evening I looked and found her encased, a great beauty for size and colour, and with the evidences of a recent successlul wedding flight. Dispersing the knot of bees, I shut the box up for about a quarter of an hour, when, looking again, I found her, as I supposed, at liberty ; but, wonderful metamorphosis ! she was now dark, slender, and evidently unimpregnated. Suspecting at last how the matter stood, I examined the other comb, and there was a knot with the yellow queen in the middle of it as before. It is evident that in this case two queens inhabited the same box for more than a fortnight in harmony, but when one took a flight, she was received on her return as an alien. Is it not possible that this may happen oftener than is suspected ? and that it may account for the manner in which young queens are frequently destroyed on their return from their wedding trips ? In this case I should never have suspected anything had it not been for the remarkable dissimilarity of the two queens ; when first the yellow, and then, perhaps, the dark queen would have been destroyed ; for, as it was, after I had removed the yellow queen, I found tho bees very mutinously disposed towards the other, which I eventually removed and then caged the yellow queen ; but until dark the regicidal furor remained unabated. I may remark that I immediately examined all my other young queens, and found them intact, so that the supposition that one of them might have fotmd its way into the hive is excluded ; indeed, there was not any young queen within many yards of the spot. For the information of one of your recent correspondents I will observe that I have fitted an adapting board with gratings three-sixteenths of an inch wide to exclude the queen, and that the super is progressing as well as if the passage were free. As an experiment in hastening fertility, I selected a glass unicomb hive with one common Woodbury frame on which a queen was hatched on the twelfth day of its removal from the parent hive, and I fed the very moderate population day and night from the time of the queen's being hatched. They built much comb, and on the ninth day of her life she was rendered fertile. I have never before had a queen so before the fourteenth day. — Apicola. OUR LETTER BOX. Gapes in Chickens (G.F.). — If your chickens died from poison they woald not be then as you describe. We believe tbcy die of gapes. There is only one cure for them. No ordinai-y treatment is of a»y service, as it is a purely local disease, and that only ivbich comes in contact with it can be of any service. You must administer pills of camphor, one at a time, and each pill halt the size of a garden pea. These most bo given every eight hours till the bird is relieved. lu slighter cases a cure ia effected by giving the chickens water strongly impregnated with camphor to drink. The diseai^e is caused by small red worms at the end of the windpipe, and these die as soon as the odour of the camphor reaches them. Adult fowls do not surfer from gapes. Chickens are strengthened by having wormwood iu their water. Weight of Spanish Fowls— Coubs TrRKiNG Black (H. B. T.). — There is no standard weight for Spanish cocks and hens. They are birds of feather, and should be judged accordingly. It is very likely your birds are approaching the moulting season ; that would account for the appear- ance of the combs. Those of the hens always shrivel up at that time. We look with suspicion when a cock's comb falls over, always fearing lest it should remain so. Feed them well. Let them have their grass ruu as usual. You must not expect their combs to be as florid as in the spring. Hen Suffering from Biarrhcea (P.).— Gi\e your hen Baily's pills [ If yon have not them at hand, mix some pounded chalk with hard old strong beer, and give the pills every two hours till she is better. Washing Fowls for Eshibition (/ciem)-— You may wash the plumage of any fowls with a sponge and cold water, if very dirty add a little soap. Wipe the feathers the right way, as it is only the outside that is dirty. Put them in a basket with hay to dry ; in the winter before a fire, now in the sun. You may wash them the day before they leave you. Brahmas Vcltcre-hocked {Kovice).~li is very rexatious that your birds should come vulture-hocked. You are right; they arc valuable only for the cook. This may occur in spite of every precaution on the part of the seller, as his birds may throw back. The birds that won the cups were not vulture-hocked in all probability. The seller of the eggs will, probably, regret the result as much as you do, and be willing to make compensation by sending you some more eggs, especially selected with a view to prevent a similar result. — B. Cockatoo Self-plucked {C. E. S.).— Continue to give your bird a good syringing of water, slightly warmed, two ( r three limes a-day with a watering pot through a tine rose. Give it coif, sopped bread, dry plain biscuits, Indian com, canary seed, and fruit, a pleutiful supply of clean water, and some bread dipped, not soaked, in milk occasionally. If the bird has plucked its feathers any length of time, there is no remedy, we fear, of curing it of the habit of doing so. This answer has been acci- dentally delayed. Ground Oats [Verr). — Apply to Mr. Agate, Slaugham Mills, Crawley, Sussex. Est.ablishing a Hive {D. TF.).— It is certainly not too late. A trifling expenditure in sugar will in any event set matters right. Silkworms' Cocoons [M. l'. J.). — Three hundred are too small a quantity for commercial purchasers, and are only worth 28. or 3s., pro- ducing about I oz. of silk, but if good they might be useful for iiroduction. If you send a sample to Mr. L. Harman, Jan., Old Catton, Norwich, perhaps he will buy them. poultry market.— Jcly 1. We jire daily getting a larger supply of poultry, and prices are hardly maintained, although, as is usually the case in very hot weather, there is a good demand. s d. s d Large Fowls 4 to 4 6 Smaller do S 6 Chickens 2 2 6 Goslings 5 6 6 Pncldings 2 6 3 Pigeons 8 9 e. d s. d Pheasants to Partridges GuineaFowls 2 Hares Rabbits 1 4 1 6 WUddo 3 9 July 9, 1868. J JOURNAL OF HOBTIO0LTDRB AND OOTTAGE GARDENER. IS WEEKLY CALENDAR. Day Day of of Month Week. 9 Ta 10 F 11 S 12 Sun 13 M 14 To 15 W JDLY 9-18, 1888. Alton Ilorticalttiral Show. Royal Ilorticnltaral Sooioty, Promenade. 5 Sunday afteb Trinity. Newport (Salop) Horticnltoral Show. Averasfe Temperature near London. Day. 74.0 74.7 76.1 76.9 K.O 74.3 76.6 Nieht. 43.7 60.4 51.6 60.4 51.3 60.5 60.5 Mean. 61.8 62 5 62 8 63.1 63.7 62.4 63.5 Rain in laat tl years. Days. 18 16 10 13 14 14 20 8nn Rises. m. h. 57 at 3 68 3 69 8 4 1 4 2 4 3 4 Son Sets. m. h. 12 at 8 12 8 Uoon Rises. Moon Sets. TO. h. ' m. h 82atlO i 80al8 64 10 1 35 9 16 11 I 37 10 89 11 mom. 8 31 44 11 alter. 2 2 13 3 Moon's Age. Days. 19 20 21 22 ( 24 25 nook before huo. Day of Year 191 192 198 194 196 196 197 From observations taken near temperature 50.5". The greatest heat was 93 was 1.46 inch. London durina the last forty-one years, the average day temperatnre of the week 1b 75.2' ; snd its night leat was 93y.» on the 14tn, 1817 ; and the lowest cold 33', on the 9th, 1863. The greatest JaU ol rain NOTES FOR AND AGAINST SPRING GARDENING. 'F the present movement in favour of spring gardening be calctdated to lessen the amount of summer bedding, as it is called, many hard-working gardeners, whose glass struc- tures of all kinds are overcrowded in the spring months, will hail it with delight, as relieving them and the legitimate occupants of houses and pits from a pressure that has been yearly increasing. It is, however, to be feared that no diminution of the number nor important change in the description of plants wanted in summer will be made ; on the contrary, the cultivator's attention to the plants intended for spring display will have to be added to the amount of work which he has at present to perform, but with this difference, that the plants intended for summer display will remain longer on hand before they can be finally planted in their flowering beds, and the spring gardening, if well carried out, will be found to entail, at a time generally the busiest of any during the year, a much greater amount of labour than is often expected. A heavy crop of spring flowering plants cannot be removed from the bed which they have been occupying, without that bed ha-ving to undergo some kind of renova- tion in order to render it capable of supporting immediately afterwards another crop in a healthy and vigorous con- dition. Besides, many of the so-called spring-flowering plants continue to be ornamental until the beginning, or even the middle, of June. Possibly, too, the weather at the time the bed is ready may not be the most suitable for planting out subjects which have not each a separate pot, and loss or delay must take place ; and even under favoura- ble circumstances they cannot be so early as others planted out at the proper time, unless they have been specially pre- pared at the same trouble and cost that as many ordinary greenhouse plants would involve. Hence those persons who are taxed with as much work as they can possibly do with advantage to the plants under their care, ought to pause ere they commit themselves too hastily to an extensive system of spring bedding, if an eaily summer display be wanted also. The example of the past winter ought not to be too hastily quoted as showing what can be done towards producing a display in spring, for it has been one of the best for the purpose that I ever remember. Some Prim- roses made an excellent show early in February, and were never injured by frost, but we can hardly expect this to occur often ; beds, likewise, may endure one winter's crop without showing that exhaustion which they would do if winter planting were repeated year after year. That good results will not follow every season I have myself wit- nessed this spring. Nevertheless, I by no means wish to disparage a system that has attracted attention at intervals during the last thirty years, but has been abandoned by all but those who have the means of carrying it out well. A short time ago I had an opportunity of witnessing a good example of spring gardening, combined with summer Ko. 680.— Vol. XV, New Sebieb. bedding-out. In this case the early-flowering plants had been removed, the soil of the beds in a great measure exchanged for fresh compost, and Pelargoniums, 'Verbenas, and other plants, each growing in an 8-inch pot, were employed to fiU the beds again, the plants being large enough to place on the stage of a greenhouse. The effect was complete at once, but few have the means of practising such a system on a large scale, and every one must do the best he can with the conveniences at his disposal. Some modification of this system wiU be attempted by many who cannot adopt it in its integrity, but those who have not had much experience should not embark too extensively in spring gardening unless they are in a position to carry it out well; and I would especially guard them against pursuing a plan practised in some places — that of mixing the summer bedding plants in the same bed as the spring ones, in the expectation that the former will out-grow the latter. Such mixtures rarely answer well, and are often a. source of much disappointment ; the bedding plants being late and irregular, and the season in a great measure gone before they cover the space allotted to them. The present year, as I have already remarked, must not be taken as furnishing a fair example of the results which will bo achieved in spring gardening in ordinary seasons, for the weather was unusually mild from the middle of January up to May, and annuals attained a robustness of character which they would not have done had the frost been more intense. The winter was so mild that here and at other places in the neighbourhood several rows of the single white Primrose commenced flowering by the end of January, and the frost was never sharp enough to injure the flowers, though it often is so as late as April. This variety blooms earlier than the wild Primrose, and during the past season it also flowered more profusely where both were growing together. I regard it as one of the best, if not the very best, of early spring-flowering plants ; but I only mention it here to show that the mildness of the season enabled it to continue for more than two months one of the most ornamental plants we had ; btit such would not have been the case had frosts of an ordi- nary kind occurred while it was in flower. Forget-me-not, Scenes, and other plants were equally favoured by the mild weather. I advise those desirous of attempting spring gardening, and who wish to have their beds at liberty by the middle of May, to grow only the earliest of all spring- flowering plants, and to avoid as far as possible all which do not begin to flower by the beginning of April, or at latest by the middle of that month. The number of such plants is. of course, limited, but they afford a good variety of colour, and it is better to reject the later-flowering ones than have to perform the unpleasant duty of destroying them when, perhaps, just at their best, in order to clear the ground for the next crop. Of course I am now advocating the cause of early spring-flowering plants only ; those which bloom about Whitsuntide or later, beautiful and showy though they are, may be more properly considered as belonging to summer. Assuming, therefore, that only early flowers are wanted, the following short list may form a nucleus for No. lOKi— Vol.. XL.,Ou) Sbbibs. ao JOUENAL OF HOETIODLTUEE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB. [ Julj 9, 1868. others to add to. All the plants named in it are very hardy, and easily transplanted, except in cases where it ia stated that they are olherwise. Adbrietia pxjepurea, a dwarf, spreading, berbaceons plant, likes dry ground, and is raised either from seeds or cuttings, the former being preferable. As a permanent edging it deserves a place almost everywhere, brit it bears transplanting well ; being densely covered with pale purple flowers, it is a great favouiite in spring. A striped-leaved variety is still more pretty as a plant, although its flowers are less ornamental. A. Camp- belli has darker-coloured flowers. AH are good. AfiiBis ALBiDA is One of the earliest and most easily culti- ■vated of all our spring-flowering plants, but it ia often neglected at the time when its propagation ought to be attended to. Being of a free-growing habit, it speedily becomes too large for removal with case, and it is preferable to pull a few plants to pieces in June, and insert the cuttings, or rather slips, for they may be 6 or 8 inches long, in a piece of nursery ground, using the spade for the purpose much the same as in plant- ing Box edging. They will form useful plants to take up iu autumn, when they may be removed to their flowering quarters. The perfect hardiness of this plant, and the profusion of flowers which it produces, entitle it to more attention than it receives, and its propagation is on the whole less trouble- some than that of some annuals which require twice trans- planting. Arjbis AiBiDA VAiuEGATA. — Of less robust habit than the preceding, its flowers are not less beautiful, while as a plant for winter decoration it has few equals. I mention merely the plant, not its flowers, for winter decoration, because the cha- racter and appearance of the plant are of more importance at that season than the flower, and it will be admitted by all that out-door flowers present only a sorry appearance in the dead winter months when this plant is so neat and interesting. Akabis lucida aukeotaelegata. — I have never been able to make much of this plant, which seems to require a soil in which lime does not predominate to such an extent as with us. Its leaves rather than its flowers are its chief merit. Primroses. — The great variety of colour and compact habit presented by this family render it a favourite with everyone, nevertheless it does not succeed alike in all places, and with us dry summers affect it most, more especially the Polyanthus section. In general the single varieties make a better display than the double ones, and are more readily propagated. The single white and siuule pink are my greatest favourites, but the common wild Primrose is a desirable addition to these. Taken np and transplanted in some shady, rather moist soil. Primroses generally do very well; but where such north borders are wanted for summer Lettuces ond similar crops and the plants have to be placed in some dry corner, the drought of summer affects them very injuriously. In general the best specimens of Primroses are those which have remained two years or so in the same place without having been dis- turbed ; when longer in one place they very often become unsightly. Altssum BAXATrLE. — I know of no plant which in dry soils is equal to this iu intensity of colour at the period when it flowers; it is also hardy and readily adapts itself to trans- plantation twice a-year. We have grown it extensively at Linton Park for many years, and we have two varieties of it, one much dwarfer than the other, the flowers of both being of a vivid golden colour. A variety with variegated foliage does not flower so freely, but it looks well as a plant, and being very hardy is well adapted for winter work. It must be propagated by cuttings, but the ordinary form of Alyssnm saxatile is easily raised from seed, which it produces freely. A dry soil appears to suit this plant best, as it clings to a dry corner with a tenacity not met with in every plant. I consider it amongst the best and most useful of spring-flowering plants; i » gay appearance gives it an importance even when viewec om a distance, and the sturdy character of the plant when ^ot in flower is also in its favour. Hepatica. — I mention this more on account of what I have seen elsewhere than as being successful with it myself, for I have never been able to manage it satisfactorily ; either it did not transplant well or did not flower freely, so that I have not tried it for many years. In some places, however, it has been fine, and the neat character of the plant and its other qualities are great recommendations, if it can be made to endure trans- planting twice a-year and will yet bloom well. Ibbkis oiBiiALTABicA. — This is somcwhat later than the AlfBSUiu, but ia a compact plant, which preserves a good ap- pearance all winter. As an edging it also looks well, aod after flowering bears cutttingin better than most plants of its kind. I have used it more as a permanent edging than for spring bedding. An improved sort has lately been introduced called, I believe, I. ternata. The flowers are of a clearer white, and, instead of forming an umbel, are collected in a sort of short spike or head, the habit of the plant being about the same as that of I. gibraltarica. Daisies. — I have not planted these much, but where I have seen them the double white was of most service. Much, how- ever, depends on the distance a plant is from the observer. If it is 50 yards off or more, usually pale-coloured flowers, m contrasting most strongly with the ground, look best, and those of a dull red colour are but little seen, but when close under the eye both look well. Bulbs. — Although last on the list these ought to have been first. The Snowdrop, which is noticed the least of all by bulb- vendors, is the most useful, as it transplants well in all stages of its growth, flowers the earliest, and has the important re- commendation that when planted near woods and similar places it is not liable to be attacked by mice like the Orooiu and Narcissus. Bulbs, however, are too well known and ap- preciated to require more than a passing notice. To the above may be added many other beautiful and serviee- able plants, and the Winter Aconite for one ; but although it thrives remarkably well here when not removed, its success is not so satisfactory when it is taken up twice in the season, and the same remark holds true with regard to the Christmas Bose. There are so few annuals that meet our requirements of what may be called a winter plant that my list of them is a very meagre one. Many years ago I used to plant the Virginian Stock for early flowering, and I am not aware yet of any annual that blooms before it, but as a plant to look at and handle it is poor, although it is quite hardy and only resembles many other annuals. The Forget-me-not, which is very sturdy, also flowers tolerably early during a mild season, and nothing could well excel two large beds of it which I had this spring ; but then every winter may not be like the last, and when I say that plants of Tritoma uvaria were in full bloom in March, it need hardly be wondered that other plants were in a like manner unhurt by the cold. I fear, therefore, that the Forget-me-not must not be classed with the very early-flowering ones, while a variety called Impfiratrice Elizabeth is very much later, in fact, it did not flower tillJune, when the hot weather decreased both the size of its flowers and the duration of their beauty. There are no doubt other early flowers besides those whioh I have mentioned ; but many say that the Pansies do not do well in dry summers and on dry soils, and Yiola cornuta does not meet our requirements of the class of plants I am referring to, as old-established plants do not flower early enough, while the very pretty family of Mimulus requires a greater amount of moisture than is generally given. Wallflowers will do better, but they require somewhat more attention during the summer than they often receive ; and the same may be said of several other plants equally beautiful. The really early-flower- ing plants are not so numerous as might be supposed, and those which present a good floral display in April after a hard winter are the kind wanted. Later-flowering subjects are plentiful enough. Having gone thus far without lauding the prevailing rage for spring gardening so much as many have done, but without at the same time wishing to disparage the system (my purpose being to confine it to the class of plants flowering early enough to allow of the beds being cleared and prepared for the summer bedding plants at the proper time), I would particularly urge all whose beds are objects of daily inspection to try to make them as ornamental as possible during the winter months. In general it is hopeless to look for many out-door flowers from the middle of November to the middle of February, and sometimes even during a longer interval; but there is no reason why ornamental plants should not occupy such beds during this period, and the plants available for the purpose are quite as numerous as those flowering in April. The winter decoration of the flower garden is not of less importance than the spring display, while it has the advantage of not interfering in the least with the summer bedding, which in most places is after all of the greatest consequence. — J. Bobson. EOYAL HORTICDLTTTBAI. SoCIKTY'g EXAMINATIOX OF GABDBH- EES. — The next examination of candidates for certiBcatea will take place at Kensington on the 14th of this month, and for July B, 1S6& ] JOOBNAL OF HOaTlCULTUQB AND COTTAGE GAKDENBB. Bl MSooiatesbipB on the ISlh. Those requiring information on the snbjeot may obtain it by applying to Mr. Janaea Iliohards, Assistant Sacretai^, Rjyal Hurtioulturol Society, Soutli Kun- sington. INSECTS AND WEEDS. Few have been used to country life who have not often heard BOmetliing like the following — "It's a sharpish morning!'' the farmer says, rubbing his hands in the vain endeavour to turn his fingers any other odour bat blue ; " but it's very healthy, and it will kill all the grubs and weeds." Now, the ideas meant to be conveyed by such observations as these are so generally entertained that one has, perhaps, never heard a dis- sentient remark about them ; and it is hence concluded by everybody that a hard winter is destrnotive to insects and weeds, and, indeed, that "King Frost" destroys more grubs than hoFts of swallows, whilst he is duly honoured as "Winter the Weeder." Bat widely spread as are these ideas, I take upon myself to dissent from them, in the belief that my opinion will be shared by others upon due observation. With regard to both insects and weeds, we must take into oonsideraiiou that those here named are indigenous, and that they are among our wild native plants just because they are endowed with powers to resist the cold and frost to which in winter they are liable to be subjected. Look at the snug retreats of insects in the bark of trees, in the moss of the wall, or the leafy bank ; see how they are further protected by swathings of cottony material, by thick varnished cases, or nicely con- straoted houses ; and above all, inquire into the immense fecundity of most species, and we shall be aware that this vast superabundance is made for the due continuance of the species, in Bpite of atmospheric action, which with insects, as with humanity, exerts a decided influence. Yet the world would soon te overstocked with insect life, were it not that insects are kept in check by insectivorous creatures of various kinds, amongst which none will be found such active insect-destroyers as birds. A few weeks of frost may aid in the destruction of some insects, and especially in the larva state ; but then, though so tightly bound up in the frozen earth, it must be borne in mind that they are wonderfully well prepared for the event ; and it must be recollected that birds during all this time must starve, or, what is as bad for our crops, they must attack the buds, roots, and softer parts of our cultivated plants for the means of a seanty subsistence. Under these conditions it is no wonder after all that even those farmer friends who have been so pleased with a hard winter " for killing the grubs," should wonder in the following summer " how there can be so many insects after the cold winter we had." For myself, I view this as a natural consequence ; and observation has seemed to me to verify the conclusion that severe winters are succeeded by summers pro- lific in both insects and weeds. A very little inquiry will be sufficient to show that the same evidence is afforded by the growth of plants, and more especially of those we term weeds. These for the present purpose may be very conveniently divided as follows : — 1. Perennials, or those in which the stem or rootstock is pertQ.ancnt. 2. Biennials, or those in which the plant is prepared in one year, and the seed griWQ in the following. S. AQQualg, in which the seed is sawn in autmna, but its germination and the re-seeding oconpy the following year. On reviewing the Perennials, we shall see that we ought to have but few weeds belonging to this division, if we except the shrubs of various kinds which find their way into hedgerows to the detriment of the Quicks, such as — Vibornum opnlus, Oueldor Rose Rosa and Rnbus, all species grow- ing in hedges. Sambncas nigra, Elder Vibumam lantana. Wayfaring Tree Of weeds with perennial rootstocks we have such as — Triticura repens. Coach Grass Convol vulas arvensis, Corn Bind- weed Convolvalus sepium, Hedge Bind- weed Carduas arvensis, Com Thistle These form a good example of a class of weeds, the rootstocks of which are all the better protected from being beneath the surface, for frost, instead of being injurious to them, forms a pellicle above them, and thus provides far their greater safety. As regards the second set of weeds, it may be said of them, as of insects — they live in our climate by virtue of their adap- tation to it ; and if we duly study the plants in the list which I give iu the next column, we shall see that a hard winter is more favourable to their full second year's development. Plants of this kind are either developed fi-om seeds which. falling in tbo autumn, remain until spring without germinating and BO occupy one season in developing a plant from which the seed is produced iu tho following year ; or the seed when sown iu autumn may at once germinate, and the plant and seed development each occupy a year afterwards ; whilst some may in the vear the seed is sown make sufficient progress to form the seeds the next year. This, however, depends to a great extent upon tho season, as biennials, which occasionally take parts of three years for growth and re-seeding when the weather is severe in winter, produce seed tho first year aftev sowing il tho weather is mild. Rannncalns repens. Creeping Crowfoot Papavor hybridum. Smooth-head- ed Poppy Papavcr rha?aa, red Poppy Coninni maculatnm, Hemlock, and others of the same family Knantia arvensis, Field Scabious Soocbus arvensi8,Corn Sowthislle fo^ichue olcraceus, common Sow thistle Leontodon taraxacum, DandclioQ Carduue natana, Mask and ether Thistles Centaurea nigra, BlaclE Knap- weed Centaurett scabioso, Great Ecap- weed Plantogo media. Plantain Rumex pratcuuiij, Ueaiiow and other Ducks On examining these plants we shall find them all so well prepared for winter, that unless they have severe weather to arrest their growth and make them strong and hardy, they will grow up weakly and attenuated, and produce as little seed as would non-transplanted Cabbages and Lettuces in garden cul- ture. Hardiness and consequent after-size are induced by the autumn sowing, and the retardmg process is further aided by transplantation. No fact, then, is better established than this — that supposing a few weeds of biennial growth to be destroyed by winter, yet the effect of cold and frost is to harden the rest, and thus to make them far more productive of seed than they would be after milder weather ; so that in reality, when we see iu midwinter examples of Sjwthistles and Docks wilh just a small living central bud hidden in a mass of dead leaves, and cringing to tho very ground as though afraid of the biting blast, we must not conclude that these have been destroyed by frost ; on the contrary, their very stunted growth is an evidence of their well-being, and such specimens will assuredly produce well at seed time. Annual weeds are by far the most troublesome, as they grow up so quickly, and frequently so abundantly with every crop, that they usually smother the young plants unless soon re- moved. Who has not seen this in the case of roots, where it is an evidence of the farmer having allowed their parents to seed in the soil with a previous crop ? Many of this section of weeds do not take the whole of the year for the production of their seed, but seed more than once ; others, again, require but a few weeks for their development, and so come up with an early-sown spring or summer crop indifferently. Of course, seeing the largo production of seeds in most of the annual species of weeds, we shall be prepared for many of them being destroyed ; but cold or frost should not be considered as de- structive to them, except to a limited extent, as annual weeds are, if possible, better adapted than any other for withstanding the wiliest vicissitudes which our soil and climate can offer; and though it is true that different soils possess different species of annual weeds, yet there are some that are common through- out the country, from John o' Groil's to the Land's End. Amongst the causes, however, whioh tend to lessen weeds 1 may mention the following : — Their seeds may be scattered by high winds to places un- congenial for them. Numberless seeds are destroyed by insects, many species of which partly live upon them. By far the greatest destruction of the seeds of weeds that takes place is due to such birds as the finches. We all know what large quantities of seeds are ealen by some of our bird pets, and as with them the seed is almost reduced to powder by their active little mandibles, birds of this kind really de- stroy the seeds of weeds in the most perfect manner. Many of us have been before now amused in watching a piping bull- finch enjjjing his cruciferous seeds, and when I say that be- 8 des these his daily tl.owance of GrounJsel has about a Lxm- dred heads of flowers, each of whioh may perfect as many as fifty seeds, we have 100 x 50 = 5000 seeds of a pernioious weed daily destroyed by a single bird, and this by no means represents all his weed fooJ, still less does it give us more than a faint idea of the numbers of weeds destroyed by birds of this kind in the wild state. This amount of good — and I maintain that our small birds are amongst the farmer's foremost weeders aud best friends — is interfered with by winter. Frost binds up the soattereii US JOURNAL OP HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. C Julf 9, 1B6S. seeds of nnlnmn, snow covers those not scattered, and all this time tho birds are starviDR. The appearance of the bare earth in winter is very different from that which it presents in sum- mer when clothed with verdare ; the difference is known to be caused by cold, and so wo hastily conclude that winter is a weeder to whom we may safely trust ; but the very green of summer is ouly preparatory to the growth of plant seed, and if we waste that season by allowing this consummation to f^o uncheckeri. we miy be quite sure that Nature has thus amply proyided f jr the continuance of species. — Geouge Newltn. ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. July 7th. flnmT CosoirrTEE.— George F. Wilson, Esq., F.R.S., in the chair. Mesars. Carter & Co. and Messrs. Hurst & Son exhibited a dish of Laxton'a Sapreme Peas, a fine, large, and very distinct early Pea of the Green Man-ow race. It was awarded a first-class certificate. Meaara. Wood & Son, of Mareafiold, sent a dish of a seedling Potato, which wassnbmitted for trial in the collection of Potatoes at Chiswick. Mr. Carver, gardener to J. Walker, Esq., Southgate, sent fine fruit of tiie Camellia. Three splendid bnncheg of the Golden Champion Grape were ex- hibited by Mr. William Thomson, of Dalkeith Park. This is the first time it has been aabmitted to the jadgmeut of the Committee, and it fully realised all that has already teeu said of it. The bunches are large, and tho berries are enormous ; tho latter are oval, with an amber tin;;o when quite ripe, a nolid, tender flesh, and a flavour di^er- ing littlo, if at all, from the Blaok Hamburgh. In size and appear- ance it far anrpa'ises any white Grape, and in flavour it is exceUed by none except the Muscats. It received a first-class certificate. Mr. TUIery of Welbeck, sent dishes of very fine fruit of Galaude -Peach and Violotte Hative Nectarine, both of which were hand- some. Mr. Wnstcott, gardener to the Duke of Cleveland, at Raby Castle, sent a large oblong ribbed Melon, a hybrid between Scarlet Gem and Scarlet Rock. It was a handsome fruit, but the flavour was very deficient. Mr. Jack, gardener to tho Duke of Cleveland, at Battle Abbey, flent a green- fleshed Melon, called Battle Abbey, the flavour of which, though good, was not of sufficient merit to warrant the -award of a certificate. A collection of Gooseberries came from the Sociiitj'a garden at Chiswick. Legerdemain, a large green Lancashire •variety, was very richly flavoured. Beeston Castle was also good, but not 80 rich. Old Ship, a yellow variety, was rather more acid. Teazer, also a hairy yellow, was of good flavour. Early Amber and Pitmaston Green Gage were very rich, and Red Champagne, though ' not quite ripe, was very good. The Committee had previously met on June 29th at Chiswick, and proeeeded with its examination of Peas growing in tho gardens. If the early varieties have suffered in this excessively dry season, later kinds — the large foliaged dwarf Marrow sorts — are still more affected, it being well known that these varieties succeed best in rather a rainy season ; and the present being just the reverse of that, they are con- seqaeutly considerably under the usuiil average, both in quantity and quality. One or two exceptions to this state of things have, however, been observed ; or, rather, some varieties seem to succeed in this dry season and to withstand the summer drought better than others. The following decisions were arrived at ; — McLean's Princess Royal is a first-class second-early white Marrow, distinct, with large, well-filled pods ; it withstood the summer drought well. Peabody is a vory prolific dwarf white Pea. Somersetsliire Early Prolific is very much in the way of the old white Prussian. Dillistone's Early Prolific Green Marrow is the same as Prize- taker. Heale*g Matchless Marrow is the old Matchless Marrow — a large and very good grpeu Marrow. Blue Excelsior (Knight) is a very good and prolific green Marrow Pea, in appearance while growing like Champion of England ; the dried seeds of a light bine. Blue Emperor is a dwarf-growing and inferior variety of this. Carter's Surprise is very much in the style of Scimetar — a prolific variety. Grotto is a tall growing late green Marrow, of pretty good quality, distinct. Laxton'a Supreme is a grand Pea, a green Marrow of excellent quality, with very long, well-filled, curved pods. It is a hybrid betwen 'Prolific 9j]d Little Gem. The stock of this variety is very true this season, entirely free from that mixed character which was its great drawback last season. Laxton'a Quality is very similar to this, bat partaking moro of the wrinkled character of Littlo Gem, a very excellent variety. Laxton'a Leader is in the style of Veitch's Perfection. Cooper Wyton is a very good dwarf wrinkled Marrow, with large, well-filled pods. Dwarf Incomparable is a very dwarf and prolific late wrinkled Marrow, with small, well-filled pods, of good quality. Forty-fold ia a very excellent Pea ; an improved form of Champion ' of England, with larger and more curved pods. It stands the drj weather well. Premier is tho finest and best form of the dwarf wrinkled green Marrow class. Paterson'a Matchless Marrow, a variety which has been grown by Mr. Whiting, of the Deepdone, for many years, is the same as Veitch's Perfection. New Tall Wrinkled (Hurst), is very much in the way of Britiall Queen. A tall Marrow (Bradley) is, tall white Mammoth. Spider Pea is a dwarf white wrinkled, much-branching variety, with small, well-fiUed pods. Hybrid Poa (B. Sandiland), is a hybrid between the Sugar Pea and Knight's Marrow. It is of a very distinct character, remarkable for the shining glossy colour of the leaves and pods, resembling the old Glass Pea in that respect. It is a large white wrinkled Marrow, of very excellent quality ; its appearance, however, militates against it. The Committee then proceeded to examine the collection of early Potatoes, which in this (Iry season is remarkably fine — large in size, and of fine appearance and good quality, without the slightest trace of disease amongst them. The following were tho most remarkable varieties noticed : — Lemon Kidney (an old variety), quite ripe. Large, full-eyed, clean, and handsome. Prolific. Rivers's Ashloaf is a vei-y prolific variety, handsome, but not so early as others. Birmingham Prizetaker is a very handsome variety, of medium size, oblong, flattened, early. Mona's Pride (quite ripe), is a first-class early kidney ; large, full, regular, and handsome ; excellent cropper, Gloucester Kidney is a very excellent early Potato, of fine size, good quality, and very prolific. Milky White is a very distinct variety, the whitest of all, of excellent quality, and a good cropper. Giant King ia a very handsome variety, large and regular, of oblong shape, with a fine clear skin. A splendid Potato for early market use. Red Ashleaf Kidney is a very large and fine variety, of a dark purple colour, fit for use as early as the White Ashleaf; a heavy cropper. Smith's Early, which is the same'as the Coldstream, is the earliest round Potato. Myatt'a Ashleaf (quite ripe), ia a very fine, large, and excellent stock. Old Ashleaf (quite ripe), large and very handsome. Paterson's Red Kidney (quite ripe), ia a very fine Potato, of hand- some appearance, recommendable for field culture. Floral Committke. — A greater number of certificates than usual were awarded this day ; and a more interesting exhibition could not be seen, whether we consider the beauty of some of the plants, or the botanical interest of others. The Society may well be satisfied at the continued interest of these fortnightly meetings. The silver Flora medal was offered for tho best twenty-four Cama- tiona, also for twenty-four Picotees. These medals were awarded to Mr. Hooper, of Bath, there being no other competitor. A special certificate was also given to Mr. Hooper for his general collection of Cloves, &c. There were some very tine varieties among the Cloves, and we hope Mr. Hooper and others will give their attention to the improvement of this most welcome and favourite flower. There ia much to be done, and easily done, with this flower ; bold and smooth outline and guard leaves of substance being the principal points. Per- fection in form and colour must also be studied. From what we have seen we may hope this flower will prove a favourite of the ladies. Messrs. K. G. Henderson, of the Wellington Road, St. John's Wood, exhibited several new Lobelias, but not in a condition to judge of their merits. These plants in pots are apt to be deceptive : the ouly sure way of judging of theij- merits is from plants planted out. Lobelia pumila Distinction, much resembling Beauty of Ravensbourne, received a first-class certificate for its robust habit. Viola cornuta alba, from the same firm, received a second-class certificate. Pelargonium Flower Queen, exquisitely white in its margin, but with foliage of rather flimsy texture, had also a second-clasa certificate. Lass o' Gowrie, a silver-edged Zonal Pelargonium, received a tii-st-class certificate. Messrs. RoUissou sent a collection of Orchids, which received a special certificate. From Messrs. Downie, Laird, &; Laing came a hybrid Nosegay Pelargonium, with bright scarlet flowers in a largo compact truss ; it was named Robert Bowley, and rectived a first-class cei-titicate. Red Ring, a bronze Zonal from the same firm, had also a first-class certificate. Mr. Williams, of Holloway, exhibited several interesting plants, and among them Txichomanes fimbriatum and Trichomanes maximum received first-class certificates. He likewise sent some others. Mr- Whitehead. gardener to Mr. Dodgson, contributed a cut spike of On- cidium luridum of unusual size, and a special certificate was awarded it. Messrs. Veitch had first-class certificates for Lindssea sp., to be deteiTuined by Mr. Moore ; Ampelopsis Veitchii, a hardy climber with small foliage," but of rapid growth ; Adiantum sp., niime to be deter- mined hereafter ; Nepenthes Hookeri. a most beautiful plant ; Ne^ penthes rubra, equally interesting; Phorminm Cooksii, a beautiful foim of the New Zealand Flax ; Draca-na nigra rubra, a very fine JtUr 9. 1668. ] JOUBNAL OP HOBTIOULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. variety ; Pnya or Djokia species, with a cnrions and nnnsnal tint of colonr in its tlowerp, an intorcBtinR plant ; Croton tricolor nnd Croton Hillii, both fino variutiea, especially tho latter. MeBORpiniilium sau- ;^iiieuni, a ilelicate cherry-roso-coloured Orchis, rocoivcd a Borond- clasa certifionto, and n fino specimen of Dcadrobium MuoCarthiuj, a special ccrtitirato. Mr. C. Turner, Sloni;b, sent Zonal Pelargoninm May Qaeon, Silver- edged, and which would now be designated hh a bicolor Pelargonium. A first-class certificate wan awarded it. Mr. G. Smith, Ilornscy Road, exhibited a fino doable Zonal Pelargonium, with a good truss and largo flowers of a bright scarlet celonr. It received a first-class cer- tificate, and is the best yet exhibited among Knglish seedlings. Nose- gay Pelargonium Lizzie, very peculiar in colour, probably a new tone of colonr, also from Mr. G. Smith, was likewise a>Yardcd a first-class certificate. Mr. Parker, Tooling, exhibited a curiona form of Cjrpripodinra Veitchii, with an apparent doable Up ; also a very beautiful seedling Ixora, callod amabilia, larger in the truss of flowers than javauicum, and of tho same colour. A first-class certificate was awarded to this desirable plant. Mr. Patey, Milton, near Steventon, introduced a moat exquisite and beautiful form of Polystichnm augulare, called Patcyi, for which a first-class certificate was awarded. This is very distinct and fine, and was a .needling picked up in a ramble in Devon- shire. Tho discovery of this beautiful form of Polystichnm may well encoarago those members of the Society who are about to migrate into green fields and shady lanes ; such a prize is well worth seeking. Mr. Ley, nurseryman. Croydon, exbihited Coleus Carteri, which was awarded a second-class certificate. This so much resembled a plant brought by Mr. Green, gardener to W. W. Saunders, Esq., that it coald hardly be distinguished from it. Mr. Green's plant was a .sport from Coleus Verschaffelti. Messrs. Lee, of Hammersmith, sent Zonal Pelargonium Mrs. John Glutton, a Silver-edged variety, which received a first-class certificate ; also Quercus Concordia, a golden- leaved Oak, and very banilsomo, to which a similar award was made. Euonymns aureus elegantissimus, from the same firm, a well-marked variegated form, likewise received a first-class certificate. Messrs. Jackman, of Woking, exhibited some good specimens of their Clematises, which were awarded a sjiecial certificate; also some cat flowers of socdling Clematis Sir Kobert Napier, a dark purple — first-class certificate ; Beauty of Surrey, a greyish blue, a very fine flower — first-class certificate ; and Clematis viticella rubra granditiora, a new tint of dark brownish red ; the flowers were small, but very dis- tinct. A first-class certificate was awarded. Mr. Green, gardener to W. Wilson Saunders, Esq., sent a small collection of interesting plants, among them several beautifully- marked terrestrial Orchids, for which a special certificate was given. Mr. Robert Thompson, of the South Kensington Museum, exhibited a most interesting collection of British Ferns, well grown, and good varieties. Among them was a variety of Aspleninm adiantum nigrum, to which the name of flabellatum was provisionally given. This re- ceived a first-class certificate. Messrs. Carter at on the other only about the size of Bed Currants. It hung, and the berries continued plump nntil about Christmas. This year I have sixteen good bunches, but out of them only two have set properly. Unlike the other shy-setting Grapes, the i)srrie3 adhere and ripen. Of course I did not intend to leave more than six bunches if they had set properly. My Muscats set well by simply drawing a dry hand over them when in flower. I had four bunches of Muscat of Alex- andria 15 inches long. Only four years since I put in the eye of this Vine. When I grew the Muscat Hamburgh on its own roots it sometimes set like the r.oyal Vineyard. — C. M. McC. [We think yon left far too many bunches of the Royal Vineyard on the Vine. One-fourth the number would have had a better chance to set well. We can do nothing to help you, as you are so successful in setting Grapes that are generally shy setters.] THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY'S CHISWICK GARDEN. As a member of the Fruit Committee, it has struck me for some years that the great want of the Royal Horticultural Society is a good orchard house ; not a little paltry place like the one shown at Chiswick as an orchard honse, but a really good large house, where trees could be grown in a satisfactory manner. To prove and give a really reliable opinion on the new frnit not generally known is, I think, one of the first duties of the Society ; but before such an opinion can be formed at Chiswick, a fruit may be elsewhere well known for years. Take the new Cherries, for instance. I have had a house 100 feet long by 30 feet wide full of fruit this season. If such a collection had been planted out in the open air at Chiswick spring frosts might have prevented the trees fruiting for years, in- sects might have rendered them unhealthy, and even if they had borne fmit, birds would have consumed the crop before the Com- mittee could have de- scribed the varieties. Then, again, a new Pear or Plum might be fruited almost to a certainty if it were kept in a pot till the danger of frost were over, when it might be turned out into a well-prepared border to ripen its frnit, or, if preferred, the pot might be merely plunged in a suitable situation. It must be nearly twenty years since I built my first orchard house, and in that time I have had only one really bad crop, though my houses have no artificial heat. Trees which have been bearing for the teens of years are this season looking better than ever. Difficulties of cultivation experienced at first have all disappeared, and I am more than ever convinced that all tender fruit ought to be grown under glass. Whether frnit trees are to be planted out or kept in pots, grown as standards or as dwarfs, trained or grown more naturally, is a mere matter of taste and convenience. Whether the building should be heated or nnheated must be determined by climate and the time the fruit are required to be ripe. All I would insist upon is, that they can only he produced with certainty, and of uniform and good quality, by being grown in glass houses. I have received Peach trees, for instance, with the highest characters, and in one or two years have proved them to be worthless. Now, if these had been largely propa'^ated and sold, what an injury it would have been to my customers, and eventually to me. If these trees had been trained to a wall it might have been years before they would have shown a fruit. I believe no Society in the country is better served than the Royal Horticultural Society is by Mr. Barron ; but he ought to have a proper structure in which to grow new fruits in perfec- tion, not a crowded low place of which he must be ashamed. Then, again, the young gardeners ought to have the advan- July 9, 1868. ] JOURNAL OF HOKTIOULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB. 27 tage of Bceing good orchardhoaso caltivntion, because such knowledge is inoreasinf;ly in demand. In advocating the erec- tion of a good house of this kind at Chiswiclc, I would most eameetly oantion the Directors against spending money use- VeBsly in a grand showy building, and, on the other hand, against putting up a shabby structure on wooden posts, which cannot possibly last long, and would not in the end be cheap. I have seen no houses equal to my own when the cost is taken into consideration, and I shall be glad to show them to any one who will pay me a visit.^J. Ve/lbboh,' ChilweU. EXHIBITIONS OF WINDOW-GARDENED PLANTS. We were among the first to advocate these shows for the promotion of flower-culture under difficulties, for we knew the beneficial results likely to arise from an occupation that renders the humblest room brighter, and which adds to the number of pnre pleasures. These exhibitions are yielding a large measure of good, and are annually increasing in number. We have received the following particulars relative to three of them. And we accompany the details with a correct representation of a southern window garden devoted to the cultivation of Cactuses. ' Society fob Prouottng Window Gardening in Westminster. — The third annual flower Show of this Society took place on Tuesday last, the 7th inst., in Dean's Yard. The exhibitors were working men or women, domestic servants, and children in paro- chial, national, infant, Sunday, or ragged schools. About six hundred potted plants were shown. This excellent Society was founded by the Rev. Canons Conway and Jennings, Rectors of St. Mar- garet's and St. John's, Westmin- ster, and has been warmly sup- ported by the Dean of West- minster (who, with Lady Augusta Stanley, takes great interest in its success), Lord Justice Wood,_ and many other influential resi- dents in the united parishes of St. Margaret's and St. John, in- cluding Jeremiah Long, Esq., the present churchwarden. The com- petition amongst the working classes, both old and young, has been very animated, and there cannot be a more pleasing sight than the distribution of prizes, enlivened as it is by the presence of the patrons of the Society, the exhibitors themselves (about a hunlred m number), and the performances of a band of music. The Fuchsias, Pelargoniums, and other plants cultivated under most discouraging circum- stances in the crowded streets and courts of Westminster, would do credit to a show of far greater pretensions, and it is impossible to overestimate the dift'usion of light and air, the habits of cleanliness, and the general refinement which the operations of this Society have introduced amongst the poor of the locality. Prizes were given to Fuchsias grown in the workhouse windows. St. Clement's and St. Andrew's Hortiocltukal Society. — The first Show of the season will take placo at the St. Clement' 8 Schools, Lincaster R^ad West, Notting Hill, on Wednesday and Thur.sday, July 1.5th and IGth. This Society, established last year for the encouragement of cottage and window garden- ing amongst the poorer inhabitants of the districts of St. Clement's and St. Andrew's, has, at the request of residents in the vicinity, recently extended its provisions to the whole neighbourhood of Notting Hill. The success of the Show held last autumn in tha infancy of the Society was very encourag- ing, and the interest displayed by the cottagers has far surpassed anticipation. Whole rows of untidy plots of ground now con- verted into tasteful gardens, and IiTnilSMMl numberless windows filled with ^SmUill plants, testify to the eager readi- ness of the poor to enter into the friendly competition which this Society invitee. Edinburgh Working Men's Flower Show. — In the most crowded districts of Edinburgh there are many who, having few opportunities of so innocent en- joyment, regard the "Working Men's Flower Show " as one cf the most important occasions ci the year ; and the testimony cf " visitors " in these districts strengthens the belief that the attention required for the culture of the plants for exhibition, and the interest they awaken, exert a very salutary inflaence. The show of 1867 was held on the 3rd of August in the Corn Ex- change, Grassmarket. Like the two former shows, it proved a complete success, the plants being considerably better on the whole than those previously exhibited, and the Committee were grati- fied to find that striking evi- dence was afforded of increasing interest on the part of the working classes. It is estimated that upwards of six thousand persons visited the Exchange in the course of the day, five thousand having paid one penny each for admission after two o'clock, competitors with their families being admitted free. This is a thousand more than in the preceding year. There were fully three hundred competitors, upwards of one hundred of whom were juveniles under fifteen years of age, and their entries of plants, &c., for competition numbered 8.30. In 1865 there were only 100 competitors, and in 1866, 21-5, with -131 entries for competition. AGAPANTHUS umbellatus. This old species of Lily contributes a very imposing effect to a conservatory in August and September. The lovely umbels of bright blue, standing boldly erect among other plants, contrast well, and at the same time make them strikingly conspicuous ; indeed, their presence never fails to draw greet- ings and flattering remarks, especially from the ladies, though the construction of the heads debars them from entering largely into the hand-bouquet, unless in single flowers plucked from the crown. Propagation. — This is accomplished by seed, division of the roots, and offsets. From seeds, by sowing in a pot any time between March and June, so that the seedlings may acquire sufficient strength to resist the changes in winter. Plunge the pot to the rim in gentle bottom heat, and keep the soil con- stantly moist, both before and after the plants appear above ground. Pot-ofl' as soon as the seedhngs can be conveniently handled, and attend afterwards to watering, shading, i-c, as is u.^iually done with such seedlings. Divieiun of the roots and offsets are a ready means of extending the stock. For a com- post, a light loamy mixture, with sand incorporated to the extent of one-third of the bulk, will do. General Culture.— h'lMe need be added to the attention generally demanded by free-growing plants. They all delight in high living. A rich heavy loam, with a third of well-reduced cow manure and sharp river sand thrown together without riddling, will msike them grow strongly and well. Admit air abundantly, administer water copiously in the growing season, adding a stimulant in the shape of a little guano to the water, when the flowers are in the process of formation ; and wherever situated, air plentifully supplied ought never to be neglected when the flowers are expaudiug, else the flowers will be defi- cient of their bright blue, so much appreciated, as weU as in JOURNAL OF HOETICUIiTOBE AND COTTAGE GARDENEB. [ July 9, 1868. good substance. When the flowers have dropped, cut down the Btema half-way and prevent seeding, unless particularly wanted, when one crown will be enough to leave ; and it ought to be remembered that a stance in a vinery for a month in antumn is of material consequence to the maturing of the plants, as well as securing an advanced state of condition for the following year. They may then be allowed to go quietly to rest, by withholding water to a considerable extent, permitting the soil to get almost dry in their pots. The plants will then be quite indifferent whether they are placed above, below, or behind the stage of the greenhouse throughout the winter; only, if below, they must be turned on their sides towards the sun, that they may enjoy any blinks that penetrate through the openings. — (Tlie Gardener.) LILnjM AURATUM RUBRUM VITTATUM. WoDLD any of the readers of this Journal inform me if they or any one else had flowered the above-named Lilium in this country before the 5th of last month ? With me one flower opened on the above date, and magnificent it was. It far sur- passes the Lilium auratum in the beauty of its markings. I should have sent it to one of the London horticultural meetings, but the distance deterred me. — William Owen, Gardener to H. Neumann, Esq., Wimnington, Northwieh. A FEW WORDS ON MR. RIVERS'S NEW PEACHES. tiviMo in a cold district as I do, my experience with regard to Mr. Bivers'a new early Peaches is of some importance to the public. This season Early Elvers was dead ripe on the 4th of June, and had I been at home it would have been gathere-l two or three days before. Early Louise and Early Beatrice followed 80 closely that all three were ripe in the first week in June. Early Beatrice would no doubt have been ripe first, had not the tree occupied a position close to the ventilators, and which were always open from the beginning of May ; the other two ■were side by side, 3 or 4 feet further from the front of the house. These trees and a Dr. Hogg grafted on the Prunus padus are at the cool end of the compartment of a house heated by two 4-inch pipes above the surface, and by two under a slate- bottomed bed. No attempt has been made to force early, a large amount of air being always admitted ; and the condition of the other trees proves that these new early Peaches are at least what Mr. Rivers professes them to be. Grosse Mignonne at the warm end of the same compartment is just beginning to colour, as is also the Dr. Hogg referred to, and these will be ripe, I should think, in about ten days' time. This Dr. Hogg was grafted in March, 1867, and is now a sturdy pyramid C feet high, with the lower branches 2 feet long, and I have left it one dozen Peaches to mature ; the tree from which the scion was taken is at the warm end, and the fruit has not yet begun to swell since stoning. I mention this, as it must be due to the stock that it has become an early Peach. It flowered and set its fruit several days before any other tree in the house ; but it was overtaken during the stoning by the Early Rivers, Early Louise, and Early Beatrice. I may add that the flavour of these three early Peaches was first-rate, Early Rivers retaining most decidedly the White Nectarine bouquet. — W. KiNOSLEY, South Kilvington, Thirsk. NOTES AND GLEANINGS. We are pleased to hear that H.E H. the Commander-in-chief has accepted the very liberal offer of Mr. Rivers, of Sawbridge- worth, to supply to the camp at Aldershot a quantity of minia- ture orchard trees for the use of the soldiers' gardens. Marvellous Eabliness of the Peach. — On the 4th of this month the new Peach, Early Beatrice, raised by Mr. Eivers, was gathered from pot trees in the orshard house at Sawbridgeworth, every other variety being perfectly hard and green, and exhibiting no signs of maturity. WORK FOR THE WEEK EITOHEN OAEDEN. T&E market gardeners about London have now large beds of early Cabbages sown for winter and spring Coleworts, and an early sowing of these for the same purpose or for early Cabbages in spring should now be made. In private gardens another sowing might be made a fortnight or three weeks hence. Sowings of Salads, &c., for autumn use must now be made oftener to guard against the uncertainty of our climate. Broccoli, after the main crops are in if you have a spare piece of good ground, you may try some ot the small plants left, and these you may plant till the end of the month or even later, planting them more thickly in the ground, and it they grow too strongly they can be thinned out when tbere is more ground to spare in the autumn. This will afford the chance of a. longer succession next spring. These late plantings some- times withstand the winter better than the main crops. ComU- flowers, a good breadth of these may now be put in, as they neither button nor run to seed late in the autumn. Spinach will not run much to seed in autumn, and the sowings made now may be twice as large as those made earlier in the season. Spinach will grow best on a dunghill, and the ground cannot be over-manured for this sowing, as it is not to stand over the winter, and the weather late in autumn is against it. Turrdpt, except for the earliest crops the kitchen garden is too rich for producing good-flavoured Turnips, and unless you have a poor light piece of ground upon which to sow a large breadth of these it is better to sow in a field. FBDIT GARDEN. Have bunting or mats ready to put over Currants, Goose- berries, and Cherries that you wish to keep late. Bud all the stone fruit ot which you want an increase. Proceed with thinning the shoots of Peach trees where they are too thick, taking off the laterals and exposing to the sun and air all the wood which is to be retained for next season. On old trees of Plums and Cherries lay in a succession of young wood in all parts of the tree ; such being kept close to the wall, will in a few years furnish finer fruit and produce more plentifully than old unsightly spurs. Shorten the side shoots ot Currant and Gooseberry trees if not already done. On plants previously shortened, the points of the leading shoots may be taken off with advantage. The late sorts of Strawberries, such as the Elton, should be well mulched with grass or straw to keep the fruit clean. Beds that were covered early with grass now wants covering again. Look after the runners of Keens' Seed- ling and other early sorts. Sprinkle a few barrowsful of leaf mould, old tan, or rotten dung and soil on the outside of yonr Strawberry beds to encourage a stock of young plants to root for making a new plantation by-and-by ; when these are ready to plant out, take ii or 4 inches of the runners with each plant, and make these pieces ot the runners firm in the soil with the dibber, which is better than planting the young half- formed plants deeply in the soil. FLOWEE GARDEN. Edgings of Alyssum, Virginian Stocks, or Sanvitalia pro- cumbens are apt to overrun their space after this time, but they stand clipping as well as Bux, and by a little attention to this they may be kept neat till frost come. All the Petunias and Verbenas must also be clipped as soon as they begin to extend beyond the sides of the beds. Tbe Dahlias should be pruned regularly through the season, likewise all kinds of plants which straggle or are liable to grow out of bounds. Look over the beds of Scarlet Pelargoniums and stop the leading branches wherever a flower bud is perceptible. This will tend to keep the plant dwarf, and the flower buds will be much in- creased in size by the concentration of the sap. Still attend to the cleanliness of Auriculas, keeping them free from decayed leaves, weeds, and the green fly. Continue to part Polyanthuses in favourable weather, also plant out seedlings. Of Tulips, little can be said just now. The bed, however, must not be neglected, dig it over and ridge it up so that the soil may be sweetened by the action of sun and air. Great attention must be directed to tho roots ot Ranunculuses ; as they arrive at maturity, which is indicated by the leaves becoming yellow, they should be carefully taken up, as it usually happens that some are ready to remove before others, and should the roots which have become dormant remain in too long, they are apt to start, or commence throwing out fresh fibres, which is at- tended with ruinous consequences. The blooming season for Carnations has now fairly begun, and these favourite flower* will continue to attract admiration during tbe present and sno- ceeding month. As seedlings flower pull up all with single or semi-double flowers, as well as all selfs, unless the variety has some striking characteristic, when it may be worth while to I propagate it as a border flower. Commence layering the shoots, J«ly 9, 1868. ] JOtJBNAL OF HOBTIOULTDKB AND COTTAGE GABDENBB. Uking those varieties first wbioh are most forward. Still tie-up tlie buds as they advance, and do not let the plants in pots lack muiiiture. GBEENnOnSE AND CONBEKVATOUV. All the regular greenhoueo jilants are, or onglit to be, ont ot the house by this time. Evea Heaths and the finer spt-ci- men plants of the more delicate sorts ought now to bo in eold frames, where they aro far better than in the best oon- Btmotcd greenhouse. The treatment of the greenhnnfe must, therefore, bo very different in many places according to the kind of plants wiih which it is now filled. If for Pelargoniums or other florists' flowers in bloom, ward off the sun by blinds, and if for the hardier stove plants keep the house more close and warm. All Pelargoniums, including the common Scarlets, that are to bo forced before next March, should not be stopped or cut-in after this time, and all the early-struok cuttings Bhonld now or soon be planted out in bods in tlie reserve gar- den for a month or two ; bat as soon as they become too strong or Bucculent pot them. Another rule to be ohserved with forcing Pelargoniums is, that the pots should be full of roots, or tho plants pot-bound, before they are brought into heat. As soon as they show for flowering, however, they may be shifted into larger pots or be well supplied with liquid manure. Any one oan supply heat and moisture to flowers in winter, but much judgment and forethought are required to prepare the plants. BTOYE. There being go much sunshine this season, house plants, nnd more especially stove plants, are in a more forward state than they usually are at this time ; their management must, there- fore, be a little varied for the next six weeks, giving them more Tater and keeping the house rather moist. Give air freely, especially on very hot days ; this will prolong their growth and allow them sufficient time to ripen their wood. PITS AND PRAMES!. CnttingB and plants divided for increase now find their way into these very useful structures. Seeds of Calceolarias, Pelar- goniums, and many other families now come np readily in close pits without artificial heat. Grafted Camellias, Azaleas, Bho- dodendrons, Diphnea, &c., now do very well in close piis of this kind, taking care to shade them well from the sun. la short, all the houses may bo relieved by thinning out the plants in summer ; but plant pits and frames should never be empty at any time. Prepare a slight hotbed for a frame, and begin to increase such plants as you require s large stock of next season. Mangles's, Mrs. Pollock, and other Variegated and Zonal Pelargoniums are generally tardy strikers if left till late in the season ; therefore, begin in time. Very little watering will, however, suit them until they make roots. — W. Keane. DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. KITCHEN OAKDEN. On this, the 4th of July, we have had cloudy mornings and a falling barometer, but still no rain, and for several nights no dew, so that do what we will matters look not so bright as we wonld wish them to do. Our work has been chiefly a repetition of that of last week, and getting every bit of ground hoed, and what was cleared of early crops well dug, ready to be planted as soon as a change in the weather shall come. The extreme heat is causing some of the Cauliflowers to be greenish and deformed, instead of firm and white as snow as we like to see the curd. Gave sewage water to Peas and other crops, and mulched as much as possible ; bat even then if a good row of Peas be allowed twenty pailsful ot such water, saturating the ground well, it is astonishing how soon in such days as the 3nd and 3rd the foliage would throw so much of it again into the atmosphere. Watering. — Except in some cases for merely refreshing the foliage, we are no advocates fur frequent watering out of doors; if each watering is heavy enough to reach all the roots, and these waterings are frequent, the ground becomes chilled and the roots paralysed by the very abundance of the water that snrrounds them, and also by the absence of the air which cannot well penetrate the caked surface if that is not broken after each watering. In the case even ot crops requiring as mach moisture as Peas, we prefer in such seasons as this to water well and then let well alone until the service of the pail is again required, and that the plants will soon indicate if we stndy their appearances. Very frequent waterings that scarcely go beyond the surface, do more harm than no watering at all. Just look at establLshed plants in a field, say a field of Wheat, and role how for a very long time tlio plaits hold up their heads rejoicingly to tho sun, and never bhow that they do not receive a lefresbing shower every other diiy. Kncli plants obtain their tupply of moi?ture from beneath, and tho greater the moisture thrown C'ff by evaporation, the greater tho quantity absorbed by the ro(»t9 from great distanccB below the surface. The chief evils of surface-dribbling are, that first the line of absorptiim from beneath is broken ; evaporation, it is true, goes on rapidly from the surface, and the moist vapour does good to the foliage as it passes it, but until the applied water is ex- haled the roots in the dry soil deeper down receive no benefit from the exhauslless moisture further beneath them, but are in much the same cocdition as the roots of a plant in a pot would be where the water applied only penetrated to about one-third of the depth of the soil, leaving the lower two- thirds, as respects roots and soil, much as if they stood for some time in an oven. Tho second evil is, that the freqaent suifaoe-wateriugs encourage tho plant in self defence to make rootlets near the surface, whilst tho lower roots are rendered inactive ; and then, as the sun exhales the surface moisture, these surface roots aro parched up btfore they can do mueb for the plant, and thus our extra care has a tendency to pro- mole a fcickly condition of giowth. The tine rule to apply in all kinds of watering is, to give enough to reach to and a little beyond every fibre of the plant, and that done to give no more watering until it is absolutely required, and this rule applies equally to a plant in the open ground and to plant in a pot. When plants are grown in small pots there is little danger of over-watering, though it is worse than useliSi to water them when the soil is already moist enough. An animal will scarcely drink unless it be thirsty, and even man vill seldom take a drop more water than he absolutely requires. Most plante are equally sensitive, though we are slow to learn their modes and habits. Often, instead of being pleaped, they would shrink if they could from the jug that visits the favourites in the window every day. In such weather as we had lately a plant in a small pot might need refreshing twice a-day. In dull cloudy weather it might benefit by being let alone for three days or a week. When a small plant is growing in a rather large pot the frequent and heavy waterings are much more disastrous than to a plant in the open ground. The soil un- occupied and kept drenched, even with fair draira^e, becomes sour like the mud at the sides and bottom of a sluggish stream. To secure health in such a case, and yet from a good body of earth to avoid the trouble of frequent shifting, the rule should he in watering to give as much as will reach every fibre, but not more than will keep the outside of tho ball generally moist, but not wet to saturation. The outside soil in such a case should only be somewhat moist until the roots begin to permeate the whole of it. Watering so as to reach every fibre is, therefore, the right rule. In a pot filled with roots, water all over so that every root shall have its allowance. In giving a large pot to a small plant, water chiefly at the centre, increasing the cironm- ference of the direct moistening as the roots extend. Thus out of doors, if we had not been forced to allow some large favourite evergreens to cater for themselves by bringing up moisture from beneath to compensate for the evaporation from the foliage, we would have given them a dozen pailsful of water each — much as we once saw given to the beautiful spe- cimens at the Dean of Winchester's, one of the secrets of their beauty in a rather light soil ; but in the case of a newly -planted Pelargonium or Verbena we are equally convinced that deluging the soil much farther than the roots extended wonld rather impede than accelerate growth. The rule in the latter case should be, Give enough to extend a little beyond the roots, and stop patiently until your services are again required. We have lately observed some beds that were watered regularly every day, and chiefly overhead with the rose of a watering-pot, but though treated in other respects alike, they were far from equal to others that only had help once in a week or ten days, and that applied rather close to the stems with the spout of a watering-pot, so that the liquid might reaefa the roots without greatly wetting the surrounding soil. So far as moisture to the roots is concerned, and we have made up our mind to water, we may sum up in the following directions : — I'o not water so frequently as to puddle the roots ; do not water so plentifully as to deluge the ground beyond the roots ; do not resort too much to mere surface-watering either in the open ground or in a pot, and see that the water so given ex- tends to all the roots, which you may easily know in the case 1 of a pot by ringing it, and noticing whether the sound omitted M JOUBNAL OF HOBTICDLTDRE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB. [ Jalr 9, 18 dull or clear. Bear in mind that watering by dribblets and often, out-doors or in-doors, is the most fruitful source of ruin to plants. Give onongh to reach every fibre when you give any. To be consistent when, in accordance with the above, we speak of refreshing plants with the syringe, or even watering; overhead with the rose of a watering-pot, we say we have no objection to that being frequently done, when the object chiefly aimed at is the mere refreshing of the foliage, or, as in the case of newly-turned-out or newly-potted plants, it is to diminish evaporation from the foliage until in their new position the balance between roots, and stems and leaves be again restored. Just as a good wash or a bath refreshes us when travel-stained and tired, so the water, however communicated, does refresh the foliage of plants, and we would use the syringe, garden engine, and rose watering-pot much more in this way if we oould, only we must not suppose that this surface-refreshing will serve long as a substitute for a due amount of moisture at the roots. In watering the roots in some cases, even out of doors, it is useful to use the rose of a watering-pot, as thus more air is conveyed by the water-drops into the soil, and if all the roots are reached, it is of less consequence how the moisture gets there, provided that the caked surface which would result from such frequent rose-waterings is guarded against by frequent surface-stirring. Vfe prefer for general waterings the pail or the spout of the watering-pot, as thus we send the water intended for the roots at once where it is wanted, and with the least caking at the surface. Even in thus water- ing a flower bed we generally stir the surface soon afterwards, to prevent anything like a caked surface. Plants in a bed out of doors, or in-doors in a pot, will thrive all the better and be more benefited by the watering if the surface soil is loose instead of hard or caked. The natural tendency of much rose-watering is to make a hard surface. In this dry weather, though we knew our flower plants in beds wanted no more water at the roots, we knew they would have thriven better — that is, grown up- wards faster if we could have moistened their foliage every afternoon or evening, but that mere refreshing would have been different from an attempted watering, which would have wet the soil for one-eighth or even one-fourth of an inch deep. It is such waterings we wish to guard people against, as in general they are worse than useless, so far as the roots are concerned. For merely refreshing the foliage or lessening evaporation, we prefer the syringe or the engine to the rose of a watering- pot, as the water can then be thrown on much more lightly, but a practised workman can use the rose also lightly. When it is attempted to reach the roots by rose-waterings, it is im- portant to keep the rose low, as then the water, having less force, will not cake the surface so much. In watering with the spout of a pot, the same mode is also of importance, and if not looked after common labourers will quite disregard it, as they stand nearly erect, hold the pot well up, and send out the jet with force enough to tear the soil from small plants. The end of the spout should be close to the ground, and the water b9 poured gently out, and if the surface is too dry to receive it it is best to come over the ground several times instead of having the water running to waste, or in rivulets to one place near the edge where least wanted. One man will thus water as if he thought of a gentle shower-bath for himself ; another will water as if he thought, if thinking formed any item in the case, that if a jet of water were to be poured on his head, the more feet of descent the jet had, and, consequently, the greater its momentum and force the more refreshing it would be. After all such waterings stir the surface as soon as dryish, to keep moisture in and to admit air. FRUIT GARDEN. Much the same as last week. Gathered most of the Black Onrrants, Bed and White for preserving, also Raspberries, knowing that owing to the flocks of blackbirds we should soon have few to gather. Netted the Currants and Gooseberries left, but even that will only be a partial protection. For a few weeks our winged visitors were comparatively few, and thrushes, especially, we picked up dead and dying from the drought ; but now blackbirds have come to us in myriads. What fruit we cannot keep without protection, even though green, seems to be safe enough in neighbouring villages, even when entirely unprotected, but that, we believe, is partly owing to the want of shrubs in which to shelter, and still more to the presence of many children, from whom birds instinctively keep aloof. We shaU commence directly to prick-out and layer Strawberries for next season's forcing, and we have planted-out the greater portion of those forced last season. It is important where birds are very numerous to plant Strawberries in beds or quarters so as to be easily netted. We shall be obliged to water Peach and Apricot trees out of doors to keep the fruit from falling. Apricots need more moisture at the roots than the Peach, and so much is this the case that in some places where the Apricots were a comparative failure, they succeeded after the borders were watered in summer and autumn. The moisture at the roots seems almost as indispensable as dry air when in bloom. All fruit houses wanted extra watering. The Peach house where the fruit is now becoming thin has had plenty of air night and day. but the front air-openings had all to be netted, as the blackbirds had attacked the fruit, which we never knew them do before. They are more shy of going in at the slid sashes at the top of the house. In our orchard houses we have had such birds, pheasants, and even peacocks nibbling the Cherries, getting in by the front openings, but as yet none have gone in at the top ventilators. The weather has been everything for securing good-flavoured Melons. A little shade is serviceable to most things in such weather, and it renders frequent waterings less necessary. All fruit plants in pots will be benefited by rich mulchings of rotten dung, &c. ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT. Our lawn at length is becoming brown, even in our heavy loamy soil, and until it turn green again the beauty of the flower garden will be greatly marred. With little watering, given chiefly to the roots, and the most part of the surface left loose and dry, the quantity of bloom is greater than we could have expected. A good watering to a long row of scarlet Gladiolus acted almost like magic. As we knew the bulbs were strong and rather deep we had left them to themselves, with the exception of a little mulching of rotten dung. We noticed, however, that the points of a number of leaves were becoming brownish, and only a very few flower spikes were showing. After stirring the surface we gave a good soaking of sewage, and the very next morning there were hundreds of spikes peep- ing from their sheaths, and every vestige of distress in the foliage was gone. If this weather continue we must give another watering eight days hence. Without it we are sure that the spikes would have been poor. Twigged and otherwise secured plants in flower beds unsafe in our windy place. Hollyhocks and Dahlias will require more attention than they have yet received. One part of our Eoses we have been obliged to leave to themselves, and they have given more cut flowers than we could have expected. Our best flowers have come from where the plants have several times been watered with sewage, &c. For first-rate Roses these things are almost essential — the best sorts, a loamy soil, plenty of rotten manure incorporated with the soil, a mulching in dry seasons, and plenty of manure water after the buds are fairly formed. Under these conditions we can smile at Rose enemies. The watering with us this season has been mostly out of the question. Now is a good time to insert buds on Briar or other stocks, and every young gardener, even for his own advantage, ought to practise budding even in his own time, that he may be expert at such pleasing work. For gentle- men, however, it is generally cheapest to purchase budded plants, just as a man whose sole work is to propagate young Heaths, will turn them out at a price which no gentleman's gardener could imitate, with hundreds of other matters demands ing his daily attention. It is now a good time to sow thinly Brompton and Queen Stocks, to receive a little protection in winter. As soon as we can we shall begin putting in cuttings of Verbenas, as now they are mostly free from their usual enemies, the worst of which is thrips, and it will be almost sure to come if this dry weather continue, and we have but little water to counteract it. As yet we have not lost a 'plant, '^and even [the thirsty Calceolaria is still not affected. We would like to prune a number of Laurels it we could. It is best to use the knife, as thus the cutting may be almost concealed. In plant houses the chief object has been to keep them moist by syringing the stages, floors, &c., and yet waste as little water as possible. Plants set out of doors have been kept rather shady. When placed full in the sun the pots should be protected from the fierce rays. After the plants are kept a little shaded for a few days they will mostly stand the sun uninjured, but the roots close to the sides of the pot, when equally exposed, will be more or less injured, water how you may. Pticked-o2 numbers of Cinerarias and Primulas, and potted ialr 9, 186B. ] JOURNAL OF nOUTIOULTUBE Ai(D COTTAGE GARDENKB. SI the first lots, plaoinp; tho latter behind a aouth wall to be shaded, where they are tliiivinK boaulifully. Old cut-down planlB of Cinerarias wo Bhall plant in a shady bed, eo as to tako wliat good strong suckors wa want from them. These two tribes alone help to mako houses Ray and lively in winter. Tlioso who have favourite kinds of herbaceous Calceolarias wiiicb tliey wish to keep, should turn them out in a shady place after cut- ting them down, and depend on growing on again from the TOckers or shoots that puth from tho roots. Florints' Pelar- goniums are now chiefly standing in the full sun on the ground out of doors, and, except in extreme cases, we prefer watering the ground instead of the pots, so that the wood fhall be well hardened before pruning. The moisture at the bottom is generally sufficient to prevent tho plants flagging in- juriously. — R. F. COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— July 8. Thk fluppliea flro quite aB heavy as last week, and most of the hothouse produce is of a very inferior description. A considerable quantity of forei^ Apricots, Pouches, and Nectarines are also nmonff the dealers, and the first instalment of ai.ono West Indian Pino Apples was oCfcrod for sale to-day in very good condition, at from la. to 2a. each. a. d. B. d Apples H sieve 1 6 to Apricots doz. 2 4 Otierrles lb. 3 1 Ohestnnta bnsh. Currants 3^ sieve 4 Black do. 4 6 FlRs doz. 4 8 Filberts lb. 10 Cobs lb. 9 10 Gooeeberries . . quart 4 8 Orap«s, Hothouse.. lb. 2 5 Lemons 100 8 12 fl. d. s. d Melons each !S OtoG Nectarines doz. 4 8 Oran!?es 100 12 Peaches doz. G 12 Pears (dessert) ..doz. 2 Pino Apples lb. 3 5 Plums !i sieve Quinces doz. Raspberries lb. 4 8 Strawberries., per lb. 6 10 Walnuts. , bnsh. 10 IS do per 100 1 2 Artichokes doz. AsparafTus 100 Beans, Kidney }4 sieve Beet, Red doz. Broccoli bundle Braa. Sprouts ^ sieve Cabbage doz. Oapsicums 100 CazTOts bunch Cauliflower doz. Celery bnndlo Gnonmbera each Endive doz. Fennel bunch Garlic lb. Herbs bunch Horseradish .. bundle VEQETADLE3 s. d. a. d 2 Oto.S 6 8 Leeka bunch '■ Lottuce per score ; Mushrooms pottle 8 Mustd.& Cress, punnet Onions per doz bchs. Parsley per sieve 1 6 ! Parsnips doz. j Peas per quart 1 Potatoofl bushel 6 Kidney do. 2 Radishes doz. hunches 1 Rhubarb buuiile Sea-kale basket Shallots lb. Spinach busijel Tomatoes per doz. 5 Turnips bunch d. a. d 4 too 6 1 4 a n 8 4 S) 9 6 6 4 8 n G TO CORRESPONDENTS. •«• We request that no one will write privately to the depart- mental writers of the "Journal of Horticulture, Cottage Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing they are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All communications should therefore be addressed solehj to The Editors of the Journal of Horticulture, <&c., 171, Fleet Street, London, B.C. We also request that correspondents will not mix up on the same sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on Poultry and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them an- swered promptly and conveniently, but write them on separate communications. Also never to send more than two or three questions at once. N.B. — Many questions must remain unanswered until next week. Books (Novice). — There is no single work devoted to forcing Vines, Strawberries, and Cucumbers, but all of them are included in the '* Cot- taRe Gardeuer's Dictionary." a new edition of which with a supplement will bo published this week. They are also included in Thompson's ** Gardener's Assistant." Pasciated Melon Stem (J. F.). — Fasciation only occurs in very lux- uriant plants. We have seen examples of it in Asparagus, Ash, Holly, Daphne, and Antirrhinum, but never before in the Melon. It is the for- mation of an excess of woody fibre in the fasciated part, but tho cause is unexplained. Grates not Swellivg-off (J. Bryan). — The few large berries in the bunches sent bad been set (contain fertile seeds), hut the multitude of small berries contain no seeds- You should assist the setting as was recently recommended in our columns. The bunches you enclosed were not thinned. They should have had three-fourths of the ben'ies re- moved. METEonoLoov (ObscrvcT). — There is no doubt that a knowledge of meteorology is useful to the gardener, though not so much so as a know- lodBO of botany and chemistry. \da more simplo than skim milk.with a little poivdered whitening mixed with it— say as much whitening as the size of a walnut— reduced to a flue powder, and thoroughly mixed with two or three quarts of milk. We would advise those trying the scheme to do a piece of gl.ass first, let it dry, and add to the milk or whitening as they require less or more shading. If it bo put on quickly and thinly by one mau with a brush, and another follow with a dry duster brush, merely daubing it quickly with the points of the dry brush, the shading will have the appearance of sh uled ground glass, and look neat. The least quantity of whitening in the milk will give as much shade as Hartley's rough gla'S." Cherry (r^nfurion).- Your doubt was well grounded; it is not the Black Tartarian, but the Earlv Purple Gean. Cuss 35 at the Leicester Show (.■In Inteniinn Competitor).— ka " hardy fruits" aro specified, we consider that any grown under glass would be inadmissihle. You had bettor write to Mr. Cox, tho local Secre- tiry, and ask him it Grapes and Peaches may bo exhibited in that class. His address is 37, Market Place, Leicester. Glow-worms (C. P.).— The female Glowworm lays her eggs in tho earth, or upon the moss and low damp plants, to which they are affixed by a viscid secretion. The larva; feed upon various kinds of snails. If you have the means of providing the larvai with these animals, the earth in which they live must be kept moistened. You wi'l find a summary of the history of the insect in " Westwood's Introduction," vol. i., page 250.— W. Ripeness or Pelabgonidm Seep (An Inqvircr).—'The seeds are ripe 03 soon as thev become brown, when they usually separate, and are sus- punded in a kind of whorl and ultimately fall, having a sort of horn to them. The seed when quite hard and brown is quite ripe, and should be gathered and sown forthwith. We cannot say much for its germination ; indeed, we thitk it abortive, but we trust we are wrong. Stove Climber (/. ii.).— It is hard to say which is the best stove climber, but our choice would be Stephanotis floribunda. Tea Plant Management (C. P.).— It succeeds admirably in a coo! greenhouse, and does well in a compost of two-thirds sandy fibrous loam, and one-third turfy sandy peat, adding sand liberally. Tho diainage should be good, and a light airy situation should bo afforded. When growing a good supply of water should be given, and when at rest it will be enough if tho soil'bo kept moist. Its treatment does not essentially differ from that of hard wooded gi-eenhouse plants. We fear it would not succeed out of doors in winter, unless it were planted against a south wall, and protection given during severe frosty periods. Cleaning Melon Seed (J. P.).— Melon seed should bo separated from the pulp by washing well in a saucer or basin containing water. Th;g should be done effectually without injury to tho seed, and when complete the light and bad seeds will swim, and these should he skimmed otf, and the heavy good scols will sink. Run off the water, place the seeds on a shelf to dry, and when dry put them away in paper. Condensed Steam is Vinery (,-( Sovicc).—\S(! are at a loss to acconnt for tbo condensed moisture on the Grapes, especially as you leave air on day and night. We can only suppose you have not given up spnnklmg the floors, or by watering plants have caused too much moisture in tho house. Leave oCT fires at night, give a little air at top at night, and allow no more water to he laken into the house. It is not possible to remove the stains on the berries. Ho not attempt it. Ice Plant TREATMKNT(/ISi'(etter write to two or more florists, tell them what you require, and ask for prices, &c. Orange Tsee— Potted Mobcat Vine (Saltert07i).—We would remove tbo frnit from tbe Orange tree, wash it well, and place it under glass vbere it can have the gi'oatest heat and a free supply of air. The heavy crop last year was too much for it. You had better fruit Ibe Muscat in the pet under glass. Even at your place, we do not think it would do nnch out of doors. Do not cut down now. Amaeanthds niBCOLOE (P. J. Newlin]. — Amarantbus " discolor" is not known to Mr. Gibson, of Eattersea Park. He has beds of Amaranthus bicolor, tricolor, and meIancholica« ruber. Peaches Mildewed (Dor^c^).— The frait is afi'ected with mildew. The OBly remedy is dusting with flowers of sulphur as snon as a speck shows Iteelf, and ttiking care that the roots are not sufTering from dryness. Dryness at the roots and a moist atmosphere is n frnitful source of mil- dew. It will also be promoted by too dry an atmosphere with too much Boibtnre' at the roots, etpccially if the weather be dull. Tobacco Powdeb (F. i?.).— We are doubtful if the tobacco powder will banish Ihripti from Vines and red spider from Melons, but you should try on a small scale. *' R. F." stated the other week, that though it destroyed flj it also injured the green fruit of British Queen Strawberry. Smoke and syriEge. Old Stbawberet Beds (Agnes). — In thinning old Strawberry rows or beds, the weakest shoots, and the shoots or crowns having the smallest bOils, are cut out. This is dene without interfering with tho roots, con- sequently the slips remove J would he of no value for planting when com- pered with runntrs having roots. It is only in pood Innmy soils that such a practice is at all desirable, but many are in alarm about making a freeh bed ; and ti cated as above and fresh mulched every winter, we have known Strawberries bear well many years. "Lof/a (Idem). — A loamy soil, as generally understood, is synonymous with a good garden soil. If rather stiff from having a porlion of clay, it 1b called a clayey loam, and in that the Strawberry flonrisbes. In a ]if{Lter soil, a Bandy loam, the Strawberry grows freely, but does not last so long. Winter Cucumber {Horicnsis). — The best, hardiest, and most prolific viZLtcr Cucumbers are the old Lord Kenyon, or Sion House, and an im- proved larger variety called Volunteer. Tliese are smooth-skinned, with little or no spine, and are not so well liked as the darker Cucumbers by Ibany ; but they arc very good from September to May, but in summer are ecmetimes apt to be bitter. To have them at Christmas they should be Bown by the middle of July. Packing Grapes [Idem). — Ihcre are many modes of packing Grapes to go by railway. One of the best is to fix the bunches on cotton wad- diDg or tissue p'lper on a board, tie them there, and then fix tbe board in a box. so that however moved tho Grapes will remain the same. Another good plan is to All a box full so that they cannot move, and place it inside a&oiher box. Peas in Dry Hot Seasons (S.S.). — "R. F." recommends syringing in saoh weatber, chiefly to newly-planted subjects in flower beds. It would be of little use syringing rows of Peas, though they would be benefited by Buch a syringing in an evening after being watered at the roots. From one-eisbth to one-qaarter of an ounce of tbe materials yoa mention to a gallon of water would be very useful in a watering at the bottom. The nitrate of soda would give the best growth, but we would prefer the guano for frnitftilness. Hence tbe propriety of changing the fertiliser. The watering will help to di&lodgo the moles. Placing tar in the nms will cause them to move, but to destroy them you must trap- ERR.vrDM.— Pige 12, for •' lIaroon,""CamiUe Bemardin, read Prince Camille de Rohao. Catei:pillar.s on a Pear Tree (B. fT.).— They ara the larva of Ten- threrio clypeati. Dahlias (J Siihscribcr). — A Self is a flower with petals all of one colour; a Fancy has pet ils of two or more coloars. Pea {H. Cullin). — It is a well-kno\vn variety of tbe cf^mmon garden Pea, and is known botanically as Pisum sativum macrocarpum— that is, tbe Large-podded cultivated Pea. It Is much cultivated in Franco, where it is called Pois manoe-tout, or All-eatable Pea, because the shell is boiled and eaten with tbe peas in them. Hybrid Lathyrus (S. £ M.). — J s being a profuse boarer is a merit, but the colours ore too dull and confusod to command public patr >nage. Plants to Flower in a Greenhouse from OcroEERTO May (A. A. T.). — In October Chrysanthemums will be coming on, and they are well sup- plemented by Primulas ; in addition to which, bulbs such as Hyacinths, Tulips, Narci-sus, and Crocuses, will tend to mike the house gay. In March and April Cinerarias will be in flue bloom, followed by OatceolariaB i'x May, and then by Pelargoniums. These are indispensable for green- houso decoration. You should also have a plant or two of Deutzia gracilis and Dielytra spectabilis, which, though harly, are very handsome. Of greenhouse plants prupor we may name Camellia Alba plena and Pim- briata, both white; Mrs. Abbey WiMer, white, striped carmine; La Pace, white, striped and shaded scurlet ; Storyi, rosy pink ; aud Perfection, red. Azaleas— Etoile de Gaud, light salmon, wbite margin ; FJo*ver of tbe Day, white, strined rose; Gem, crimson scarlei ; Mars, orange scarlet; Ex- tranei, v olet rose; and Gledstanesi formosa, white, striped and blotched with scarlet. Epacrises The Bride, white ; and Hyacinthiflora, rosy scarlet. Also Correa Brilliant, scarlet; Acacia Drummondi, A. armata. A. oleifolia elegans, and A. longiflora magoifica, all yellow ; Boronia Drummondi, pitik; Chorozema corditum splendene. orange and brown; Cyclamen persicum, white, rose, and red varieties ; Cypripedium insigoe, gi-een, tipped with white; Cytisus racemosus, yellow ; Eriostemon inter- medium, lilac; Imintuphyllum mlniatum, orange scarlet ; Ifeschenaoltia furmosa, orange scarlet; Luculia pratissima, lii;ic; Monochcetnm ensi- ferum, rosy purple ; Rhododendron jusminiflorum, waxy white; and Val- iota purpurea, scarlet. Weed on Lawn (i'l/rinf/a).— The weed enclosed is Plantain. It is beet removed with a knife in showery weather, cutting the root a few inches below tbe surface. This is troublesome, but is the only effectual means of eradicating Plantain and other weeds. Grapes in Greenhouse ildem). — We can only conclude that tbe leaves turuiug ye!l,)W at this season are affected by red spider or ntildew. The latter may bo destroyed by dusting the bnnches, leaves, and shoots with flowers of sulphur. The Grapes may not ripen from a deficiency of heat, but thc-y do so admirably with us in a cool house without any fire heat whatever. Give air early, and reduce it to a minimum early in the after- noon. Tbe kinds you have may not be suited for a cool house. Propagating Ivy {Idein). — Ivy is propagated from se^d sown as BOon as it is ripe in a bed of ligh' soil in a rather shady situation. CuttiBgP put in now. or from now to tho end of Argust, in sandy soil in a shady border, and kept moist and shaded, will be well rooted by autumn. Ivy is also easily propagated by pegging down a branch, and coveriug it with soil to tho depth of 2 inches for a length of 3 or 4 inches, watering in dry weather. Insects (Tr.B ).— The patch of eggs and newly-hatched caterpUlars on your Rose leaves appear to be those of Bombyx auriflaa, the Gold-tailed moth ; but the injury which tbe leaves huve chiefly suffered appears to be owing to their having been gaawed by the larva) of a small Sawfly. we know no better remedy for the former than careful hand-picking. Names op Plaxts {T. B. W.) —1, Astilbe japonica; 2, Lychnis chalce- donica ; 3, Nepeta italica. {T. U C. D ). — Gornus florida, var. scabra. (E. E.). — Pteris serrulata, Aspidinm angnlare, Adiantum htspidulum. Campanula spathnlata, Nierembergia gracilis. {./. C. S.). — Probably He - racleum gigitnteum, but cannot be certain without a specimen. {A Lad}/, Chenhire). — Epimedium macrauthum. (F. D.). — Stachys betonica. (J. W. Dick). — 1, Orchis maculata ; 2, Cbierophyllum cerefolium ; 3. HypoohaBriB radtcata ; 4, Kumex acetosella; 5, Lotus ni'ijor; 6, Mxosotis repens; 7, Kumex acetosa ; 8, Galium aaxitile. We mast defer giving the i of 6ome of the Ferns sent till next week. METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS in the Suburbs of London for the week ending July 7th. Date. THERMOMETER • Wind. Ealnln inches. BABOSETEB. Air. Earth. GtKNEBAL ReUABES. Mai. Min. Max. Min. 1 (t. dp. 2 ft. dp. Wed... 1 Thua. 2 Pri. .. S Sat. .. i Sun... S Hon... 6 Tuea. . 7 Mean 39.253 80.U8 29.958 29.95H 299-9 23.991 80.060 39.149 80.0C9 29.9J9 29 988 29.955 29.959 3J.028 72 79 72 81 76 75 79 Dl f9 61 43 48 42 46 63 65 ts 64 64 65 65 61 62 61 62 62 6a 62 N.E. N. N.W. N. S.E. E. N.E. .00 .00 .00 .00 .00 .0) .00 Cloudy ; overcast ; fine, slightly clonded. Overcaat, fine; very fine; clear and fine. Cloudy, overcast ; tine ; clear and fine at night. Cloudy ; densely overcast ; clear and very fine. Clear and fine ; overcast, cloady ; slightly overcast. Fine aud clear ; overcast; clear and line. Very fine ; overcast ; clear and fine. 30.047 29 990 76.29 47.86 64.14 61.71 •• 0.00 POULTRY. BE E, and HO USEHOL D C HRONICLE. PROFITABLE POULTRY. I BEUEVE the majority of farmers think that to make a profit of poultry is next to impossible ; that if there is no great loss from keeping them, and they can be kept ont of mia- chief, the wife or sister may have her fowls for pin money, or to indulge her fancy for pets, bnt that as to piofit it is ali nonsense. Some amatenrs on the contrary think that they if had bnt room to keep half a dozen large yards of fowls, wii grass land Julj 9, 1S6S. I JODRNAIi OP HOBnOUIiT0EE AND COTTAGE GARDKNKB. 3S for Hiem to mn over, it would insnre them a little fortune. The truth lies, I thick, between these two opinions. Fuwla ougli^ to pay well for what they eat, but not much for manage- ment. Of course, I do not allude to show fowls at £50 a-pen, but fowls and their epgs sold at the ordinary market prices. Having cottages in my orchards which are laid down in grass, I can keep almost any number of fowls, so have five lots, of from one dozen to thirty in each place. The labourers' wives receive lid. a-score for lookingup the eggs, which is all the money paid for labour. The fowls have as much good barley as they can eat without waste, once a day in summer and twice a-day in winter. Chickens aio all reared at homo. The result is, that the eggs and fowls sold pay for the corn consumed, and leave a balance of from £5 to £10 ayear, whilst a large household is well supplied with poultry and eggs coating nothing. This has always appeared to me quite satis- factory. Some of your readers might, perhaps, like to know how this is managed, whilst others will think the result poor in the extreme. Having made poultry a hobby for more than thirty years, I should be happy to know how to manage better, and will gladly take a lesson from those who obtain a better result. Having touched uponagoodmaay subjects in "our Journal," I thought — Suppose I give my ideas on poultry management ! First, eggs pay well ; chickens at a common market price do not pay at all. If you intend to sell eggs. Silver-pencilled Hamburghs will lay more eggs, particularly in winter, than any other fowls, and Gold-pencilled the next. No others are 30 profitable, and none prettier, but they will not bear con- finement. As I do not believe fowls are profitable or long healthy in confinement, this is to me no objection ; but though none pay like Silver-pencilled, I neither like to eat them nor their eggs, they are small and inferior in flavour. The Gold- pencilled laying nearly as well in winter, and their eggs being a little larger, will be preferred by many. Those who have several good grass rues will do well to keep both. As they seldom eit, being what are called everlasting layers, some other fowls mast be employed to rear chickens. I have a cross be- tween the Cochin and Dorking for this purpose. But suppose joa have one farmyard or grass field only ; in this case, I say. Do not on any account keep any pure breed it the supply of your own household and profit be your object. Are your fowls too much inclined to sit? Procure for next year's breeding a couple of well-bred Hamburgh cocks of any colour you prefer. Are they too small? Get two Dorkings, change your cocks every year, and let them be well-bred birds, not mongrels. Yon can in this way have any kind of fowl as to size, &c., because the chickens will resemble their well-bred sire almost always. You will find the chickens much more easy to rear than (hose of a pure breed, and the fowls are generally more vigorous and healthy. Having made up your mind as to what fowls to keep, re- member that young fowls lay more than old ones, so never kill a pullet or keep a fowl two years old, unless an especial favourite. Kill off all the young cocks as soon as they are fit to roast; they are generally kept too long. In corn harvest commence to kill oft the hens if in good condition, and they ought never to be poor. At this time of the year eggs are cheap ; it you keep the hens till they have given over laying, they will be moulting, and are then unfit to kill, and will for many weeks yield no return for their food. The chickens will do much better w'jeu part of the hens are killed, as the yards will not be so crowded, and the young pullets will have a quieter time of it when most or all of the young cocks have followed the hens. Some will say, " What are we to do with the hens? We cannot eat them, and they will sell for a mere nothing." If your cook cannot make an old hen in good condition better as boiled fowl than any young chicken, she has not learnt her business. To my taste nothing is so utterly flavourless as a young chicken boiled. I never tasted a white kid glove boiled in milk, but if boiled tender I think it would be nearly as good. A fat fowl boiled gently for two hours and a hall is better thnn any ehicken that was ever cookfcd. Now, do not go and kill some poor skinny creature of a Cochin or Brahma that has never had a full meal for a month, and whose breastbone i^ as pro- minent as the back fin of a perch, and then sny, " It is just as I thought, catch me eating old hens again." But if the hen is of a respectable breed and fat, and does not come to table as tender as a chicken and a great deal better, be sure it has not boiled two hours and a half or more ; if boiled to rags, that it has not boiled gently. I have been thus explicit, because to bo able to kill old fowte without loss is the only way to make fowls profitable ; in other words, keep nothing but pullets, rear early chickens, always feed well, kill oft every year, and you will find poultry pro- fitable. — J. R. Pearson, Chilwell. NEWMARKET POULTRY SHOW. Thk classes most conppiruona for excellence were tlioac for Qnj Diirkings, which wore throughout woU Bhown, tho chickens being a first-rate feature of tho meeting. The (Jame classea were not lass excellent, and to a pen of Duckwings the Bilvor cup for tho beet MB of poultry shown was awarded. They wlto the property of Mr. Mathews, of Stowmarket ; hut by some mistake being, with several pens sent by the same exhibitor, entered in the wrong class, a protest aRainst their competing was given in to the Comaiitteo, bnt aftorwarfu abandoned, as tho Honorary Secretary hail, by letter to tho exhibitor, tngnged to correct tho error ; consequently this somewhat nnnsn*! cnsagomcnt could not, under such circnmstanccs, bo otherwise than fulfilled. We cannot refrain from again advising exhibitors to be more careful in stating correctly at tho time of making their entrie* the number of the class thiy purpose showing in ; as very little care at that moment not only prevents trouble to tho managers of shows, but the certainty, where rules are rigidly adhered to, of disqualification. Cochin- Chinas, with the exception of the first and second-prize pen*, were so indifferent that the third premium was withheld. Some very superior Game Bantams were shown, among them being a pen rf nnusually good coloured Duckwings. There was not a single entry ol Sebrights, although prizci of the value of £2 5s. were offered. Ja- panese, White-booted, and Silky Bantams were better than nsnal. The Black Spanish class was the worst in tho Show, and conseqnent^ no first prize was awarded. Bralima- Pootras were good, but tho dark- feathered were most perfect ; each variety of feather, however, enjoyed a separate competition. Some very good well-grown Uoudan chicken* were shown in the Extra class, also Brahmas ; but the Sale olaaa nnerpeetedly proved an entire failure, and no second prize was there- fore giren. Turkeys had two classes, tho first being exclusively for the Cambridge variety, and these were unquestionably good ; but in the other class for any other variety of Turkey there was not a,8i^o entry. Aylesbury Dncks were very good ; and in the "Variety ' Dock class some Bnenos Ayrean of high quality were entered. Tho QoM were as good as conld be desired. A very excellent collection of rlfiCQ u. very excellent collection oi / 'ir/euns was entered, Mr. Fulton taking a large portion of tho prizes, likewise tho silver cup for tho best P™ of Pigeons exhibited. A very large amount of money was taken at tn» gate, and the weather left the visitors to tho full enjoyment of a pro- tracted inspection. DoESlNos (Coloured).— First, Rev. C. H. Crosse, Cambridge. SocoBd, H. Savile, Bafford Abbey, near Ollorlon. Highly Commpnaed, H. LiuK^vood, Needham Market; Dr. Campbell, Brentwood; F. Parlett, Great Baddow. Commended, W. Tippler, Roxwcll, near Chelmsford. Dorkings lAny variety except Coloured).— First, H. LingwooJ. Second, Dr. lampbell. Chickem.—Fiisi, Rev. E. S. Tiddemnn, Childerdltdi Vicar.lge, Brentwood. Second, H. Savile. Highly Commended, H. Pickles. Commended, Lady L. Charteris, Atlleborongb. Game (Black-breisted or other Redl.— First, Cup, and Second, for bert pen of Poultry in Show, S. Matthew, Chilton Farm, Stowmarket. HigMy Commended, H. I.oe, Godshill, Isle of Wisht. Commended, W. B. Jeffries, Ipswich: F R.Hall, Cnmbridgo (Black Rod). . Game (Any olher variety).— First and Second, S. Matthew (Duckwing and Piles). , ,^ ^l -_*• CocHlN-CHrXA (Buff).— First, H. Lingwond. Second, Mrs; Chnabe, Glyndebonrne, near Lewes. Third, Withheld. CaivE-CcEDRS.- First. Col. Stuart Wortley. Grove End Road, London. Second, Lady L. Charteris. Commended, Mrs. M. Seamons, AyleBbajJ. HoDDANs —First, H. M. Mavnard, Hnlmewond, Ryde, Isle of Wight. Second, W. Tippler. Commended, Col. Stuart Wortley. , „ _j Game Bantams (Any variety).— First, W. B. .Teffries, Ipswich. SeconJ, F. Piltis. jun., Newport, Isle'of Wight. Highly Commended, Rev. O. H. Crosse, OambridKe. Commended, J. Parlett, Huntingdon (Piles). Bantams (White).- First. Rev. F. Tearlc, Gazeley Vicarage. Second, J. R. Jossoi), Hull. Highly Commended, Eev. F. Tearle. „ ,. „ Bantams (Blacls).- First, H. M. Maynard. Second, Messrs. S. « B. Asbton. , . „ ,, Bantams (Any other variety) —First, C. Bamford, Impington Hall^Mr Cambridge (Japanese-. Second, J. S. Tharp, Chippenham Park (White Japanese). Highly Commended, J. E. Jessop, Beverley Road (Booted Bantams). . -, ^ Hambi RGH3 (Golden-spangled). — First, H. Pickles, jnn. Beeond, Messrs. S. & R. Anhton. Highly Commended, H. Pickloa, jun.; H. Loo. Hambobghs (Mlvei-spangled).- First and Commended, H. Picklee, Jos. Second, J. Robinson, Tailsworth. near Manchoster. Hamborohs (Golden-pencilled).— First, F. Pittis, inn. Sx^"?. £• Pickles, jun. Highly Commended, C. Havers. Commended, W. ■. Mann. «■ ^ , o j HAMBUEOHa (Silver-pencUled).- First, W. M. Mann, Kendal. Seooad, C. Havers. , . , „ tt Spanish.— First, Witl'hel.l. Second, C. Bamford, Impington Hall, near Cambridge. Third, G. 9. Hall, Ely. „ „ » ,. -or > -^ Brahma-Pootka (Dark).— First and Second, H. P. Leech, Woolpit, " "brahma-Pootea (Light).— virst, F. Dowsett, PIoshey,near Chelm?Jori. Second and Commended, H. M. Mnmnrd. „. . . „ t> __ Air? OTHER Variety not bepoek Mentioiti'd— First, A. S. Kne.ji^ (Bilver-snanglpd Polish). Second, Lady L. Cbarteria (Buff Poland^. Higlily Commended, T. Jolly. Newmarket (Grey Malays). Commonded, W. Turner, Jan., Ipswich (Partridge GochinB). u JOURNAL OF HOBTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. C Jnly 9, 186a Chickens (Any variety except Dorkings).— First, Lady L. Charteri?. (White Cr^ve-Coeuis). Second. Rev. F. Tearle (Silver-spin^led Ham- borghs). Third. H. Pickleuh yoar Game Bantams as soon as they have done crowing. It must not be done while they ore Boft- featUered. They should be snalie-headed, hard-feathered, and have the wings carried up and ologo to the body. The cock should not have too much tail, and should not carry it upright or over the back. Chicekns Hatched in June tOld Subscriber). — Yoa may go on setting; your eggs snfely. We d .. not know why, but country people are all opposed to June chickens. There is a Hampshire saying — " Chicks that are hatched, when there's making of hay* Will never grow up, bat fade away." We have, however, many good June chickens now, and are sliU setting o?g8. We believe the cause may be traced to the eggs being kept too dry during the great heat. We are glad you are successful with your poultry. Ireland (ioes not sell a fifth of the poultry and eggs she can produce without effort. HoDDAN CniCKENs (Bessu^). — We greatly prefer the chickens that arc nearly black. They become lighter as tbey grow older, but for that reason they should, when young, be dark. From what you say, we should not think you had been deceived in any way. The eggs have hatched well, and t)io chickens have the principal points of the breed. Wo should not get rid of theoi, but would wait and see how they turn out. White CREVE-CcEtms (S.M. B.'.— White Creve-CcBors are soaree, but like White Spanish, they are little considered, and are not valuable. Face op an Andalusian {J. B,jun.). — The rales of Andalusian fowls are but little cared f' r, as the birds are seldom shown. The best speci- mens we have seen have always had the lower part of the face and the deaf ear white, the upper part of the faoo red. Preventing Soft Eggs (A. M. S.). — As yoor fowls have all the ap- pliances necessary for the formation of egg-shelJ, the fact of laying Bolt eggs can only be attributed to want of condition. Your feeding is not good, and lacks nourishment, with the exception of the barley. Tail wheat is a gnod plaything for small chickens. Fowls do not like bnck- whpat. and pollard does not nourish and help them sufficiently. Give them barley or oatmeal twice every day, and let the miii-day meal be barley, or Indian corn for a change. If you wish for good table poultry all the year round, you should set hens every month so as to have a confttant supply of young poultry. The sister to the nice juicy pullet yoa ate in CIctuber, is an old hen in the following February. It is cruelty to try any- thing to prevent hens from being broody. It is their nature, and they must be bo. SiLVEn Pheasants (Idem^, — We have kept Silver Pheasants for many years. They are amongst the boldest and most cheerful of that family, and if yours are moping about they are out of health. Ketarding Laying {Lemon Bvffi.—'^'e know of no food that will retard the laying of Coobin-China pullets Keeping them short of food will do it ; but as your object is, doubtless, to" encourage growth, yon will find that low condition will injure them far more than early laying. We know no law of n«ture that can be altered cr set aside without paying the penally. Wei elievethe smell ofputrefied meat is not injurions to cliickens. We have been told it is beneficial rather than otherwise to chickens and their owners. It is therein the reverse of vegetable matter. Pigeon Judging iR. Fulton). — It would he invidious to insert the list you have sent. Many you name we know would not act as judges. Old Straw Hive Bulging {B.).~If, fls we imagine, the combs are very old as well as the hive, no lime should now be lost in driving the bees into a new hive and establishing them as an artificial swarm on the old stance. Three weeks after the issue of the first swarm is the best time for this operation, but a few daj s later will do very well. The beet mode of driving bees was fully described by Mr. Woodbury, in pRffe 105 of our last volume. If, on the other hand. Ihe combs are not too old, the bees should be driven and the combs trnnsfe red to a frame hive in the manner described in page ^19 of our twelfth volume. Bees not Swahming {H. Wade^.—We should make an artifloial ewflrm in the manner often recommended in these pages, and last described by *'B. & W." in page 179 of our last volume. We cannot tell why the stock fi I ot swarmed naturally, but there seems to be somelhing pcoa- liar in •>>'- season in this respect, for the scarcity of swarms is tt very general compluiut. German Centripuoal Honev-extbacting Machine {G. J.) —The square platform is of such a 6i2e as just to revolve frtely within the ex- terior box. The four ctimbs stand in tbeir nttural pf.iiion on the f'lur sides inside of, and in close contact with the strained fishing line. The best mode of Lif^urianiMing your stocks was fully detailed by Mr, Wood- bury in No. 315 of our New Series. Glass Supers (John IT.) — The Avington honey glassof? are made by Messrs. James Couper & Sons, at the City Flint Glass Works, Glasgow. The beauty of finish of those manufactured there, both for Mr. Mitohell and himself, is testified by -^A RENPitEWSHiRE Bee-keispee. ' Dying Moss Green (Fenfrtnt).— We should try soaking the moss first in a solution of Frussi-in blue, and then in a solution of gamboge. If any of oar readers will give infurmatiou on the subject ve shoU be obliged. Ebsolts of HATonTNG (H. i ).— The lime is pac«ed vben Out insertion of the resoits yoa taavo sent weroiatexeeUng. POULTRY MARKET.— Jolt 8. There is a slight falling off in the demand, and the supply increase?, bat owing to the heat prices are maintained for lots of fint-rate poultry. 8 d. s d Large Fowls 8 6 to EmaUer do 8 3 6 Chickens S 2 8 Goshngs 6 8 6 6 SO DuoklijugB 2 ' Pigeons B. d s. Pheasants to Partridges Guinea Fowls Hares Kabbits 14 1 WUddo 8 Jol; le, 1868. 1 JOURNAL OF UORTIOULT0RE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 37- WEEKLY CALENDAR. Day of Month Day ot Wcok. JULY 16-23, 1868. AveraRo Tomporature near London. Rain in last 41 years. San Rises. San Sets. Moon Rises. Moon yets. Moon's Age. Clock before San. Day of Year 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 To F S SON M Ta W Boyal Horticnltoral Society's Leicester [.Show opens. Royal Horticultarnl Society, Promenade. 6 Sunday aftee Tri: and distinct. Earl of Ito^ishjn. — Pale crimson, large dark blotob. Very onriort'i nnd distinct. John McNab. — Tjij^ht yellow lacod with purple ; large dark bronze blotch. Quito distinct. Figaro. — Deep violet imrple ; aide and lower petals edged with whitp. Lailij Montfjomcry. — Wliite, belted with violet ; dark dense blotch. Of fioo form and quality. Oriana. — French white, shaded with rose; large purple blotch. Queen Slab. — Piiro white, clouded and blotched in each of the petals. I have no doubt there are many others quite as good as those, but, as usual in such oases, I only give tho.se which I have been enabled to bloom under my own eye. Some others not quite up to the mark I have omitted. — D., Deal. WHAT IS A ZONAL PELARGONIUM ? WiLii you say in yonr next .Journal what is a Zonal Pelar- gonium, and thus settle some dispute which has taken place in this quarter ?— J. McD. [The whole of the Pelargoniums known as "Scarlets," though their flowers are ofen pink, and even white, owe their produc- tion to three species — P. zonale, P. inquinans, and P. Fother- gillii ; and inasmuch as tho earliest of them were the progeny of P. zonale they have been comprehensively termed Zonals, thoQgh no zone is on the leaves of some of them ; and though the name is misleading, it is no more so than calling those " Scarlets " which include plants with flowers of other colours. In short, the term " Zonal " is intended to include a section of Pelargoniums well known as bedders, without any reference to their being zone-leaved. Wishing to know if our opinion coin- eided with that of a well-known authority, but not a cnltivator of these flowers, we wrote to him to ask his opinion. This is his reply : — " I regret that this zonal question has been again mooted. I believe it arose from the disappointment received by an exhibitor, who would not allow that his competitor's plants wer3 all Zonals, he taking it for granted that a Zonal must have a zone folly defined in the several leaves of the plant. The term Zonal has been taken from the original plant, Pelargonium aonale, the old Horseshoe, from which the present race are all descendants. This is one view of the question. But when some of the seedlings produce plain leaves without any sign of a zone, we are told these are not Zonals. In one sense of the word they certainly are not so ; but these plain-leaved plants vary iu no other way from those in whose leaves tho zone is fixed — habit, colour, growth, are all the same. Bat the florist chooses to subdivide these varieiies into Golden- edged Variegated, Silver-edged, Golden-leaved, Bronze and Gold Zonals, Bicolors, or simply green leaves margined with white. It was one of these latter plants that caiised this question to arise. " I think myself it is absurd to quibble on this point. They are all doubtless in character true Zonals, but some varieties are minus the zone, at least it is not developed. Whether the colouring matter of the zone is absent, or why it is not visible, I think no man can venture to say. I can but feel that all are truly Zonals, though not developing a defined zone." We are thus sustained in our opinion, as we also are by the facts, that some of the Zonals which usually have no zone on their leaves will, under a change of culture, develope zones on them ; whilst, on the other hand, those usually with zoned leaves will, under di3erent treatment, produce leaves not zoned —Eds.] _^ THE HOT WEATHEPs AND ABSENCE OF RAIN. Common as the expression is, that " we never knew such dry (or such wet) weather before," there are many who at the present time, the beginning of July, believe that the last few weeks have exceeded all similar periods for heat and the small quantity of rain that has fallen, and in some cases it is asserted there has been no rain for six weeks or more. Now, a certain amount of deduction must always be made from mere casual assertions or grumblings, but it would be well to correct all false notions that may exist in the matter of long-continued drought or rain. On close examination it will he found that neither the one nor the other continues unchecked for so long a period ae ie often aesarted. I find in locking over a register of rainfall kept here, that only on three occasions during the last fourteen ynars ]\nn there hern a 16 ii>d of twenty aon- cecutive days without rain, and one o( theso was in winter, when the want of it was not felt. Dry periods have been fre- quent enough, and the driest of them, lasting thirty-four days, was between August 21ih and October Oth, 18G5. During that time there was only 0.08 inch of rain, but ibiit falling on two occasions reduced the numlier of consecutivo days actually without rain to a lees number than might be supposed. Be- tween the 7th and oOlh of ,lune, 18.58, no rain was registered ; in 18G3 there was no rain from tho 27ih of June to the 21st of July, while during the past month (June), a little rain fell on the 2ud, -Ith, and 22nd, but it barely amounttd to half an inch, most of it falling on the 22ad. June being ali'o preceded by four unusually dry months, it is not surprihing that vegetation is Buffering much, and that great alarm eiists in many places as to the water supply for domestic purposes, more especially as tho dry weather has sot in so early in the season, .and welis and streams are either drying up or getting low. Even deep-rooted plants, as trees and shrubs, have made less growth than usual, and many of them will grow no more this season, while the progress made by such as commence growth late has been small indeed ; for instance, Ehododendrons in dry situations have scarcely made any progress. Although the foliage of most deciduous trees and shrubs pushed vigorously, and the growth has been robust, it has been ehort, and mast bo so, as in many cases ripening at the points has commenced.- I do not think that in this there is anytLiing to complain of ; but in the case of evergreens, such as the Ehododendron, a continued dry season may be fatal to many of them. Three or four years ago some established plants which had been planted many years, were pointed out to me at Bury Hill, near Dorking, as having been killed by the dry autumn, and possibly this year the same result may be experienced at other places. As regards dry periods, we must not forget that a drier one than even the present has occurred before, as the following record of the rainfall in five oousecutivo months will show. 18S7-58. Inches, December 0.4t* January 79 February 0.77 Marcli 0.80 April 1.98 EUN. 1808. Inches. Febrnary 1.35 Mnrch 1-29 April 1.21 May 192 Juno 0.51 1.78 6.28 From the above it will be seen that the winter and spring months of 1858 were even drier than those of the present year, at the same time tho rainfall of May and .tune, 1858, exceeded that of the samo months this year ; but 1858 was very dry. This season, however, iu addition to being dry, has been early as well, most plants having been in a more forward state by the end of May th,an they have been for many years ; but I am not certain that they are relatively so forward at the end of June, notwithstanding its dryness. H.iving for many years noted the first appearance of Wheat ears in quantity, and in the same locality, I have to record seeing them one day earlier this season than I have observed in any previous year ; the next earliest being 1859, while 1860 was the latest. There was a difierence of just fifteen days between the earliest and latest year. Hot dry weather also urges many plants on prematurely, but the above examples will show that the date of the Wheat harvest is less influenced by variations in the atmosphere than is often supposed. The ripening of fruits is more influenced by the condition of the atmosphere at the^ime, and the growth of plants whose roots only penetrate a short depth into the soil is still more sffected. The long-continued absence of rain, however, affects all. With regard to temperature, the past month has been much less remarkable for heat than dryness, and September, 1865, shows both a higher night and day temperature. I find the mean night temperature of that Septemher to have been 53°, and that of the day 78°, as against 49° and 74° in the past month, a marked difference when the much shorter days which we have in September are taken into consideration. June, 1857, was also a hotter month than the June of the present year, and portions of other months have been still warmer. Wliilst the weather up to the present time has been very dry, dew has been almost as scarce as rain, and, perhaps, nothing afiecls vege- tation more than dry withering winds at night from the north- east, and such have often occurred. Thunder has rarely been heard, and the hot days which in former years frequently ended in a thunderstorm, have this seacon often given place tc 10 JOUKNAL OP HOBTIOULTURE AND COTTAGE GABDENEB. [ Jdy 16, 1B68. a greater fall of temperature at night than was expected ; but still no rain. The heat, so great in the second week in June, has decreased so much that at the time I write, July Cth, the temperature is below the average of ordinary seasons. Extreme heat is, therefore, not the cause of the dryness, for although it has been very warm, the thermometer in the shade has never risen higher than it did on the 14th of August last year, and not quite so high as it did during some of the hottest days in the summers of 1830, 18J5, 1857, 1858, 1850, and 1HC5. The heat, instead of increasing after the longest day, has dimi- nished ; and the hottest days which occurred in former years being after that period, it is not unlikely that we may expe- rience the same this season. As heat is not one of the characteristics of the season, to what are we to attribute the scarcity of rain ? Perhaps the most likely theory is, that having had considerably more than the average amount of rain in the last three years, a dry ieason was necessary to restore the balance ; and if cycles of ten years or more to a considerable extent resemble each other, the present year may be expected to be unusually dry, if it has to do little more than make up a quantity equivalent to the rainfall of the preceding four years ; for I find the total rainfall for the years 1861, 1862, 1863, and 1864, was 94.95 inches, while the amount in the next three years — viz., 1865, 18CG, and 1867, was '.12.71 inches, nearly equalling that of the previous four. Although the first six months have been remarkably dry, there does not seem to be any certainty of the drought continuing. The autumn of 1859 was an exceedingly wet one, although the early part of the season was so dry. As to the effects of the dry weather on vegetation, there are few cultivators in the southern and eastern districts of England who have not for weeks looked on their various crops with great anxiety and alarm. Strawberries came in, one kind after another, with a rapidity that shortened the season. Lettuces ready for use one day had run to seed by the next, while the anxious cultivator poured almost in vain canfuU after canfull of water on his nest crop to prevent it following the example of the first. Cabbages changed their hue from a pale crisp green to a sickly blue, and later in the season became the prey of caterpillars. Potatoes, promising well at one time so far as crop went, are threatening to arrive at a very small size, and in many cases are too far advanced to benefit much by rain without injury to their quality or danger of disease. Peas, alas ! will soon be over, the pods not filling, although I have seen the haulm more infested with mildew. Against this list of evils wo have the counterbalancing benefits of Scariet Banners and Dwarf Kidney Beans doing well ; and Kidge Cu- oambers. Tomatoes, and Onions are also enjoying the near ap- proach to the heat of their native climes. Although the growth of fruit trees and shrubs may have been shorter than usual, the wood will probably ripen well. Of hardy fruits, as already stated the season for Strawberries was short, and Easpberries, which promised well, have suffered by continued drought, but Currants and Gooseberries have been plentiful. Pears are rather a thin crop, but Plums are abundant, and Apples a full average. The greatest drawbacks, however, of a dry summer are the lack of herbage for cattle, and the very slight hay crop, which has in many places not been worth cutting. Many pasture fields have passed from the green to the brown condition, and may now be said to be white, the few remaining blades or stems being bleached to that ooloor. The dry atmosphere seems to have even reached the loots of plants which usually penetrate deep, as Yarrow, Plan- tain, and Clover, and they are fast passing into the condition of the grasses. In the flower-garden most plants have been arrested in their growth where they could not be watered, or rather tbn.-e planted in May have made but little progress, but they hnve flowered well and in many cases prematurely. Calceolarias especially. On the whole the occupants of the flower garden have benefited rather than otherwise by the dry weather, and many of them are in a condition of fair promise if rain fall -soon. In beds, however, containing trees, shrubs, and other robnst subjects, which rob the bedding plants of their proper anpport, these, except where they have been assisted with water or otherwise, are in anything but a happy condition. In beds well prepared before being planted with fair-sized bedding Pelargoniums, Verbenas, Lobelias, and Gazanias, these, after having been once watered, have made satisfactory progress. Nierembergias have not done so well, and Viola cornuta, as I calculated on a ftw weeks ago, has ceased blooming much earlier than it ought to have done. Possibly watering might have saved the beauty of this plant as well as secured the more robust growth of others, but where water cannot be had many plants must take their chance, and probably a large pro- portion of them will do as well without as with unlimited quantities of cold spring water. Here we have not watered anything excepting plants in pots, or in raised artificial mounds or beds ; all those on the level ground have only received a slight watering at the time of planting, and none since. The progress of the more tender subjects as Coleus, Castor-oil plants. Tobacco, ornamental Maize, and some others has not been so rapid as I expected, and excepting Calceolarias, which I fear will flower out, nothing as yet has arrived at the condition which can be called good. One of the plants at present in its best condition is the Golden Feverfew, which is really a useful plant. I wish I could say as much of Dactjlis glomerata variegata, a much older acquaintance. Centaurea candidissima threatens to be more green than before, while Cerastium is evidently suffering much from the drought, which on the whole seems to favour Petunias, Tagetes siguata, Tropieolums, and that very pretty annual Portulaca Thellusoni ; but the begin- ning of July is too soon to pass an opinion on the merits of flower garden plants. I may state, however, in respect to the important family of Pelargonium, that the dry season has proved the superiority of the robust varieties over those of more limited growth, and with me two old kinds of no great merit. Punch and Magenta, are about the best of their class at the present time, none of them having had any water, except- ing naturally, since they were planted. Those who keep registers of the weather may be interested to know, that from the Slst of April to the '2'2nd of May we had only 0.11 inch of rain, but that fell on four days. A little rain also fell on May '22nd, 23rd, 24th, and '25th, and a very heavy thunderstorm occurred on the 29th. In June there were slight showers on the '2nd and 4th, followed by hot dry weather, with a little more rain on the 22nd, making only 0.51 inch in all. The hottest days during June were the 13th, 14th, 16th, 17th, 20th, 2lBt, and 27th, the maximum temperature being 90° on the 20th, and the same degree of heat was registered on the 14th of August last year. The winds have changed fre- quently without any change in temperature. The barometer has generally been high, the extreme maximum reading during the month being 30.07 inch, on the26ih at noon, and the lowest 29.43 on the 22nd, at the same time of day. Greater extremes, doubtless, have been attained, but these are the highest and lowest of my readings, which are always taken at noon. Thunder has scarcely been heard since the 29th of May, and Uttle or no lightning has been seen. — J. Eobson. NOTES ON THE ROY.M. BOTANIC SOCIETY'S JULY SHOW. This, like the Society's preceding two Shows, was a great success in every point of view; bnt one circumstance diminishtd the extent, variety, and beauty of this as it has done of other exhibitions — namely, the practice, now becomicK too general, of continuing the show longer than one day. This prevents many horticulturists from exhibiting, because the second day entails an expense upon them which the prizes are not sufficiently large to cover, and in many instances employers do not like their plant houses denuded for a longer period than one day. Another serious objection is, that when the exhibitor comes from a long distance his employer's plants are spoilt by the time they are brought back again ; for a whole week is occupied in taking them to and from the show, and by the time they are placed in their former quarters most of their beauty and freshness will have gone. Nothing destroys the beauty of a plant so soon as keeping it in an exhibition tent two or three days ; and the case of fruits is still worse, for to keep a dish of Peaches, Strawberries, Figs, and many other fruits longer than one day after they have been gathered, is to spoil them entirely, and render them perfectly useless. Add to this the great expense which has ehietiy to he borne by the exhibitor, and there is, I think, enough to deter many from bringing their productions to an exhibition which is to be continued beyond one day. I therefore think that the Royal Botanic and other societies would do well to discon- tinue the two or more days' show, unless it be once now and then on any special occasion like the great International Horticultural Exhi- bition of 1S6G, or the Manchester National Exhibition, when a very large expenditure is incurred, and when the funds will admit of the exhibitor being properly remunerated for his trouble. The plants exhibited were generally well grown, and in very good condition, considering the very hot and trying season we have had. Amongst the new and rare plants a very curious Bromeliaceoas plant from the South Sea Islands, said to be a Puya, was exhibited by Messrs. J. Veitch A: Sons. It has hard spiny leaves, and a strong branching habit, and bears a stout upright tiower stem, which waa July 16. 1868. ] JOUBNAL OP HOl^TICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 41 «ovored with groen bloaaoma, having a bright metallic lastro, and largo yellowish orango anthers. It is certainly a moHt singular-look- ing i)laut, and a groat curiosity. From the name lirm uIho came tine plants of l^racajKi Chelsoni, Croton Veitchii, and Alocaaia CIiolBoni. These are all line additions to our coUectione of stove plants, and were deservedly awarded tirst-elaas certiticatea. Mr. Fnisur again exhibited Show and Kancy Pelargoniums in fine condition. It wan u matter of much suq>ri30 to many how these plants could bo made to retain their beauty under such trying weather as we hare had. All, I am sure, will join me in according him uuijualihed praise for the way in which he haa shown his plants at the different exhibitions this seasons. Capo Heaths were shown in good condition, and formed a very effective portion of the display. Those exhibited by Messrs. Williams, Jackson, Khodes, and Peed were especially good. Fine groups of Orchids were also shown in good condition by Messrs. Burnett, Young, and Ml". Wheeler. Some splendidly-grown Lycopods were exhibited by Mr. Parsons, gardener to li. Attenborough, Ksq., Turnham Green, and the large collections of tine-foliaged plants were especially attractive. Mr. Bainos, from Bowden, near Manchester, staged his collections of stove, greenhouse, and other plants in his usual excellent sfyle. They were greatly admired, and formed one of the finest features of the Show. His Ixora javaniea and Clerodendron Thomsonie Balfourii were wonderi'uUy fine. Mr. Feed's plants were also in good condition; hia Allamanda grandiliora, Ixora coccinea, and Pleroma elegans were ex- ceedingly well grown. The fruit, perhaps, formed one of the finest attractions of the Show. Mr. Barnes, of Bicton, had numerous Pino Apples, and amongst them were magnificent t^ueens beautifully finished ; Black Prince, weighing 12^ lbs., and measuring 22 inches in circumference ; the copper- colonred Montserrat, and a Brown Sugarloaf, weighing 6i lbs. Mr. Carmichael, gardener to His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, also exhibited some fine Pines. His Queens were especially good. For collections of fruit there were seven competitors, all of whom had good collections, but the gold medal was very justly awarded to Mr. Miller, gardener to Earl Craven. His was a magnificent collection, and consisted of two fine Queen Pines, three bunches of Foster's White Seedling Grape, hardly ripe, but exceedingly fine bunches ; three bunches of Black Hamburgh, perhaps as fine as any ever exhibited, the only weak point in them appearing to be want of colour ; they were in eveiy other respect excellent examples of good Grape-growing. The other fruits in this collection were two finely- formed and well-ripened Trentham Hybrid Melons, Waterloo Cher- ries, Elruge Nectarines, and Violette Hiitive Peaches, both of which were well coloured, and a fine dish of British Queen Strawberry. Mr. Clarke, gardener to Earl Cowper, and Mr. Bannerman, gardener io Lord Bagot, also exhibited fine collections. Mr. Bannerman like- wise had some fine Black Hamburgh Grapes, as also Mr. Hill, Mr. Wallis, and Mr. Kettlewell. Bunches of Royal Vineyard were also exhibited in fine condition. These were large and handsome. Mr. Standish's Royal Ascot Grape was exhibited in good conditien, both at this and the previous exhibition. This I think likely to prove a most valuable Grape, and one that will hang on the Vine in good condition quite as long as Lady Downe's. It seems to be an everlast- ing-fruiting variety, and the flavour I considered excellent. Mr. Meredith sent up a splendid basket of Grapes, beautifully ripened, and exhibited in n. style not yet surpassed by any one, and equalled by a few only. Mr. Hill and Mr. Osborne also exhibited fine baskets. The Muscats were badly ripened, showing that it is not always a bright hot summer that is required to bring this fine Grape to perfection, and amply demonstrating the fact that this and many, if not all, other kinds of Grapes, do not require so much light to ripen them perfectly as is generally supposed. As a rule I have generally grown finer Grapes in a dull season than in a very hot sunny one. This again proves that any aspect will suit the Vine, and that all which is required is a moderate amount of skill and foresight in its cultivation, and the proper appliances for heat and ventilation, and lastly a properly-made Vine border. Tolerable examples of Black Prince were exhibited by Mr. Meads, but I have seen this variety shown in much better condition both by him and Mr. Hill. Peaches and Nectarines were shown in quantity, and were good, and Mr. Osman's Figs were generally admired ; they were a very even dish, and beautifully ripened. There were only two exhibitions of Plums, and the beat of these was from Mr. Thomas. Fine Black Cherries came from Messrs. Gliller, Young, and Cross, and Melons were numerous and generally very good. A few good dishes of Straw- berries only were exhibited; among these were wonderfully fine Bicton Pine. Frogmore Late Pine, Empress Eugenie, La Constante, and British Queen. — J. Wills. Bunyard, of Ashford, and others ; bo that it only requires a vigorous effort to carry the matter out effectually. The Crystal Palace Gompauy will, 1 have every reason to believe, act in their usual liberal manner. My desire is to have three classes of exhibitors — nurserymen, amateurs, and foreign growers, so as to make the competition as wide as we can. I hope all who prize this fine flower will let me hear at once. — D., Deal, PLANTS IN FLOWER DURING JUNE. SPECIAL GLADIOLUS EXHIBITION. I AM glad to say that some progress has been made in this matter. Since my last communication I have been to Paris, and my kind and valued friend M. Souchet has promised to be a competitor, as have also M. Eugene Verdier and M. Loise. At home I have received assurances of support from Messrs. Garter & Co,, Holborn ; Mr. Charles Turner, of Slough; Mr. Jane 1st. Dentzia crenata June ISth. gracilis scabra Euonymus latifolius Cotoneaster Simmundsii Buddlca globosa Lonicoru sempervirens Pernettya angustifolia Phillyrea media Pyrus aria intermedia ,, 5th. RhamnuB catharticus alnifolius Eschacholtzia Phalaris canariensis Robinia pseud-acacia hiapida Spir^a cuneifoUa arisefolia ulmaria tt 22nd. filipendula japonica Meconopsis cambrica Tilia europaa Vaccinium busifolium Dictamnus fraxinella alba OnobrychiB sativa Rhododendron hirautum buxifolium „ 10th. Philadelpbus coronarius Achillea millefolium millefolium roseum tomentosa Alcheniilla alpina Amsonia latifolia Anemone rivularis Sedum acre sesangulare Forsterianum rupestre purpureum album Orchis maculftta Arenaria cfespitosa Catananche ccerulea Kalmia latifolia „ 13th. Delphininm Barlowii Hendersoni Dianthns deltoides caryophyllus laciniatUB Clematis inteprifolia Gallichroa platygloasa Bracbycome iberidifoUa Adonis aestivalis Onosma tauricum Papaver bracteatum Silene maritima plena u 26th. Viola comuta Potentilla Hopwoodiana Antirrhinum mnjus Pentstemon Scouleri Shepherdii gentianoides Pyrethrnm roseam Achillea clavennse Aquilegia glandulosa Skinnerii Campanula nitida plena Gladiolus psittacinuB Candytuft Inula glandulosa LathyruB latifolius grandiflorus Lupinus compactus nivalis nanus liyaimachia ciliata „ 30th. nummularia quadrifolia Menyanthes trifoUata CEnothera biennis ^thionema membrana- ceum Erinus alpinus — M, H., Aclilam Hall^ Middlesbrougk'On- Amorpha fruticoso Andromeda lucida Astragalus trangacanthfl Aucuba japonica Cornus aanguinea CytiBus biflorua Genista florida Lavender LathyruB magellanicaa Phlomis UuHHelliana Anchusa itahca Lupinus luteUB Acroelinlum roseum Sphenogyne speciosa Lychnirt dioica plena Gypsophila elegans Wbitlavia grandiflora Pyrethrum parthenium Pa;ouies Campanula grandis Verbascum thapsua Collinsia bicolor Asphodelus luteus Giiia tricolor achilla^ folia capitata Erigeron canadensis Thalictrum aqoilegi- folium Campanula carpalica Tradfescautia virginica Epilobium angUbtifoUum Ligubtrum valgare Cineraria maritima Dianthns ca'sius Lilium tigrinum Calceolarias Koniga maritima Phlox Drummondi Heliotropes Viburnum opulus sterilis 3pira3a nruncus tridentata Erigeron Villarsil Mimulus moschatus Polemonium Richard- sonii Tropieolums Mimulus cardinalis Convolvulus minor Petunias Delphinium ajacis Bartonia aurea Linaria bipartita cymbalaria Hemoracallis fulva Lathyrus odoratus Erynginm Bourgati Lupinus angustifolius Calendula Pongei, double Fuchsias Lilium martagon Hedychium coronarium Lupinus hirsutus Weigela rosea Aster alpinus Platystemon califomi- cum Statice armeria rosea Lilium Thunbergianom Eutoca viscida Chrysanthemom carina* turn Morina persica Nuphar Intea Nympheea alba Hottonia palostriS Campanula aggregats Gnaphalium margari- taceum CiBlus ladaniferus Verbenas Sambucus nigra Lotos comiODlattUf plenas Tees. STOCKS, Stocks ! What need to say anything about Stocks? body grows and knows about their culture perfectly well. Eveiy- Saeii, 4& JOURNAL OF HOETICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENEE. I July 16, 1868. or something like it, may be the exclamation of some readers when their eye catches the heading of this paper. Bat the bnadred questions which have readied me of late about the eoltare of Stocks make out a very different case. Indeed, I am inclined to think that to popularise and instruct in the fine ▼ftrietie'i oE Stocks is very far from being a work of supereroga- tion. Tbe decorative capabilities of the finest varieties of the Intermediate Stuck are not so well known or acted upon as they deserve. Tbe effects which can be produced by the purple, white, and scarlet varieties, both for spring and antumnal gardening, are scarcely equalled by any of the now popular plants. In saying this, the practice and experience of many gardeners is the only corroboration that I would appeal to. For instance, in the end of March, 1S87, I sowed in a cold frame a quantity of the Eist Lotliiau Scarlet, Wliite, and Purple Intermediates. In May these were transplanted to where they were intended to bloom for the season, and up to .November the amount of double bloom which they produced is hnown to manv who saw them here (.ircherfield), and at other places in the L^thians. In November nearly the whole of the doubles were lifted and potted. They continued to bloom more or less the whole winter and spring, and were planted out in March with a good crop of bloom on them. Since then they liave made fresh growth, and are now, notwithstanding that great quantities of bloom have been cut from them, literally a cloud of bloom ; and it is hard to convince any one who has seen them that they have been in bloom for twelve months. For spring and early summer flower-gardening these Stocks are nnapproachable, and cannot be too strongly recommended. The way to have the finest bloom early in summer and all through the season is to sow in June in the open border thinly, and when 2 inches high, and before they become drawn, transplant them into beds in rows 6 inches apart each way. Till they get fresh hold of the soil and begin to grow, they require shading, and watering should the weather be dry. By the early part of October they will have formed bloom-buds, and it can be seen which are double. They should then be potted up into 6-inch pots. For this purpose use light rich soil, such as equal proportions of loam and leaf mould, with about a fifth of the whole of sand. When potted set them in a shady sheltered place, or better still, where it can be afforded, it cold pits or frames. Here they soon establish themselves ; and if cut bloom through the winter is not an object, the bloom- buds may be pinched off them. A moderately dry place where they can be protected from severe frost will suffice for their winter quarters. If they can be afforded space in cold frames under glass or in vineries or Peach houses at rest, they will grow more or less all winter, and can be had in pretty full bloom by the middle of March, when, if spring display be the object, they can be planted with immediate effect ; but for coming into bloom in May and the three following months they are best not allowed to bloom till after being planted. Those who have not seen rows or beds of these, entirely of double- flowering plants, can have little idea of how splendid they are. To sow in spring for late summer and autnmn blooming they are well worthy of being more carefully treated than is general in the case of Stocks. I would advise their being sown in heat early in March, and when they form the rough leaf to be pricked off in boxes 2 inches apart each way ; and before they become crowded to be potted singly into 2 or 3-inch pots, and kept in cold frames till well established, but not pot- bound, when they should be planted out about the first or se- cond week of May where they are required to bloom. Managed thus they are prevented from making tap-roots, and receive no check when planted, but come much earlier into bloom than when allowed to remain in the seedling bed or rows till finally planted out. It matters very little about their blooming a month earlier as far as their late blooming is concerned, for their blooming powers are so great that it they begin to flower in the end of June they will bloom into winter. To do this, however, they must have deep rich ground. When plants are plentiful it is a good plan to pot up a quantity into 6-inch pots and keep them in reserve, so that the singles can be lifted out of the beds or lines and be replaced with doubles. In dry sheltered situations where the winters are not severe, the mid- Bommer-eown plants can be planted after the summer bedding plants are removed in October ; but in this case it is best to ieep a reserve that can be protected to meet contingencies. For pot-culture the value of the ordinary Intermediate Stock lias been long recognised, in some localities especially, and for the Iiondon markfit thej are grovsn by the tboasand. To have fine plants for the greenhouse or conservatory in March, April, and May, June-sown plants lifted in October and potted in 6 or 8-inch pots will bloom magnificently, and when large specimens are required it is only a question of room, shifting into larger pots, and tying them out. I have seen Mr. Lees atTynninghame have tbem, I should say, nearly 3 feet in diameter and one cloud of bloom. Certainly these have but few rivals for this purpose, taking their sweetness, purity of colour, and immense show of bloom into consideration ; and as they require but very ordinary means or accommodation for their cultmc, they are emphatically the plants of the million. — D. Thomson (in T/u Gardener.) IMPROVEMENTS IN LIVERPOOL. SEFTON PARK. Of all the towns in Great Britain, Liverpool stands first, not only as regards its commercial importance, but the number of its public buildings and places of resort for recreation after the toils of everyday lite. At present the Corporation of this vast town, second only in importance to London, are busily engaged in forming new streets through blocks of pro- perty, where the buildings are found to be too close together to be healthy to live in, and where streets are desirable for the opening-up of the town. -They are also widening several of the narrow streets, and pulling down whole blocks of court property, which are found by tbe Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Trench, to be unfit for human habitations. They are likewise building a large block of buildings to be used as dwellings for work- ing men, at moderate rents ; and last, but not least, in this sanitary reform, they are constructing three large parks on the outskirts, but, at the same time, of easy access even from the centre of the town. These parks form an almost complete cordon round the town, and will when complete be of immense benefit in keeping down the high death rate which has here- tofore been such a slur upon the town, as they will form places of easy access where the people can get a breath of fresh air, and healthy and vigorous exercise, which is denied them in the middle of the town, and at the same time see and admire all the beauties of Nature which are thus brought home, as it were, to their very doors. These parks are called Stanley, Newsham, and Sefton Parks, and lie respectively — Stanley on the north side of the town ; Newsham on the east ; and Sefton on the south, the river Mersey being on the west. Newsham Park is nearly finished ; Stanley and Sefton Parks have only been commenced a short time, but will both be com- pleted in the course of two or three years. The two first men- tioned are of a rather restricted area as regards the ornamental portion, but the latter, of which we propose giving our readers a short account, will, when finished, be the largest public park in Great Britain, including even Hyde and Eegent's Parks. This extensive piece of ground, consisting of about four hundred acres of land, purchased from the Earl of Sefton for the sum of £275,000, lies at the south end of tbe town, in the district of Toxteth Park, and between the fashionable suburbs of Wavertree, Mossley Hill, and Aigburth. The land strikes one as having been made especially for a park, being composed of large table lands, gently sloping and undulating towards the centre of the park, where there is a small stream running down to the Mersey, the whole being beautifully adapted for landscape effect. It is also situated so as to be entirely removed from the smoke and the business portion of the town, and being surrounded by residences of wealthy merchants, &c., is at once framed, as it were, with an outside border of well-grown trees and wooded hillocks, which will go far in improving its appear- ance when finished. A portion of the park outside the circnlar drive is to bo devoted to the building of villas, &c., by the sale of which the Corporation expect to be reimbursed to some extent for their large outlay. Considered in an artistic and landscape-gardening point of view, we may say that the new park will present, when finished, a feature quite novel in tLis country. The works are being carried out by, and from the def-ignsof Mr. Edouard Andre, principal gardener to the city of Paris, and Mr. Lewis Horn- blower, the well-known architect of Liverpool. These gentle- men defeated twenty-seven competitors, and received the first prize of 300 guineas, in the competition invited by the Cor- poration in the caily part of last year. Since that time there has been considerable delay occasioned by the differences of opinion which have arisen in the Council as to the carrying out of the design ; but now that the contract for the roads. Jnly 16, 1888. 1 JOURNAL OF HOETIOULTtJEE AND COTTAGE GABDENER. 43 sewers, lukos, &(!., has been given to Mr. S. Campbell, tbo con- traotor, of Liverpool, it is hoped that the woili will progress quickly and favourably. The whole of the roads, drives, lakes, plantations, &a., have been staked out, aud the good soil taken off and stored in heaps for future use in formin); the pliiutations. One great and pleasing feature will be the rockwork, of which it has been decided to employ a large quantity in the shape of grottoes, waterfalls, &c., in the two streams which run down the valleys towards the great lake. These works are being carried out with great spirit by M. Combaz, of Taris, who, as an artist in his particular branch, is well known in all parts of the Continent. He has executed the rockwork in the Bois de Boulogne, Bois de Vinoennea, aud new park of the Buttes- Chaumout, in Pari^, and other works at Brussels, for the King of the Belgians, Ghent, Lille, and Colo.'^ne. From what we have seen of the work already executed by him in the Sefton Park, we are certain he will please the public of Liverpool as well as he has done the Parisians. The main attraction, vi.e have no doubt, will be that portion immediately contiguous to the lake and streams. The longer of these streams rises in a large grotto at the head of the valley, and after running over several small falls and rapids, and encircling small islands, flows into the main lake, twelve acres m extent, at the junction of the smaller stream, which also rises in a waterfall about 15 feet high, and runs over several small falls into the main lake. On the banks of both rivulets, which will be broken here and there with rough pieces of rock, summer houses and kiosks will be erected at various points, where good views can bo obtained, and on the islands huts will be built for the waterfowl to breed in, &e. These objects, together with, the meanderings of the rivulets and falls, will have, we doubt not, a charming effect, as the visitor will have at every turn of the winding walks a fresh scene with which to feast his eyes. Boat-sailing and rowing will be allowed on the large lake, and will prove a great boon to the inhabitants of the district, as, with the exception of the Mersey, which is extremely dangerous on account of the numerous eddies and strong tides, there is no place in the neighbourhood where this healthy exercise can be indulged in. Amongst other features which this park will possess, there will be a large piece of land of a circular form, well sheltered, nearly forty-eight acres in extent, set apart for the reviews of the Volunteers of Liverpool. There will be ample space for 10,000 men to be mauceuvrod. Another portion is set apart for a cricket ground. It will be oval in form, aud well wooded all round in order to shelter it from the cold winds that often blow in this part of the country. There is also to be a cricket pavilion, and two smaller pavilions flanking it, one on either side, one for the scorers, and the other for printing the cards. Among other architectural ohjects which will adorn the park, will be a grand entrance, and two smaller ones, with lodges flanked on either side by handsome iron gates. Curator's and head gardeners' houses, two restaurants, several boathouses, gheep cot, deer house in rustic wood, several rustic shelters for horsemen, a large aviary, a band pavilion surrounded by three rows of large trees, numerous kiosks, &c., and stone, iron, rastic, wooden, aud rocky bridges. Such a multiplicity of architectural ornamentation might sesm exaggerated, if one did not think of the immense area of the park, and the large number of points of sight naturally afforded by the undulations of the ground. The various plantations and clamps of trees which are, with the lawns, the main adornment of a public park have been well oared for, and will occupy large spaces. On the sides most remote from the town they form complete woods, only cut here and there by the lines of sight. It was necessary to give great care and attention to the position of the planting, on account of the barrenness of ground, which was formerly exclusively onltivated fields, and they have been arranged so that the plantations may shelter from the sea breezes, which blow there thponghout the greater portion of the year. With the help of aaoh shelter it will be quite possible to cultivate in the undu- lations of the glades of Sefton Park, collections of nnmerous ornamental plants, and even some of those beiutiful-foliaged plants which have for soma years back formed the chief at- traction in the Parisian parks and gardens, and in Battersea Park, where Mr. Gibson uses them so tastefully. The use of foliage for the decoration of gardens has been too much neg- lected in this country, and we hope that trials in that direction will end in giving to saoh plants the position they deserve. In this line Sefton Park will have a powerful auxiliary in the now Botanical Garden. The Corporation piopose making a new Botanical Garden to replace the old one, which is badly situated, and daily being destroyed by the smoke of the town, and which is, together with the conservatories, unworthy of a tow-n like Liverpool. Messra. Audio aud llornblower have reserved in their dchign a piece of ground, nineteen acres in extent, centrally situated in the best part of the park, and with a southern aspect, for this ijurpose. In the centre of this garden there will be a grand conservatory 300 feet long, from the raised terrace of which views of the whole of the park are commanded. We shall give a more de- tailed description of the Botanical Garden, if the scheme is, oB it is hoped, to be carried out without delay. In the meantime the walks of the park are being actively proceeded with,, and we have no doubt that it will he com- pleted in the time specified. EARTH HEAT. (Coi.tbmul from page 4.) Tonp Pits. — I will not say that our continental neighbours did not first direct attention to earth heat, but previously the horticulturists of this country had this agent actively at work, and by it a great impetus has been given to horticulture. At the time when earth heat was first brought prominently into notice abroad, we had already the nucleus formed from which have sprung greater results than from any other system. I allude to the introduction of orchard houses by Mr. Elvers, and bis sub- sequent invention of the Curate's or Ground Vinery, and other economical structures for the cultivation of fruit trees. It is tolerably plain that these structures are all dependant for any heat they may possess beyond that of the open air on the ab- sorption of the sun's heat, and their retention of it, thus enabling the cultivator to secure several degrees more warmth not only by day, but at night, and at other times when the sun's rays are obscured, as they often are in our cloudy and fickle climate, for the earth within the structure has then a greater heat, which is being constantly radiated. Of these structures, however, I shall have occasion to write hereafter, and I only now allude to them to establish the facts: — 1st, That our hortiulturists have been long conversant with earth heat ; 2nd, That they have made as good a use of it as those of other countries; and, 3rd, That they liberally diffused thiou^hout the world the knowledge resulting from a life of careful obser- vation and experience. Turf pits are not now so common as they formerly were, but they still do good service in the temporary protection of plants. I find them very useful, and that in two ways — namely, as a means of protection, and for furnishing fibrous loam for pot- ting. The situation for them should be sheltered from the north, and it is well it the east and west winds are broken by a fence of some kind at a little distance off, so as to deprive the site of the sun's rays for as short a time as possible ; and if there is a dry aud sandy or gravelly soil give that the pre- ference ; in short, select a dry sheltered situation. Some take out the soil and form a sort of pit, but this I consider a great waste of time, aud altogether needless, for it is only seeking damp, which is as destructive to plants as frost. Except for large plants, I would not make a pit, but would have all above ground. Mark out the size of the lights or other covering, forming the pit so that the internal face shall be a few inches within the outside of the lights or coverings, for it is necessary that they should rest on the turf walls ; to throw off the wet the lights must slope from north to south, and this inclination of the roof will cause the bed to be narrower than their length. For 7- feet lights the bed will need to be made 6 feet 3 inches wide within the turf walls. The back wall, too, will be higher than the front, and the end walls will slope from back to front. The back should be 1 foot 6 inches higher than the front. Having marked out the size, and square, so as to fit the lights or covering, the turf should be cut as thick as the fibres will allow, but for potting purposes not thicker than 3 inches. The pieces may be of any length and width, but are mist con- venient when not too large. I like them 18 inches hy 9 inches, but size is quite immaterial. In farming the walls commence by placing a layer of turf all round, the same as bricks in build- ing a wall, putting all headers, and then stretchers in the next course, so as to cross the joints and bond the worlt, making the inner face perpendicular to the ground, but sloping the 44 JOUBNAL OF HOKTICULTURB AND COTTAGE GARDENER. [ July 16, 1888. external face inwards, which will give stability. All the soda should be placed grass side downwards, and to keep the lights or covering from the turf it is well to have a frame of wood for the lights to rest on, or for securing the covering to. Nothing answers so well as a frame of red deal, and it need not exceed an inch in thickness. The frame will make all secure. The front wall, as already stated, will be less in height than the iiack, and both will be thicker at the base than at top ; but the ])ack wall will need to have a wider base than the front one, as it has to be carried higher. Eighteen inches in thickness for the base of the back, and 15 inches for the front wall, both re- duced to 9 inches at top, will form a very good pit, nearly if not quite frost-proof. Turf pits thus made will last two Eeasons, but I do not keep them beyond the autumn following that in which they were made, for it is impossible not to covet the fine material which these turf walls are after they have stood for a time. The walls may be of any height and thick- ness, but the above heights are quite enough for the majority of plants needing protection in winter. It would be difficult to name all the plants that may be wintered in turf pits, as they are very numerous, but I will endeavour to give an idea. In the first place these pits are far better than any heated house for growing Cinerarias, Calceo- larias, Humeas, and similar plants for spring-flowering, and which are impatient of a dry, fluctuating atmosphere. With a single covering of mats over the lights, and 6 inches of straw put on so as to overhang the sides and ends about 1 foot, no frost that we have in our climate will penetrate to the interior ; indeed, in the memorable winter of 18riO-61, frost did not pass through the sides of some turf pits that were at the time filled with these plants. It does not matter how long the plants are iept in the dark, if the frost continues, but do not uncover too hastily upon a thaw, and expose too suddenly to day-light, but shade for a few days from bright sun, and admit air freely. When the Cinerarias are advancing for flowering, they must, of course, be removed to more suitable quarters, as they will need more light, but even they will do better in turf pits than elsewhere, feeing freer from insects, and making stronger growth. Cal- ceolarias and Humeas may be safely wintered in turf pits, and a considerable saving of fuel thus effected, at the same time that the vigour and beauty of the plants will be increased. The pit will be available for other plants when those named are cleared out, and may be used with or without lights for Pelar- goniums and similar plants that need protection in spring. When these are cleared out the pit may be filled quite to the top of the walls with hot sweet dung, a frame placed on it, and BoU put in ; a good crop of Melons or Cucumbers may thus be obtained, and with a great saving of dung. By afterwards mixing the dung with the turf a most excellent compost is formed, especially for top-dressing fruit trees. In addition to the plants above named, there are many others now kept in heated houses which may be more health- inlly wintered in tvirf pits. Such are Heaths, Azaleas, Ca- mellias, and most New Holland plants. These when young are fcest kept cool, and having air in mild weather no great disaster comes through damp and mildew ; all that is necessary is to give a covering of dry litter sufficient to keep out frost, and even a small degree of that is not half so injurious as fire heat. !For these plants the soil at the bottom of the pit should be laken out to the depth of about a foot below the ground level, and a good bottom formed of rough cinders, and then over these some finer ashes ; but it is well to wash them, using those remaining in a sieve with quarter-inch meshes. Six inches in thickness will he enough. The pots need not be plunged in the ashes, but should be set on them. The pits if made as de- scribed will answer for good-sized plants. Probably the greatest use made of turf pits in this country is that of protecting hardy plants, of which in most gardens there are great numbers needing protection by reason of their feeing only recently propagated, and therefore not of a size safe to plant out. Among these are the best kinds of evergreen and deciduous shrubs and climbers, especially such as are used for covering walls and planting in sheltered situations, also many of those neglected herbaceous plants which are now deservedly receiving a share of attention. For Roses in pots, also, and especially the Tea-scented varieties, no better place could be found. All the pots should be plunged to the rim in ashes or sawdust, and if no sashes are at command wood shutters will do in their stead. They need not be heavy and large, but light and of moderate width, so as to be convenient for putting on and for removal ; and over them in severe weather a covering of dry litter will be needed, always giving the plants the full benefit of any mild period for exposing them fnlly. Next to wood, straw shutters are excellent for protection. They should be made in a kind of frame, and m.w be of any conve- nient size, but ought not to be too thick. I have seen them made of thatching straw, 1 inch or from that to 11 inch thick, so as to be impervious or nearly so to wet, and such wiU be sufficient for all the plants needing slight protection in winter, or which are nearly hardy. These shutters have done excellent service with Mr. Fish, who was the first to tell us how to winter bedding Calceolarias in cold frames, depending on earth heat for their preservation. Frigi domo is another good protecting material. A light wood frame should be made, and the mate- rial tightly tacked to it, also to cross pieces from the back to the front of the framework, so as to keep the frigi domo from bagging and holding the wet. Bast mats are also good for covering turf pits, having pieces of timber laid across the pit to keep the mats from the plants. Turf pits are very good for sheltering Calceolarias, Verbenas, Gazanias, Ageratum, Cupheas, Fuchsias, Lobelias, Variegated Alyssum, and all the nearly hardy bedding plants ; but it is desirable to keep these in frames in order to have them strong for planting out and for spring propagation. Cuttings of the plants named should be put in in August and be well rooted and hardened-off before winter, taking care not to allow the soil to become saturated with rain, but to keep it dry. Calceo- laria cuttings, of course, should not be put in imtil October. Glazed lights will be necessary for protecting beddingplants, and there should be sufHcient covering to keep out frost.— G. Abbey. (To be contin-ued.) PORTRMTS OF PLANTS, FLOWERS, AND FRUITS. Agave dasturioides (Dasylirion-like Agave). Nat. ord., Amaryllidaceie. Linn., Hexandria Monogynia. — Native of Mexico. Flowers green and brown.— fZJot. Ma;)., t. 5716.) Abctilon vexillarium (Standard-flowered Abutilon). Nat. ord., Malvacea;. Linn., Monadelphia Polyandria. — Native pro- bably of South America. Flowers scarlet aud yellow. RequiieB a warm greenhouse. — {Ibid., t. 5717 ) Nasonia punctata (Dotted (cinnabar red) Nasonia). Nat. ord., Orchidacea\ Linn., Gynandria Monandria. — Native of the El Sisme mountains in Peru. It is synonymous with N. cinnabarina, which is a much more characteristic name. — {Ibid., t. 5718.) P.EONiA EMODi (Himalayan Paeony). Nat, ord,, Ranuncu- laceip. Linn., Polyandria Polygynia. — Native of Himalayan mountains. Flowers white. — {Ibid., t. 5710.) Phabbitis nil, var. limbata (White-margined Pharbitis). Nat. ord., Convolvulacere. Linn., IPentandria Monogynia. — Na- tive of North Australia. Flowers purple, with a white margin. —{Ibid., t. .0720.) Saccolabium ampdllacedm kosecm. — Native of Monlmein. Introduced by Messrs. Eollisson. — (Floral Maij., pi. 393.) Clematis .Tohn Gould Veitch. — Imported from Japan by Messrs. Veitch & Sons. Flowers pale blue, double. — {Ibid., pi. 394.) Azalea Sir Robert Napier. — Flowers bright crimson. Raised by Messrs. F. & A. Smith, VaWich.— {Ibid., pi. 395.) AuBiCDLA John Waterr.ton. — Grey-edged variety, very fine. Raised by Mr. Cunningham, Kilbrachan, near Johnstone, Scot- land.— (liirf., pi. 396.) Azalea Lizzie. — " This fine Azalea has twice passed the ordeal of the Floral Committee, on one occasion receiving a first-class certificate, and on the other a certification that its high character had been well maintained. Its chief peculiarities are its smooth surface, which gives it a perfect outline, its dis- tinct markings, which take the form of stripes of bright car- mine on a pure white ground, varying in breadth and dispo- sition, and its great substance, which results in the long endurance of the flowers. We learn from Mr. Kinghorn, by whom it was raised, that this latter quality is very noticeable, the plants standing much longer in flower than those of any other variety. The flower opens with a greenish tinge, and blanches as it expands, so that the fully developed flowers have a pure white ground, which is well set off by the well-defined and elegant markings. Like most of the varieties Mr. King- horn has sent out, this new striped Azalea is one which may be recommended with the highest confidence. We learn thrit the constitution and habit of the plant are all that can be desired. " The improved varieties of greenhouse or Indian Azaleae July 16, 1868. ] JOUBNAL OF HOBTICULTUBE AND COTTAGE GABDENEE. 45 are certainly not snrpassod, if equalled, either for exhibition or conservatory decoration, aa by a selection of the earliest, the medium, and the very late sorts they can be had in bloom from Christmas till the end of .June. The earliest and most forward plants may ho introduced to the forcing house from about the middle of October, at intervals, to keep up a Bucces- sion of bloom. All the varieties, observes Mr. Kinghorn, at whatever season they bloom, are much improved in quality by being kept in rather a close warm temperature while expanding their blossoms."— (7'7oii.'i( and I'onwlogist, :i scries, i., 1 l-O.) NOTES AND GLEANINGS. The following competitors (those marked with an asterisk (•) being Chiswick students) had certificates awarded at the Gakdeners' Ex.\minations in April, at the Society of Arts : — Age. Flori- culture. Fmitand Vegetable Culture. A. Bradley, Green^ch P. W. Burbidge," Richmond 25 20 26 27 27 23 20 25 21 24 22 21 21 24 83 23 23 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 1 2 1 C. Fryer, Lambeth J. C. HigRS, Southampton R. Inglis. Itichuiond W. Jones, Richmond R. L. Keenan, Kichmond R. C. KinR.ston, Royal Polytechnic Inst. C. Lawtou, Hull 2 2 1 I J. Mc.\rdlG," Richmond 2 M. Middleton.* Richmond A. Parsons, Edinliur^h J. R. Pocock, Bromley F. C. A. Thomson, Liverpool B. Wynne,* Richmond 2 2 S 2 1 The prizes offered in these subjects by the Society of Arts and the Koyal Horticultural Society, were awarded to the following competitors : — R. C. Kingston. . R. L. Eeenan . . B. Wynne F. W. Bnrbldge Floriculture. S.A. first prize, £5 R.H.S. first prize, £5 S.A. second prize, £3 R.H.S. second prize, £3 Fi-uit and Vegetable Culture. S.A. first prize, £5 R.H.S. first prize, £5 S.A. second prize, £3 R.H.S. second prize, £3 The Cardeners' Chronicle prize of £3, oiiered for the above subjects, was awarded to Mr. Kingston, who has also gained the first prize in chemistry (£5) and the Prince Consort's prize of 2.5 guineas ; and Mr. Keenan has won the Society of Arts' first prize in botany (£5) and the Eoyal Horticultural Society's first prize in botany (£5). At the Tuesday Meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society, August 18th, Three Prizes will be offered for Twelve Gladioluses, the first prize being £3, the second £2, and the third £1. A TIME FOR ALL THINGS, EVEN FOP. CUTTING DOWN THISTLES. Db. Adam Clark has made this curious calculation : Suppose that each Thistle bears 80 heads, each containing only 300 seeds : the first crop is 24,000; the second, 576,000,000; the third, 13,824,000,000,000; the fourth. 31,776,000,000,000,000; the fifth, 7,962,024,000,000,000,000,000, a progeny more than suffi- cient to stock not only the surface of the whole world, but of all the planets of the solar system, bo that no other plant or vegetable could possibly grow, allowing but 1 square foot for each plant. This wonderful power of reproduction should teach every man to regard the Thistle a common enemy — to be attacked and destroyed wherever found. And here it may be well to introduce the substance of a commimication to the Journal of the New York State Agricul- tural Society. Afarmerhad a field, about thirty-five years ago, completely covered with Canada Thistles ; he cut them, and not one ever revived. This curious fact led him to a long series of experiments to discern if the particular d.ate at which they were cut might not explain the phenomenon. For many years, therefore, he has cut the Thistles, marking dates, and watching the results. He practised this cutting every day in the season except Sundays. For four years past he has cut them on August 15th, i7th, 18th, 20th, and 24th, and not one has lived. His reasoning as to their destruction is, that at this period the pith is not full in the stalk ; that rain and mjisture settle in the stalk, and thoy rot to the root. This is certainly worth a fair trial. If by the simple obser- vance of certain dates the roots of the Canada Thistle will die, and thus prevent Eumbern of plants from springing up, the world has gained an invahmlilo blesting. It is an experiment that will cost nothing, and in any event the Thistle will be cut off. — (Prairie Farmer.) WORK FOR THE WEEK. KITCnEN GARDEN. Ci'lrrii. — This is a thirsty plant, and, like the Asparagus, delights in the richest liquid manure after it has fairly begun to grow. Never put off earthing-up the earlier rows too long, but earth-up a little at a time — indeed, those who prefer earth- ing-up their main crops in succession instead of all at once, should also bear this in mind. Cabhaijc:,, if the first sowing for early spring use is not yet in the ground, there is no time to spare. Feus, a last sowing may now be made of some of the earlier sorts. A sowing of dwarf varieties may be made towards the end of the month where the situation is very favourable and means of protection can be resorted to. Potatoes, those who are partial to young Potatoes may now plant some tubers saved from the earliest crops. If previously greened in the sun they will grow more vigorously. The rows may either be covered with litter on the approach of frost, or they may be dug up and the produce kept in dry sand. Toiim- tocs, keep these fastened to the wall or fence, thin out the shoots and leaves, and pinch out the points before the clusters of blossoms, where early fruit is desirable. Without the assistance of a wall they will not do much good north of Lon- don, except in favourable situations. For their culture, for that of Capsicums, &o., and for the forwarding of early crops, dwarf walls with sloping borders ought to exist in every gar- den. When a gardener crops rather closely his fruit-tree borders, in nine cases out of ten it is the result not of choice hut of necessity, for he is aware that the somewhat inferior condition of his fruit trees will not be such an unpardonable evil as being behindhand with a good early supply of tho best vegetables. The succession crops are now mostly confined to salad plants, such as EiuUoe, which should be planted out in succession about once every three weeks. Continue to sow Lettuci's and small salads, only as the Lettuces do not run to seed in the autumn, you may now sow more of them at a time than could be done for summer supply without waste. FRUIT GARDEN. Take advantage of the first showery weather for budding the stocks of stone-fruit trees, and for inserting buds of esteemed kinds upon the branches of established trees. Propagation by budding, though generally confined to stone fruits, may also be resorted to with advantage with scarce varieties of Apples and Pears. The principal work here is to guard the crops from birds and insects, and to keep the trees clean and free of superfluous wood. FLOWER OARDEN. The summer climbing Roses, such as the Ayrshire, Boursault, Eanksian, and many of the Evergreen and Multiflora divisions are now fading off for the season, leaving blacks in the rosery, along the arcades, and on pillars, walls,banks, and other positions, which will not be filled up again in many places till next June. Twenty years ago this would have been thougiit of little con- sequence ; but in these days we are so accustomed to a rich display of autumnal Roses, that from May to November the rosery is expected to exhibit a perpetual succession of bloom. We cannot possibly do away with our beautiful summer gar- lands without losing the best feature of our flower gardens ; we must, therefore, endeavour to clothe our summer climbers by budding on them autumnal-flowering Roses, using those only that are of a rather dwarf, compact habit, so that they may not interfere with the free habit of their foster-parents. Hybrid Perpetuals and Chinas are best suited for this work, unless, indeed, the climbing Roses are against walls with favourable aspects, when the dwarf Bourbons and a few of the Tea-scented kinds may be employed instead of the China Roses. Tho pre- vailing tint in summer climbers is whitish, and as some of the sorts to be budded on them may be expected to flower occa- sionally at the same time with them, it may be as well to make 46 JOURNAL OP HOBTICDLTUKE AND COTTAGE GAEDENEE. [ July 16, 1868. nse of high-coloured varieties, bnt individual taste will deter- mine this. A few white varieties would i-elieve the other colours in the autumn. Among China Eoses, perhaps, the best whites for this purpose are Clara Sjlvain and InfidelitCs de Lisette, to which jou may add any other white sort you may already possess. Among the higher colours in the China sec- tion, there is great room for choice. As China Hoses are not so particular about the kind of stock they are on as many of the Perpetuals, they had better be worked on the Ayrshire varieties, while the Hybrid Perpetuals should be budded on the Bonrsault and Banksian Eoses. The dwarf Bourbons should also be worked on the freer kinds, and being more tender than the Chinas and Perpetuals, should have the more favourable sitnationa. Any one having a large Banksian Eose against a house or south wall, may easily establish a selection of Bour- bon and Tea-scented Eoses on it, and in severe winters these oonM be saved by covering them with mats. None of the Tea- scented varieties, and but few of the dwarf Bourbons do well on their own roots in our climate. There are few good white Koses among the Bourbons, perhaps Aeidalio is the best of this colour, while there is no want of good sorts with rose, red, and crimson flowers. Among the old Perpetuals the Crimson, or La Perpetuelle, and William Jesse are, perhaps, the best ; bnt in this class the difficulty is to pick out a bad variety. The work in the flower garden at the present time is in a great measure routine. Attend to the regulating of all plants and beds, and keep everything as clean and neat as possible. Ee- move dead leaves and flowers, and keep a sharp eye to insects. If we be favoured with rain some of the biennials will be fit to thin out a little, and the young plants may, if required, be pricied-out in nursery beds for transplanting. Hoe the ground amongst the plants frequently, not only to destroy weeds, but, alBo to promote the growth of the plants. GEEENHODSE AND CONSEKVATORT. If you see well to the watering and staking of the plants in the open air, and that they are not crowded together, nor too much shaded by trees or buildings, it is all that can be done for them, presuming all the best specimens and delicate plants that are not in flower in the conservatory to be luxuri- ating under the cool refreshing shelter of cold pits, where not a leaf or bud is seen out of place, and where the slight sprink- lings from the hand syringe in the evenings supply the place of the absent night daws, and the thin calico frames ward off the sun when powerful. Now when many begin to cut down their Pelargoniums, let me guard the inexperienced against two extremes. Formerly we used to out our plants to mere stumps, and now some leave the shoots by far too long for the sake of making large specimens next year, and with care this may be effected ; but the safest way for beginneis is to cut the lower side shoots of this season's growth to three or four eyes, and if the plants are tall to cut-in the centre shoot to one or two eyes. Three-years-old plants make the finest specimens for ordinary uee, providing the roots are healthy. Very old plants of Pelargoniums that are to be discarded had better be planted in the open ground, and they will furnish iu September good cuttings, which may be kept in store pots through the winter, and they will come in useful for succession next summer. STOVE. Pew stove plants will require potting after this time, ex- cept newly-propagated ones, which must be hastened through their nursery stages with all possible speed. Auy little plants that are diflicult to preserve through the winter should be kept ralhei- dry from this time to harden their growth, and also, if practicable, cuttings of them should be put in. There are many plants that will stand over the winter if crammed in the cutting pots and placed near the glass on shelves, when the old plants can hardly be kept by the greatest care. Give more air and less water to stove plants in general after this time ; this will harden and prepare them for another long winter. Before advancing further let us ascertain it those stove plants which we have lost or found difBcult to keep in former winters are in good condition ; examine the pots, and if the soil is not in a proper state shake it from the roots and repot them iu light soil. Sandy loam is better for wintering delicate stove plants in than composts containing either peat or leaf mould ; peat is very apt to become sour in a close stove in winter, but in framss and greenhouses nothing suits them belter. In the beginning of the growing season all kinds of stimulants were in requisi- tion to insure a rapid growth ; but from this time all safe modes of retarding vegetation should be resorted to in order that the season's growth may be ripened as much as possible. These general rules may be of more use than minute details. — W. Keane. DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK. Watering. — In addition to what was stated last week, we must remark, that in using sewage water from mansions, &c., let it bo proved that it is not too strong before emplojing it freely. Iu our case, and as the matter resolved itself simply into using it or giving no water at all, though the sewiige consisted of all that comes from a general establishment, as stableyard, laundry, kitchen, &e., and rain water on yards, if there had been auy rain, yet owing to the absence of rain, although the sewage would have done admirably for Cabbages, Cauliflowers, and similar crops of that kind, it would have been too strong to have applied to pot plants at all tender without being diluted with clear water. Sometimes when the sewage is pumped up in barrels this mixing is not very easily done, and iu such a case we compromise the matter by half watering with the sewage, and then coming over the plants again with clean water. On the same principle we find that such sewage com- municated to Peach trees iu pots, might be a little over-strong for them, whilst it would answer well for trees planted out in the soil, whether in the open air or under glass. For most purposes we have used this sewage just as we took it, and even on flower beds it did no harm when sparingly applied at the roots, care being taken that the liquid was not spurted over the leaves. In our case, except under some circumstances, we know that owing to the body of water used the liquid will seldom be too strong for general purposes. Pure water must be obtained for mansions, even if it should have to be carted as in such a season as this, and when it has served its purpose it may be brought in as a useful aid to the garden, instead of being allowed to run to waste as is generally the case. We never thought of using the house sewage merely as a substi- tute for watering until four years ago, when we were even worse off for water than now. The main drain here terminates in a rather large reservoh-, and as that iilled the liquid found its way where it could, leaving its mark in a rank vegetation which nothing would eat. An iron pump w&s placed over the reservoir, so that we can easily fill a large barrel to be moved by a horse, and for wateiing at the roots wo shall not be quite run out so long as this supply Lasts, and it will so far last as long as there is a laundry in use, dishes to wash, and carriages to clean. The great thing for the inexperienced to bear in mind is simply this, that the less the clean water used, the stronger will be the sewage, and the more dangerous its application in its unweakened state. Thus we have used the liquid as it came from all parts of a stableyard without any addition. We have seen liquid that came from another yard that had no lain water, and little of clean water of any sort mingled with it, and that we would not have used without six times its bulk of clean water added to it. We can give no test in this matter, but experience and observation, and the experience is soon gained by trying the liquid on a few plants at first, and remark- ing its effects before using it freely. Tor general purposes of watering we prefer our sewage to pure water, but as no rain has yet reached us on this the 11th, we foresee that if it do not come soon all efforts to refresh foliage with water will be with us out of the question. Some of our correspondents have been amused at the small quantities of strong manures, as giiano, we recommend to be mixed in water ; and some of them have told us that when they used double and triple the quanlitv they had too much reason to rue it, and go back to the smaller quantity. In fact, all manure water should be given weak, there is then no danger ; and after the first trial or two there need be no difB- culty with sewage water, as the safe strength may be easily determined. Satisfy yourself by practice before using it largely. Eeeently we used sewage water rather freely at the roots, not only of Cauliflowers, which it just suits, but also to Verbenas, Calceolarias, Scarlet Pelargoniums, &c., and a day or two after the foliage looked blacker and healthier in cnsequence. This sewage was strong enough to leave its scent on the ground for an hour or two, but the earth soon takes away all scent of that kind. On this account, however, unless suitably prepared, such sewage should not be used near living-rooms. We are thus particular, in the hope that others scarce of water may have this supply to go to. KITCHEN OAEDEN. We were obliged to water Cauliflowers, Lettuces, Turnips, See., Jolj 16, 18C8. ] JOimNAL OF HOBXIOULTUBB AND COTTAGE GARDBNEB. 47 as the latter were becoming quite bard. Sowed Cabbages for the early ppriny crop ; a few Cauliflowers, Turnips, Ltttuoes, Euiiive, and tbo last row of Peas, watering the ground in every case before sowing, and then covering with mats, litter, &c., to keep the moisture in a little before the plants appeared. We have been able to keep young crops alive without watering by ahading with dry litter, evergreen boughs, &c. Sowed an earth pit of Dwarf Kidneij Beanit, soaking the drills first, and these if necessary wo can protect in the autumn. Here we may state that, against our wish, we have sown more this year of the small black Kidney Bnan, which produces long clear pods. 'We do not know how it may hold out for continuous bearing, but as yet it has been the most fertile variety we have ever met with, producing a vast number more flowers and pods than leaves. From a small border wo have gathered large (luantities for use both fresh and pickled. At one time we held this little black Bean in but small estimation, and always had an idea it produced speckled instead of clear green pods ; but now, if it hold out, wo shall assign it a first place, as being superior for ont-door cropping to (Jliina or Robin's Egg, Duns, Yellows, Fulmer's, and all the rest of them. The lljbin's Egg in such a season would be apt to produce many dumpy pods, with a seed swelling at the end before the pod had attained its full length. From plants of this little black Bean we have gathered a dozen pods, straight and clean, fully 5.J inches long, and no mark of a seed in them. From its dwarfness wo shall give it a trial for forcing next season. Succession crops, though young, have been attacked with the black iiy that is frequently SO troublesome on Broad Beans, and these have been syringed with lime water and soap water, and they are now nearly free from such enemies. We have several times mentioned that that fine Pea, Veitch's Perfection, did not produce enough to please us; but this season, dry though it has been, it has been with us more prolific than any other of the large Peas. FEniT GAHDEN. Strawberry runners will be very scarce with us this season, and the crop of fruit has almost dried up. Trees in orchard hoosea have had extra watering, and merely to save watering we have shaded the glass with whitened water. Some nice Pigs have been gathered from the most forward orchard house, also some good Plums, the house having been made more forward by shutting up earlier and giving air later. We are at a loss for clean water for syringing, and have used with good effect sewage for root-watering. Used also sewage water for watering the Vine borders, which are out of doors, as, after the covering had been removed, they were becoming dry, and as the soil, from the sun striking freely on it and being but slightly touched on the surface, became as warm as we wished it to be. After the watering, we covered the borders slightly with horse droppings and a little litter, which will protect them from the fierce sun a little, and if a good shower should come some of the virtues of the covering will be washed into the soil. Nearly finished thinning late Grapes. This could only be done in the morning and evening, owing to the heat. Cleared ontall the plants from the second vinery, and washed all the stages, &8., then covered ihem with a paint of lime and sulphur, and daubed all the pipes with sulphur and soft-soap, also doing the same on the wall where there was any chance of the sun's rays falling on it. Tbis was done by way of precaution to keep the red spider at a distance. Tbe floors and stages were also damped in the hottest part of the day, as we do not care to syringe over the foliage. We never think that plants do much harm in such houses until the fruit begins to ripen, then tbe less watering in the honse the better ; but in very hot weather the dryness may be carried too far, and a little spi inkling of water will help to keep the bunches plump and full. Figs have also needed extra watering, but nothir'; repays the trouble better. Provided the water is not stagnant, it is scarcely pos- sible to over-water a Fig tree after it has fairly taken to growth. Plants in pots run a risk of throwing off their fruit every time the soil becomes dry. In pits and frames where Melons and Cucnmbers were growing, ran a brush, with a paint made of lime, soot, and sulphur, near the top inside, to moderate the reflection of light, and yet emit some sulphurous fumes when the sun shines strongly. These fumes are the greatest annoy- ance to the red spider. As to tbe mere sulphur itself in its natural state, the red spider will walk in it as unconcernedly as among dust or earthy particles. Tbe fumes should never be too hot ; when they are given off from flues or pipes the heating material should never be warmer than 160°. When the fumes i are caused by the sun's rays striking on a wall, thoy will rarely bo so worm as that. In such bright weather whtn good Melons cannot have the shade of foliage, they will bo all the better of a thin piece of paper being suspended over them. OliNAlIENTAI, DBI'AUTMKNT. Very much the same as last week. Hoed and forked beds of shrubs, (Sic, to fill up cracks. Some Khododendrons are suf- fering from the drought. Proceeded with seeuting Hollyhocks and Dahlias. As we could not water, the spikes of the former will be shorter than usual. We prefer Dahlias to have only one stout stake, which is hidden as tbe plant attains maturity, and to this stake all the side shoots retained are loottly hasped, which keeps them secure and yet does not give the plant an artificial appearance. Secured Carnations with twisted wires instead of stakes, and proceeded with layering them and making cuttings as we could. The lawn was becoming a little patchy with green vigorous spots here and there, ond, therefore, first switched it over with the daisy knife, and then very lightly with the mow- ing machine, so as not to dip where there was nothing to cut. Plants in beds we watered at the roots chiefly with sewage water. Could we have the grass brightly green again the flowers would look much better. Shifted tor the conservatory into larger pots, strong plants of Feathered Cockscombs and Fuchsias. Shifted BaUams into larger pots for succession. Gave more shade and water to Ferns. Begonias and Caladiums ccme in well in shady parts of corridors, greenhouses, &c. The former are very im- patient of any flowers or leaves falling on their foliage. All plant houses are benefited by keeping the floors and stages moist, instead of drenching the plants too much at the roots. See last week as to Pelargoniums, Chinese Primroses, Cinera- rias, &c. All greenhouse plants out of doors and in pits and frames might be exposed at night fully were we sure of no thunder storm occurring. When there is any danger the sashes may be raised back and front so as to give a free current of air. In such weather we reduce the air to many plants during the day that they may require less water, and give it freely at night. We are not much afraid of a high temperature during the day, provided there is enough of air to prevent the accumulation of condensed vapour. Now is the beat time for sowivp Calceolaria.-; to flower early nest spring. The following is an excellent plan : — Fix on a shady pluce and there put a hand-light half filled with rough ashes. Fill a 6 inch pot to within 1 inch of the rim, half with drainage, the other halt with, first rough soil, then finer, and then very fine sandy loam with a little leaf mould or peat. Press, water well, and in six to ten hours sow on the surface, f-ive a dusting of silver sand over the seed, and press lightly. Place a square of glass over the pot, plunge the pot nearly to the rim in the ashes, and until the seedlings appear give enough of moisture by watering the ashes and not the surface of the pot. When the seedlings appear raise the square of glass a little, then in a short time remove it at nigbt, replacing it during the day; give air by the top of the hand-light, and as soon as the seedlings will bear it expose them fully ; prick out and keep in e. cool shady place, and they will be healthy and strong.— R. F. COVENT GARDEN MARKET.— Jdly 15. Therf. is in tbe market a vast accumulation of fruit both English aiifl foreign, the latter compriBing Pines, Grapes, Peaches, Nectariuee, Apri- cots, and Melons. Tha vegetable market is not so -well supplied. VEGETABLES. 8. d. Artichokes doz. 2 Asparagus lOO Beans, Kidney % sieve 4 Eeet, Ked doz. 2 Broccoli bundle Brns. Sprouts ^ sieve Cabbage doz. 1 Capsicums 100 Carrots bunch Cauliflower doz. S Celery bundle 1 Cucumbers each Endive doz. 2 Fennel bunch Garlic lb. Herbs bunch Horseradish . . bundle 3 Oto3 n u s 1 B n 6 1 u 6 '2 4 1 8 8 u S 1) ;> Leeks bunch Lettuce .... per score Mushrooms .... pottle Mustd.& Cress, punoet Onions per doz bchs. Parsley per sieve Parsnips doz. Peas per quart Potatoes bushel Kidney do. Kadishcs doz. bunches Rhubarb bundle Stn-kale basket Sballotg lb. Spinach bujibel Tomatoes. ... per doz. Turnips bunch R. d. E d I) 4 too •0 6 1 ;i 4 n (1 •A n n 6 S n 4 (1 s 1 fi U 9 ] (> 4 « (i 4 6 U ti II « 4 h U II 8 n (1 'i 1) » II » n 4 » u c 1 « iH JOURNAL OF HOETICOLTUBE AND COTTAGE GABDENEK. [ July 16, 1888. FRUIT. n. 6. n. d s. d. B. d Apples H sieve 1 6 too Melons . . each 3 0to6 Apricotfl .... ... doz. '), n 4 (1 Nectaricea . . . .. doz. 4 n 8 Cherries lb. n 3 1 .... 100 13 n n n Chestnuta . . . . . bush. n n Peaches ...doz. 6 n 13 n Currants . y. sieve 4 () (1 Pears (dessert) .. doz. 2 n n Black . . . .... do. 4 5 Pine Apples . . .... lb. 3 n 5 Figs ... doz. 4 H (1 Plnms 1 '. sieve () n Filberts lb. 1 1) Quinces .. doz. n n Cobs lb. !l 1 II Knspberrips . . lb. 4 8 Gooseberries . . quart U 4 K Strawberries . . per lb. fi 1 n Grapes, Hothouse. .!b. i> (1 f^ (1 Walnuts . bosh. 10 n 16 n LemoDS .... 100 H V2 do per 100 1 2 TO CORRESPONDENTS. ••• We request that no one will write privately to the depart- mental writers of the "Journal of Horticulture, Cottage Gardener, and Country Gentleman." By so doing they are subjected to unjustifiable trouble and expense. All communications should therefore be addressed solely to The Editors of the Journal of llorticulturc^ (&c,y 171, Fleet Street^ London, E.C. We also request that correspondents will not mix up on the same sheet questions relating to Gardening and those on Poultry and Bee subjects, if they expect to get them an- swered promptly and conveniently, but write them on separate communications. Also never to send more than two or three questions at once. Books {R. .Vii?fr).— Stephens's "Book of the Farm." SUPPLEBEEST OF " COTTAGE GARDENERS* DICTIONARY " ( W. S. W.).~The Supplement contains all necessary additions down to the end of last year. Catalogue of British Plants (M. H. ^.).— We know of no such catalogue as you mention. Gasometer near Vinery (O. Broirn).~Ii will not be at all infarious to the plants either in a vinery or in the open air. Seedlings (A'.). — There are very many better varieties of Pelargoniums and Fuchsias than those you enclosed. If the only merit of the Petunia is the yellow in its leaves it would not be valued. ' If the seedling Pelar- gonium with tricoloured leaves, not two of which are alike, proves per- manent in this peculiarity, it may be a desirable acquisition. Seedling Verbenas (G. Mason). —They were so shrivelled that wo can only say that the trusses are good nnd the colour (crimson) very rich. You had better send them to the Floral Committee as you propose. Rating Nurserymen's Grounds (An Old Correspondent) . — If overseers rate them improperly, the remeriy is to appeal. It is useless to complain unless the remedy has failed in procuring redress. RoLLissoN's Cucumber (W. S.).— Your notes refer to statements you made in a contemporary Journal, and our readers would not know to what you refer. Veitch's Early Ashleaf Potato