( I.ISS 
 
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 I'KK.ShNTKI) IIY 
 
I 
 
THE AMERICAN 
 
 FLOWER GARDEN DIRECTORY : 
 
 CONTAINING 
 
 PRACTICAL DIRECTIONS FOR THE CULTURE OF PLANTS 
 
 IN THE 
 
 FLOWER GARDEN, HOT-HOUSE, GREEN-HOUSE, ROOMS, 
 OR PARLOUR WINDOWS, 
 
 FOR EVERY MONTH IN THE YEAR. 
 
 WITH 
 
 A Description of the Plants most desirable in each, the Nature of the Soil, and 
 
 Situation best adapted to their Growth, the proper Season for 
 
 Transplanting, &c. 
 
 INSTRUCTIONS FOR ERECTING A 
 
 HOT-HOUSE, GREEN-HOUSE, AND LAYING OUT A 
 FLOWER GARDEN. 
 
 ALSO, 
 
 Table of Soils most congenial to the Plants contained in the Work. 
 
 THE WHOLE ADAPTED 
 
 To either Large or Small Gardens, with instructions for preparing the Soil, 
 Propagating, Planting, Pruning, Training, and Fruiting the 
 
 GRAPE VINE. 
 
 With Descriptions of the best Sorts for cultivating in the open Air. 
 
 NEW EDITION, WITH NUMEROUS ADDITIONS. 
 
 BY ROBERT BUIST, 
 NURSERYMAN AND FLORIST. 
 
 PHILADELPHIA : 
 
 CAREY AND HART. 
 
 1841. 
 

 Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1839, by Caket 
 & Hart, in the District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. 
 
 Gift 
 
 Judg.* jnd Mrs. I R. HItt 
 June ^'3 1-^36 
 
 
/ • / i:iO'-^'^ 
 
 PREFACE 
 
 TO THE FIRST EDITION 
 
 This volume owes its existence principally to the 
 repeated requests of a number of our fair patrons 
 and amateur supporters, whose inquiries and wishes 
 for a practical manual on Floriculture, at last in- 
 duced us to prepare a work on the subject. That 
 now offered is given unaffectedly and simply as a 
 plain and easy treatise on this increasingly inte- 
 resting subject. It will at once be perceived that 
 there are no pretensions to literary claims — the di- 
 rections are given in the simplest manner — the ar- 
 rangement made as lucidly as was in our power — 
 and the whole is presented with the single wish 
 of its being practically useful. How far our object 
 has been attained, of course our readers must judge. 
 Nothing has been intentionally concealed ; and all 
 that is asserted is the result of minute observation, 
 close apphcation, and an extended continuous ex- 
 perience from, childhood. We pretend not to in- 
 fallibility, and are not so sanguine as to declare our 
 views the most perfect that can be attained. But 
 we can so far say, that the practice here recommend- 
 ed has been found very successful. 
 
 Some very probably may be disappointed in not 
 having the means of propagating as clearly deli- 
 
IV PREFACE. 
 
 neated as those of culture ; but to have entered into 
 all the minutiae connected therewith, would have 
 formed materials for two volumes larger than the 
 present. We might have described that branch, as 
 it has already been done in works published both 
 on this continent and in Europe. In one of the 
 former it is said, " You may now propagate many 
 kinds (Exolic Plants) by suckers, cuttings, and lay- 
 ers, which should be duly attended to, particularly 
 such as are scarce and difficult to be obtained.-" And 
 the directions given in one of the most extensive 
 works in Europe on the propagation of an extensive 
 genus, varied in character and constitution, run 
 thus : *' Cuttings of most kinds will strike root. 
 From the strongest growing kinds, take off large 
 . cuttings at a joint, and plunge them in a pot of sand 
 under a hand-glass in the bark bed. Of the smaller 
 kinds take younger kinds, and put them under a 
 bell-glass, also plunged in heat. The sooner the 
 plants are potted off after they are rooted the better." 
 Such instructions to the inexperienced are im- 
 perfect and unavailing, which, we flatter ourselves, 
 is not the character that will attach to the present 
 Avork. We are well aware that there are persons 
 who, to show their own superior abilities, may cavil 
 and say that there is nothing new. To such critics 
 it may bo answered, if arranging, simplifying, di- 
 gesting, and rendering Floriculture attainable by 
 the humblest capacity, with useful hsts and tables 
 on a plan quite novel, as we believe — ofTer nothing 
 new, it may at least be called an improvement. 
 However, we submit all to a generous public, ta 
 whom we are already under many obligations. 
 
 HiBBERT & BUIST. 
 
 Philadelphia, April l&th, 1832. 
 
INTRODUCTION 
 
 In presenting to the lovers of Floriculture our 
 second edition, we congratulate them on the on- 
 ward and very prosperous condition of horticulture, 
 since this work first appeared. We have no desire 
 to take upon us to say how much ive have improved 
 our time ; but merely state, that we have condensed 
 the former edition as much as possible, and de- 
 prived it of any matter that has not withstood the 
 test, a few years more, of tried experience. We 
 have also introduced many new and beautiful plants, 
 and given minute instructions for their culture. 
 The new descriptions of the rose and camelha alone 
 exceed two hundred, and those of the most choice 
 description, (of which we have any knowledge,) 
 we have added their synonyms ; which, with other 
 improvements, we cheerfully throw before the ge- 
 nerous and discriminating lovers of Flora. We 
 
 1* 
 
\i INTRODUCTION. 
 
 have also annexed a few brief directions for the cul- 
 tivation of foreign grapes J a subject which now ab- 
 sorbs the attention of all who have any taste or re- 
 lish for fine fruits^ and described some of the most 
 choice sorts for open air culture. 
 
 In arrangement, a monthly calendar has its ob- 
 jections ; but it must be conceded that it has fewer 
 than any other that has as yet been adopted, and it 
 is, at all times, more accessible to the uninitiated 
 student. We also admit some verbal mistakes, 
 which, no doubt, have occurred, for which we beg 
 indulgence — confessing that our business has been 
 more with the ralce and the spade^ the plant and the 
 soil, than the composer's bureau. Our descriptions 
 of plants have been conveyed more with the view 
 of giving an idea of their character to the general 
 reader, than an accurate botanical synopsis, which 
 would have been known to the botanist alone. 
 All that we have described and recommended, have, 
 with few exceptions, passed under our own observa- 
 tion, and are such as are worthy of cultivation, either 
 for beauty of flower, foliage, or habit, together with 
 those celebrated in arts and medicine. Many may 
 possibly have passed unobserved, either from their 
 being very generally known, or difficult to obtain ; 
 but in no case has there been suppression from 
 business prejudices. Where the words " our col- 
 
\ 
 
 INTRODUCTION. VU 
 
 lections " occur, it is meant for those of the coun- 
 ty, generally. 
 
 All our observations have been guided by dint 
 of practice, and although others may differ, this 
 is designedly and professedly given as the result 
 of our own experience — the plan laid down is 
 our own routine of culture; the soils are those 
 which we adopt ; but, at the same time, conceding 
 that every art and profession is subject to im- 
 provement, and none more so than American hor- 
 ticulture. The table of soils was originally con- 
 structed at the expense of much investigation and 
 labour, and has, also, in this Edition, undergone 
 considerable improvement ; to every one that has 
 but a single plant, it will be found invaluable. 
 Although the publications in Europe, on Gar- 
 dening and Floriculture, are profuse ; yet many 
 of their directions, when practised in the United 
 States, prove almost a dead letter — not so with 
 their architectural and horticultural designs. The 
 estates of the wealthy are susceptible of great im- 
 provement ; they want more of the picturesque, and 
 (to use the word of the veteran pioneer of horti- 
 culture) gardenesque effect, to relieve their pre- 
 mises from the monotonous erections and improve- 
 ments which seem to govern all. On culture, a 
 
{ 
 
 Vlll INTRODUCTION. 
 
 work adapted to the climate must (and no other 
 can) be the guide in this country: on this ac- 
 count, a work Hke the present has been a desi- 
 deratum to aid the very rapid advancement of 
 the culture of flowers among the intelligent of our 
 flourishing republic. 
 
 Philadelphia, March, 1839. 
 
AMERICAN FLOWER GARDEN 
 
 DIRECTORY. 
 
 ON LAYING OUT A FLOWER GARDEN. 
 
 The Flower Garden is chiefly devoted to the cultivation 
 of showy flowering plants, shrubs, and trees, either natives 
 of this country or those of a foreign clime : it is a refined ap- 
 pendage to a country-seat, " suburban " villa, or city resi- 
 dence ; every age has had its principles of taste, and every 
 country its system of gardening. Our limits do not permit 
 us to enter minutely into the details of any of these systems, 
 but a few hints may not be out of place to those whose de- 
 sign is the laying out or improvement of the garden. The 
 Italian style is characterized by broad terraces and parallele 
 walks, having the delightful shade and agreeable fragrance 
 of the orange and the myrtle. Terraces may be advantageous- 
 ly adopted to surmount steep declivities; and, if judiciously 
 laid out, would convert a steril bank into a beautiful pro- 
 menade or choice flower garden. 
 
 The French partially adopt the above system, interspersing 
 it with parterres and figures of statuary work of every cha- 
 racter and description. When such is well designed and 
 neatly executed, it has a lively and interesting effect ; but 
 now the refined taste says these vagaries are too fantastic, 
 and entirely out of place. A late writer says of Dutch gar- 
 
10 ON LAYING OUT 
 
 dening, that it " is rectangular formality :" they take great 
 pride in trimming their trees of yew, holly, and other ever- 
 greens, into every variety of form, such as mops, moons, 
 lialbcrds, chairs, &c. In such a system it is indispensable to 
 order that the compartments correspond in formality, nothing 
 being more offensive to the eye than incongruous mixtures of 
 character. 
 
 The beauty of English gardening consists in an artful 
 imitation of nature, and is consequently much dependant on 
 aspect and locality. It is a desideratum where wood and 
 water can be combined with the flower garden, and the prac- 
 tical eye can dispose of an object to advantage by inter- 
 spersing shrubbery and walks, that the combined objects form 
 an agreeable whole. They are not to be disposed with a view 
 to their appearance in a picture, but to the use and enjoy- 
 ment of them in real life. 
 
 We will now endeavour to give an explicit exposition of 
 a system adapted to our variable climate of extreme heat 
 and excessive cold. Where choice of aspects can be ob- 
 tained, preference should be given to a south-east or east ; 
 but, if not, south or south-west, and, if possible, sheltered 
 by rising ground or full-grown woods from the north-west 
 and north. But to lay down directions for a flower gar- 
 den is not a little difficult, seeing that there cannot be any 
 given area or any description of local circumstances appli- 
 cable to all situations. A good soil is the sure foundation 
 on which to rear the grand floral superstructure, and the most 
 genial is a sandy loam : I mean by sandy loam a soil which 
 contains from one-sixth to one-tenth of sand ; and if on a 
 gravelly or sandy bottom, so much the better. Where the 
 general surface is gently undulating, it w^ill greatly add to 
 the beauty of arrangement ; if access to a spring can be ob- 
 tained, it will prove a desideratum in completing the whole : 
 it can be available for a fish-pond or an aquarium, or can be 
 converted into a swamp for the cultivation of many of our 
 
A FLOWER GARDEN. 11 
 
 most beautiful and interesting native plants, such as Haba- 
 naria, Lilium, Sarracenia, Dionea, &c., and on the margin of 
 which (if partially shaded) can be planted the beautiful vari- 
 eties of Azaleas, and the splendid flowering Rhododendron, 
 which, by the by, are alniost entirely neglected in all our 
 floral decorations. With many, the arrangement of a flower 
 garden is rather a matter for the exercise of fancy, than one 
 calling for the application of refined taste : true, it may be 
 said there is no mathematical law to guide the designer, so 
 that if he avoid incongruity of arrangement the end is accom- 
 plished. But, in commencing these operations, a design 
 should be kept in view that will tend to expand, improve, and 
 beautify the situation ; not, as we too frequently see it, the 
 parterre and borders with narrow walks up to the very 
 household entrance : such is decidedly bad taste, unless com- 
 pelled for want of room. For perspicuity, admit that the 
 area to be enclosed should be from one to three acres, a 
 circumambient walk should be traced at some distance within 
 the fence, by which the whole is enclosed ; the inferior walks 
 should partly circumscribe and intersect the general surface 
 in an easy serpentine and sweeping manner, and at such dis- 
 tances as would allow an agreeable view of the flowers when 
 walking for exercise. Walks may be in breadth from three 
 to twenty feet, although from four to ten feet is generally 
 adopted ; and, to have these dry and permanent, those that 
 are to be much used should have six to eight inches of the 
 bottom soil dug out in a concave manner, and in the centre 
 of the concave dig out a trench of about nine inches square 
 to form a drain, which may be made with brick or filled 
 with rough stone, and the concave may be filled with re- 
 fuse of buildings or broken stone to within three inches of 
 the desired height, which should be covered with gravel, and 
 then firmly rolled with a heavy roller. Where the gravel 
 cannot be obtained sand may be used, mixed with a few small 
 stones tobind it, but such needs very repeated rolling. Walks, 
 
/ 
 
 I 
 
 12 ON LAYING OUT 
 
 sucli as described, when completely finished, will last for 
 ages ; but many will not be disposed to go to such expense : 
 to those we say use Tanner's bark, which is very cheap and 
 accessible to all. The outer margin of the garden should 
 be planted with the largest trees and shrubs : the interior ar- 
 rangement may be in detached groups of shrubbery and par- 
 terres. In order that the whole should not partake of an uni- 
 form and graduated character, it should be broken and diver- 
 sified by single trees planted in the turf, or arising in scattered 
 groups from a base of shrubs. In some secluded spot rock- 
 work or a fountain, or both, may be erected ; the foundation 
 of the former should consist of mounds of earth, which will 
 answer the purpose of more solid erections, and will make 
 the stones go farther : rocks of the same kind and colour 
 should be placed together, and the greatest possible variety 
 of character, size, and form, should be studied, the whole 
 showing an evident and well defined connexion. These erec- 
 tions generally are stiff artificial disjointed masses, and 
 often decorated with plants having no affinity to their arid 
 location. The undertaking, wh^n well completed, will pre- 
 sent a field of varied and interesting study, and more than 
 compensate for the labour and expense bestowed upon it. If 
 it is desired that the flower garden should be a botanical study, 
 there should be some botanical arrangement adopted. 
 
 The Linnean system is the most easily acquired. A small 
 compartment laid out in beds might contain plants of all the 
 twenty-four classes, and a few of all the hardy orders, which 
 do not exceed one hundred. Or, to have their natural cha- 
 racters more assimilated, the Jussieuean system could be car- 
 ried into effect by laying down a grass plat to any extent 
 above one quarter of an acre, and cut therein small figures to 
 contain the natural families, which of hardy plants we do 
 not suppose would exceed one hundred and fihy. The 
 diflicullies of this arrangement are, that many of the charac- 
 ters are imperfectly known even to the most scientific. {Pro- 
 
Jan.] A FLOWER GARDEN, 13 
 
 fessor Lindley has given addilional light on the subject by his 
 last publication.) All the large divisions should be intersect- 
 ed by small alleys, or paths, about one and a half or two feet 
 wide. When there is not a green-house attached to the flower 
 garden, there should be at least a few sashes of framing or a 
 forcing pit to bring forward early annuals, &c,, for early 
 blooming. These should be situate in some spot detached 
 from the garden by a fence of Roses, trained to trellises, Chi- 
 nese Arbour vitae, Privet, or even Madura makes excellent 
 fences ; and, when properly trimmed, are very ornamental : 
 they require to be neatly and carefully clipped with shears 
 every September. In the southern states Noisette and China 
 Roses, with a profusion of Sweetbrier, would make the mast 
 beautiful of all fences, and could be very easily obtained ; a 
 fence three hundred feet long would only cost about one hun- 
 dred and twenty dollars. Frames forforcing should be made of 
 plank two inches thick, and well put together ; the sash should 
 be from five to seven feet long, and from three to four feet 
 wide, and filled with six by eight glass. In the framing ground 
 should be kept the various soils required for plants, and also 
 various characters of manure at all times ready for use, the 
 whole in regular heaps, and kept free from weeds. Having 
 given these brief outlines of a flower garden, we now pro- 
 ceed to give monthly directions for planting and keeping the 
 same in order. 
 
 JANUARY. 
 
 If the covering of the beds of choice bulbs, herbaceous 
 plants, or tender shrubs, has been neglected last month, let it 
 be done forthwith. The season is now precarious and delays 
 
 2 
 
14 FRAMING. [Jan. 
 
 are dangerous. For particular directions, see December. 
 Any bulbous roots that have been kept out of the ground 
 should be planted immediately, according to directions in 
 October. Some writers have recommended keeping some 
 of the bulbs until this month, in order to have a continued 
 succession. Experience will prove the inefficacy of the plan, 
 and will satisfactorily show that the difference is almost im- 
 perceptible, while the flowers are very inferior and much 
 degenerated ; and in place of having " a long-continued suc- 
 cession of bloom," there appear, along with your finest spe- 
 cimens, very imperfect flowers, calculated to discourage the 
 admirers of these " gaudy " decoralives of our flower gar- 
 dens. Whereas, every art employed should be to the ad- 
 vancement and perfection of nature. 
 
 OF FRAMING, &c. 
 
 The plants and roots that are in frames, should be pro- 
 tected with straw mats and boards, and the frame surrounded 
 •with litter, or leaves, or what is more advisable, banked with 
 lurf — the former being a harbour for mice and other ver- 
 min. For full directions, see December. Under this head 
 the plants, such as Auriculas, Polyanthus, Daisies, Car- 
 nations, Pinks, Pentstemons, Campanula pyramidalis. 
 Double rocket. Double stock, or Stockgillys, Double Wall- 
 Jloioer, Anemone, Ranunculus, &cc., as previously enume- 
 rated as frame plants, will require very little water, and be 
 sure to give none while they are in a frozen state. If snow 
 should cover them, the plants will keep in a fine slate under 
 it, so never remove snow from covering cold frames, even 
 suppose it should lie for weeks, — nature will operate here 
 herself. But when framing cannot be obtained, they will in 
 this latitude keep tolerably, if gently covered with leaves or 
 litter, using means to secure them from being blown over 
 the garden. 
 
Jan.] OF PRUNING. 15 
 
 OF PRUNING. 
 
 It is not advisable to carry on a general system of pruning 
 in this month, in whatever state the weather may be. The 
 severest frosts generally are yet to come, and too frequently 
 what is done now in this operation has to be repeated in the 
 spring, causing, at that time, work to a disadvantage; because, 
 if pruning, when done just now is accomplished judiciously, 
 whatever more is requisite to be done in the spring on the 
 same bush, will be injudicious. Hence, it is far preferable 
 to delay it till the frost is nearly over, when all can be done 
 to advantage. There are, undoubtedly hardy trees and some 
 shurbs, that may be pruned and thinned out any time from 
 the first of November to the first of March ; such as Cra- 
 toegus, Sorbus, Spirea, and even Althea, in the middle states ; 
 (the Double white Althea is very tender and requires to be 
 covered.) The tying together the loose branches of Juni- 
 per, Cedar, and Arbour vitae should be particularly attended 
 to, as heavy snow frequently destroys the shape of those 
 handsome shrubs by breaking down the branches, &c. — 
 When the snow is heavy, the precaution of shaking it off 
 should be resorted to. In many seasons, the beginning of 
 this month is open and admits of the operation of digging in 
 open quarters, which if not done, as advised last month, 
 ought not to be delayed. The fruits of it will appear in 
 the mellowed state of your soil in spring. 
 
 If there is any spare time, tallies, straight sticks or stakes, 
 may be prepared for summer use. Tie them up in neat bun- 
 dles, which will be of great service during the hurried period 
 of the year. An opportunity of this kind should always 
 be laid hold of; the beneficial results will in season be dis- 
 played. 
 
16 OF PRUNING, (kc. [Feb. 
 
 FEBRUARY. 
 
 When the borders and various compartments were dug in 
 the autumn, and compost, or a thin coating of well decom- 
 posed manure given, the advantage will now, in part, be ex- 
 perienced. If the weather is open about the end of the 
 montli, the pruning should be done with the utmost despatch, 
 that all may be prepared for a general dressing next month, 
 and let nothing be delayed which can now properly be ac- 
 complished, under the idea that there is time enough. 
 
 OF PRUNING, &c. 
 
 Generally, about the end of the month, the very severe 
 frosts are over, and when none need be apprehended tha» 
 would materially injure hardy shrubs, they may be freely 
 pruned, and the points cut of such shoots as may have been 
 damaged by the winter. Most of shrubs require nothing 
 more than to be thinned of straggling, irregular, and injured 
 branches, or of suckers that rise round the root, observing, 
 that they do not intermingle with each other. Never trim 
 them up in a formal manner ; regular shearing of shrubs, and 
 topiary work, have been expelled as unwortiiy a taste, the 
 least improved by reflections on beauty, simplicity, and 
 grandeur of nature. 
 
 In fact, the pruning of deciduous hardy shrubs, should be 
 done in such a manner as not to be observable when the 
 plants are covered with verdure. It may frequently be ob- 
 served in flower gardens, that roses and shrubs of every 
 description are indiscriminately cut with the shears, the 
 Amuj'phas, Viburnums^ and Altheas sharing the same fate. 
 
Feb.] OF PRUNING, &c. 17 
 
 Rohinias, Colilteas, Cyticus, Rhus, Genistas, with several 
 of the Viburnums, and many others, bear their flowers on the 
 wood of last year, and when thus sheared aflford no gratifica- 
 tion in flowering. And those shrubs that thus flower on the 
 shoots of last year are perhaps worse to keep in regular order, 
 than those to which the knife can be freely applied ; but good 
 management while young will ensure handsome free flower- 
 ing plants. 
 
 Climbing shrubs, and others that are trained against out- 
 buildings, walls, or such as are sheltered thereby, and not 
 now in danger of suff'ering by frost, may be pruned and 
 dressed. These should be neatly trimmed, and the branches 
 moderately thinned out, tying in all the shoots straight and 
 regular. Avoid, at all times, the crossing of any shoots. 
 
 There is not a shrub in the garden that agrees so well with 
 close cutting, as the Althea, and all its varieties. These can 
 be made either bushes or trees, and kept at any desired 
 height. Wiiere the wood of last year is cut to about two or 
 three inches from the vvood of the former year, the yotmg 
 shoots of the coming season will produce the largest and 
 finest flowers, and likewise more profusely. When they 
 have attained the desired height, let them be kept in the 
 most natural and handsome shape that the taste of the ope- 
 rator can suggest. They will bear cutting to any degree. 
 
 Honeysuckles of every description may, with all freedom, 
 be trimmed, providing the frost is not very severe. These 
 are very frequently allowed to become too crowded with 
 wood, and then superficially sheared or cut. The flowers 
 would be much finer, and the brush handsomer, if they were 
 regularly thinned out, divesting them of all naked and super- 
 fluous shoots. Of those that remain, shorten the shoots of 
 last year. Where any of the honeysuckle kind has become 
 naked at the bottom, and flowering only at the top of the 
 trellis, or extremities of the shoots, one half of the bush 
 should be cut to within four inches of the ground. It will 
 
 2* 
 
18 OF PRUNING, &;c. [Feb. 
 
 throw out plenty of fine young wood, which give room for, 
 and train them straight, and to the full extent, during sum- 
 mer. These shoots will flower profusely the following sea- 
 son, and in like manner, when thought proper, the olher half 
 can be cut. 
 
 Roses of the hardy kinds (termed garden roses) that were 
 not attended to in November, should, if the weather permit, 
 be dressed and pruned forthwith. In small gardens, where 
 these are generally attached to the walls and fences, neatness 
 should be a very particular object. If any of such bushes 
 have got strong and irregular, the most proper method to 
 bring them to order, will be to cut down each alternate shoot 
 of the bush to wuthin a few inches of the surface, thereby 
 renovating it, and, in part, preserving the flowers. Those 
 that are cut down will put out several luxuriant shoots, which 
 must be regularly tacked in, spreading them in a fan shape. 
 These, in another year, will flower well, when the others 
 may go through the same operation. Thus, in two or three 
 years, the bushes will have resumed a different, and more 
 agreeable aspect. By the above treatment, these ornaments 
 of the garden will always have a neat and healthful appear- 
 ance, and the roses will be much finer. Where they are in- 
 tended for the borders, they should never be allowed to get 
 too high. In a border from four to six feet, they ought 
 never to exceed four feet at the back of the border, and in 
 front one foot, after being pruned ; they can be kept down by 
 the above method. It is not advisable to cut down rose 
 bushes all at once, unless no regard is paid to flowering. 
 The roses that are in grass plats, and interspersed through the 
 garden, would have a superior appearance in every respect, 
 if they were kept and trimmed like small trees. They may 
 be of different sizes and heights, according to the distance 
 they are from the walk. A single stem may arise from six 
 inches to six feet, with a head in proportion to the height of 
 the stem, \^'here it is necessary to have them above two 
 
Feb.] OF PLANTING SHRUBS, &€, l9 
 
 feet, and likewise to carry a good head, inoculation must be 
 resorted to, which, in the months of July and August, will 
 be fully treated of. All under two feet (except the weak 
 growing kinds) will do on their own stems, taking care not 
 to allow shoots to arise from the bottom during the summer. 
 For directions for pruning climbing roses, see March and 
 April- 
 
 OF PLANTING SHRUBS, &c. 
 
 As soon as the frost is out of the ground, these should be 
 planted if the soil is not loo wet. Where soil is binding, 
 upon no consideration plant in it while wet, rather defer it 
 until the end of March. 
 
 Trees and shrubs, if they are well arranged, are the chief 
 ornaments, give the m.ost pleasure, and afford the greatest de- 
 light that we enjoy in our gardens. Although they give no 
 sort of nourishment, nor produce any edible fruits, yet they 
 are particularly grateful and conducive to our enjoyments. 
 Our walks in summer would be oppressive, but for their 
 agreeable shade ; in the fall and winter, we would be left ex- 
 posed to the chilling winds, but for the shelter they afford. 
 
 Likewise they produce a great variety of flowers, a varied 
 foliage, and are standing ornaments that give no great trou- 
 ble. In the character of screens they are particularly useful, 
 whether to hide disagreeable objects, or as a guard against 
 the weather; or, if they are planted in masses at a distance, 
 they soon become agreeable objects, frequently very much 
 improve the scenery of the place, become objects of utility 
 as well as ornament, and, in such case, afford the highest sa- 
 tisfaction. When formed so as to exclude offices from the 
 view of the house, or for sheltering the latter, or for connect- 
 ing the house with the garden, orchard, or any similar pur- 
 pose, shrubs are both useful and interesting. 
 
 Where many shrubs are to be planted, the disposing of 
 
20 OF PLANTING SHRUBS, &C. [Feb. 
 
 them properly is a matter of considerable importance to the 
 future welfare of the whole ; and, whether deciduous or ever- 
 greens be mixed or grouped, that is, indiscriminately planted 
 together, or the evergreens planted by themselves, as is fre- 
 quently done, a regular and natural arrangement is indispen- 
 sable for establishing ornament. 
 
 Arranging, no doubt, depends very much on fancy ; still, 
 there ought always to be plenty of evergreens planted, that 
 the whole may be more cheerful in winter. 
 
 If shrubberies were made to a great extent, the scenery 
 would be much more varied and characteristic by grouping 
 judiciously than by indiscriminately planting. 
 
 However, in small flower gardens and shrubberies, the 
 latter has to be adopted. In such places, tall growing kinds 
 should never be introduced, unless merely as a screen from 
 some disagreeable object, for they crowd and confuse the 
 whole. The dwarf and more bushy sorts should be placed 
 nearest to the eye, in order that they may conceal the naked 
 stems of the others. Generally when shrubs are planted, 
 they are small ; therefore, to have a good effect from the be- 
 ginning, they should be planted closer than they are intend- 
 ed to stand. When they have grown a few years, and in- 
 terfere with each other, they can be lifted, and such as have 
 died, or become sickly, replaced, and the remainder can be 
 planted in some other direction. Keep them always dis- 
 tinct, one from another, in order that they may be the better 
 shown oflf. But, if it is not desired that they should be 
 thicker planted than it is intended to let them remain, the 
 small growing kinds may be six or eight feet apart ; the 
 larger, or taller sorts, ten to twenty feet, according to the 
 condition of the soil. 
 
 Thick masses of shrubbery, called thickets, are sometimes 
 wanted. In these there should be plenty of evergreens. A 
 mass of deciduous shrubs has no imposing effect during win- 
 ter ; and, as this is not the proper season for planting ever- 
 
Feb.] OF PLANTING SHRUBS, &C. 2l 
 
 greens, (April, and the end of September, or first of October 
 being best,) small stakes can be placed in the destined spot. 
 Planting in rows, or in any plan of a formal character, should 
 at all times be avoided. 
 
 In planting at this season, observe that the roots are not 
 much exposed to the air, especially if the wind be high and 
 sharp ; but it is always better, if possible, to defer the busi- 
 ness until good, mild weather. According to directions in 
 November, the ground will be well prepared, and only re- 
 quires a hole dug for the reception of the roots, which must 
 be considerably larger, that the roots may not be in the least 
 confined. Break the earth well at bottom, put in as much as 
 will receive the plant from one to two inches (according to 
 its size) lower than it has previously been in the Nursery. 
 If any of the roots are bruised or broken, cut them off; then 
 place the plant in the centre of the hole, breaking fine all the 
 soil that is put in, at the same time shaking the stem a little, 
 that the earth may mix with the roots ; when full up, press 
 all the soil down with the foot, that it may, in some degree, 
 consolidate about the roots, and support the plant. Tall 
 plants should have a good stake for support, and place a small 
 bandage between the stake and stem of the shrub or tree, 
 where the tie is made, to prevent the bark from suffering by 
 friction. Observe, always, before planting, if the soil is not 
 suitable, to supply that which is congenial to the nature of the 
 intended plant. When shrubs or trees are to be carried to 
 any distance, the roots should be carefully kept from air, by 
 tying damp moss, straw or mats about them, as circum- 
 stances will admit : the success, in part, depends on due at- 
 tention being paid, to prevent the roots drying before plant- 
 ing. Although we have given the above directions for 
 planting, in this month, it will frequently occur, that they 
 can only be put into practice during the next, as this month 
 is often the severest of the season. 
 
22 OF HYACINTH AND OTHER BULBS. [March. 
 
 OF HYACINTH AND OTHER BULBS. 
 
 Towards the end of the month, if the weather proves fa- 
 vourable, the covering should be partially taken off from the 
 Hyacinihs, Tulips, and other bulbous roots. It sometimes 
 occurs, that, by careless planting in the autumn, they are 
 thrown above ground by the frost, especially if the ground 
 is inclined to moisture, and they not being deep enough 
 planted : if such is the case, cover them with decayed leaves, 
 old tan, or soil, whichever is most convenient ; if not done, 
 the sun and air will overpower the bulbs, and, although the 
 fibres have hold of the ground, the flowers will be miserably- 
 weak. 
 
 MARCH. 
 
 As soon as the frost is entirely gone, uncover all plants or 
 shrubs that have beeu protected, preserving carefully such of 
 the materials as will answer the same purpose next season. 
 Cut off all decayed shoots, or such as have been hurt by the 
 frost. The Lagerstramias will flower in greater perfection, 
 if they are pruned closely ; that is, cut the shoots of last year, 
 to within two or three eyes of the wood of the previous 
 year, at the same time, having regard to the regular and na- 
 tural shape of the bush. Cut off the injured foliage of any 
 of the evergreens that have suffered by the severity of the 
 winter, but leave every green part which is essential to the 
 support of these kind of plants. It is expected that all 
 pruning of the shrubbery is finished ; if not, get all expedi- 
 tiously done according to directions given in the preceding 
 months. All work that can be done in this month, should 
 
March.] of framing. 23 
 
 not be delayed, such as hoeing, digging, raking, and clearing 
 away all leaves and litter of every description that have been 
 brought or blown into the garden during autumn or winter. 
 
 OF FRAMING. 
 
 Where it is desired to have the more showy annuals early 
 in bloom, it is necessary to prepare a hot-bed frame, for the 
 purpose of bringing them forward. It is time about the first 
 of the month, to collect and prepare manure for the desired 
 hot-bed ; and, as that operation, in many instances, is very 
 imperfectly performed, a few observations on the subject 
 may be useful. 
 
 Take three parts of fresh hot stable manure, with one part 
 of fresh oak leaves. Have a sufficient quantity to make the 
 intended bed or beds from three to four feet high. Shake 
 and mix up both together in a compact conical heap, in order 
 to encourage fermentation. If the weather is cold and windy, 
 cover it with straw or leaves and boards, which is necessary 
 to produce the desired effect. If fermentation soon takes 
 place, it will need to be thoroughly turned over in eight or 
 ten days. If any of it has become dry and musty from ex- 
 cessive heat, as you proceed, water the affected parts, pile all 
 up neatly, and leave it protected in part as before. In five 
 or six days more, it will have to be turned again, repeating 
 it until the first extreme heat has been over. In neglect of 
 this, the heat, after making up the bed, will be vehement for 
 a week or two, frequently destroying the vegetative purity 
 of the soil, and proving destructive to the seeds. 
 
 Allowing the manure to come to a lively heat, having no 
 unpleasant, rancid smell, proceed to mark off your intended 
 bed, running it east and west as nearly as possible, measure 
 your frame, and allow the site of the bed eight inches each 
 way larger than the frame : at the corners, place a stick or 
 
24 OP FRAMING. [March. 
 
 rod perpendicularly. The ground ought to be higher than 
 that around it, to prevent water from getting into the bed, 
 which, if low, must be filled up ; or, if supposed that water 
 may lodge there, a little brushwood might be put under the 
 manure, which would keep it from being inundated. The 
 manure must be built up square and level, shaking, mixing, 
 and beating it regularly with the back of the fork. When 
 you have it to the desired height, (from two to three feet 
 will be sufficient for annuals,) leave the centre of the bed a 
 little higher than the sides, thus allowing it more to subside. 
 When finished, put on the frame and sash or sashes, keep 
 them close until the heat arises, covering them at night with 
 mats or shutters. As soon as you feel the heat increased, 
 give air by tilting the sashes a few inches to let off the steam 
 and stagnated air, observing to close in the afternoon, and 
 cover at night. If the heat is violent, about half an inch of 
 air might be left during the night. In about three days, if 
 all has been properly attended to, the bed will be what is 
 termed sweet. Then put in about six inches of fine garden 
 soil; if heavy, mix a little sand with it. Spread it level, and, 
 when the soil is heated through, sow in small drills from one 
 eighth to an inch deep, according to the size of the seeds, 
 cover with very fine sifted soil. Some very small kinds do 
 best when sown upon the surface. When sown, give gentle 
 sprinklings of water until they come up, when it will be 
 necessary to give air freel}^ during the day to prevent them 
 from being weak, or damping off, which many of them will 
 do if they have not air regularly admitted. 
 
March.] list of choice annuals, &;c. 25 
 
 LIST OF CHOICE FLOWERING ANNUALS ADAPTED 
 FOR SOWING ON A HOT-BED. 
 
 Argeratum mexicana, blue flowered Argeratum. 
 Asclepias curassavica, swallow wort, orange, and red flow- 
 ered. 
 Aster Chinensis, China Aster, or Queen Margarets, in great 
 variety. The late imported German Asters are of ex- 
 traordinary beauty. 
 Balsamine hortensis, Balsam, commonly called Ladies Slip- 
 per. 
 Browallia alata, upright blue and white Browallia. 
 Cacalia coccinea, scarlet Cacalia. 
 Calandrinia grandiflora, rose-coloured Calandrin, 
 
 discolor, rosy purple. 
 Celosia cristata, Coxcomb, two varieties, red and yellow. 
 Centaurea americana, American Sultan. 
 
 suaveolens, yellow sweet Sultan. 
 Clarkia elegans. elegant rose-coloured Clarkia. 
 Dulchella, showy purple Clarkia. 
 
 alba, white flowery Clarkia. 
 Cleome-grandiflora, large lilac flowering spider plant. 
 Clintonia elegans, elegant blue Clintonia. 
 Collinsia bicolor, two-coloured Collinsia. 
 
 heterophylla, lilac and white. 
 Comraelina ccelestis, blue flowering Commelina. 
 Dianthus chinensis, china pink, many fine double varieties, 
 Gomphorina globosa, red and white Globe Amaranthus. 
 Hibiscus raanihot, large yellow Hibiscus. 
 
 africanus major, buff" with black centre. 
 Helichrysum bracteatum } 
 ZerantJiemum luccidum, ^ ^^^^^ everlasting. 
 
 3 
 
26 LIST OF CHOICE ANNUALS, &C. [Ma7cJl. 
 
 , , , ^ Rose-coloured flowers like 
 
 Lopnospermum erubescens, , t^. • ,. r v i. 
 
 ^ ^ , > the Digitalis, a fine climb- 
 
 scandens, 
 
 J er for arbours. 
 Malope alba, white flowering Malope. 
 
 grandiflora, large red flowering Malope. 
 Mathiola annua, all the varieties of ten week stocks should 
 be industriously cultivated, and seed sown also in 
 April and May for autumn blooming. 
 
 "] Climbing plants 
 
 Maurandia Barclay ana, blue flowering, U^^ pillars trel- 
 
 semperflorens, pink flowering, / jj^^^^ ^^ ^^^^^^^^ 
 
 Mesembryanthemum glaciale, Frozen plant, 
 
 crystallinum, Ice plant. 
 Mimosa pudica, Sensitive plant. 
 Mimulus Wheelerii, Monkey flower, yel- 
 low and crimson. 
 Smithii, Smith's yellow and red. v Will grow best 
 Variegatus, variegated pink and j inwetplaces. 
 
 white, 
 cardinalis, scarlet, 
 roseus, rose-coloured. 
 Petunias of variety, a beautiful genus of plants of every va- 
 riety of colour, from deep purple to pure white, 
 blooming from June till frost; the seeds are .<:mall 
 and require to be very lightly covered. 
 Portulaca grandiflora, great flowered Purslane. 
 
 Gilesii, rosy purple flowered Purslane. 
 Salpiglossus picta, atropurpurea, &c., delight in a cool si- 
 tuation. 
 Schizanthus rctusus, orange-coloured ^ 
 
 Schizanthus, Like a rich soil, and 
 
 Scliizanthus pinnalus calico Schizan- \ a cool and parlial- 
 ihus, I ly shaded situa- 
 
 Schizanthus Hookcrii, and afew other | tion. 
 
 varieties. J 
 
 Shortia californica, yellow Shortia, very profuse flowering 
 
]\[arcJl.] LIST OF CHOICE ANNUALS, &C. 27 
 
 Tao-etes, Mary-gold, the new varieties of the French are 
 
 very pretty — they hke rich soil and plenty of 
 
 moisture. 
 Tropaeolum aduncum, Canary bird flower, a climber and a 
 
 very scarce plant. 
 Tropaeolum atrosanguineum, crimson Nastartium, -n 
 Thumbergia alata, buff with black centre. > ^^ ^"^ 
 
 alba or Fragrans, white flowered. ) P ' , 
 Verbena aubletia, rose-coloured. 
 
 bonariensis, blue. 
 
 erinoides, liglit lilac 
 
 A lovely family 
 of pretty and 
 
 ingplantsgene. 
 rally of a pro. 
 cumbent habit. 
 
 Drummondii, rosy lilac. > P'°^f ^ ^°'^^^ 
 
 pulchella, Procumbens, purple 
 
 lilac. 
 
 sabiniana. 
 
 Vinca rosea, Madagascar Periwinkle. ^ Thrive best in a 
 
 alba, white flowered Peri- ( warm, dry, silua- 
 
 winkle. ) tion with rich soil. 
 
 Zennia elegans, splendid Zennia. 1 -rr , , , 
 
 1 I Very showy plants, and 
 
 coccinea, scarlet, i / , -^ , 
 
 ,, , - 'i do best when thev 
 
 alba, white. y v j 1 
 
 •a 1 I are well supphed with 
 
 paucmora, yel- ^^ 
 
 , 'i water, 
 
 low. J 
 
 Though the above will bloom much earlier by being sown 
 on a hot-bed, yet where that convenience cannot be obtained 
 they will all succeed treated as hardy annuals. 
 
 After sowing, if the weather be clear, the sun acting on 
 the glass, will produce a too rapid evaporation of the mois- 
 ture of the soil, and may otherwise aff'ect seeds but thinly 
 covered, which must be guarded against by shading with 
 mats for a few hours during bright sunshine. In giving 
 water it ought always to be about milk warm, and passed 
 through a fine rose, to prevent the stems being broken or 
 bruised. Weeds must be draw out as soon as they ap- 
 pear. 
 
28 HARDY ANNUALS. [Morch. 
 
 HARDY ANNUALS. 
 
 Many annual plants, though of short duration, are pos- 
 sessed of much beauty of hue and elegance of form : they are 
 farther valuable from their adaptation in filling up vacant 
 spots through the flower garden or parterre. They are, be- 
 sides, of easy culture, many requiring nothing more than to 
 have the seeds sown in the spot where they are to grov/* 
 The first sowing may take place about the end of the month' 
 when the ground is prepared and the weather fine, but avoid 
 it at all times when the ground will not pulverize properly. 
 The neatest and most expeditious method is to take a rod 
 about one foot long and one inch in diameter, rounding at 
 the end, with which draw a circle from four to nine inches 
 in diameter, and from one-eighth of an inch to an inch deep, 
 according to the size of the seeds. Many very small seeds 
 will grow best, if sown on the surface of fine mould. When 
 sown, cover with fine mould, placing a small twig or tally, 
 with the name in the centre of the circle to prevent mistakes, 
 either in sowing, planting, or hoeing. When they have 
 grown from one to two inches — the first moist day should 
 be taken to remove such as are too crowded, which can be 
 generally transplanted to some other situation, taking care 
 to shade them, a few days, with flower pots, or some other 
 substitute. A few kinds do best with removing, such as 
 Balsams, China Asters, Mary-gold, 10 week stocks. Hibis- 
 cus, Zennias, and several others, of a free growing, and 
 strong-wooded nature. Annuals are such plants as grow 
 from seed, flower, and perfect their productions, and then 
 die within one year. The following sorts are well deserving 
 of culture : 
 
 Adonis miniata, Flos Adonis or Pheasant's eye, red. 
 Amaranlhus caudatus, Love lies Bleeding, red and yellow 
 variety. 
 
March.] hardy annuals. 29 
 
 Amaranthus hypocondriacus, Prince's Feather, red. 
 
 tricolor, three-coloured Amaranthus should 
 be sown on rather poor soil — on rich soil it 
 has little beauty. 
 Calendula hybrida, great Cape Mary-gold. 
 Centaurea nioschata, purple sweet Sultan. 
 Centaurea cretica, white sweet Saltan. 
 Centaurea suaveolens, yellow sweet Sultan. 
 Collinsia grandiflora, blue Collins' flower. 
 Convolvulus purpureus, major of the gardens, dwarf blue 
 Bindwed, and decidedly the most beautiful of 
 the group. 
 Calliopsis bicolor, formerly Coreopsis tinctoria or Fair Eye ; 
 a very gay plant, and flowers best when sown in 
 October. 
 Calliopsis atrosanguinea, crimson Calliopsis. 
 Delphinum ajacis, Rocket Larkspur, many varieties, all su- 
 perb, and do best to be sown in rich mould in 
 October. 
 Delphinum consolida, branching Larkspur, various colours. 
 Euphorbia variegata, variegated Euphorbia. 
 Elscholtzia crocea Orange. (Now chryseis.) 
 californica yellow, 
 cristata, red, 
 Gilia tricolor, three-coloured Gilia, ] 
 
 capitata, blue-coloured. ^Blooms all summer, 
 
 lacinata, pink-coloured. J 
 
 Heliophila araboides, blue sun love, very pretty. 
 Hunnemannia fumarifolia, yellow, blooms from June to 
 
 October. 
 Iberis amara, white Candytuft. 
 
 umbellata, purple Candytuft, 
 violacea, violet Candytuft. 
 i odorata, white sweet-scented Candytuft, 
 splendens, large purple, sweet-scented Candytuft. 
 Ipomoea quamoclit, cypress vine, the seed will grov/ freely, 
 if soaked two or three hours in hot water. 
 
30 HARDY ANNUALS. [March, 
 
 Ipomoea quamoclit, flore alba, a dull white, 
 Lathyrus odoralus, sweet Pea of many varieties. 
 Leptosiphon densiflorus, dense-flowered Leptosiphon. 
 Loasa lateritia, orange-coloured Loasa, a clinibing plant. 
 Lupinus, many varieties ; they require to be partially shaded 
 
 from hot suns. 
 Malope-trifida, scarlet Malope. 
 
 Mirabilis jalapa, marvel of Peru, many varieties. If the 
 roots of this plant are lifted in October, and 
 placed in a dry cellar, free from frost, and planted 
 out next April, they will bloom much finer. 
 Nemophila insignis, or blue Grove Love, a pretty dwarf 
 plant, requiring rich soil and a half shaded situa- 
 tion. 
 (Enoihera or tree Primrose ; many varieties of the annual 
 species, produce their flowers in much greater 
 perfection, if planted or sown in poor soil. To 
 this ansiloba, sinuata, and tetraptera, are excep- 
 tions, as they flower the finest in a rich light 
 loam. 
 Phlox Drummondi, rosy red, a superb article, and blooms 
 from May till October. In dry situations it is apt 
 to die off unless partially shaded. 
 Reseda odorata. Mignonette ; to have it in perfection the 
 whole season, there should be a sowing in May 
 and July. It delights in a rich loamy soil, 
 Silene elegans, elegant white Catch-fly. 
 Silene picta painted. 
 
 Viola tricolor, Pansy or Heart's-ease, require very rich soil, 
 and should be shaded from hot sun ; if sown early in 
 the season, they will flower profusely in the autumn. 
 
 For other varieties of Annuals, see list adapted for hot-bed 
 sowing. We have omitted many not agreeing with our cli- 
 mate, or those very common for such, we refer our readers 
 to the lists published, annually, by respectable seedsmen. 
 
March.] box edgings. 31 
 
 BOX EDGINGS. 
 
 May be planted any time this month, or beginning of next, 
 which in most seasons will be preferable. We will give a 
 few simple directions how to accomplish the work. In the 
 first place, dig over the ground deeply where the edging is 
 intended to be planted, breaking the soil fine, and keeping it 
 to a proper height, namely, about onejnch higher than the 
 side of the walk ; but the taste of the operator will best de- 
 cide, according to the situation. Rake the surface even, and 
 tread it down with the feet, or beat it with the spade. Where 
 it gives most, continue to add, keeping the surface at the de- 
 sired height. If the edging is to be in a direct hne, either 
 on a level or inclined plane, you may be correctly and sim- 
 ply regulated by making the desired level at each end of the 
 line. Take three rods about four feet long each, having a 
 piece of one foot to cross at one end, two of these pieces 
 painted black, the other white. Have a black one at each 
 end of the line on the level, take the white one for the cen- 
 tre, going along the line, and about every twenty feet, level 
 a spot to the exact height, which will be seen by looking 
 over the top of the rods from one end. Having found the 
 level, drive in a peg to it, so that no mistake may occur ; 
 beat and level between them, leaving a smooth surface. This 
 being done, strain the line, and with the spade proceed to 
 cut out the trench perpendicularly on the side next the walk, 
 six, eight, ten, or twelve inches deep, according to the length 
 of the plants. Afterwards take the plants, and cut the tops 
 even, with the knife or shears, at the same time shortening 
 the roots. Then with the left hand next the line, plant for- 
 ward, keeping the tops of the plants level, and from one to 
 two inches above ground, keeping the plants close according 
 to the required thickness. Put in the earth as you proceed, 
 and tread it firm, then rake the surface even, and with the 
 spade beat it smooth. If the weather sets in very dry, the 
 
32 HARDY BIENNIALS. [March. 
 
 box will be the better of a few waterings. Sometimes box- 
 wood is planted without roots, but it seldom gives satisfac- 
 tion ; not growing equally. 
 
 GRASS AND OTHER EDGINGS. 
 
 Grass verges for walks and borders, although frequently- 
 used, are, by no means, desirable, except where variety is 
 required ; they are the most laborious to keep in order, and 
 at best are inelegant, and the only object in their favour is, 
 there being everywhere accessible. Iris humilis, Viola 
 tricolor, thyme, Sea Pink, (Stattice Armeria,) Mignonette, 
 Phlox subulata, and Phlox procumbens, all make tolerable 
 edgings. In the southern states. Verbena Tweediana — v, 
 alba, V, intermedia and other varieties, will make the most 
 lovely edging for walks and borders that can be imagined, 
 and will bloom profusely from May till November. 
 
 HARDY BIENNIALS. 
 
 Biennial plants are such as are of two years' duration. 
 Being sown this year they flower, seed, or fruit next year, 
 and soon after decay : the seeds should be sown about the end 
 of this month or beginning of next, either in the spot where 
 they are to remain or a compartment by themselves, regularly 
 marked, and to be transplanted in May or September. When 
 they appear above ground thin them out distinctly, that, 
 when they are to be removed, a little earth may adhere to 
 them ; and, if sown where they are to stand, leave only three 
 or four plants in each patch. The following list are a few of 
 the free-blooming and more elegant sorts : 
 
 Agrostema coronaria, Rose Campion, blooms all summer. 
 
 Althea rosea, Plollyhock, and all its varieties, very showy in 
 July and August. When any very desirable variety is 
 procured, it can be multiplied by dividing the root. 
 
Blooms in June 
 and July. 
 
 March.] hardy biennials, 33 
 
 Anterhinum majus, Snap-dragon, and its varieties, require 
 to be protected during winter with a few leaves 
 or litter. 
 Cantua coronopifolia, flowers in August and September,beau- 
 liful scarlet, delights in dry gravelly soil. 
 Ipomopsis elegans. 
 Campanula Siberia, Blue Siberian, Bell flower, flowers in July 
 
 and August. 
 Campanula media, dark blue Canterbury ' 
 
 bell, 
 Campanula media, semi-pleno, half dou- 
 ble Canterbury bell, 
 Campanula media, alba, white Canterbury 
 
 bell, 
 
 Campanula thyrsoides. 
 Cheiranthuscheiri,Wall-flower,shouldbe protected by leaves 
 
 or boards during winter. 
 Digitalis purpurea, purple Fox glove. 
 
 alba, white Fox glove, 
 lutea, yellow Fox glove. 
 Dianthus barbatus. Sweet William pink. 
 
 coccineus crimson pink, 
 fl. pi. double flowered ; the double sorts 
 can be propagated by laying, same as 
 carnations. 
 Gerardia purpurea, purple Gerardia, "] Natives of 
 
 flava, yellow Gerardia, ^this coun- 
 
 quercifolia, spotted flowered Gerardia, J try. 
 Hedysarum coronarium, red flowered French Honeysuckle, 
 Humea elegans, scarlet Humea, flowers in June and Septem- 
 ber. 
 Lunaria biennis. Honesty, various colours, not beautiful, but 
 
 curious in seed. 
 Oenothera corymbosa, dwarf Evening Primrose, 
 Papaver nudicaule, naked-stemmed yellow Poppy. 
 
34 HARDY BIENNIALS — PERENNIALS. \March. 
 
 Scabiosa alropurpurea, musk-scented Scabius. 
 Silene multiflora, many-flowered Catch-fly. 
 
 There might be many other beautiful biennial plants enu- 
 merated, which arejustly considered worthy of attention; but 
 most of them do not withstand the severity of our winters, 
 ahhough very much prized in England. 
 
 PERENNIALS. 
 
 In every flower garden there ought to be a good selection 
 of these plants. They are lasting ornaments ; and, when ju- 
 diciously selected, will give yearly gratification. In making 
 a choice, a view should be to have those that flower abundant- 
 ly, are of free growth, beauty, and continuation of bloom. 
 It would go beyond our limits to give an extensive descrip- 
 tion of any, but a few remarks on some of the finest, with 
 their names, are indispensable. 
 
 Adonis verndlis, is a fine border flower, and will grow in 
 any common soil ; flowers large, yellow rayed, having in the 
 rays about twelve petals ; leaves much divided, blooms in 
 April and May. 
 
 Anemone, Wind-flower. Several fine species, with flowers 
 from one to three inches in diameter. A. Halleri, blue ; A. 
 pulsatilla,h\\ie pasque flower; A. alpina, large white. These 
 are fine plants, and are now given to a genus called Pulsatil- 
 la. A . palmatajlbre-pJeno, yellow ; A . stellata versicolor, va- 
 rious coloured ; A. pavoninajldre-pleno, scarlet; A. narcissi- 
 flora, white. Any of these are very desirable. 
 
 Antirrhinums, Snap-dragon, All the varieties of A. majus 
 arc esteemed in the flower borders ; the pure while, bright 
 red, and variegated, are very showy. A few of the species, 
 A. molle and A. siculum,\v\\eTQ there is variety required, de- 
 serve a situation. The flowers are all large, and similar to 
 the snout of an animal 
 
March.] perennials. 35 
 
 Anthericum lilidstrum, St. Burnos Lily, is an excellent lili- 
 acous plant, with yellow flowers, blooming in June, July, and 
 August, and will grow in any common garden soil. 
 
 Asclepias. The finest of this genus are native plants, and 
 are highly esteemed in Europe, but frequently rejected with 
 us, because " they are wild plants." A. tuherbsa has beauti- 
 ful orange flowers, and delights in dry situations. A. riihra, 
 A. nivea, A. purpurdscens ; and A. incarndta, are the finest 
 of the family. It is best to plant A. tuber osa in October. 
 
 Aconitums, Wolfs'-bane, one hundred and twenty-eight 
 distinct species, with several varieties. Many of them are 
 of consequence and beauty ; the flower stems rise from one 
 and a half to six feet upright, and strong, furnished with many 
 palmate and digitate leaves, terminated by spikes of blue, 
 yellow, or white flowers, similar to a hood ; hence the name 
 of Monk's Hood is often applied to them. They are scarce 
 in collections ; but, in a few years, we have no doubt but 
 many of them will be plentiful. The finest species are A. 
 speciosum, A . anthbrut A. neurbergensis, A. amcBnum, A. na- 
 pellus, A.venustum,A. zooctonuniyA. pyramiddle,A. lycocto- 
 num, A. album, A. versicolor, A. variegatum, and A. grandi- 
 jiorum. They flower from May to September, and will grow 
 in any common garden soil. The roots of A. napellus are 
 like small turnips, and are said to be poisonous. They like 
 a little shade and rich soil. 
 
 Cdlthapalicstris flore-pleno is a good border plant, delights 
 in moist situations, has large cordate, crenated leaves; flowers 
 double yellow ; blooming from April till June ; and is a de- 
 sirable plant. 
 
 Bellis perennis horlensis,Daisy. We might almost say with 
 another, " Every one knows the Daisy." It is named from be- 
 ing pretty, and is perfectly hardy, though generally kept under 
 cover. They delight to have a shaded situation during sum- 
 mer, to protect themlrom the sun, which, as it were, scorches 
 the roots. There are many double varieties in the gardens, 
 which flower early. The one called Croicn, or Carnation 
 
S6 PERENNIALS. [March. 
 
 Daisy, is twice the size of the common varieties, and has 
 while and red petals alternately, and very double. Loamy 
 soil, inclined to moisture, is best adapted to their growth. 
 
 Campanula. This genus affords many very ornamental 
 plants for the Flower garden and Shrubbery, and they flower 
 superbly during the summer, agreeing better with our cli- 
 mate than with that of Europe. Several have two succes- 
 sions of flowers. C. persicifblia alba plena ; C. 'persicifblia 
 cosridea pleno; C. urticifolia, white. Of this last there is also 
 a double variety. C. speciosa ; C. glomcrata ; C. versicolor, 
 with several others, are worthy of a situation in every gar- 
 den. Their roots are strong, fleshy, and fibrous. They 
 are easy of culture, and will retain their situation in the 
 severest of our winters. C. grandifibra is now Wahlen- 
 hergia grandiflbra. It has superb large blue flower, stems 
 are slender, and should be supported as soon as they grow. 
 
 Cheirdnthus Cheiri vulgaris is the common garden Wall- 
 flower. There are about ten varieties of it, all admired for 
 their various colours and agreeable odour. The common 
 variety survives the mildest of our winters. The most 
 esteemed variety is hoemdntJius, Double bloody. They 
 should all be protected by a frame. C. mutdhilis is a beauti- 
 ful species ; it has many shades of colour from lilac to dark 
 purple. The flowers are on extending racemose spikes; 
 blooming from April to June ; it requires a light rich soil ; 
 is a half shrubby evergreen plant. 
 
 Chelbne. This genus belongs entirely to this contineiif, 
 and possesses many fine species. It is a matter of astonish- 
 ment that they are not more cultivated and sought for in our 
 collections. C. glabra; C.obUqua; C.harbuta; C.atropur- 
 piirea ; C pulchella ; C. vemista ; and C. specibsa ; are all 
 handsome, and flower from May to September; corolla large, 
 ringent ; ventricose flowers in spikes or panicles. 
 
 Chrysanthemums. There are few of this genus of any con- 
 sequence as herbaceous plants, except the varieties of C. si- 
 nense, of which there are about fifty, all desirable ; but in 
 
March.] perennials. 37 
 
 small gardens, where there is a deficiency in room, the fol- 
 lowing are select in colour and quality : tubulosum album, 
 quilled white ; superbum, superb white ; discolor, cream and 
 orange •,fulvum, Spanish brown ; atropurpiireum, early crim- 
 son; involutiim, curled lilac; fasculatum, superb cluster yel- 
 low; seroimww, late pale purple; pape/^-aceww, paper while ; 
 waraia^, yellow Waratah ; wersicoZor, two-coloured red; stel- 
 latum, starry purple ; verecundum, early blush ; Wheeler ii, 
 largi" purple; sariguinea, a beautiful crimson. To grow these 
 in perfection, they require rich light soil ; and about the end \J 
 of this month the roots should be lifted, divided, and planted 
 into fresh soil, either by giving them a new situation, or 
 changing the earth they were in. Two or three stems toge- 
 ther are quite sufficient. The flowers, by the above treat- 
 ment, will be much larger, more double, and finer in colour : 
 where they are wanted to grow low and bushy, top them in 
 June, but not later than the first of July. Where the soil is 
 rich, and the plant having only one stem, by topping it, 
 makes a beautiful bush. They are in flower from the first 
 of October until severe frost ; thus beautifying our gardens at 
 a season when they would be destitute of one single attrac- 
 tion. If the season be dry, to water them with hquid ma- 
 nure will add to their vigour. They are all natives of China, 
 and greatly esteemed by the Chinese, who only allow a few 
 blooms to come out on the top of each stem, thereby having 
 the flowers much finer. 
 
 Within these three years, hundreds of varieties of this win- 
 ter flower have been produced from seed in Europe ; many 
 of them very superb, and having more luxuriant foliage and 
 greater diversity of colour. 
 
 Clematis, Virgin's-bower. A few species are good herba- 
 ceous plants, of upright growth, and blue flowers, C integri- 
 fblia ; C, angustifblia ; and C erecta; they grow best in light 
 soil. 
 
 Coreopsis, chiefly native plants, and free-flowering; colour 
 principally yellow; flowers rayed. C. enuifblia, C. verticilld- 
 
 4 
 
88 PERENNIALS. [March. 
 
 ta, C. discolor, and C. tripteris, are the finest of the genus, 
 and will grow in any common garden soil, 
 
 Delphinums. There are some showy border flowers of 
 these, of strong growth. The leaves are much divided ; the 
 flowers in terminale spikes ; colour blue, purple, pink, white, 
 and yellow, with various shades. D. grandijlbrum, with its 
 varieties, are the best of the genus, i). intermedium, and its 
 varieties, D. datum, Bee Larkspur, from the ringent part of 
 the flower being very like a bee, and D. mon^dnum, are good 
 varieties, and easily cultivated. When the plants become 
 large, they ought to be divided, and planted in fresh soil. 
 They are in bloom from May to September. 
 
 Didnthus. Some of the species of this genus are the most 
 prominent of the flower garden, not only for their beauty, 
 but also their fragrance, which is peculiarly grateful, espe- 
 cially in the well known and celebrated Pink and Carnation, 
 with the Sweet William, which was esteemed in the days of 
 old " for its beauty to deck up the bosoms of the beautiful, 
 and garlands and crowns for pleasure." The finest species 
 are D. barbdtus and D barbdtus pleno, Sweet William ; D. 
 discolor; D.chinensis; D.alpinus,D.superbus; D.caryophyl- 
 lus, from which have originated the Picotee and the Carna- 
 tion ; D. plumarius, from which originated the Double Pink ; 
 D. frdgrans and D. superbus. Several of these, although 
 ihey will stand the severest cold, have to be protected in 
 frames during winter, to have them in the perfection of beau- 
 ty. For the character of a Pink and Carnation, see Mat/. 
 
 Dictdmnus. Two species of this genus, D.fraxinella and 
 D. ulbus, have been cultivated and esteemed upwards of two 
 hundred and forty years. A plant of the first of these spe- 
 cies, when gently rubbed, emits an odour like that of lemon- 
 peel ; and when bruised emits a balsamic scent, which is 
 strongest in the pedicles of the flowers. They have glands 
 of a rusty colour, that exude a viscid juice, or resin, which 
 exhales in vapour, and in a dark place may be seen to take 
 fire. Its flowers are red, those of the other white, in loose 
 
March.] perennials. 39 
 
 terminale spikes; the flower has five petals, clawed and un- 
 equal, with glandular dots ; in bloom from May to July ; de- 
 lights in sandy loam. 
 
 Dodecatheon. This is a native genus, and commonly called 
 American cowslip. The generic term, a name of the Ro- 
 mans, signifying twelve gods or divinities, is applied with 
 great absurdity to a plant, a native of a world the Romans 
 never saw nor had any idea of; neither resembling, in any 
 particular, the poetical fancy of their writers. The most 
 admired species is D. media; the flowers are in umbels, on a 
 pedicle, from six to twelve inches high ; the corolla is rotata 
 reflexa, colour light purple, bottom of petals lake and yellow; 
 blooming in May. The white variety is verymuchesleemed, 
 and surpasses the preceding. The ground is pure white, the 
 bottom of the petals the same as the other. There is also a 
 spotted variety found on the banks of the Missouri. They 
 delight in brown loam, a half shady situation, inclining to 
 moisture. The foliage soon decays after flowering. 
 
 Digitalis, Fox-glove, about forty species of annuals and 
 herbaceous plants. A few are cultivated in the flower bor- 
 ders, and are very showy. These are D. leucophcea, D.ferru- 
 ginea,D. ochroleiica, large yellow; and D.purpurdscens ; and 
 are good species. D. purpurea and D. alba are very conspi- 
 cuous biennials ; the flowers are solitary, and in long spikes ; 
 the corolla of D. purpurea is campanulate, ventricose, and 
 ringent; the interior is spotted, and is considered the finest 
 of the genus. Delights in poor soil, with a little shade. 
 
 Dracocephalum, Dragon's Head, about twenty species, most- 
 ly ornamental. D. virginicum is a profuse blooming plant, 
 with bluish pink flowers, and grows about four feet high. 
 D. argumense is a superb dwarf, with large dark blue 
 flowers. 
 
 Eupatoriums. These generally are native plants, not wor- 
 thy of notice here, except for two species, E. ccelestinum 
 has syngenesious flowers in flattened panicles, colour fine 
 light blue, blooming from September to November, desirable 
 
40 PERENNIALS. [March. 
 
 for its beauty at that season. E. aromaticurn may be culti- 
 vated for its spicy odour ; flowers white, in loose terminale 
 panicles; bloomingfrom August to October. Either of theni 
 will grow in common soil. 
 
 Funkia, Japan Day Lily, three species, all beautiful. 7^. 
 cceridea, with blue flowers. F.japdnica, pure white, and F. 
 variegata, with striped flowers : the latter is yet very rare, 
 and but recently introduced from Japan. This genus has 
 been separated from Ilemerocnllis. 
 
 Gentidnas, a genus of very showy plants, and flower in 
 great abundance. The flowers are tubular and inflated ; co- 
 lour generally blue. A few species are yellow, and some 
 white ; flowers in whorls, terminale or solitary. They grow 
 V best in a light rich soil. G. lutea, G. purpurea, G. septem- 
 
 fida. G. acaulis is a pretty dwarf growing species, and of- 
 ten used as edgings in flower compartments ; the flower dark 
 and light blue; interior of the corolla spotted ; has a succes- 
 sion of flower from April to June. We have no doubt of it 
 succeeding in our gardens, but not being plentiful, it has not 
 been perfectly tried. A few years will exhibit ii in abun- 
 dance. G. imhricata and G. conferta. They are all fine 
 exotics, but many of them may give place to our native spe- 
 cies, such as G. Catesboei; G.ochroleuca; G.incarnata; with 
 several others, and G. crinata, which is a biennial, and finely 
 fringed ; colour light blue. 
 
 Geum. There are only four species that are worth culti- 
 vation, namely, G. qidllyon, once G. coccineum ,- G. splert- 
 dens, G. Wicea, and G. hybridun. G. urhanum is some- 
 times cultivated for its roots, which, when chewed, sweeten 
 the breath. They are all of easy culture. G. quellyon and 
 splendens flower from May to October, and are very de- 
 sirable plants for the borders, and much esteemed in Eu- 
 rope. 
 
 HemerocdUis, Day Lily; two species, H.fulvaaj^d H. gra- 
 minea, flower well, and are remarkable among the border 
 flowers for their large yellow or copper-coloured coroUaSj 
 
March.] PERENNIALS. 41 
 
 some of them about six inches diameter ; bloom from May 
 to July, and will grow in almost any soil. There is a plant 
 known in our gardens as H. cosridea, which is Funkia ccerii- 
 lea, and has a campanulate corolla, with a cylindrical tube ; 
 flowers in spikes ; leaves ovate, accuminate. 
 
 Hibiscus. There are several herbaceous species very 
 showy and handsome, H.'palustris; H. rbseus; H. militaris; 
 H. speciosus; H. grandifibrus ; and H. pungens. They grow 
 best in moist situations, and where these are not to be had, 
 give them plenty of water, and plant in sandy soil enriched 
 with decayed leaves. The flowers are about six inches in 
 diameter, flowering up the stem, either solitary or in small 
 bunches. H. speciosus is the most splendid, and deserves a 
 situation in every garden. The roots in winter ought to be 
 covered by litter, tan, or saw-dust ; but a better method is to 
 lift them, and put them in the cellar, covered with dry earth, 
 and kept from the frost. All the above-mentioned species 
 are improved by being protected during winter. 
 
 Iris, Flower-de-luce, has many fine species of various 
 shades and colours, /. suhiflorCy 1. nepalensis, I. Pallasii, I. 
 pallida^ I. cristata, I. arena ria, I.furcata, I, germdnica, I. 
 jioreniina, I.verna, and I. susidna. The last is the finest of 
 the herbaceous species ; the flowers are very large and cu- 
 riously spotted with brown ; but we are not certain if it 
 will stand the severity of our winters. The roots of I.jlo- 
 rentina is the orrice root of the druggists. They are all of 
 easy culture in any loamy soil inclining to moisture. The 
 bulbous species will be treated of in September or October. 
 Corolla six-petalled, three erect and three reclined alternate- 
 ly ; proceeding from spathes or sheaths with flowers in suc- 
 cession. 
 
 Liatris is a genus of native plants, containing several fine 
 species, L. squa.rrdsa,]a\-ge purple heads of beautiful flowers; 
 L. elegans; L.paniculdta. L. macrostachya, nowi. spicdta, 
 is a fine large growing species. They have syngenesious 
 purple flowers in long close spikes, diff'ering from other 
 
 4* 
 
42 PERENNIALS, [March 
 
 spiked flowering genera by blooming first at the extremity. 
 They grow best in strong heavy soil. 
 
 Lychnis. Three species are very desirable in the flower 
 borders. L. chalcedonica has bright scarlet crowned flowers ; 
 the double scarlet variety is splendid ; there is also a dou- 
 ble white variety ; L.fiilgens Siud L.JIos-jovis. They ought 
 to be frequently lifted, and planted afresh, or they will 
 dwindle to nothing. The best time is when they begin to 
 grow. There is a plant known in our collections as Lychnis 
 flos-cucula, ragged Robbin or French Pink, which is now 
 Agrostema fos-cumla ; it is a fine and showy border plant 
 with double red flowers. They delight in a light sandy rich 
 soil. 
 
 Lythrums. A few species flower well, and have small 
 pink blossoms in great profusion, L. alatum, L. virgatiim, L. 
 diffilsum, and L. lanceolatum. They will grow in any com- 
 mon garden soil if not too much shaded ; and flower from 
 June to September. 
 
 Mimidus, Monkey-flower. A few species may be culti- 
 vated. They will grow in any soil or situation. M. luteus 
 and M. rivularis are the best. M. moschdtus has a very strong 
 musk scent, to many agreeable. The former two have large 
 gaping flowers, of a gold yellow, and beautifully spotted with 
 purple in the interior : they all grow in moist situations, 
 
 Mondrdas, a fine native genus and showy. The foliage of 
 several of the species is aromatic, and resembles mint. M. 
 didyma has long scarlet ringlet flowers, in headed whorls ; 
 M. kalmiana, flowers very long, and a beautiful crimson, 
 with fragrant leaves. M. Russelliana has red and white 
 flowers ; curious and handsome. M. punctata has yellow and 
 red flowers ; they grow in any common soil. 
 
 MatMola is the generic of the Stock-gilly. None of them 
 will survive severe winters in this latitude ; yet many of 
 them are indispensable in the flower garden. M. simplici- 
 cdulis, Brompton-stock and its varieties ; with ]\[. incdna, 
 Queen-stock, and its varieties, require the protection of a 
 
March.] PERENNIALS. ' 43 
 
 good frame in winter, and about the end of this month, or 
 beginning of next, plant them in good light rich soil to 
 flower, which they will do all summer, if attended to with 
 frequent supplies of water. M. annua has about forty vari- 
 eties, valuable for flowering the first year from seed, and are 
 all annuals. They ought to be sown on a gentle hot-bed 
 about the first of this month, and carefully pricked out so as 
 they may be ready to transplant about the end of April or 
 the first of May. Plant them in light rich soil, and they 
 will flower profusely through the season ; if it is very dry, 
 they must be watered to keep them growing. The scarlet, 
 white, and purple varieties are the finest ; but there are many 
 intermediate sorts, all handsome. M. glabra is the Wall- 
 flower leaved stock, and requires the same treatment as the 
 former two. There are about twenty varieties of this, all 
 various in colour. In planting any of these into the open 
 ground, choose cloudy weather, except they have been in 
 pots ; in such case, plant at any time in beds, or detached 
 groups, through the borders, keeping each kind separate. 
 
 CEnotheras. The most of them are indigenous, and in 
 Europe they afford a continual ornament to the flower gar- 
 den from April to November, but in our gardens they are 
 entirely neglected. By rejecting these and many others, 
 our flower gardens are deprived both of much beauty and 
 interest they might easily possess. The herbaceous plants 
 delight in light rich soil. Oil. odorata, sweet-scented ; (E, 
 macrocdrpa ; CE. media; CE. latiflora ; (E. Frazeri; QC. spe- 
 cibsa ; and (E. pallida ; are all fine native herbaceous plants, 
 mostly with large yellow four-petalled corollas ; in bloom 
 from May to September. 
 
 Phlox, another American genus, and one of the most hand- 
 some in cultivation. It consists of elegant border flowers, 
 valuable for flowering early, and during the whole season, 
 even till frost. While the majority of plants blooming late 
 in the season are generally syngenesious, with yellow flow- 
 ers, these delight us with their lively colours of purple, red, 
 
44 PERENNIALS. [Murch. 
 
 and white. A collection of them properly attended to, would 
 of themselves constitute a beautiful flower garden. It will be 
 difficult to state which are the finest, but the following are se- 
 lect varieties: V . 'paniculata ; F.accuminata; P . intermedia ; 
 P. qdorata ; P. pyramidalis and var. alba ; P. corymbosa 
 and its var. alba is perhaps the finest of all the whites. 
 V.suaveohns;V.rejlexa; V . stolonifera ; V.pildsa;V.diva- 
 ricata ; P. nivalis ; and P. subulata. In the spring of 1831, 
 an eminent British collector* exclaimed, on seeing a patch 
 of P. subulata in one of the pine barrens of New Jersey^ 
 "The beauty of that alone is worth coming to America to 
 see, it is so splendid." Most of the species delight in a rich 
 light sandy loam. When the plants become large, they 
 ought to be divided, and planted in fresh ground. 
 
 Primulas, Primrose. To this genus belong the celebrated 
 Cowslip, Oxslip, Primrose, and the esteemed Auricula. The 
 double varieties of Primrose have originated from P. vulga- 
 ris. These are such as carry their flowers on separate pedi- 
 cles, rising from the root on a small stem. The double 
 varieties are desirable for their beauty, but require the pro- 
 tection of a frame during winter. They are in colour red, 
 white, yellow, lilac, purple, and crimson. P. eldtior is the 
 Oxslip, from which all the Polyanthuses have been grown. 
 They are in variety innumerable, and arc those whose flow- 
 ers are in umbels, on a scape or flower-stalk, rising from 
 three to nine inches. Tlic rules for judging of their merits 
 are wholly artificial, agreed on from time to time by florists. 
 The one that is the leading beauty this year, would, in a few 
 years, be far in the rear. The principal character is, that the 
 corolla is not notched or fringed ; the colours pure and dis- 
 tinct, not running into one another ; the tube small ; the eye 
 round, and a little prominent. Being surrounded \vith white, 
 and the ground purple, is a fine character. P. auricula. 
 From this the highly esteemed varieties have originated. 
 
 * Mr. Drummond. 
 
March.] perennials. 45 
 
 The cultivated auricula has many admirers, both for its ex- 
 quisite beauty and fragrance. For the criterion of a fine 
 flower, see April. There are several other species worthy of 
 a situation, such asl*. cortusoides, P. dentiflbra,!* . suaveolens, 
 P. decora, with P. scotica and V . farinbsa, both small neat 
 species. A shady situation agrees best with them ; and they 
 require loamy soil, free from any kind of manure, except it 
 be fully decomposed. The leaves of P. veris have been re- 
 commended for feeding silk worms, 
 
 Potentillas are similar to the strawberry in habit and ap- 
 pearance. P. nepalensis, or formosa, has rose-coloured flow- 
 ers ; P. atropurpurea ; P. Russelliana, scarlet ; P. Hopwood- 
 iana, rose and scarlet ; and P. splendens, yellow, with superb 
 leaves. These are the finest of the genus, and flower from 
 May to September. It will be well to protect them with a 
 few leaves or litter during the severity of winter ; they de- 
 light in light soil. 
 
 Saponaria officinalis, and S. o. plena, are fine free-flower- 
 ing dwarf plants ; the colour is pink in both double and sin- 
 gle varieties. The roots run under ground, and care should 
 be taken to keep them within bounds : they flower from June 
 to October. iS. cosspitosa is a neat growing species, of a rose 
 colour. They will grow in any soil. 
 
 Silene. Several of this genus are popular annuals, but the 
 herbaceous species are very indifferent. S. viscosa and S. 
 viscosa fibre plena are frequently cultivated for their beauty ; 
 they will grow well if not too much shaded. 
 
 Saarifraga, above one hundred species. Many of them are 
 beautiful plants for rock-work. They are regardless of cold, 
 but will not generally withstand much moisture. A few of 
 them are highly deserving a situation in any garden. S. hir- 
 siitum and S. crassifblia are used in some countries for tan- 
 ning. S. granulata multiplex has fine double-while flowers, 
 and is desirable. S. umbrbsa, London-pride, makes a beau- 
 tiful edging for a flower border ; the flowers are small, but 
 on close examination its colours are unrivalled. It is some- 
 
46 PERENNIALS. [March. 
 
 times called " none so pretty." S. sarmentbsa is kept in 
 the green-house, but is perfectly hardy, and makes a fine 
 plant in a shaded situation, and will grow where grass and 
 other plants generally die. We have no doubt but it would 
 make a good fancy edging. S. pulchella and S . pyramidalis 
 require protection ; these are all easily cultivated, and flower 
 in spikes from May to July. 
 
 S/nrcBas. A few species are showy plants, and continue 
 flowering from May to September. »S. ulmaria multiplex, 
 Meadow-sweet, has sweet-scented white flowers, in long 
 dense spikes. S.fdipendula wzH/IipZea?, Drop- wort, double 
 white. S. lohata is a native, and has fine rose-coloured flowers, 
 and blooms in June and July ; these are the finest of the her- 
 baceous species, and will grow in any common garden soil. 
 
 Stdtice, Thrift. A genus containing many fine herba- 
 ceous plants; only a few of them are common in collections. 
 The finest of them are scarce, and said to be " bad to culti- 
 vate." (S. vulgaris, once Armeria vulgaris, is a valuable 
 plant for an edging, and does well in our climate, flowering 
 in great profusion from May to July. When done flower- 
 ing, the stems should be cut off*. The foilage is an agreea- 
 ble evergreen ; the plant increases rapidly, and in a few years 
 may be planted to a great extent. S. specibsa has red flow- 
 ers, crowded in spreading panicles. >S. tatdrica has also 
 very showy flowers, and is now given to the genus Taxdn- 
 thema. S. latifblia and S. maritima are the finest. T. lati- 
 fblia and T. conspicua deserve attention. They should be 
 lifted every alternate year, and sunk deeper into the soil, be- 
 cause they incline to grow out, and are sometimes during 
 summer killed by the drought. Hence they are said to be 
 "bad to cultivate." »S. aiborea is said to be a splendid 
 plant, and is now (1838) selling in England at ten guineas, 
 $50 each. 
 
 Trbllius europcBus and T. asidticus are fine border plants, 
 with large yellow semi-double flowers ; the petals are much 
 cupped, which causes the flowers to have a globular appear- 
 
March.\ perennials. 47 
 
 ance. They are easily grown in any loamy soil, and flower 
 from May to July. Few flowers have the curious globular 
 character which these have. 
 
 Veronica, Speed-well. This genus consists of about one 
 hundred and twenty species of herbaceous plants, besides se- 
 veral varieties. The flowers are in long close spikes, either 
 white, flesh-coloured, or blue ; they are generally of the lat- 
 ter colour. Above sixty species are equally fine, and being 
 generally of the same character, the catalogue at the end of 
 this work will contain the best selection that we can make. 
 Very few of them are in the collections of the country, al- 
 though they are very showy, and flower from May to Au- 
 gust. They will grow in any soil, but will not flourish 
 where they are much shaded. V. officinalis has been used 
 in Germany and Sweden as a substitute for tea. Some pre- 
 fer V. chanKRclrys for the same purpose. 
 
 Valermnas. Several species are showy border plants, 
 with small flowers in large close flattened panicles. V. dioi- 
 ca is remarkable for having the stamens and pistils in sepa- 
 rate flowers, situated on different plants ; the flowers are of a 
 blush colour. F. phu, a large growing species with white 
 flowers, and F. riihra, with its varieties, are the finest of the 
 genus. They are now given to Centranthus. They are all 
 of easy culture in common garden earth, but preferring 
 moist shady situations. In flower from May to September. 
 
 Viola, a genus consisting of upwards of eighty species, of 
 low pretty plants, of great diversity of colour and foliage. 
 Many of them are natives, and well worth a situation in our 
 gardens. They mostly delight in sandy loam, and a little 
 shade. A few of the species grown in moist situations. 
 The most esteemed varieties for fragrance are, F. odorata 
 purpurea plena, double purple, F. odorata alba plena, dou- 
 ble white, and the double Napolitan, They flower very ear- 
 ly, and make good edgings where they are kept in order ; 
 flowering profusely from April to June, and flowering again 
 in autumn. 
 
4S PERENNIALS. [MarcJi. 
 
 Yucca, Adam's-needle. This is a very showy and orna- 
 mental genus ; their character forminga picturesque contrast 
 in the flower garden ; foliage long, narrow, lanceolate, and 
 stiff; with while campanulate flowers, about two inches in 
 diameter, in conical spikes from two to four feet long, arising 
 from the centre of the plant, containing frequently from two 
 to four hundred florets. They are principally native plants. 
 Y. stricta is the freest flowerer. Y. superba ; Y. aloifblia ; 
 Y. angustifolia, Y. acuminata, Y. serrulata, and Y.JHameri' 
 tbsa, are all fine species, and will grow in any common soil. 
 When in flower, if protected from the sun by an awning, 
 they will be of considerable duration. There are variegated 
 varieties of stricta, aloifblia, and Jilamentbsa, which look 
 very handsome in foliage, but are at present very rare, and 
 it will be a number of years before they are plentiful. There 
 ought, at least, to be one specimen of each in every garden. 
 
 Having given the names and characters of a few herba- 
 ceous plants, all or most of them easily obtained, many of 
 ihem extremely handsome, and such as agree best with trans- 
 planting at this season of the year ; for several others, such as 
 Pcebnias, or any other strong tuberous or bulbous sorts, see 
 October. Where they are in pots, they can be planted at any 
 lime, the weather permitting, provided the ball of earth is 
 not broken. But where they are only to be removed, the 
 best time is just as vegetation commences. That herbacious 
 plants may look to the best advantage, and flower well, they 
 must not be allowed to get into large stools ; but as soon as 
 tliey are above one foot in diameter, they should be divided. 
 
 Very frequently those who perform this operation, take 
 the spade, and cut a piece off all round, which, to a degree, 
 improves the look of the plant ; but this is only half justice. 
 It should be lifted entirely, fresh soil given, or removed a 
 few feet, and planted a little deeper than it was before, as 
 the plant tends apparently to grow out of the soil when al- 
 lowed to stand long. If ihe weather becomes dry shortly 
 after transplanting, give them a few waterings, until they 
 
March.] bulbous roots. 49 
 
 have taken fresh roots, which will be within two weeks. 
 Colour should be diversified through the garden as much as 
 practicable, and the highest growing sorts planted farthest 
 from the walk, so as all may appear in view. At all times 
 avoid crowding plants together. 
 
 BULBOUS ROOTS.. 
 
 About the middle of this month, let the covering of tan, 
 saw-dast, or decayed leaves, be cleared from the beds of such 
 as were directed to be covered in November ; afterwards 
 carefully stirring the surface among them with a kind of 
 wooden spatula, or wedge, breaking the surface fine ; then 
 dress all the alleys smooth and neat with the hoe and rake, 
 clearing away every particle of litter. When the leaves of 
 Tulips are expanding, they frequently become entangled so 
 much, that the force of growth breaks the foliage : if there 
 are any appearance of this at any time, they should be set 
 right with the hand. In early seasons these roots will be 
 far advanced, and perhaps one night of frost, unexpectedly, 
 might materially injure them. When there is any suspicion 
 of cold weather, hoops should be spanned across the beds, so 
 that the necessary mats or canvass could in a few minutes 
 be placed over them, to ward off danger. Protect the finest 
 sorts from heavy drenching rains, and give them small neat 
 rods for support, as they grow up. If the rods and tyings 
 are painted green, the effect will be improved. These di- 
 rections equally apply to Narcissus, Johnquils, Iris, and all 
 Holland Bulbs. 
 
 CARNATIONS, PINKS, PRIMROSES, &c., 
 
 Which have been protected by frames through the winter, 
 must have at all favourable opportunities plenty of air ad- 
 mitted to them by lifting the sashes, and in fine mild days 
 and nights, the sashes may be taken entirely off. Divest 
 
50 AURICULAS. [March. 
 
 them of all decayed leaves, and stir up the earth on the sur- 
 face of the pots ; those that are intended to be planted in the 
 garden may be set to one side, while those that are to be 
 kept in pots must be more strictly attended to. Of these the 
 Pinks and Carnations should be repotted about the first of 
 the month. Those that have been kept in four inch pots, 
 should be put into pots of seven inches, and those that are 
 in five inch pots- may be put into eight inch. Give a gentle 
 watering after repotting. Pinks do not require the pots so 
 large, but the same treatment in every other respect. Where 
 the extremity of the leaves are decayed, cut them off, with 
 any other decayed leaves : the pots must be well drained 
 with shivers or fine gravel. Give them plenty of air, other- 
 wise they will be weak in growth. 
 
 Primroses and Daisies may be planted out in shady situa- 
 tions ; the sun destroys them during summer if exposed. 
 
 AURICULAS. 
 
 These beautiful and highly interesting plants are, to a great 
 degree, neglected in our collections. It cannot be from want 
 of beauty or fragrance that they have not attracted our atten- 
 tion, for they are exquisite in both. We are rather inclined 
 to think that those who have them do not give them the 
 treatment they require yearly to perfect their bloom. They 
 should now have the surface earth taken off about half an 
 inch down, and fresh soil added, which will cause them to 
 put on fresh fibres about the upper part of the roots, and 
 greatly increase their growth. The frame in which they are 
 placed should now face the east, as the sun will be too strong 
 for them ; and about the end of the month turn it to the north. 
 The glass of the frame may be white-washed, which will 
 partially shade them from the sun, that being their delight. 
 Give them water sparingly until they begin to grow, and 
 never water them over the foliage previous to flowering, as 
 water injures that fine mealy-like substance found on many 
 
March.] ranunculus and anemone — roses. 51 
 
 of the sorts, and which so greatly improves their beauty. 
 Defend them, therefore, from rain and high winds. To have 
 them flower strongly, only one flower stem should be al- 
 lowed to grow. The first one that shows is generally the 
 best. At all events leave the strongest, and cut off all the 
 others, or only nip off the flower pips, which answers the 
 same end. Never keep the sash off during night, in case it 
 rain before morning. 
 
 RANUNCULUS AND ANEMONE. 
 
 The frames of Ranunculus and Anemone must have plenty 
 of air, and give frequent sprinklings of water. The sashes 
 or shutters should be taken entirely off every mild day, and 
 in fine nights leave them exposed to the dew. Stir the earth 
 among them, breaking it fine and making all neat and clean. 
 They require liberal supplies of water after they begin to 
 grow. 
 
 ROSES. 
 
 This is the most favourable month for planting all kinds 
 of garden roses, which musi be done as soon as the weather 
 opens, and the ground in a proper state. The earlier they 
 are planted the more perfect thsy will flower. Never de- 
 lay planting when there is an opportunity ; for if delayed 
 until the leaves are expanded, the bloom wiil be much weak- 
 ened, and the probability is, there will be no flowers, and 
 the plants meet with a premature death. It has been said, 
 " there is a particular advantage in planting some every ten 
 days, even to the middle of May ; for the flowering of them 
 may be retarded in this way, and the bloom of these delight- 
 ful shrubs continue for a much longer period." One mo- 
 ment's reflection will convince us, that nature, while in her 
 own element, will not be retarded, suppose there was no 
 
52 ROSES. [March. 
 
 danger of instantaneous death to the plants. The artificial 
 means that might be judiciously adopted, with which we are 
 acquainted, to keep back the blooming of hardy plants, is to 
 lift them as soon in spring as is practicable, put ihem in 
 boxes of earth, and then place them in the driest part of an 
 ice-house, until the desired time of planting, which may be 
 delayed as long as the required time of flowering. This will 
 be found a true method of retarding the flowering of roses 
 especially, and not going counter to the rules and principles 
 of nature. There are many beautiful varieties of the garden 
 rose in cultivation, the names of the finest of which we will 
 give in the following catalogue : 
 
 African black, very dark crimson, compact and very double. 
 Agreeable violet, large purplish red, expanded and double 
 
 fine. 
 Arbre superb, bright rose-colour, large and extremely double. 
 Aurora, bright pink, compact and double. 
 Belle amabile, fine dark red, large and double. 
 Belle hebe, large purplish red, cupped, double and fine. 
 Belle rouennaise, a very superb rose, with red centre and 
 
 blush edge. 
 Baron de Stael, bright cherry colour, globular, large and 
 
 double. 
 Belle Africaine, same as Afi'ican block or African. 
 Broomley rose, fine red with blush edge, very compact and 
 
 double. 
 Black tuscany, dark crimson, changeable, expanded and 
 
 double. 
 Belgic or Dutch Provins,red with very large flowers, cupped 
 
 and extra double. 
 Coronation, very brilliant, almost approaching a scarlet, large 
 expanded and double. 
 
 . N fine rose, very large, globular 
 
 Cabbage Provins, or f „ j i j . i 
 
 => ' > pendular, and e.xtremely 
 
 Centifolia of the French, ) double 
 
March.] ROSES. 53 
 
 Cinder rose, large blush, with pink centre, expanded and 
 
 double. 
 Cleliee, rosy blush, expanded, very large and double. 
 Delicious, rosy colour, large conapact and double. 
 Dingy, clouded purple, reflexed, large and double. 
 Eelemensi, rich rose-colour, fine bold petals, cupped and 
 
 double. 
 Edinberger, violet purple, very compact and most perfectly 
 double. 
 
 ft 
 
 Flanders, vermilion colour, compact and double. 
 
 Fairy parasol, changeable pink, globular and double superb 
 
 Fanny parissot, pale blush, very compact and double. 
 
 Grandis royal, deep pink, large, expanded, and double. 
 
 Globe white hip, beautiful white, globular, and most perfect- 
 ly double. 
 
 Giant velvet, light crimson, large and double. 
 
 Helen, light pink, very large cupped and fine. 
 
 Harrisoni,* bright yellow, cupped, small and semi-double. 
 
 Isabella, blush pink, very profuse, cupped and double. 
 
 Imperial blush, delicate blush, expanded, large, and double. 
 
 Juliana, delicate pink, compact and double. 
 
 King of Rome, deep red, very large, compact, and exquisite- 
 ly double. 
 
 King of the reds, red, expanded and double. 
 
 King of Mexico, reddish purple, imbricated and very double. 
 
 Leonore, purplish red, very compact, imbricated, and double. 
 
 La Belle Augusta, shaded blush and white, expanded and 
 double. 
 
 La folie de carse, red, robust habit, profuse flowering, imbri- 
 cated and double. 
 
 Madam Hardy, pure white, large, globular, and exquisitely 
 double. 
 
 Margin hip, white with red edge, expanded and semi-double. 
 
 Monkwood, bright rose, imbricated and very double. 
 
 * This Rose with a " Florist's privilege," has been Bold for the yellow 
 sweethrier. It is also called Hogg's yellow Rose. 
 
 5* 
 
54 ROSES. [March, 
 
 Moss rose,* delicate rose, globular and perfectly double. 
 
 blush, pale blush, globular and very double. 
 
 white, old white pale flesh-colour, expanded and double. 
 
 while bath, or Clifton, white moss, fine white cupped 
 
 and double. 
 
 crimson or Damask, very bright rose, expanded and 
 
 double, and very mossy. 
 
 ^ This is not properly a moss rose, 
 
 crested moss or i but has a curiously mossy calyx 
 
 crested Provins, f that envelopes the bud — blush, 
 
 J globular and double. 
 
 vieillard or ^ 
 
 T 1 > red, compact, and double 
 
 Luxemburg moss, j ' r ' 
 
 Nonpareil, rosy red, compact and perfectly double. 
 
 Negritina, pink, very compact, imbricated and double. 
 
 Ombre superb, dark crimson, cupped and double. 
 
 Provins cabbage, see Cabbage Provins. 
 
 red, see red Provins. 
 
 white, see ivhite Provins. 
 Prince de Joinville, bright rose, large expanded, and finely 
 
 double. 
 Proserpine negro, dark red, globular, fine and double. 
 Prolific blush, changeable blush, expanded and double. 
 Queen of violets, violet colour, compact, cupped, and very 
 
 double. 
 Queen of Roses, beautiful rosy purple, imbricated and double. 
 Queen Caroline, fine changeable red, cupped and double. 
 Royal grandeur, fine dark crimson, expanded and double. 
 Royal Portugal, fine pink, very compact, and exquisitely 
 double. 
 
 * It has been long questioned, whether the Moss Rose was a distinct spe- 
 cies, or merely a seminal variety of the Provins Rose. I perfectly agree 
 with the latter opinion — for in June, 1836, I saw in my nursery a plant &f 
 the Moss Rose with a large shoot that had sported back to the Provins Rose, 
 and entirely destitute of moss on cither shoots or buds. We have no faith 
 in black, yellow, and striped Moss Roses ; all we have seen for such, have 
 proven false to their character. 
 
March.] roses. 55 
 
 Royal virgin, blush, expanded, large, and double. 
 Sanspareil, vermilion colour, compact, imbricated, and 
 
 double. 
 Swiss Rose, large pink, expanded, and profusely double, 
 Tuscany, see Black Tuscany. 
 
 Triomphe de Rennes, large crimson, expanded, and double. 
 Unique or white Provins, pure white, very large globular, and 
 
 double, superb. 
 Unique striped, often is perfectly white, and merely a sport 
 
 from the former. 
 Violatum, violet purple, expanded and double. 
 Vandal carmine, compact, imbricated, and double. 
 White sweelbrier rose, white, large globular, and very 
 double.* 
 
 We have mentioned these as the finest we have seen ; but 
 among two thousand cultivated varieties of the garden rose, 
 there must be many of equal, if not surpassing beauty, of Rosa 
 spinosissima, there are above five hundred varieties ; Rosa 
 gallica, two hundred ; R. centifolia, one hundred and fifty ; 
 R. damascene above one hundred ; R. alba, Mty ; R. ruhigi- 
 ndsa, thirty ; and of various sorts above eleven hundred. In 
 several individual collections of Europe, there are cultivated 
 above fifteen hundred species, sub-species, and varieties. 
 
 When planted, they are too frequently crowded indiscri- 
 minately among other shrubs, which prevents them having 
 the effect they would have if planted singly or grouped. 
 They vary in size in different sorts from one to ten feet. 
 When planted in the latter method, they should be assimi- 
 lated in size of leaves and manner of growth, with the great- 
 est variation of flower; or if planted in small patches, each 
 distinct in colour, will have a very picturesque effect. Ano- 
 ther desirable and fanciful method, is I'o plant them in 
 
 * There is also a double red Sweetbrier ; but these two roses have very 
 little affinity to the Sweetbrier or Eglantine. 
 
56 ROSES. [March. 
 
 figures, with edgings of wire, willow, or any other sub- 
 sliiule, in imitation of basket work, which is called " bas- 
 kets of roses ;" the ground enclosed in the basket margin 
 to be made convex, which will present a greater surface 
 to the eye ; the strong shoots to be layered, or kept down by 
 pegs in the ground, having the points of the shoots only to 
 appear above the soil, which should be covered with moss. 
 With this treatment, in a few years the whole surface of the 
 basket will be covered with rose buds and leaves, of one or 
 various sorts. If two or three of the larger growing sorts 
 are taken, such as Moss or Frovins, they may be trained so 
 as to cover a surface of several square yards. 
 
 A modern invention in the cultivation of the rose is, to 
 grow them in shape of trees, by budding on strong growing 
 kinds at different heights from the ground, according to lasle, 
 and the purposes intended. If budded on Rosa Cdnina, or 
 Dog Rose, they are much more valuable : it is a lasting and 
 strong growing stock, and the worst of all stocks is the Bour- 
 salt rose, and it is loo frequently resorted to, being easy of 
 propagation. They will form in a few years handsome 
 round heads, which will flower more freely than by layers, 
 or trained on their own stalk. They are particularly desira- 
 ble among low shrubs. When planted, they should be 
 well supported by strong rods, to prevent the wind from de- 
 stroying them. If any of the roots have been bruised in 
 lifting, cut off the bruised part with the knife, and likewise 
 shorten the young shoots ; breaking the earth well about 
 their roots when planting. The rose has been an esteemed 
 shrub among all civilized nations. The flowers are double, 
 semi-double, and single ; the colours are pink, red, purple, 
 white, yellow, and striped, with almost every shade and 
 mixture ; the odour universally grateful. This plant is culti- 
 vated in every garden, from the humblest cottager to the 
 loftiest prince, and by commercial gardeners in Europe ex- 
 tensively, for distilling rose water, and making the essential 
 oil of roses. They delight in a rich loamy soil, and require 
 
March.] climbing roses, 57 
 
 plenty of moisture while in a growing state. Those sorts 
 which throw up numerous suckers should be lifted every 
 three or four years, reduced, and then transplanted. When 
 thus removing them, avoid as much as possible exposing 
 their roots ; and when newly planted, mulching is of consi- 
 derable advantage ; that is, putting half rotten stable-manure 
 on the surface of the ground round their roots, which pre- 
 vents evaporation, and keeps up a constant moisture. If 
 this were done in general to our roses in dry seasons, it would 
 greatly improve their flowering. For Chinese and other 
 roses, see next month. 
 
 CLIMBING ROSES. 
 
 This is the best time to prune ever-blooming climbing 
 roses, such as Cha7npney, Noisette, &ic. Many of these, when 
 allowed to grow year after year without pruning, become 
 unsightly : they never bear flowers on the old wood, that is, 
 wood of three or four years. Having a tendency to throw 
 out young shoots from the bottom of the stem, the old wood 
 should be cut out, thus encouraging the young wood, which 
 the second year bears the most and finest flowers. In severe 
 winters, the extremities of the shoots are frequently killed, 
 and we have often seen all the wood black or brown, and 
 apparently dead. When that is the case, it is best to leave 
 it until they begin to grow, which will show what is dead 
 or alive, when they can be pruned to better advantage. 
 
 DECIDUOUS ORNAMENTAL FLOWERING SHRUBS. 
 
 The earlier the planting of these shrubs is attended to in 
 this month, the more will their growth and flowering be 
 promoted, having all finished before the buds begin to ex- 
 pand. (For kinds recommended, see list, end of the volume.) 
 They should never be planted too thick, but leave space for 
 
53 GRASS PLATS AND WALKS. \March. 
 
 ihem to grow as they respectively require, and according as 
 they are designed for open or close shrubberies, clumps, or 
 thickets. Have all in readiness, that it may be done with as 
 much expedition as possible, to prevent their roots from 
 being dried by the sun and wind in time of planting. Make 
 the holes intended for their reception round, capacious, and 
 deep enough to hold their roots, without confining them in 
 the least, and loosen well the bottom, putting new and fresh 
 soil under their roots, breaking and pulverizing it during the 
 operation, and frequently shaking the plant as you progress 
 in filling up. When done, make all firm with the foot, 
 leaving a circular cavity to hold the water they will require 
 during dry weather. Give rods, and tie with bands all that 
 need that support before they are left, lest they should be 
 neglected. Cut off any of the bruised roots or irregular 
 growths of the branches. 
 
 GRASS PLATS AND WALKS. 
 
 Rake and sweep off from these all litter and worm-cast 
 earth, and give an occasional rolling to settle the ground, and 
 render the surface smooth, where the scythe is to be used. 
 The grass will likewise grow better by rolling it where the 
 frost has partially thrown it out, and add greatly to its beauty. 
 Cut the edgings with an edging iron or spade, so that the 
 whole will have a finished appearance. If any new turf is 
 required to be laid down, this is a very good lime to do it, 
 before vegetation is strong ; as the turf that is now laid will 
 have taken root before the dry season commences. Where 
 a great extent is to be done, sowing might be adopted ; but 
 it will not have the effect of turf under three years, and 
 during that time must be carefully cut, after the first season, 
 every three weeks, while growing, nor must it be too fre- 
 quently walked upon. White clover and true perennial rye- 
 grass are the seeds most proper for sowing. The ground 
 must, in the first place, be all equally made up, and levelled 
 
March.] grass plats and walks. 59 
 
 with the spade and rake ; not " cart loads of soil laid down 
 and levelled," which would finally become very uneven, and 
 would need to be lifted and relaid next year. The best turf 
 is that of a close-growing pasture or common, free from all 
 kinds of weeds or strong roots, and the grass short. To cut 
 it expeditiously, be provided with a turfing-iron ; but if that 
 cannot be conveniently had, a spade may do very well. 
 Strain a line tight, cutting the turf lengthwise, at equal dis- 
 tances, from twelve to eighteen inches. Next draw the line 
 across, cutting from one and a half to two feet ; then cut them 
 up with the spade, about one and a half inch thick. In lay- 
 ing, join them close and alternately : when done, beat them 
 firm with a level wooden beater, and roll with a heavy 
 roller. 
 
 Grass walks, in the last century, were very popular ; but 
 lime having put them to the test, they are found unfit for 
 walking upon or using in any manner, almost for one-half of 
 the year ; therefore not answering the purposes intended. 
 They require great attention to keep them in order ; and if 
 not always neat and clean, they are a disagreeable object in 
 a garden ; but when they are well dressed, their effect is very 
 enlivening. Where they are desired, prepare the ground as 
 above directed ; making the walk a little higher than the ad- 
 joining borders, to prevent the earth from being washed on 
 it by the rain. Allowing the walks to be six feet wide, 
 make the centre five inches higher than the sides, or about 
 seven-eights of an inch to the foot whatever the breadth may 
 be, which will form a gentle declivity to throw off the rain. 
 When laid, beat and roll it well ; cutting the edge neat and 
 even. Water frequently if the weather sets in dry. To 
 keep grass walks or plats in order, they should be mown 
 once every three or four weeks from May to September, and 
 the grass each time swept clean off. When the grass is al- 
 lowed to get long before being cut, the roots become tender ; 
 and die when exposed to the sun ; at last the grass is all in 
 spots, and in another year requires to be relaid. 
 
60 GRAVEL WALKS. OF GRAFTING, [March, 
 
 GRAVEL WALKS. 
 
 A practice once existed of turning these into heaps or 
 ridges during winter to destroy weeds, &;c. But this has 
 ahnost been given up as unnecessary, unsightly, inconve- 
 nient, and not doing any material service. 
 
 Where the surface of these has become foul, irregular, or 
 mossy, they had better be turned over four or five inches 
 deep where the gravel will admit of it; but if not, hoe and 
 rake them perfectly clean, give a new coat of gravel, and 
 pick up any stones that youlhink too large ; then give them 
 a good rolling, applying it frequently after showers of rain. 
 When they are well attended to just now, they will look 
 well all the season ; but if neglected, they take more labour, 
 and are never in such good condition. 
 
 Fancy edgings of Thyme, Thrift, Gentiana, Lavender, and 
 Violets — {Daisies may be used if the situation is shaded.) 
 The whole of these may be planted by the line with the dib- 
 ber except Thyme, which lay'as directed for Box. See this 
 month, under that head. Any time in this or beginning of 
 next month will answer to make edgings of these ; and if 
 dry weather occurs before they begin to grow after planting, 
 they must have frequent waterings until ihey have taken 
 fresh root. Thyme requires to be dressed twice during the 
 season to keep it in order, 
 
 OF GRAFTING. 
 
 There are four methods of grafting. It can be applied to 
 all kinds of shrubbery, choosing a common species from the 
 same genus that the sort belongs to, which is intended to be 
 multiplied. The one w^e will describe is wlap or tongue 
 graftins:, which is the preferable and most expeditious plan 
 with all deciduous shrubs or trees. The stock upon which 
 it is performed must be slender, from two-thirds of an inch to 
 
April.] OF GRAFTING. 61 
 
 any diameter suitable to the thickness of the graft. Having 
 headed the stock at a clear snnoolh part, slope it on one side 
 with a sharp knife at a very acute angle, make a slit on the 
 lower side of the slope about an inch downward, to receive 
 the tongue or wedge of the graft or scion. Secondly, having 
 the prepared scions cut into lengths of 3, 4, or 5 eyes, take 
 one which matches the stock in size, and slope the bottom of 
 it so as to fit the stock, that the rinds of both may correspond 
 exactly, especially on one side and at bottom ; make also a 
 slit upward in the graft, like that in the slope of the stock, 
 so as the one may be inserted in the other as evenly and 
 completely as possible. Let the graft be carefully held in 
 its due position, while a bandage is applied. Take strands 
 of Russian mat, and bind them in a neat manner several 
 times round the stock and graft. Lastly, cover the joint 
 with well-worked clay, coat from half an inch below the 
 bottom of the graft to an inch above the top of the stock, and 
 to the thickness of half an inch all round, finish it in an ob- 
 long globular form, taking care to work it close, that no air 
 may penetrate. If the clay is covered with moss, it will 
 partially prevent it from cracking. 
 
 The grafts will have taken when they begin to grow free- 
 ly : then the clay may be broken off, and the bandage loosened, 
 and put on again, but not so tight as formerly; give the grafts 
 a stake for support, tying them thereto to prevent accidents 
 from the wind. Allow no shoots to arise from the stock. 
 
 APRIL. 
 
 The ambition of every amateur and gardener during this 
 month is, to be at the head of every department and over 
 every spot. The operator's activity, in this month, almost 
 regulates the whole season. Every weed ought to be cut 
 
62 ANNUALS. [April. 
 
 down as soon as it appears, and the proverbial saying will be 
 realized, " A garden that is well kept is easily kept ;" one 
 hour of laborious industry now will save two in the heat 
 of summer. A wet day need cause no loss of lime : prepare 
 rods, bands, and tallies, to be in readiness when required. 
 Many in the height of bustle, never finish properly as they 
 proceed, which is the worst of practices. Every operation 
 ought to be completely and properly finished before another 
 is taken in hand, which will ultimately prove the quickest 
 and best method to work upon. 
 
 Let digging, hoeing, and raking, be done as expeditiously 
 as strength will allow, that the time may be devoted, for a 
 few weeks, to the beautifying of the garden and parterre, by 
 sowing and planting. 
 
 ANNUALS. 
 
 Those that are tender and were sown last month, accord- 
 ing to directions, will be ready to prick out into another 
 glass frame. Keep them a few inches apart to let the air 
 circulate. Give them frequent sprinklings with water, and 
 shade them with a mat for a few days until they have taken 
 fresh root ; then give them plenty of air, and by the first of 
 next month, expose them night and day, to harden the plants 
 for the open ground. A few of the annual seeds of every 
 description, and of every country and climate, may be sown 
 any time after the middle of the month. If the season prove 
 favourable, they will do well ; but reserving a part to sow 
 about the 15th of May, will guard against every extreme. 
 
 BIENNIALS AND PERENNIALS. 
 
 Any biennials that are intended to be removed, and not 
 done last month, must not be delayed longer. The roots of 
 many of them will be very strong, and, if possible, a cloudy 
 
April.] HYBRID CHINESE ROSES. 63 
 
 day should be chosen for ihe operation. Give one or two 
 copious waterings, and, if necessary, shade them from the 
 sun till they begin to grow. 
 
 Perennials. — For a limited description of several genera 
 and species, see last month. Where dividing the root or 
 replanting is required, let it be done forthwith. If the wea- 
 ther is dry, they must be carefully watered and shaded for 
 a few days. 
 
 ROSES. 
 
 The subject of garden Roses was touched upon last month, 
 as far as our limits would admit. We will now give short 
 descriptions of the other varieties of Roses that are of more 
 delicate character — and, for distinction and perspicuity, we 
 will give them under the various divisions to which they 
 belong. 
 
 HYBRID CHINESE ROSES. 
 
 All the varieties of this fine division of Roses owe 
 their origin to the Chinese tea-scented, Noisette and Bour- 
 bon Roses impregnated with the French Provins, and other 
 garden Roses. The seeds of such fertilized flowers pro- 
 duce hybrid Chinese Roses. These have, in many instances, 
 resulted from accident ; but latterly, from the regular impreg- 
 nating process. The superb varieties of this fine division 
 give a combination of all that is grand and beautiful in roses. 
 Their flowers are of the most elegant forms and richest co- 
 lours ; their foliage of great luxuriance, and their branches 
 flexile and vigorous. They are of first rate importance for 
 covering pillars and trellises, their shoots frequently grow- 
 ing from six to ten feet in one season : these shoots may be 
 thinned out year after year, but never shortened. They re- 
 quire very rich soil, and do best on their own bottom, except 
 elegans, Bezzare de le Chine, Wellington, and other dwarf 
 growing sorts, which do well as standards. If they only 
 
64 HYBRID cHiNEsii: ROSES. [April. 
 
 possessed the property of ever-hlooming, they would be de- 
 cidedly the finest division of the tribe ; however, their ge- 
 neral beauty and richness of colour greatly make up for 
 the deficiency. Many of them are also delightfully fragrant. 
 The following are select sorts : 
 
 Adele ancelin, delicate pink, perfect shape, and gobular 
 
 form. 
 Beauty of Billiard, or Docteur Billiard, of the French, nearly 
 scarlet, glowing and beautiful, large, expanded and 
 extremely double. 
 Beaute ethereal, fine purple, margined with crimson, per- 
 fectly imbricated, and a most beautiful rose ; it is also 
 known as Bonne Genevieve. 
 Bizzare de la Chine, brilliant crimson, superb form, profuse 
 
 in flower, and perfectly double. 
 Bouquet blanc, white expanded, large and very double. 
 Brennus or Brutus, of some French collections, vivid red or 
 nearly scarlet, and as a pillar rose is one of the 
 fi.nest objects I have ever witnessed ; flowers ex- 
 tremely large, and of the most exquisite form, 
 cupped, and perfectly double. 
 Catel, dark crimson, globular shape and very double. 
 Duke of Devonshire, rosy lilac, faintly striped with white, 
 
 imbricated and perfect in its shape. 
 Due de Choiseul, pink, blush, and rose, perfect form, and 
 
 makes a fine standard rose. 
 Elegans, light red, of slender growth, globular, and very 
 
 profuse of flower. 
 Fulgens or Malton, unique in brilliancy, approaching bright 
 scarlet, with large globular flowers, and of vigorous 
 growth, and foliage finely tinted with red. 
 General Lamarque, very dark crimson, of luxuriant growth, 
 and very distinct. 
 
April.] HYBRID CHINESE ROSES. 65 
 
 George the Fourth (Riveis's,) most beautiful crimson, very- 
 large and exquisitely double, and of globular form. 
 If in good rich soil, the shoots will grow eight feet 
 in one season ; foliage of a shining dark reddish 
 green, and is unquestionably one of the finest of the 
 family. 
 Georgiana, deep pink, cupped, large and finely double, 
 L' Astrolabe, pale rose, expanded, large, and profuse, in 
 
 bloom. 
 Lady Stuart, flesh colour, the form of the flowers before ex- 
 pansion is perfectly spherical, and of exceeding beauty. 
 La Grandeur, bright rose, exceedingly regular, and of very 
 
 perfect form. 
 Parny or La tourterelle, lilac or dove colour, cupped and very 
 double, requires to grow to a large bush before its 
 beauty of form and profusion of bloom can be seen. 
 Princess, delicate rose, globular and perfectly double, and 
 makes an excellent standard of itself, not being very 
 subject to make shoots from the root. 
 Pallagi, Ne plus ultra, or Gloire des hybrids, brilliant red, 
 
 globular, showy, and perfectly double. 
 Petales franges, dark crimson, with curiously fringed pe- 
 tals. 
 Rachel, rose and lilac, very large, superb and double. 
 Triomphe de Laffay, rosy white, large and very beautiful. 
 Violet Sans aiguillons, dark violet, large, very globular and of 
 
 superb form. 
 
 Watts' Celestial, Celestial, Wells' Cabbage China, Flora 
 
 perfecta, &c., (it is known under all these names,) 
 
 delicate rose, petals finely cupped, flower rather flat, 
 
 is a free grower, and very profuse of bloom. 
 
 Wellington, (Lee's,) rich purple crimson, flower beautifully 
 
 formed, globular and very double. The first 
 
 view of it is similar to Bizzare de la Chine ; but 
 
 it is very distinct in growth, and the colour 
 
66 HYBRID CHINESE ROSES. [April, 
 
 fades much sooner than in the latter rose, and, 
 
 indeed, is never so bright. 
 William the Fourth, blush red, extremely large, very per- 
 fect form, and is unquestionably a hybrid from the 
 Cabbage Provins, and makes an excellent standard 
 or tree rose. 
 
 HYBRID ROSES THAT ARE STRIPED, SPOTTED, OR MARBLED; 
 
 Abbe Berlese, beautiful crimson, spotted with violet, and of 
 
 the most perfect form. 
 Camaieu, delicate rose, with lilac stripes, large and double. 
 Ehsa le mesle, white, faintly striped, expanded, and very 
 
 double. 
 Ijycons,quite wew, dark rose, beautifully spotted and pounced, 
 
 large,, and of exquisite form. 
 Madame Campan, delicate rose, with darker shades, very 
 
 large, globular and double. 
 Prince de Chimay, entirely new, crimson purple, beautiful 
 marbled, with rose, large and very perfect ; it is at a 
 very high price. 
 Sandeur, Sandeur Panachee of the French, and King of Hy- 
 brids of the English, bright rose-colour, beautifully 
 spotted and striped with white, very double, and of 
 perfect form — luxuriant in growth, and the shoots 
 must never be shortened — we have seen it two 
 years in perfect bloom. 
 Village Maid, rose, striped with white, very compact and 
 double, and makes a fine standard. This rose is a 
 French hybrid of their Cent-feuilles ; but has been 
 brought to notice under an English name, a system 
 too much practised by the English growers, to keep 
 from their brother-craft the original and genuine 
 French name of the article ; and toe find that this 
 system is occasionally attempted by our American 
 brethren. Shame ! 
 
AjjriL] PERPETUAL ROSES. 67 
 
 PERPETUAL ROSES. 
 
 This division of Roses has been brought to notice but very 
 recently in this country, and even in Europe was not known 
 till about 1817, except in the red and white four season's 
 roses, which have, no doubt, contributed a large portion of 
 their " Sweet assistance ;" for in many of them the powerful 
 and agreeable fragrance of these two old roses is very evi- 
 dent. Unfortunately, there are two-thirds of these roses 
 received both from France and England under the head of 
 Perpetuals, which only bloom once in our arid and hot cli- 
 mate ; of course they will not make a second or third bloom- 
 ing, unless they, at the same time, grow freely and make 
 strong shoots ; consequently, they require very rich and deep 
 soil strongly manured, and repeated manurings given every 
 year, also, very frequent waterings during the summer sea- 
 son with liquid manure : without such nourishment, the best 
 of perpetual roses will only flower but once a year. It is a 
 peculiar feature in this tribe of roses, that they are nearly all 
 reluctant in rooting from layers, therefore, it will be difficult 
 to procure them on their own bottoms. However, they grow 
 admirably, grafted on, or budded into, any of our strong- 
 growing native roses ; although the French Eglantine is most 
 generally preferred. When grown in a luxuriant and well 
 cultivated state, they require twice pruning. First, in No- 
 vember, when the beds are dressed, cut off every shoot of 
 the preceding summer's growth about two-thirds, and if they 
 are crowded, displace some of them entirely. If this au- 
 tumnal pruning be properly attended to, they will early in 
 the following June throw out a great number of luxuriant 
 shoots, each having one or more flowers. When a httle sa- 
 crifice must be made to have a fine autumnal bloom, there- 
 fore, leave only about half the number of shoots to bring 
 forth flowers, the remainder shorten to less than half their 
 lengths. Each shortened branch will soon put forth buds, 
 
68 PERPETUAL ROSES. [April. 
 
 and in July and August the plaats will again be covered 
 with flowers. Our fine growing fall months will greatly assist 
 the plants without farther aid in bringing forth their third 
 blooming, which will be in September and October ; and 
 Rose du Roi will even continue in mild seasons to bloom till 
 November. It is necessary, at all times, as soon as the flower 
 begins to fade, to cut it off, which greatly assists the vigour 
 of the plants. Although in colour many of them approxi- 
 mate each other, yet the following sorts will prove sufficient- 
 ly distinct : 
 
 Antinous, light crimson, beautifully formed, and perfectly 
 
 double, scarce and valuable. 
 Belle faber, dark rose, very large and double. 
 Billiard, rose-colour, very neat form, exceedingly sweet and 
 
 perfectly double. 
 D' Angers, delicate rose, large size, compact and double. 
 D'Esquermes, bright rose, globular shape and double. 
 Du Roi, or Lees crimson pertetual, bright red, cupped shape, 
 perfectly double, and exquisitely scented : in warm 
 dry weather, this rose is apt to become much lighter 
 in colour. It is still admitted by cultivators, that 
 this rose is yet the king of perpetuals. I cut a 
 bunch of beautiful flowers from it in the open ground, 
 on the 5th of November. 
 Gloire de France, De Neuilly, Neumann, Dauhreal, and 
 Monthly Cabbage, fine bright rose, cupped, large and 
 double. This rose attracts universal attention for 
 its delicate and peculiarly grateful fragrance, and the 
 immense clusters of its flowers. In June it does not 
 bloom well, unless highly supplied with food ; but in 
 the autumn it is most profusely covered with flow- 
 ers ; the buds ought to be sheltered from heavy rains, 
 as wetness causes them to decay before opening. It 
 has considerable resemblance to the hybrid Bourbon 
 roses, and, like many good roses, has too many names^. 
 
April.] GRAFTING ROSES. 69 
 
 Grande et Belle, or Monstreuse rose, very large, cupped, and 
 
 perfectly double. 
 Jean Hachette, (of the English,) delicate blush, extremely 
 
 large, cupped, and extra double. 
 Pulcherie, dark purple, compact and double — pretty. 
 Panache de Girardon, or striped king qfperpetuals, fine rose, 
 frequently striped with white, very unique ; but is 
 certainly not a true perpetual. 
 Queen of Perpetuals, or Palotte picotee, pale blush, cupped, 
 
 and perfectly double. 
 Stanwell, perpetual blush, expanded and very double ; it has 
 much the habit of a Scotch Rose : when budded it 
 is a constant and free bloomer. 
 Four season's pale rose, cupped and double. 
 White four seasons, nearly white, expanded and double ; 
 
 but rarely blooms oftener than once in the season. 
 Perpetual white moss, white, blooms in large clusters, and, 
 when in bud, is very handsome ; but the flower of 
 itself is miserably indifferent, and, moreover, it is 
 not a true perpetual. It is one of those floricut- 
 tural misno7ners expressing what the public would 
 wish it to be, and not what it actually is. 
 
 GRAFTING ROSES. 
 
 The operation of grafting, from the pithy nature of the 
 stems of the rose, is more troublesome and seldom succeeds 
 so well as budding, though when the buds inserted the pre- 
 vious summer fail., it is worth while to have recourse to graft- 
 ing, which may succeed, and thus make up for the failure. 
 The cleft grafting is much practised, especially on the conti- 
 nent of Europe, and is the most successful method. It is ne- 
 cessary that the scion, (or young shoot that is intended to be 
 multiplied,) should be cut from the bush before vegetation 
 commences, and placed in some shaded situation till the time 
 
70 l'isle de bourbon roses. [April. 
 
 of operation, which will be after the buds begin to swell on 
 the stock, when the head of the stock may be cut horizon- 
 tally to its desired height, and a slit made in its crown down- 
 ward one and a half or two inches. The scion should be cut 
 into lengths of two and a half or three inches, and then cut- 
 ting its lower end into a wedge-like shape, inserting it into 
 the slit of the stock, keeping the back of the stock and scion 
 in contact, which must be held firmly and bound with liga- 
 tures of soft bast-mat or worsted, and, in order to render it 
 water-proof, cover it with a paste made of pitch and bees-wax, 
 or clay mixed with old slacked lime ; if the latter is used, it 
 will sometimes crack, which must be carefully filled up. In 
 August or September the ligatures may be cut on one side, 
 allowing the clay or wax to be displaced with the natural 
 growth of the plant. Should the graft fail, you have still the 
 resource of budding in August on the young shoots that 
 will grow from the stock. It must be observed that grafting 
 leaves a worse wound to heal over than budding, unless the 
 stock and scion be nearly of the same size. Every bud 
 which appears below the graft should be carefully rubbed off, 
 except one or two nearest the crown, to encourage the sap 
 upward to the grafts, and as soon as the latter begin to throw 
 out leaves, the shoots from the stock should be shortened, 
 and in one or two weeks more entirely taken off, if the scion 
 has fairly grown. For whip grafting, see page 60. 
 
 L'ISLE DE BOURBON ROSES. 
 
 This group of Roses is decidedly the finest, and in a few 
 years will be the most popular of the whole family of the 
 " Queen of Flowers." They are generally perfectly hardy, 
 of luxuriant growth, and will grow almost in any soil. They 
 are profuse in blooming, and many of them delightful in fra- 
 grance, from June to October. They are flowering orna- 
 ments of the garden either as standards, climbers, or bashes ; 
 
April] ROSA iNDicA, &c. 71 
 
 their foilage is large, exuberant, and agreeable, and when the 
 plants are established and well nurtured, they produce their 
 flowers in immense clusters. As yet there are but few va- 
 rieties ; but the talent and ingenuity of the French in rose 
 culture and reproduction, will soon give the floral world a 
 rich supply of some fine varieties, and Tazny finer names. I 
 can cheerfully recommend the following sorts, which require 
 pruning similar to hybrid Roses : 
 
 Augustine Lelieur, bright rose, beautifully globular, and per- 
 fectly double. 
 Faustine, hlanc came, silvery blush, very perfect and double, 
 
 does best as a standard. 
 General Dubourg, pale rose, globular, large and very double. 
 Hermosa, bright rose, most perfect cupped form, a profuse 
 bloomer, and highly esteemed. During the sum- 
 mer months it loses much of its colour ; but in 
 autumn it is truly charming. 
 Madame Desprez, dark rose, globular, and perfectly double, 
 blooms in large clusters, and approaches more the 
 Noisette tribe than any other of the Bourbon Roses. 
 Marechal De Villars, bright purple, compact and perfectly 
 
 double : it is a most beautiful variety. 
 Philippar, bright rose, compact and perfectly double, of very 
 luxuriant habit, and, when well established, a great 
 bloomer. 
 
 ROSA INDICA OR (BENGAL OF THE FRENCH) CHINESE 
 EVER-BLOOMING ROSES. 
 
 Perhaps no Rose has been so universally distributed and 
 industriously cultivated as Rosa indica, (common Chinese or 
 daily Rose,) and Rosa Seraperflorens, (crimson or sanguinea 
 Rose.) It has been a favourite from the cottage to the man- 
 sion, and is truly a floral pioneer. They will almost with- 
 stand every vicissitude of treatment ; but will not well sur- 
 
72 ROSA ismcA, &c. [April, 
 
 vive the winters in the open air, north of this latitude, and 
 even here they require some simple protection with straw, 
 mats, litter, or other dry material during winter. 
 
 The extensive demand for roses has induced many large 
 importations, and sonr.e superb additions within these few 
 ^ears ; and many of those thought fine in the first edition of 
 this work, are now entirely discarded, giving place to others 
 of surpassing beauty. The}^ require a very rich loamy soil, 
 well pulverized, and from fifteen to twenty inches in depth. 
 The best season of the year for pruning them is about the 
 first of this month. In doing so it is not advisable to shorten 
 any of the young shoots, except in cutting off the injured 
 parts, that being the wood most productive of bloom ; but 
 where there is old stinted wood, it should be cut out as close 
 to the surface of the ground as the other parts of the bush 
 will permit, with any other of the oldest wood that is too 
 crowded. Dig every season in among their roots a good 
 supply of v^ell decomposed manure, and stir and hoe them 
 frequently during the summer. 
 
 If I were to describe all I have seen of the China or Ben- 
 gal Rose, half of this volume would not contain them, and 
 three-fourths of them would not be worth a sight or even a 
 name ; nevertheless, some of them are beautifully distinct 
 and worthy of the utmost care. Such are 
 Animated, fine blush, cupped and double, is of strong growth, 
 
 and abundant in bloom, faintly scented. 
 Arsenic delicate rose, of large size, perfectly double, a strong 
 
 grower, and profuse bloomer. 
 Bengal Triomphant, La Superbe, Grande et Belle. This 
 like many fine roses, has its several names, but the 
 former is the name under which I first knew it. It 
 is a strong grower, with very large well-formed 
 flowers of a rich purple crimson, which are extreme- 
 ly double, and always open well. 
 Beau carmine, dark crimson of a very distinct habit and co- 
 lour, is an excellent bloomer and finely formed. 
 
April.] ROSA iNDicA, <kc. 73 
 
 Bell chionese, bright red, with irregular cupped flowers, is a 
 
 free bloomer, and one of our oldest roses. 
 Belle de Monza, changeable from pink to crimson, a very 
 compact and large flower, a rapid grower, and a gene- 
 ral favourite of long standing. 
 Belle Isidore is also a changeable rose ; it will open a light 
 pink colour, and before evening will be a rich crimson, 
 is a regular and very double large rose, of strong growth 
 and easy culture, and when known will be generally 
 cultivated, 
 Bisson a odeur d'anisette, delicate rose, very perfect and 
 
 double, and has a very peculiar odour. 
 Cels, or Bengal Cels, flesh colour, of the most perfect form, 
 extremely double and always opens perfect, is a very 
 profuse bloomer, and of a strong growing habit ; it has 
 much the appearance of a superb tea rose. 
 Clintonia,* light rose, compact, globular, and perfectly dou- 
 ble. 
 Couronne des pourpres, Purple crown, bright crimson, cup- 
 ped, and perfectly double, superb. 
 Cramoise superienr and cramoweeiZowmawfe are much alike 
 
 both rich and dark crimson, cupped, and double 
 
 doubt, they are one and the same. 
 Duchess of Kent, delicate pink, a perfect flower of a globular 
 
 form, and free bloom. 
 Fabvier, nearly bright scarlet — a beauty of globular shape 
 and perfect form, very distinct, but of delicate 
 habit. 
 Gigantea, rosy lilac, sometimes changing to light crimson 
 a very double rose, cupped, a good size, and free 
 grower. 
 Grandval, Bell hermit, Montezuma, and Speciosa, all these 
 names has this rose been grown under — crimson, 
 expanded and double. The great fault of this fine 
 
 * Those marked thus, * were grown from seed by the late Mr. Hibbert. 
 
 7 
 
74 ROSA INDICA, &C. [ApuL 
 
 rose is, its seldom blooming perfectly. Duchesse 
 de Berri is very similar to it, and has the same 
 fault. 
 Hamilton, or old monthly, rosy lilac, large and double. 
 *Hibbertia, deep pink, very compact, and perfectly double, 
 
 and is a little fragrant. 
 Hortensia, flesh colour, very double, and an excellent rose. 
 Indica or common daily, dark blush or rose colour — it is the 
 prototype of the family, and is a free growing and 
 profuse blooming plant, and can withstand every va- 
 riety of treatment. The flower is about three inches 
 in diameter ; and in our descriptions, where the word 
 large is used, it signifies that the flower is larger than 
 the present variety, and very large means still larger, 
 say four inches ; extremely large, between four and 
 five inches. We have even seen roses in favourable 
 soils and cloudy weather six inches in diameter, and 
 would not be alarmed to see a hybrid Rose twenty- 
 one inches in circumference. 
 Indica alba, white daily or sarmeteuse of some, pure white, 
 perfectly double, free growing, and profuse in flow- 
 ering; it is much more tender than ihe former, but 
 does tolerably well when protected during winter. 
 In the southern states it is a great and growing fa- 
 vourite. Thousands of this rose have been grown 
 and sold in Philadelphia within these five years. 
 Indica minor var. Lawrencia flore pleno, delicate rose, a per- 
 fect rose in perfect miniature. 
 *Jacksonia,t hundred leaved daily, or crimson daily, bright 
 red, large and most perfectly double, of luxu- 
 riant growth, and more prickly (spines) than 
 any other rose of the sort we have seen. 
 La Etna, bright light crimson, very double, globular, and 
 very distinct, is of « strong growing habit. 
 
 t In •compliment to Ex-President Jackson. 
 
April.] ROSA iNDicA, &c. 75 
 
 La reguliere, light crimson, globular, very compact, and of 
 
 excellent habits. 
 La tenderese, bright rose, double, of free growth, and a pro- 
 fuse bloomer. 
 LaVictoire, The Victory, bright red, requires a very rich soil, 
 and it will grow and bloom in a most elegant 
 manner, exhibiting its beautiful flowers to great 
 advantage. 
 Louis Philippe, dark crimson, very compact, globular, and 
 
 extremely double. 
 Mazoratti, bright red, very double and perfect, partakes of 
 
 the habit of the Sanguinea Rose. 
 Queen of Lorabardy, Reine de Lombardie, brilliant cherry 
 red, cupped, perfectly double, a strong grower, and 
 will be a great favourite — superb. 
 Resplendent, dark crimson, but too much like Rosa semper- 
 
 florens, to be cultivated together. 
 Semperflorens, Crimson Chinese or Sanguinea, the type of 
 all the scarlet and crimson varieties of this 
 division ; it is perfectly double, of a rich crim- 
 son colour, and is everywhere cultivated, and 
 will not be easily displaced from the window 
 of the cottage, or the veranda of the palace. 
 Triomph de grande, rose and lilac shaded, a finely cupped 
 rose, very large and double — is a strong grower 
 and an abundant bloomer. 
 Vinella, very dark crimson, and blooms best in hot weather. 
 Washington,! crimson, with white, at the bottom of the pe- 
 tals, cupped and double, the foliage is pale 
 green, with red nerves ; it is a distinct variety* 
 grows well, and blooms freely. 
 *Websteria,|: rich blush with pink centre, very compact and 
 
 t Originated on the substantial establishment of D. & C. Landrotbu 
 $ Named in compliment to the Hon. D. Webster, 
 
76 ROSA ODORATA OR TEA ROSE. [Apn7. 
 
 perfectly double, plant of free growth and pro- 
 fuse in bloom. 
 
 ROSA ODORATA OR TEA ROSE. 
 
 The original Rosa odorata or tea rose, has been and will 
 be a lasting favourite. It is supposed to have been imported 
 from China so late as 1810, and is the leading parent of all 
 the fine varieties we now possess. As this very popular and 
 interesting group of Roses require more care in their culture 
 than any yet described, I will endeavour to give the most 
 explicit directions I am able, so as to ensure, at least, a 
 great chance of success. They delight to grow in a rich soil 
 with a dry bottom, and in rather an elevated situation, and a 
 southern aspect. Select a spot of the dimensions requisite 
 for the quantity of plants to be planted, and dig therefrom 
 soil to the depth of at least eighteen inches ; six inches of the 
 bottom may be filled with pieces of bricks, stone, or lime — 
 rubbish of any sort ; on this, place a layer of compost, (at 
 least fifteen inches thick, to allow for its settling,) half turf, 
 or good garden mould, and half well rotted manure, with 
 about an eighth of sand, all completely mixed together. A few 
 weeks after the bed is thus prepared — say about the first of 
 May, the roses may be planted about two feet apart. In 
 this latitude, during the severity of winter, they should be 
 protected by a temporary frame : if covered with glass, so 
 much the better ; but boards will serve where glass frames 
 are not at hand. With this treatment they will never re- 
 ceive the least injury from our severest winters, and they 
 will bloom in the greatest perfection the whole season. The 
 only pruning they require is, merely to remove any old 
 shoots to give room for those of younger growth, and to oc- 
 casionally shorten any of extra length. However, where 
 there are only solitary plants, they will do very well co- 
 vered with branches of cedar, or a box or barrel perforated 
 
April.] ROSA ODORATA OR TEA ROSE. 77 
 
 in several places to allow the moisture to evaporate. Those 
 that are grafted or budded, will not generally stand the win- 
 ters of our eastern or middle states, and should be lifted and 
 put in a back shed, or tied close to the ground and covered, 
 with earth. About the first of the month they can be raised 
 up and pruned of any dead or superfluous wood, when they 
 will bloom nearly as perfect as those that have received finer 
 treatment. In the southern states they enjoy the great lux- 
 ury of this rose in its utmost perfection ; there they grow in 
 " wild luxuriance," displaying their varied beauties, and per- 
 fuming the air with their delightful fragrance. Every flow- 
 er garden in mild latitudes, should have a full and perfect 
 collection of such " pleasing flowers." Among the many 
 distinct varieties known to be worth culture, are 
 
 Arkinto, flesh colour, very double, large and perfect. 
 Aurore or Belle aurore, delicate straw colour, changing to 
 blush, perfectly double, and profuse in bloom and 
 growth. 
 Belle Marguerite, Countess of Albemarle^of the English,{dind 
 even a spurious rose of the latter name has been intro- 
 duced to our collections) — pale rose, changing to dark 
 pink in the centre, large and extremely double. 
 Bon Silene, cherry red, shaded with blush, very large, beau- 
 tifully cupped petals, and perfectly double ; is of strong 
 growth and finely scented ; is a new and very scarce 
 rose ; even in France it is but in a few collections. 
 Bourbon, white with greenish white centre, a very double 
 rose, free in growing and profuse in flowering, and 
 is generally known. 
 Clara Sylvain, pure white, most perfectly double, a strong; 
 grower, and abundant in bloom, very sweet and high- 
 ly esteemed, qtiite new. 
 Clarisse, blush, dehcate form and very double. 
 Coccinea, curled pet'' tea and crimson tea, all one and the, 
 
 7* 
 
78 nOSA ODORATA OR TEA ROSE. [April- 
 
 same — crimson, globular, and double ; is finely 
 scented, but of delicate habit. 
 Due de Orleans, bright rose, large, globular, and finely dou- 
 ble. 
 Flavescens, lutea or yellow tea, pale straw colour, cupped 
 petals, very large, and though only semi- double, 
 has not a rival of its colour ; it was introduced 
 to England from China by Mr. Parkes in 1824 ; 
 is a strong grower, but more tender than any 
 other tea rose of its habit. 
 Flon, Feon? fawn colour, very large, cupped, and extremely 
 
 double, and is of delightful fragrance. 
 Hardy, or Gloire de Hardy, bright rose, very large and finely 
 
 double ; and is of most luxuriant growth. 
 Hym^nee, white, with cream centre, globular, large, and very 
 double, a free grower and profuse bloomer. I 
 doubt if this rose and Camellia are not one and 
 the same. 
 Jaune panache, pale straw, with rose shades, compact and 
 perfectly double, and, though it has been some time in 
 cultivation, is yet very scarce. 
 Lilisine, lilac, very distinct, compact, and perfectly double. 
 Madame Desprez, or Bengal Madame Desprez, pure whiter 
 cupped, large and finely double, is a beautiful roser 
 and is rarely excelled in delicacy of fragrance ; it 
 has become a universal favourite. 
 Mirabilis, pure white, with pink centre, almost too double ;: 
 
 is a large and excellent variety. 
 
 Odorata, or common tea Rose, fine blush, very large cupped 
 
 petals, delightfully scented, a strong grower, and 
 
 everywhere admired, and is the foundation of this 
 
 sweet-scented family. 
 
 Odoratissima, pale lilac, very pretty and double, free of 
 
 growth, and profuse in flower ; is also very 
 
 hardy, and rather fragrant j it has been lately 
 
April.] NOISETTE ROSES. 79 
 
 renamed, Odorata pallida, and is coming out 
 as a new Rose. 
 Olympie, bright red, a beauty of great merit, perfectly dou- 
 ble, and an excellent flowering variety. 
 Princess Marie, flesh colour, a most superb rose of first rate 
 merit, perfectly double, and finely scented ; when 
 well grown, will have flowers about five inches in 
 diameter. 
 Strombio, creamy while, perfectly double, large and globular. 
 Triomphe du Luxembourg, yellow flesh or copper colour, ex- 
 tremely large and perfectly double; is a rampant 
 grower ; has a most splendid bud, and a rose 
 that has created considerable excitement in 
 France, and even in this country it has been 
 in great demand. (I am positive it is already 
 passing under two names ; Triomphe d' Anvers 
 being unquestionably the same rose.) Only 
 two years ago, good plants of it sold in Paris at 
 about ten dollars each. 
 Victorie modesta, blush, cupped, very large and double, and 
 is an excellent tea Rose. 
 
 NOISETTE ROSES. 
 
 It is a remarkable fact, that the original of this famous 
 group of Roses originated in Charleston, South Carolina, 
 with Mr. Noisette, about 1815, who sent it to his brother, 
 the well known nurseryman, at Paris, (France.) It was 
 supposed tobe produced between the white musk, clustei, and 
 the common china rose, and created a very great excitement 
 among the Parisian Florists and Amateurs ; but since its in- 
 troduction to France, thousands of seedlings have been raised 
 from it, and so many of these are evidently hybrids, of the 
 tea scented and other roses ; that some of the roses called 
 
80 NOISETTE ROSES. [Apnh 
 
 " Noisettes," have almost lost every character of the divi- 
 sion. They are generally hardy plants, requiring rich soil 
 and a routine of treatment similar to the " Isle de Bourbon 
 Roses." They will amply repay for extra attention to their 
 culture. The great profusion and perpetual succession of 
 flowers from June till November, of immense clusters, fre- 
 quently from fifty to one hundred in each, makes them truly 
 ornamental objects, and are well calculated for covering 
 fences, pillars, or trellis-work. Although they are hardy, 
 they will be benefited by a light covering of mats or litter : 
 south of this, nothing of the kind is required. It must be 
 kept in mind, that pillar roses can scarcely have too much 
 manure when planting, and they also require a regular an- 
 nual dressing of some enriching material. We consider the 
 annexed list indispensable to a flower garden. The flower 
 of a Noisette Rose varies from one to three inches in diame- 
 ter in the following descriptions ; we take two inches as our 
 standard : 
 
 Agrippina, bright crimson, globular and double, a very 
 beautiful rose of agreeable fragrance ; but doubt 
 if it truly belongs to this group, having more 
 the appearance of a Bengal Rose. 
 Alba, white, a beautiful dwarf with small flowers ; but in the 
 greatest profusion, and the whole bush is frequently 
 like one Bouquet. 
 Aim^e vibert, unique or Rosa nevia, snowy white, very 
 compact and perfectly double, and, if well treated, is 
 one of the finest white dwarf Noisette Roses, and is 
 a profuse autumnal bloomer. 
 Belle de Esquermes, dark rose, very compact and double ; 
 
 a strong grower and fine pillar rose. 
 Bengal Lee, Noisette Lee, Blush perpetual China, ccelestis, 
 grandiflora, monsirosa, and Triomphe des Noi- 
 settes, are all one and the same rose, blush or 
 
April.] NOISETTE ROSES. 81 
 
 creamy white, very double, of strong growth, 
 and flowers in large clusters ; it is a good old 
 rose and fortunate in new names. 
 Conqua de Venus, creamy white, with darker centre, very 
 compact and double; blooms in large clusters, and is 
 delightfully scented, a regular good article. 
 Champneyana or Champney's pink cluster, light pink — a 
 rampant grower, profuse bloomer, and uni- 
 versally cultivated. 
 Charles the Tenth, rosy purple, very double, and in dry wea- 
 ther blooms well, but in moist weather its buds do 
 not open ; is an excellent rose in a southern latitude. 
 Coeurjaune and Cosier sw/re are alike, yellowish white, a hardy 
 
 rose of strong growth, and profusion of flower. 
 Felemberg, bright crimson, double, a strong grower, profuse 
 in bloom, and a decided, distinct, and excellent 
 rose. 
 Jaunc Desprez, or French yellow Noisette, rosy buff", large 
 and perfectly double, flowers in large clusters ; is a 
 strong grower and delightfully fragrant, very hardy 
 and well calculated for a pillar rose. 
 Julia, rosy lilac, of strong growth, profuse in bloom — very 
 
 perfect and double. 
 Julienne le Sourd, dark rose, a most profuse bloomer, oer- 
 
 fectly double, and a fine dwarf. 
 Lamarque, greenish white, extremely large, profuse in bloom, 
 perfectly double — and agreeably scented — closely 
 approaches the tea rose in its size and fragrance; 
 it makes a splendid pillar rose, frequently grow- 
 ing ten feet in one season. 
 La Biche, pale flesh, large and double, a fine pillar rose, and 
 
 very distinct and fragrant. 
 Lady Byron, pink, very compact, and perfectly double, and 
 
 is a good pillar rose. 
 Lutea or Smithii, pale yellow, large double flowers, but does 
 not open well in moist weather ; it is a superb article 
 
82 MUSK-SCENTED ROSES, &C. [April. 
 
 when perfect, and is quite a dwarf, having very Uttle 
 of the Noisette character, but dehghtfully scented. 
 Miss Glegg, nearly white, a perfect beauty in miniature, 
 
 profuse in bloom, and dwarf in habits. 
 Miss Smithson, flesh colour, in habit very similar to the for- 
 mer, and equally as perfect and profuse ; both are 
 agreeably scented. 
 Orloff, bright pink, large and showy, though not very dou- 
 ble — a profuse bloomer when well established — is a 
 very strong grower, and excellent for covering ar- 
 bours or trellises. 
 Princesse d'Orange, while, perfectly double, profuse in flower, 
 
 and finely scented, grows about three feet high. 
 Philemon, bright crimson, very distinct, a fine dwarf, and an 
 
 excellently formed flower. 
 Rottanger, delicate rose, very double, blooms in fine clusters,. 
 
 and a very perfect dwarf. 
 Superb, delicate pink, an old rose, perfectly double, blooms 
 in large clusters ; is of strong habit, and flowers pro- 
 fusely. This, with Noisette Lee, are our two best 
 old Noisette Roses. 
 Suters Susanna, white, originated in Washington city, with 
 an Amateur, who has grown several fine roses, of 
 which this is said to be the finest. I have not had 
 the pleasure as yet of seeing il in bloom. 
 
 MUSK-SCENTED ROSES, (ROSA MOSCHATA.) 
 
 The white musk-scented cluster rose is one of the oldest 
 inhabitants of the rose garden, and is known all over the 
 earth, where the rose has been cultivated, or its name been 
 heard. It is supposed that it is the famed Rose of the Per- 
 sian poets. Although there are several varieties under this 
 head, very few of them, indeed, have that peculiar fragrance 
 which the genuine old species possesses. They require si- 
 
April.] CLIMBING R0SE8, <fec. 83 
 
 ftiilar treatment to the Bourbon and Noisette Roses, and, in 
 fact, fanciers have been, if possible, too minute — to separate 
 this group from the Noisette Roses, merely because they are, 
 in some degree, musk-scented. 
 
 Old musk cluster, yellowish white, expanded and semi-dou- 
 ble, blooms in immense clusters and finely scented. 
 Frazerii, Blush musk and Pink musk, all the[same rose, blush 
 pink, semi-double, much puffed in Europe, being 
 the only one of colour in the group. 
 Princesse de Nassau, creamy while, perfectly double, very 
 
 fragrant, and blooms in large clusters. 
 Ranunculus, musk cluster, pure white, very double ; flowers 
 in very large clusters, but has little of the fra- 
 grance which is the celebrity of this division. 
 
 CLIMBING ROSES THAT BLOOM ONLY ONCE IN THE 
 SEASON. 
 
 Under this head we will have to place several roses from 
 very different countries, but all agreeing in habit and flower- 
 ing disposition. Our readers will now be fully impressed 
 with the knowledge that all roses of luxuriant growth re- 
 quire copious nourishment. Such is the case with many of 
 those we are now about to describe ; but others of them will 
 grow and bloom most beautifully perfect even on the poor- 
 est of soil, and are very capable of covering rock-work, a 
 steril bank, or naked wall, or any disagreeable object, where 
 it is not convenient to excavate for the purpose of intro- 
 ducing nutritious soils ; and several of them are of such a 
 hardy nature, that they will withstand the utnoost severity 
 of our northern states ; others are more delicate, and can only 
 bear the mild winters of a southern climate, where they rich- 
 ly display both flowers and foliage, and even retain their 
 foliage during winter, and are evergreens for screening dis- 
 
84 CLIMBING ROSES, &c. [April. 
 
 agreeable objects or covering arbours. The best of the united 
 groups are 
 
 (r) * Ayrshire tea scented, or Rosa Ruga, delicate blush, 
 flowers very compact and perfectly double ; 
 it is a free grower and an excellent pillar rose, 
 with a delightful fragrance. There are seve- 
 ral others of the Ayrshire Rose, under very 
 tempting names, such as Double Crimson, 
 Mottled, Eclipse, Ayrshire Queen, Elegans, 
 &c. These may do for those who wish a 
 multiplicity of names ; but will not take with 
 our floral public, who wish every plant to 
 have some merit as well as a name to recom- 
 mend it. 
 Boursalt, pink or reddish pink, semi-double, profuse flower- 
 ing, and is our earliest rose — is a free grower, and 
 of the most hardy nature ; in fact, all the Boursalts 
 are equally hardy, and withstand the severest cold. 
 Boursalt, white. Rose de Lisle, Boursalt Florida, Calypso, 
 Pompone Florida, and Bengal Florida, &c., for it 
 is known by all these names, and I have imported 
 it four times, under diff"erent names ; it is a blush 
 white, and frequently exceedingly large and hand- 
 some, and is a pillar rose ; its very double delicate 
 flowers have a fine eff'ect. 
 Boursalt elegans. Purple Boursalt, Purple Noisette, &c., 
 flowers of a vivid purple crimson, with an occa- 
 sional stripe of white, nearly double, and an early 
 and profuse bloomer ; is an excellent rose for an 
 arbour. 
 Banksia alba, white, with pink centre, very small, but per- 
 fectly double, has an agreeable violet perfume, and 
 is a profuse bloomer, but is entirely too delicate to 
 
 * Those marked thus, (r) will do admirably for rock-work. 
 
April.] CLIMBING ROSES, &c. 85 
 
 withstand our winters. This and the following are 
 natives of China : 
 Banksia lutea, yellow inclining to buff, in every other cha- 
 racter similar to the former. They are elegant 
 evergreens in the gardens of our southern states, 
 and are very highly esteemed ; frequently known 
 under the name of White Evergreen Multiflora, and 
 Yelloio Evergreen Multiflora. There has been 
 seen in Canton a pink Banksia Rose ; but I have 
 never heard of its being introduced either to Europe 
 or this country. 
 Bourbon, bright rosy red, nearly double, and flowers pro- 
 fusely, and is a good pillar rose ; and although the 
 parent of the celebrated L'Isle de Bourbon Roses, 
 it only blooms in May or June. 
 Bengalensis scandens, or Reuse de hlanc, rose white, large 
 
 double flower, and of free growth. 
 (r-)Felicite de per^etna, Noisette flo7-abunda, Ahelard semper- 
 virens, Noisette compacta, Madetnoiselle Euphra- 
 sze,and perhaps many other high-sounding names; 
 it is a beautiful cream white, with perfect shaped 
 flowers, and makes a lovely rock-work or pillar 
 rose ; but is rather delicate for our severe winters. 
 Grevillia, or seven sisters, is a very curious rose, flowered 
 the first lime with us in June, 1830. It is of the 
 Multiflora variety, and is a native of China ; growth 
 free and luxuriant; leaves large and deeply nerved; 
 flowers in large clusters, almost every eye of the 
 wood of last year producing one cluster, having on 
 it from eight to twenty roses, according to the 
 state of the plant, each rose expanding differently 
 in colour or shade. Many suppose that they ex- 
 pand all of the same colour, and change afterward. 
 This is not the case. We have seen them white, 
 pink, red, purple, and various other shades when 
 the bloom expanded ; and on two clusters we have 
 8 
 
86 CLIMBING ROSES, &c, [April. 
 
 observed twenly-lwo distinct shades of colour. In 
 fact, it is a complete nondescript, having roses 
 single, semi-double, and double, large and small, 
 and every colour between white and purple, form- 
 ing, in every garden where it is planted, a wonder 
 of the vegetable world. It is very hardy ; an east- 
 ern aspect will answer it best, preserving the flow- 
 ers from the direct rays of the sun, which will 
 keep the colours purer. We readily recommend 
 it to every lover o( Flora. 
 (r)Lepoldine de Orleans, beautiful blush, very compact and 
 profuse in bloom, and is a very celebrated rose. 
 Multiflora, beautiful pink, very compact and double ; it is 
 rather tender for this latitude. Celebrated as be- 
 ing the first climbing rose that was planted in or 
 about Philadelphia, and was so much admired, 
 that twenty dollars were frequently given for a 
 single plant. 
 Multiflora alba, similar to the former, but lighter in colour, 
 
 though not a pure white. 
 Multiflora Laure de Voust, changeable pale blush, pink or 
 white, very compact, of the most perfect form, 
 and a profuse bloomer, of rampant growth, and 
 more hardy than the two preceding; it is one of 
 the most beautiful and elegant of climbing roses, 
 with rather large flowers and luxuriant foliage. 
 (r)Princess Maria and Princess Louise are unquestionably 
 the same, a beautiful pale rose of exquisite form 
 and beautifully cupped petals. 
 •Rosa rubifolia, Kentucky Rose, Michigan Rose, Prarie 
 Rose, &c. The rose generally cultivated here is a 
 single pink of various shades, that flowers profusely 
 in July ; but there is a double variety of great beauty,^ 
 that blooms at the same period ; when there is 
 scarcely any olher rose in flower, it is excellent for 
 covering arbours or rock-work. 
 
April.] ROSA MICROPHYLLA, &c. 87 
 
 Russelliana, Cottage Rose, and Scarlet GrevilUa : this is a 
 distinct article in growth from any other of this 
 group ; it is perfectly hardy, and does not climb 
 so freely ; still it makes a lovely pillar rose with 
 large clusters of bright crimson shaded flowers. 
 (r)Sempervirens pleno alba, pure white, flowers perfectly dou- 
 ble and profuse ; the strong shoots of last year 
 will produce a large cluster of flowers almost 
 from every eye : this Rose is termed ever- 
 green in Europe, but with us is perfectly de- 
 ciduous ; although in our southern stales it 
 retains its foliage during winter. 
 Triomphe de BoUvviller. When this very superb rose first 
 made its appearance in France, it " came out " 
 under the flowing and enticing description of 
 " laplus belle des Thees,'' and was the highest- 
 priced rose then on the French catalogue, in 
 1831-2: on cultivation it was found not to be a tea 
 rose, and was placed among the Noisettes ; but we 
 have never seen it bloom during the season as 
 these roses do, and we now place it in this group 
 that bloom only once during the season : it is cer- 
 tainly a most superb blush white rose, globular 
 and double, and blooms in fine clusters, having an 
 agreeable and rather delightful fragrance, and is 
 a magnificent pillar plant. 
 
 ROS\ MICROPHYLLA, (OR SMALL-LEAVED ROSE.) 
 
 This pretty little Rose was originally from China, and 
 since it has been introduced, several additions have been 
 made by cultivation ; although we have not yet seen any 
 lo excel the original Rosa microphylla. They delight 
 in light rich dry soils, and form very fine bushes for 
 
88 ROSA MICROPHYLLA, &C. [Ap7'il. 
 
 grass plats or small lawns, and generally flower the whole 
 summer, producing their blooms from short young shoots 
 produced from the wood of two or three years' growth. 
 The plants should all have a little protection the first winter 
 after planting, and in pruning the shoots should only be 
 thinned out, or any dead piece cut off: we have had several 
 roses under very enticing names added to this group, such 
 as striped microphylla, crimson microphylla, scarlet micro- 
 phylla, all deceptive; and even the first plant that came out as 
 double white, proved to be entirely single ; but there is now 
 a genuine double white, though not properly a microphylla. 
 The following few are all we have seen worth cultivating : 
 
 Microphylla. This rose is unique in every character. The 
 foliage is very small and neat, and the ealyx 
 thick and bristly. The flowers are produced 
 at the extremity of the young shoots in twos 
 or threes, according to the strength of the 
 plant ; they are large and double ; the exterior 
 petals large and full ; those of the interior are 
 very short and thick-set ; the colour in the 
 centre is dark, shading lighter toward the 
 exterior ; the spines are in pairs on each side 
 of the compound leaves. It is perfectly 
 hardy, and greatly esteemed, and not so sub- 
 ject to be attacked by insects as other roses. 
 Microphylla violace, reddish violet ; in habit very similar to 
 the former, but much darker in colour, and is a 
 true microphylla, and yet very scarce. 
 Maria Leonida, white, centre tinged with pink; is very sweet- 
 scented — blooms all the season — but has more the ha- 
 bit of a Macartney than Microphylla Rose. 
 Microphylla odorata alba, yellowish white, perfectly double, 
 and finely scented ; is a strong grower and a 
 good deal of the Macartney Rose habit. 
 
April.] ROSA MICROPIIYLLA, &c. 89 
 
 We have now concluded our few descriptions of the beau- 
 tiful family of Roses ; informing our readers, if they should 
 think it brief, we can assure them it is candid, and, as far as 
 we know, in every respect impartial. No doubt we could 
 have given many beautiful details of " things " we never 
 saw and probably never will; and we also promise that a few 
 of our descriptions will, in some situations and peculiar sea- 
 sons, " come short," or perhaps " overshoot the mark ;" for 
 it is well known to the cultivator, that double roses will oc- 
 casionally come single, and red roses become blush, and 
 blush roses frequently bloom entirely white, and vise versa. 
 We have also seen a moss bush have roses and shoots entire- 
 ly without their " mossy coat." We have also avoided a 
 few of high standing in character ; but not being entirely 
 known to us in their intrinsic worth, a description of them 
 would have been too hazardous, knowing that much exag- 
 geration exists. 
 
 The Roses and all their allies, described in this month, 
 should be planted from the first to the middle of the month; 
 and we would again enforce upon our rose amateurs the ac- 
 tual necessity of giving soil of enriching qualities to all their 
 roses ; they will be amply repaid for their trouble : nearly all 
 the failures of roses giving a grateful and even universal sa- 
 tisfaction, can be traced to bad and shallow soils, more espe- 
 cially in our city gardens, where cheapness of workmanship 
 is the best recommendation ; consequently, there is a few 
 inches of tolerable-looking clay thrown over brick-bats and 
 lime rubbish, and, when finished, is considered a " fine job," 
 because it is done cheap ; the result is, that often the very 
 next season the whole has to be gone over and done in a 
 permanent manner ; not less than sixteen or eighteen inches 
 of the best dark loam should be in every garden, and that 
 well incorporated with manure at least one year old, and 
 also have a portion of sand or fine rotten rock thoroughly 
 mixed with it; and then, and not till then, the proprietor may 
 expect satisfaction. 
 
90 CLIMBING PLANTS. [Apt 
 
 CLIMBING PLANTS. 
 
 As shade is much required in this country, and plants suit- 
 able for covering arbours, &:c., eagerly sought for, we will 
 make a few remarks on those which are preferred for their 
 beauty, growth, hardiness, &c. 
 
 Aristolochia sipho, Birthioort or Dutchman's pipe, is a very 
 curious blooming plant, with extraordinary 
 large foliage, and makes an excellent arbour 
 twiner, affording a dense and cooling shade. 
 Atragene alpina is a free growing deciduous shrub, with 
 large blush-coloured flowers, which continue 
 blooming from May to July ; has small pinnated 
 foliage. 
 Clematis viticella pulchella, or double virgin's bower, is an 
 esteemed climbing plant, of rapid growth, with 
 large flowers in great profusion from June to Sep- 
 tember. There are several varieties of the above, 
 two of them single, and it is said that there is like- 
 wise a double red. 
 Clematis ccerulea, C. coerulea grandiflora, and C. azurea 
 grandijlora. This beautiful and entirely new 
 climber is already distinguished by three distinct 
 names, and has been several times figured, each 
 time with more or less flattery. I must confess 
 the first representation I saw of it truly enchanted 
 me ; the brilhancy of its blue surpassing every 
 flower I had ever beheld ; and named C. azurea 
 grandiflora. However, as it has not yet bloomed 
 under my own observation, I will allow Dr. Lind- 
 ly to describe it. " This is a charming addition to 
 the climbers cultivated in England ; it has a most 
 graceful mode of growth ; and the large violet 
 flowers with deep purple stamens are more orna- 
 
April.] CLIMBING PLANTS, 9 J 
 
 mental than those of any species of clematis yet in 
 this country." It was introduced from Japan to 
 Europe by Dr. Van Siebold. 
 Clematis Sieboldii, or bicolor. This is another of Dr. Van 
 Siebold's Japan additions, and is nearly related to 
 C. florida. The leaves and branches, however, 
 are rather more downy, and the petals suffused 
 with violet spots ; the anthors are also of a violet 
 colour, which has given it the name of bicolor ; it 
 is of graceful habit, and the size and beauty of its 
 blossoms render it an attractive inhabitant of the 
 flower garden, 
 C.fldmmula, sweet-scented virgin's bower, is of very rapid 
 • growth. Established plants will grow from 
 twenty to forty feet in one season, producing 
 at the axils of the young shoots, large panicles 
 of small white flowers of exquisite fragrance ; 
 the leaves are compound pinnate ; in bloom 
 from July to November, but in August, Septem- 
 ber, and October, the flowers are in great pro- 
 fusion, perfuming the whole garden. This is 
 one of the best climbing hardy plants, and 
 ought to have a situation in every garden. 
 C. Virginiana is of rapid growth, and well adapted for ar- 
 bours ; flowers small white in axillary pani- 
 cles, dioecious, leaves ternate, segments cor- 
 date, acute, coarsely toothed and lobed, in 
 bloom from June to August. A native, and 
 a little fragrant. 
 C. florida plenb is a fine free flowering plant, though gene- 
 rally considered a shrub, is more herbaceous than 
 shrubby ; the flowers are large double white ; in 
 growth will not exceed ten feet in one season.' 
 Glycine frutescens, a beautiful native climbing shrub, known 
 in our gardens under that name, but is properly 
 Wisteria frutescens. It has large pendulous branches 
 
92 CLIMBING PLANTS [April, 
 
 of blue leguminose (pea-like)flowers, blooming from 
 May to August ; pinnated leaves with nine ovate 
 downy leaflets ; grows freely. 
 Glycine chinensis is given to Wisteria, and is the finest 
 climbing shrub of the phaseolius tribe. The flow- 
 ers are light blue, in long nodding many-flovt^ered 
 racemose spikes, blooming from May to August, 
 profusely ; leaves pinnated, with eleven ovate lance- 
 olate silky leaflets, and is of a very rapid growth. 
 It is perfectly hardy, withstanding the severity of 
 our winters without protection. 
 Bignbnia crucigera is an evergreen which is very desirable 
 in many situations, being likewise of luxuriant 
 growth. It will cover in a few years an area of 
 fifty feet; flowers of an orange scarlet colour, bloom- 
 ing from May to August. 
 B.grandifldra now given to Tecbma, has large orange-co- 
 loured flowers, blooming from June to Au- 
 gust, and grows very fast. It is perfectly 
 hardy, and a most magnificent plant. 
 B. rddicans is likewise given to Tecbma, and is a native 
 plant. When in flower it is highly ornamental, 
 but it requires great attention to keep it in re- 
 gular order, being of a strong rough nature ; in 
 bloom from June to August. 
 Periplaca graca, silk vine, is a climber of extraordinary 
 growth. Well established plants grow thirty or 
 forty feet in one season ; flowers in clusters from 
 May to July, of a brownish yellow colour, and 
 hairy inside ; leaves smooth, ovate, lanceolate, 
 vrood slender, twining, and elastic. 
 Hedera Helix, Irish Ivy, is a valuable evergreen for covering 
 naked walls, or any other unsightly object. The 
 foliage is of a lively green, leaves from three to five 
 
April.] CLIMBING PLANTS. 93 
 
 angled. There are several varieties of it, all valua- 
 ble for growing in confined shady situations where 
 no other plant will thrive. 
 Ampelbpsis hederacea. This plant is comntionly employed 
 for covering walls, for which the rapidity of its 
 growth and the largeness of the leaves render it 
 extremely appropriate. There are several spe- 
 cies of the genus, all resembling the Vine in ha- 
 bit and in flower. 
 Jasminum officinale, garden Jasmine. This delightful climb- 
 ing shrub has been in common use all over Eu- 
 rope for covering arbours from time immemorial ; 
 its white, delicate, and lovely fragrant flowers ren- 
 der it a great acquisition : unfortunately, with us, 
 it is rather delicate for our winters, unless well 
 protected by a south wall or other building, and 
 even then, when in a young state, must be pro- 
 tected : but, in the south, this plant and also the 
 yellow Jasminum revoMtum grow luxuriantly and 
 bloom profusely, and even /. grandiflorum is a 
 hardy shrub in South Carolina and Georgia. 
 Lonicera, or more properly Caprifolium. The Honeysuckle. 
 This genus of flowering odoriferous climbing 
 shrubs are principally natives of this country : 
 they are all equally beautiful ; but where there is 
 not space in our city gardens to cultivate the whole 
 family, it is indispensable to have C. fiexuosum, 
 the Chinese sweet-scented or evergreen; it blooms 
 in May and September, and is a very rapid grow- 
 er : C. belgica is also a charming species; it blooms 
 the whole summer, and is very odorous. Our na- 
 tive C. sempervirens, or Coral Honeysuckle, is not 
 easily surpassed ; its profuse and brilliant scarlet 
 flowers render it the most attractive object in all 
 our country gardens. C. Japonicum is also an 
 excellent Chinese species, with delicate orange-co- 
 
94 DECIDUOUS SHRUBS. [April. 
 
 loured flowers of agreeable sweetness ; but will not 
 bear our winters north of the southern part of 
 Virginia. 
 Passijlbra, or Passion vine. There are several hardy species 
 for this latitude ; but the only very beautiful one 
 is P. incarndta, which, although it dies to the 
 ground every winter, yet will, during the sumnner, 
 put forth shoots from twenty to forty feet long, all 
 covered with a profusion of beautiful purple 
 flowers. 
 
 There are several other climbing plants, both curious and 
 ornamental ; but our limits will not admit of farther detail. 
 
 DECIDUOUS SHRUBS. 
 
 Finish planting all deciduous shrubs in the early part of 
 the month. These plants are generally delayed too long ; the 
 leaves in many instances are beginning to expand, thereby 
 giving a check to the ascending sap, which we may safely 
 assert causes the death of one-third of the plants, when 
 perhaps the operator or some individual more distantly con- 
 cerned is blamed. 
 
 These shrubs, if properly removed and planted at the ex- 
 act starting of vegetation, pressing the earth close to their 
 roots when planting, (previously taking care that the small 
 fibres have not become dry, by exposure,) there will not one 
 out of fifty fail by these simple attentions. Those that are late 
 planted should have frequent waterings, and, if large, firmly 
 supported, that the wind may have no effect in disturbing the 
 young and tender fibrous roots. 
 
 OF PLANTING EVERGREEN SHRUBS. 
 
 Now is the season to plant all kinds of evergreen trees and 
 
April] OF PLANTING EVERGREEN SHRUBS. 95 
 
 shrubs. In most seasons, the middle of the month is the 
 most proper time, the weather then being mild and moist ; or 
 if a late season, defer it to the end of the month. When 
 planted earlier, they will remain dormant until this time, and 
 their tender fibrous roots in that case frequently perish from 
 their liability to injury from frost or frosty winds, being more 
 susceptible of such injury than fibres of deciduous plants. 
 They now begin to vegetate, which is the grand ciiterion for 
 transplanting any plant. The buds begin to swell, the roots 
 to push, and if they can be quickly lifted and replanted, they 
 will hardly receive a check. At all events, care must be 
 taken that they are not long out of the ground and exposed 
 to the air, which greatly assists the success in planting. It 
 may be observed that evergreens in general succeed the bet- 
 ter the smaller they are, although we have seen plants, trees, 
 and evergreens, successfully lifted upward of thirteen feet 
 high, and fifteen in diameter, and carried several miles.* By 
 the second year there was no appearance that such operation 
 had taken place. In preparing a hole for the reception of 
 these plants, make it larger than the roots, breaking the bot- 
 tom thereof fine, and putting in some fresh soil. Place the 
 plant upright in the centre, putting in the earth and breaking 
 it fine, and give the plant a few gentle shakes. When the 
 roots are more than half covered, put in a pot or pailful of 
 water, allowing it to subside, then cover all the roots, give a 
 second or third pailful, and, when subsided, the earth will 
 be close to all the roots. Cover with more earth, pressing 
 all firm with the foot. Put more soil loosely on, which will 
 give it a finished appearance, and prevent it from becoming 
 dry, and not require mulching, which has an unsightly appear- 
 ance. All that the wind will have any hurtful effect upon 
 must be firmly supported, especially large plants. If the 
 weather sets in dry and hot, they should be watered as often 
 as necessity shall direct. 
 
 • See Mr. M'Nab's rich pamphlet treatise on removing eTergreens, &c. 
 
96 CARE OF CHOICE BULBS. [April. 
 
 Those that are established, it will be necessary to go over 
 ihem (if not already done) to cut off all wood killed in win- 
 ter, and also to thin them if too thick and crowded. 
 
 When the above is done, let every part of the shrubbery 
 be dressed off as directed in March. Shrubs of all kinds 
 will now begin to look gay and lively, which may be very 
 much heightened or depreciated, according to the state in 
 which the ground and contiguous walks are kept. Always 
 keep in view that weeds are no objects of beauty. 
 
 CARE OF CHOICE BULBS. 
 
 Hyacinths of the earliest sorts will begin to expand and 
 show their colours ; of which we can boast of a few as fine 
 sorts in the vicinity of Philadelphia, as in any garden of Eu- 
 rope ; but even these very superior sorts, when in bloom, are 
 too frequently neglected, being allowed to stand without 
 rods, stakes, or any means of support, likewise equally ex- 
 posed to drenching rains and scorching suns ; and the finest 
 collections may be seen after heavy rains prostrate on the 
 ground, whereas a few hours' trouble would give them the 
 requisite support, thereby preserving their beauty much 
 longer, and giving more gratification. As soon as the stems 
 advance to any height, they should be supported by wires, 
 rods, &c., and tied slightly thereto with threads of matting, 
 or any other substitute ; repeat the tying as they advance, 
 avoid tying among the florets, because they grow by ex- 
 tension, and are liable to be broken off by so doing. The 
 sun deteriorates the colours very much, especially the red, 
 blue, and yellow sorts ; whereas, if they were simply pro- 
 tected from the sun by an awning of thin canvass, the co- 
 lours would be preserved and the beauty protracted. If 
 there are stakes drove into the ground on each side of the 
 beds, about three feet high, with others in the centre about 
 eight feet, having latlis or hoops from the side to the centre, 
 
April.] CARE OF CHOICE BULBS. 97 
 
 formed similar to the roof of a house, so that people may- 
 walk or sit under it, the canvass or awning being thin to ad- 
 mit of the light freely, the effect in the time of sunshine, 
 from the brilliancy of the colours, is peculiarly gratifying. 
 Where an awning is thus erected, it requires to be kept on 
 only from nine to three o'clock in sunshine days, and during 
 nights or time of rain, allowing the awning on the most 
 northern side to come close to the ground, when necessary, 
 to shelter them from cold cutting winds. 
 
 The properties of a good Hyacinth are, namely — the stem 
 strong and erect, the florets or bells occupying one-half of 
 the stem, each floret suspended by a short strong footstalk, 
 longest at the bottom ; the uppermost floret quite erect, so 
 that the whole may form a pyramid. Each floret well filled 
 with petals rising toward the centre, that it may appear to 
 the eye a little convex. Regarding colour, fancy does not 
 agree, and the most scrupulous cultivators diff'er materially. 
 However, the more pure and bright the finer, or a white 
 with a pink centre, or the centre of the petals with a paler 
 or deeper colour appearing striped, which is considered to 
 have a good effect. 
 
 Tulips in every respect should have the same care and 
 protection, never neglecting to have the beds with a smooth 
 clean surface, and the stems neatly tied up, although they 
 are not in so much danger as Hyacinths. 
 
 The characters of a good Tulip are — the stem strong, elas- 
 tic, and erect, about two feet high, the flower large and com- 
 posed of six petals, proceeding a little horizontally at first, 
 and then turning upward, forming a flat-bottomed cup, ra- 
 ther widest at the top ; the three exterior petals should be 
 larger than the three interior ones, and broader at their base; 
 the edges of the petals entire, free from notch or ruggedness ; 
 the top of each well rounded ; the colour of the flower at the 
 bottom of the cup ought to be pure, white, or yellow, and 
 the rich-coloured stripes, which are the principal ornament, 
 
 should be pure, bold, regular, and distinct on the margin, and 
 
 9 
 
98 ANEMONES AND RANUNCULUS. [April. 
 
 terminate in fine points elegantly pencilled. The centre of 
 each petal should have one bold stripe, or blotch, of rich co- 
 louring. The ground colours that are most esteemed are 
 white, the purer the finer ; or, on the other hand, the dark 
 grounds, and of course the darker the better ; but these vary 
 in estimation according to the prevailing taste of amateurs. 
 
 ANEMONES AND RANUNCULUS. 
 
 Moist weather and frequent shoveers are highly essential 
 to the perfecting of these flowers, and if these should fail at 
 this season of the year, artificial means must be used to sup- 
 ply the deficiency. Take a watering-pot without the rose, 
 and run the water (river or rain water is best) gently be- 
 tween the rows, taking care not to make holes in the ground. 
 When they have got a good watering at root, take the sy- 
 ringe and give them a gentle sprinkling in fine evenings, 
 observing not to use force for fear of breaking the flower 
 stems. In dry weather the result of a deficiency of water 
 would be, that the stems and flowers of the strongest roots 
 will be weak and make no progress, and many of them will 
 not bloom ; the foliage of a sickly, yellow appearance, from 
 which they would not recover ; and the root, when taken up, 
 are of little use for farther transplanting. 
 
 A good plan in dry seasons is to cover the ground between 
 the rows with cow manure, which will prevent the moisture 
 from evaporating, and the rain or water passing through it 
 greatly enriches the soil and strengthens the roots. 
 
 CHARACTER OF A FINE RANUNCULUS. 
 
 " It is indispensable for a good ranunculus to have a stem 
 about eight or twelve inches high, strong enough to support 
 the flower, and quite upright. The form of the flower should 
 be hemispherical, not less than two inches in diameter, con- 
 
April] AURICULAS, &c. 99 
 
 sisting of numerous petals, gradually diminishing in size to 
 the centre, lying over each other, so as neither to be too 
 close nor too much separated, but having more of a perpen- 
 dicular than a horizontal direction, in order to display the 
 colours with better effect. The petals should be broad, with 
 entire well-rounded edges, their colours dark, clear, rich, or 
 brilliant, either of one colour or variously diversified, on a 
 ground of cinerous white, primrose, yellow, or flame colour, 
 or diversified with elegant stripes, spots, or mottlings." 
 
 AURICULAS. 
 
 Having under this head last month given ample directions 
 for the treatment of these plants previous to flowering, we 
 refer to that head to avoid repetition. 
 
 CHARACTER OF A FINE AURICULA. 
 
 The pips should be large, flat, and round, with ground co- 
 lour equal on every side of the eye, which should be quite 
 circular, as well as the edge. The tube a bright lemon yel- 
 low perfectly round, well filled with the anthors or thrum, 
 the eye round and large, the body colour black or violet, the 
 meal fine, the colour, in green-edged flowers, should be a 
 whole one, not a shaded green. The stern strong, and suffi- 
 ciently long to bear the truss above the foliage — the truss to 
 consist of not less than five full-blown pips ; only one stem 
 allowed. 
 
 CARNATIONS, PINKS, &c. 
 
 If any of these were omitted to be shifted last month, or 
 planted out according to directions therein given, let it be 
 done forthwith. Where they are still protected with frames, 
 give them plenty of air, keeping the sashes entirely off 
 
100 CHARACTER OF A POLYANTHUS. [April. 
 
 during the day, keep the pots perfectly free from weeds, and 
 give the foliage frequent sprinklings with water. 
 
 Folyantuus and Primroses will be exhibiting their beauti- 
 ful flowers. Tliey require the same treatment, and delight 
 in moisture and a shaded situation. Do not springle them 
 while in flower, and keep them clear of weeds or decayed 
 leaves, never exposing them to the sun. They are very hardy, 
 and, where required, may be planted in very shady situations, 
 for they will suffer more from the influence of the sun's rays 
 than from frost. Those plants in pots in general that have 
 been protected in frames, and are destined for the borders, 
 should now as soon as possible be planted in their destined 
 situations, having nothing to fear from chilling winds or frosts 
 after the middle of this month, except in uncommon seasons. 
 Those that are to be kept in pots, if not repotted, do it imme- 
 diately, and give regular supplies of water. 
 
 CHARACTER OF A POLYANTHUS. 
 
 The pips large, flat, and round, with small indentures be- 
 tween each division of the limb, dividing the pip into heart- 
 like segments edged with bright yellow; the edge and the eye 
 ought to be of the same colour, thu truss to consist of not less 
 than five full-blown pips, supported on a strong stem, stand- 
 ing well above the foliage. 
 
 POLIANTHUS TUBEROSA FLORE PLENO. 
 
 This very popular bulb, generally known as Tuberose, has 
 been cultivated in England upward of two centuries, whence 
 we no doubt have received it, and now can return those of 
 our production to supply their demand. The flowers are 
 many and highly odoriferous, and of the purest white, and 
 on a flower stem from three to five feet high. To have them 
 in the greatest perfection, they should be planted in a lively 
 
April.] ON THE CULTURE OF THE HEARTSEASE. 101 
 
 hot-bed, about the first of this month, in six inch pots filled 
 with light rich earth, giving very little water until they begin 
 to grow, when they ought to be liberally supplied with plenty 
 of air, and about the end of next month they may be planted 
 in the borders, providing a spot for them that is or has been 
 well worked, and enriched with well decomposed manure. 
 Secure their flower stems to proper rods. Previous to plant- 
 ing the roots, all the off-sets should be token off and planted 
 separately ; keep the crown of the bulb level with the sur- 
 face of the pot, and when they are replanted in the open 
 ground, put them two inches deeper. 
 
 But when the convenience of a hot-bed cannot be obtained, 
 ihey will succeed very well if planted about the end of this 
 month or first of next in the garden, in a bed of earth pre- 
 pared for their reception. Let it be dug deep, and make the 
 soil light and rich, by giving it a good supply of manure two 
 years old, well broken and incorporated with the earth, add- 
 ing a little sand where the soil is heavy. The black earth 
 from the woods produced from decayed leaves is equally as 
 good without sand. Having the ground in proper order, 
 draw drills about four inches deep and eighteen inches apart ; 
 plant the bulbs (after divesting them of their ofF-sets) nine 
 inches apart in the row, covering the crown of the bulb about 
 an inch and a half. When done, carefully rake and finish off 
 the beds. When they shoot up their flower stems, give them 
 neat rods for their support. Plant the ofl'-sels in closer rows 
 to produce flowering roots for next year, because they seldom 
 flower the second time. 
 
 ON THE CULTURE OF THE HEARTSEASE OR PANSY, 
 (VIOLA TRICOLOUR.) 
 
 The simplicity and striking beauty of this lovely little 
 flower has attracted notice from the earliest floral times, but 
 it is only within these few years that it has come into high 
 estimation as a florist's flower. Indeed, when the figures and 
 
 9* 
 
102 HEARTSEASE OR PANSY. [AprM. 
 
 descriptive characters of these " little gems " came first from 
 England to this country^ we were almost induced to believe 
 that they were exaggerated " pictures of fancy," till we ac- 
 tually cultitrated within these last two years in our own par- 
 tere upward of two inches in diameter. 
 
 They delight in a situation partially shaded from the hot 
 rays of the sun, either fully exposed to the morning rays till 
 ten o'clock, or the afternoon sun from three o'clock ;. a soil 
 composed of four parts good loam and one part thoroughly 
 rotted manure, or three parts loam and one part decayed 
 leaves, not less than one foot deep: the soil must not be more 
 elevated than the surrounding surface, as they like a good 
 supply of moisture. If they are to be cultivated from seeds 
 they should be thinly sown about the first of the month, or 
 about the end of August or first of September, and very 
 lightly covered with fine soil, giving them very frequent wa- 
 terings in dry weather^ Those sown now will bloom in July, 
 and very profusely in the autumn^ but those sown at the latter 
 period will not bloom till early the following spring. When 
 any very esteemed variety is raised, it should be propagated^ 
 which is very easily done, either by layers or cuttings, and 
 sometimes by division of the root, but the two former me- 
 thods are preferable. The best time for laying is about the 
 first of September: an inch or two of the soil may be removed 
 all round the plant, tlie shoots laid down in the hollow, and 
 covered over with light rich compost. The shoots will root 
 more freely if they get a gentle twist when laying them 
 down. The best period for propagating by cuttings is about 
 the middle of this month or September. Cuttings should be 
 chosen from young shoots about two or three inches longj, 
 for when shoots arc woody or hollow they will either not 
 strike at, all or produce unhealthy plants. A shaded but airy 
 situation is preferable, and if the soil is of a light sandy na- 
 ture, the better success will utt^nid the operation : the cuttings 
 should be firmly inserted from one to two inches deep in the 
 ground, and covered with a glass, or where that convenience 
 
April.] GLADIOLUS OR SWORD LILY. 103 
 
 is not at hand, they may be shaded during the day with oiled 
 paper, or any similar substitates. In preparing the cuttings, 
 care ought to be taken to cut close to a joint, a rule which 
 should be strictly attended to in making cuttings of every de- 
 scription. When they have fairly rooted and taken a growth, 
 they can be removed in cloudy, moist weather, to their pro- 
 per allotments. Seeds ought to be carefully collected from 
 the finer sorts, and sown as soon thereafter as convenience 
 will allow, as they deteriorate by long-keeping. Many hundreds 
 of named varieties are carefully cultivated in England. A select 
 list sent me a few weeks ago contains only three hundred and 
 seventy-four names. To attempt a general or even brief de- 
 scription of them in this work would be considered by many 
 of our friends prolix and unnecessary ; but the following cri- 
 teria of a fine Pansy has just passed a select committee of the 
 Pennsylvania Horticultural Society : 
 
 " The chief object to be desired is symmetry of the flower. 
 The petals should be large, broad, and flat, lying upon each 
 other, so as to form a circle, and prevent anything like 
 angles or intersections of this circular outline. The petals 
 should be as nearly of a size as possible, the two top ones 
 being the largest, but so covered with the two side ones as 
 not to appear disproportioned. The top petals should not 
 wave or bend back. The bottom petal should be broad and 
 two-lobed, flat, and not curving inward ; above an inch in 
 breadth is a good size ; the colours should be clear, brilliant, 
 and not changing. The eye should not be too large, and it is 
 accounted finest when the pencilling is so arranged as to form 
 a dark angular spot. 
 
 " The flower stalk should be long and stiff, rather than 
 slender." 
 
 GLADIOLUS OR SWORD LILY. 
 It is now a well ascertained fact that the whole of this 
 
104 AMARYLLIS FORMOSISSIMA, OR JACOBEA LILY. [April. 
 
 beautiful family will succeed well with a treatment similar to 
 the tube rose, requiring to be two or three weeks earlier 
 planted : indeed, G. communis and its varieties are perfectly- 
 hardy ; but the splendid G. psiUacmus, with large yellow, 
 red, and green flowers ; G. cardinalis, scarlet and white ; G. 
 blandus, rose and while, and several others are worthy of 
 the greatest care and attention ; their large spikes of showy 
 flowers will well compensate for an extra degree of care in 
 preparation of soil, &c 
 
 AMARYLLIS FORMOSISSLMA, OR JACOBEA LILY. 
 
 About the end of this or beginning of next month is the 
 most proper time for planting out these bulbs. This flower 
 is of the most beautiful and rich crimson velvet colour. The 
 bulb generally produces two stems, the one after the other, 
 about the end of May or first of June. The stem is from 
 nine inches to one foot high, surmounted by a single flower, 
 composed of six petals, three hanging down, three erect and 
 recurved ; the stamens droop on the centre of the under pe- 
 tals. The flower thus appears nodding on one side of the 
 stem, and has a most graceful and charming appearance. If 
 planted in a bed, prepare the ground as before directed for 
 Tuberoses. Keep the rows one foot asunder, and the bulbs 
 six inches apart in the rows, covering them two inches over 
 their crowns. This plant is now called Sprsikcliaformosissi- 
 ma, and we think properly, too, for its character and habit 
 differs from Amaryllis. 
 
 We have not the smallest doubt that in a few years, not 
 only this superb South American bulb will adorn our flower 
 gardens, but many of the rich bulbs of Brazil and South Ame- 
 rica generally will yearly exhibit to us the beauty of their 
 colours, and the beautiful construction of their flowers and 
 foilage, of which we are now generally deprived, perhaps be- 
 cause we have not the conveniency of a proper hot-house for 
 
April.] TIGER FLOWER. 105 
 
 their protection during winter. But it will be found, in 
 many instances, that these bulbs will do perfectly well to 
 be kept dry in a warm room from October to May, when the 
 heat of our summer is sufficient for the perfection of their 
 flowers, and many species will ripen their seeds. The bulb 
 that is known as Amaryllis Belladonna, now called Bella- 
 donna purpurdscens, is hardy. 
 
 TIGER FLOWER. 
 
 Tigridia,a. genus of Mexican bulbs belonging to Monadel- 
 phia Tridndria, producing the most beautiful flowers of the 
 natural order of Iridece. T. pavonia is of the brightest scar- 
 let, tinged and spotted with pure yellow. T. conchiiflbra, 
 colour rich yellow, tinged and spotted with bright crimson • 
 flower larger than the former. The colours are very rich, 
 and purely contrasted. The corolla is about four inches in 
 diameter, composed of six petals ; the outer are reflexed, the 
 flower, though splendid in beauty, exists only one day ; 
 but, to compensate for that, a plant will produce flowers 
 for several weeks ; and where a bed of them can be col- 
 lected, they will bloom in profusion from July to Septem- 
 ber. They like a light, rich, free soil, from twelve to eigh- 
 teen inches deep. Lift the bulbs in October, and preserve 
 them as directed in that month for Tuberoses. Be sure that 
 they be' kept dry and secure from frost. A bed of these 
 should be in every garden, A writer says, " it is the most 
 beautiful flower that is cultivated." Plant them about the 
 end of this or first of next month ; if in beds, keep them six 
 inches apart in the row, and one foot apart from row to row. 
 
 WALKS. 
 
 The walks in general should be put in the neatest order 
 during this month. Little requires to be added to the obser- 
 
106 EVERGREEN HEDGES. [ApriL 
 
 vations of last month, but if these have not been executed, 
 fail not to have it done the first opportunity, choosing dry wea- 
 ther for the operation of turning the old, or adding new gra- 
 vel to them, levelling; raking, and rolling neatly as you pro- 
 ceed. Ahvays after rain give the whole of the gravel walks 
 a good rolling. This being frequently done during the early 
 part of the season, will be a saving of much labour and time 
 through the summer. The walks having a firm surface, the 
 growth of weeds will be retarded, and the heavy rains will 
 not be so apt to injure them. Where there are any preten- 
 sions to keeping these in order, they ought to be picked of 
 weeds and litter once a week, and gone over with the roller 
 at least once every two weeks during the season. 
 
 Sweep and divest the grass walks or plats of all worm- 
 casts, litter, &c., cutting the edgings neatly. Mow the grass 
 every two or three weeks from this time to October, sweep- 
 ing off the grass clean each time, and give frequent rollings 
 to keep the surface smooth. If any require to be laid with 
 turf, delay it no longer. For direction, see last month. The 
 above observations on walks in general, will apply through 
 the season ; therefore we will not repeat this subject until 
 October. 
 
 EVERGREEN HEDGES. 
 
 We have previously observed, under the head Evergreens, 
 that this is the best season for their replanting. We cannot 
 pass over the observations of this month, without having re- 
 ference to evergreen hedges, so much neglected among us, 
 and yet so important to the diversity of aspect, and especial- 
 ly to soften a little the gloomy appearance of our winters. 
 There are three indigenous shrubs, and at least one exotic, 
 that are well adapted for the purpose, viz., Pinus canadensis, 
 Hemlock-spruce ; Thuja occidentalis, American arborvitse ; 
 ThUjaorientalis, Chinese aborvitas; dnid Juniperisvirginianay 
 
April] BOX EDGES. 107 
 
 Red-cedar. Where there is to be a hedge of any of these 
 planted, select plants about two feet high ; lift them carefully, 
 preserving the roots as much as possible. Dig a Irench from 
 one and a half to two feet wide, and from one to one foot and 
 a half deep. This will admit the soil to be well broken about 
 the roots, which must be done in planting. Keep the 
 plants in the centre of the trench, mixing the shortest and 
 the tallest, that it may be of one height, putting the earth 
 close about their roots as you proceed, and make it firm with 
 the foot ; fill up, and water as directed for evergreens in this 
 month. If the season is very dry, give it frequent copious 
 waterings. 
 
 None of them should be topped for a few seasons, except 
 such as are much above the others in height, keeping the 
 sides regular and even by clipping or shearing once a year, 
 either in this month or at the end of August. It is better to 
 keep the top (when they have got to the desired height) 
 pointed, than broad. The latter method retains a heavy 
 weight of snow, which frequently breaks down, or otherwise 
 deforms, that which has cost much labour to put into shape. 
 
 BOX EDGINGS. 
 
 Where these have not been laid, this month is the proper 
 time. Do not delay the planting of such any later. For 
 ample directions, see March, under this head. Clipping of 
 these should be done about the middle of this month. There 
 will then be no danger of frosts to brown the cut leaves, and 
 the young foliage will not be expanded. To keep these 
 edgings in order, they must be cut once a year, and never be 
 allowed to get above four inches high and two inches wide. 
 What we consider the neatest edging is three inches high, 
 two inches wide at the bottom, tapering to a thin edge at the 
 top. It is very unsightly to see large bushy edgings, espe- 
 cially to narrow walks. 
 
 The use of edgings is to keep the soil from the gravel, and 
 
i08 GENERAL CARE OP PLANTS COMING INTO FLOWER. [April, 
 
 the larger ihey are allowed to grow, the more ineffectual 
 ihey become ; growing more open below as they advance in 
 height. The operation may be done very expeditiously by 
 clipping the tops level, going longitudinally along with shears 
 for the purpose, called " box shears." Strain a line along 
 the centre of the edgings, cutting perpendicularly from the 
 line to the bottom on each side, leaving only the breadth of 
 the line at top. Edgings cut in this manner, every spring, 
 will always look well, and the trouble, comparatively, is a 
 mere trifle. 
 
 GENERAL CARE OF PLANTS COMING INTO FLOWER. 
 
 Every part of the flower ground should be put into neat 
 order, giving such plants about the borders as are shooting 
 up their flower stems, and are tender, and in danger of being 
 hurt or broken by the wind, proper slicks or rods for their 
 support. In doing this, endeavour to conceal the rods, &c., 
 as much as possible, by dressing the stems and leaves in a 
 natural-looking manner over them. Let the stakes be in 
 proportion to the height and growth of the plants. It looks 
 very unsightly to see strong stakes to short and weak grow- 
 ing plants. The tyings likewise should be proportionate. 
 
 Examine all the beds and patches of seedling flowers now 
 coming up, and let them be refreshed with water as it may 
 be necessary, and pick out the weeds as they appear. 
 
 We cannot leave this department at this season of the year, 
 without enforcing the benefit and beauty that will result from 
 keeping the weeds down during this and the next month. 
 Therefore strictly observe that there are none running to 
 seed in any part of the garden ; in fact, they ought not to be 
 allowed to rear their heads one day in sight. 
 
May.] DAHLIAS. 109 
 
 MAY. 
 
 As the season for planting out the Dahlia is now approach- 
 ing, we will endeavour to give our readers the whole sub- 
 ject of their management, so as to ensure a good bloom of this 
 the most fashionable and popular ornamental plant of the 
 present day. As very many are entirely unacquainted with 
 the nature and even the habits of the plant, a brief synopsis of 
 its history will assist in giving a key to its culture. The 
 plant was first discovered by Humboldt, in Mexico, growing 
 in Sandy plains, three thousand feet above the level of the 
 sea. The dale is not precisely known, but supposed to be 
 about 1785-6. Indisputable authority, however, speaks of 
 its being introduced into England in 1789 ; but was lost and 
 again introduced in 1803, from Madrid, by Lady Holland; 
 from which period till 1830, it had but little notice in culti- 
 vation. Indeed it seems to have been reserved for the intel- 
 ligent growers of the last few years to bring it into general 
 notice ; and if we take a retrospective view of the rapid pro- 
 gress of Dahlia culture within these last five years, we will 
 be led to exclaim, " Where will all this terminate ?" but 
 time alone can solve the question ; at present it is impossible 
 to come to any satisfactory conclusions. Only a few years 
 ago, and who would have conceived the idea of having tipped, 
 striped, and spoiled Dahjies of almost every hue and colour ; 
 and although historical writers on the genus allude to the 
 improbability of a blue flower ever being produced, yet it is 
 not unreasonable to imagine that ere long we will have flow- 
 ers beautifully and distinctly striped with black and white, 
 and even combining the gaudy colours of the tulip, or the 
 choicest hues of the carnation ; perhaps the criteria of charac- 
 ter may change to those of huge globular forms or balls — 
 nay, even the odour of the Rose or the Jasmine may be ira- 
 
 10 
 
110 PROPAGATION — BY CUTTINGS. [MaiJ^ 
 
 parted, and what then ? Only let amateurs and cultivators 
 persevere with the spirit they have done during the last few 
 years, and we think all we have advanced will be realized. 
 
 Propagation. This operation may be performed in va- 
 rious ways, either by division of the root, by cutting of the 
 young shoots, or by grafting. For general planting, division 
 of the root will be sufficient ; about the first of the month the 
 old root, entire, should be planted in some warm and shel- 
 tered spot of the garden, covering it with sand, vegetable 
 mould, or any light soil ; in about two weeks the eyes or 
 young shoots will have sprouted : then it will be properly 
 seen how they can be most carefully divided ; the root should 
 be carefully cut into as many pieces as there are eyes or 
 sprouts, leaving only one tuber to each, when they can be 
 planted into the situation appropriated for their blooming. 
 
 Propagation by Cuttings. Prepare a hot-bed in March, as 
 therein described, and place a frame and lights of the required 
 size upon it, scatter over the surface of the bed four or five 
 inches of sand, old bark, or any light soil ; after four or five 
 days, the fresh steam will have subsided, when the roots may 
 be laid thereon, covering them (but not over the crowns) with 
 light sandy soil ; but where large pots can be obtained, I 
 prefer planting them in the pots ; by this means the plants 
 are kept distinct, and can be taken out at anytime and exa- 
 mined. They should be frequently sprinkled with water 
 that is partially warm; and if, after they are thus placed in 
 the bed, a rank and dense steam should arise, the lights 
 should be slightly raised both night and day, till it subsides ; 
 and if the nights are cold, cover the lights with mats or shut- 
 ters. This gentle bottom heat will speedily induce the eyes 
 to grow, and when the shoots have attained the height of three 
 or four inches, they should be cut off close to the base, which 
 makes the best plant. After the cuttings are taken off, pot 
 them singly into very small pots filled with light sandy loam, 
 containing a good portion of black earth from the woods, and 
 placed in another moderate hot-bed and given a gentle sup- 
 
May.] BV GRAFTING — SOIL. Ill 
 
 plv of water. Particular care must be paid to shading them 
 from the violent rays of the sun, for if they are once ex- 
 posed, ihey seldom recover : in this state they sliould conti- 
 nue till they have formed iheir roots, which, in a temperature 
 of from sixty to seventy degrees, will be in from two to 
 three weeks. Where a great stock of any particular sort is 
 wanted, the cuttings should be taken off just below a joint, 
 leaving two or three eyes at the base of the shoot, which will 
 again speedily produce new shoots, that can be again removed 
 in a similar manner. 
 
 When the plants are rooted, they may then be considered 
 established, and all that is necessary is, to shift them into 
 larger pots as they require ; and gradually inure them to a 
 lower temperature, till they can endure the open air, which 
 will not be before the middle of May. 
 
 Propagation hj Grafting. Where only a few plants are 
 wanted, this is a very successful method, as the operation can 
 be conducted in the office or parlour window. The cutting 
 intended for the graft should have about three joints ; when 
 obtained, select a good tuber without eyes from any common 
 sort, and with a sharp knife cut a slice from the upper part 
 of the root downward about two inches in length, and about 
 half an inch in depth, and then cut it off horizontally, leaving 
 a ledge whereon to rest the graft ; next cut the graft sloping 
 to fit, and cut it so that an eye or joint may be at the bottom 
 of it to rest on the aforesaid ledge. After the graft has 
 been firmly tied, a piece of clay should be put round it, pot 
 the root in fine soil, in a pot that will bury the graft half- 
 way in the mould, and cover it with a glass, (a large tumbler 
 will do,) and in two weeks it will have taken root, the glass 
 may then be removed, and the plant gradually inured to the 
 open air. 
 
 Soil. As far as my observations enable me to judge, the 
 soil best adapted for the Dahlia is a sandy loam, not reten- 
 tive of moisture, and not too rich, as they will grow to leaves 
 and branches, producing few flowers, and even then, irape; 
 
J13 ARRANGEMENT. \Mat/. 
 
 feet : not too poor, as in such they will be very indifferent, 
 meager in size and general appearance. Where soils are 
 rich and heavy, a portion of sand or gravel should be njixed 
 in the soil where they are planted : but if poor, incorporate 
 with the sand well decomposed manure ; and when the plants 
 arc planted, a stick in proportion to the plant should be put 
 with it, and at least eighteen inches in the ground, and not 
 less than two inches in diameter, to which they must be care- 
 fully tied as they grow, never allowing more than one stem 
 to each plant ; and the side branches should be cut off from 
 one to three feet from the ground, according to the height of 
 the plant. The soil for some of the parti-coloured Dahlias 
 is an exception to the above. For instance, Levick's incom- 
 parable will flower best in poor soil ; indeed, the finest tipped 
 flowers I ever saw were grown in poor clay ; and it is a noto- 
 rious fact, that it comes more regularly tipped in the sandy 
 soils of New Jersey, than it does in the heavy soils of Penn- 
 sylvania. Many, also, of the variegated sorts become more 
 delicate when a large portion of sand or lime rubbish is in- 
 corporated with our heavy soils. The worst of all soils for 
 this plant is a rich loam, retentive of moisture ; in such they 
 grow to wood and foliage, producing few and very inperfect 
 flowers. 
 
 The best disposition or arrangement in planting the 
 Dahlia, I think, is in groups ; each group should be com- 
 posed of a different section of colour : this affords a close 
 comparison, and gives greater diversity of landscape, than 
 combining the colours ; the tallest growing sorts should b& 
 carefully planted in the centre or at the back of each group. 
 The roots should be planted from three to four feet from each 
 other every way. But where they are planted in rows along 
 walks or avenues, two to three feet will be a sufficient dis- 
 tance from plant to plant. Individual plants look extremely 
 well if they are of a dwarf habit. To have a continued suc- 
 cession of bloom, there should be two plantings ; the first 
 about the fifteenth of the month, and the latest about the end 
 
Mat/.] ARRANGEMENT, 113 
 
 of June ; it is the June planting that generally produces the 
 finest flowers ; this fact (though lately discovered) is now 
 well understood by some cultivators, and is easily accounted 
 for. When plants are forced and planted early, they are in a 
 flowering state much earlier, to be sure, but they are over- 
 taken with, perhaps, a hot, dry summer, which "blights" the 
 buds, and are more subject to the disease called "curl;" the 
 young leaves, as they expand, are perforated with numerous 
 holes ; the margins become brownish, as if burnt ; they then 
 become curled, placid, and the whole plant unhealthy and 
 dwarfish. The principal stem ceases to grow, and numerous 
 suckers and stems arise from below, forming a dense bush. 
 The flowers of such plant, as might be expected, are small 
 and irregular ; and however excellent the variety may be^ 
 they yield nothing but disappointment to the anxiously ex- 
 pectant cultivator. This disease is caused by an insect, Cy- 
 mix Chloroterus, or green bug. It inhabits the extremities 
 of the Dahlia, and grows and feeds on the under surface of 
 the young leaves, and in its destruction is aided by our fre- 
 quently hot and arid months of July and August. Hence, 
 the reason that the late planting gives most satisfaction, they 
 are in these months in a rapid growing state, and if attacked 
 outgrow the effects, and push at once into bloom in the more 
 moist and cooling month of September. The only remedy 
 that is known for the above evil is, to look over the plants 
 cautiously in the morning when the first attacks are percep- 
 tible, and pick ofl" the insect ; it has to be approached with 
 caution, as it instinctively throws itself down among the 
 leaves if disturbed ; and if it escapes, it again climbs up, and 
 commences its depredations. It is admitted that there are 
 exceeding one thousand distinct named varieties now in cul- 
 tivation, and it may be desirable to some that a select list of 
 the choicest named sorts now in cultivation should be given: 
 but such is the almost endless multiplicity of kinds, and such 
 the numerous additions every year made, that in a few years 
 those I may mention now as being fine, will then most. 
 
 10* 
 
114 ARRANGEMENT. [May., 
 
 probably be considered wholly useless. However, for im- 
 mediate profit and benefit, I recommend the following : 
 
 PURE WHITE. 
 
 Clara, (Seaman's,) Countess of Burlington, 
 
 Examplar, (Widnall's,) King of the Whites, 
 
 Metropolitan, Perfection (Wilmer's,) 
 
 White Globe, Washington, inclining to 
 
 blush. 
 
 WHITE OR BLUSH SHADED WITH LILAC, &c. 
 
 Angelina, Ariel, (Inwood's,) 
 
 Blandina, Bride of Abydos, 
 
 Conqueror of Europe, Criterion, 
 
 Duchess of Sutherland,. Duchess of Sutherland, 
 
 (Skirving's,) (Widnall's,) 
 
 Duchess of Kent, King of Dahlias, (Wid- 
 
 nall's,) 
 
 Lady Dartmouth, Love Anne, (Dicker- 
 
 son's,) 
 
 Mary, (Dod's,) Mary Queen of Scots, 
 
 (Harding's,) 
 
 Mrs. Rushton, Salter, 
 
 Robert Buist, (Young's,) Prima Donna. 
 
 LILAC. 
 
 Beauty of Kirkheaton, Lady Fordwich, 
 
 Lilac Perfection, Niagara. 
 
 ROSE OR PINK. 
 
 Honourable Miss Neville, Hope, or Metropolitan Rose,- 
 
 Metropolitan Calypso, Perfection, (Widnall's,) 
 
 Rival Rose, Rosa Superba, 
 
 Triumphant, (Levick's,) Virgil. (Young's.) 
 
May.] ARRANGEMENT. 115> 
 
 PURE YELLOW. 
 
 Conquering King of Yellow, Golden Sovereign, 
 Queen's Superba, Yellow Perfection, 
 
 Topaz, (Girling's,) Yellow Turban. 
 
 YELLOW OR BQFF SPOTTED, STRIPED, OR TIPPED. 
 
 Beauty of Dulwich, Clio Perfecta, 
 
 Cedo Nullii, Miss Alexander, 
 
 Sulphurea Elegans, Reliance, (Widnall's,); 
 
 Unique, (Ansell's,) Sunbury Hero. 
 
 RED OR ROSY RED. 
 
 Coriolanus, Red Rover, 
 
 Perfection, (Mackenzie's,) Lady Webster. 
 
 SCARLET. 
 
 Countess of Liverpool, Countess of Morton, 
 
 Glory, (Douglas',) Glory of the West, 
 
 Henry Clay, Ovid, 
 
 Rival Scarlet, Scarlet Perfection. 
 
 ROSY CRIMSON. 
 
 Countess of Sheffield, Grandis, 
 
 Juhette, (Widnall's,) Marquis of Lothian, 
 
 Royal Standard, Sir Henry Fletcher, 
 
 Sir WilHam Wallace, Springfield Rival, 
 
 Warminster Rival, Warrior. 
 
 CRIMSON. 
 
 Crimson Globe, Independent, 
 
 Daidem of Flora, Mungo Park, 
 
 Ne plus ultra, (Widnall's,) Nimrod, 
 
 Rienzi, Rival Sussex, 
 
 Springfield Major, Victory Knights. 
 
116 ARRANGEMENT. [May. 
 
 PURPLE. 
 
 Conductor, (Widnall's,) Duke of Bedford, 
 
 (Newby's,) 
 Falconer's Purple, Grant Thorburn, 
 
 Middlesex Rival, Napoleon, (Smith's,) 
 
 Purple Perfection, (Squib's,) Vivid. 
 
 DARK MAROON, AND VERY DARK. 
 
 Addison, Beauty of LuUingston, 
 
 Cheltenham Rival, Duke of Bedford,. 
 
 Metropolitan Perfection, Robert le Diable, 
 
 Suffolk Hero, Richard the Third. 
 
 CRIMSON PERMANENTLY TIPPED WITH WHITE'. 
 Osceolus, Star of Buckland. 
 
 DISTINCTLY AND PERMANENTLY STRIPED. 
 La Carnation, Lancashire Witch. 
 
 The above are the choicest in cultivation at the present 
 time, and for farther description in regard to colour, height, 
 and price, we beg to refer our readers to the periodical cata- 
 logues of our respectable nurserymen that are issued every 
 spring, and contain many other sorts of eminence; and not a 
 few equally desirable with the above, though the descrip- 
 tions of some that are annually reeeived from England 
 are more tempting than the article : whether there are some 
 sorts that do produce more perfect and beautiful flowers in 
 their humid climate than they do when transferred to ours, 
 we cannot practically decide, but presume that it is the fact, for 
 we are confident, and every season does more fully confirm 
 it, that the seedlings grown in this country from seed sowed 
 here do grow better, and flower finer, than the generality of 
 those imported ; and, to prevent us adopting inferior sorts, 
 and giving them das^m^ names, we subjoin the following rule s^ 
 forjudging: 
 
May.] CHARACTER OF A FINE DAHLIA. 117 
 
 CHARACTER OF A FINE DAHLIA. 
 
 *' The best judges distinguish Dahlias by the three crite- 
 ria of form, colour, and size. 
 
 1. Form — The front view of the blossom should be per- 
 fectly circular, without notches or inequalities, caused by the 
 petals being pointed, and not as they should be, rounded, 
 smooth at the edges, and slightly concave, but not so much 
 as to show any of the back. One of the most perfect flowers, 
 in this respect, is the Springfield Rival. When the petals 
 are pointed, notched, fringed, piped, quilled, concave, con- 
 vex, or flat, the perfectness of the circle is broken, and one 
 indispensable beauty in the eye of the florist is deficient. 
 
 When the eye or disc is shown in the full-blown flower, 
 it is also a striking defect. 
 
 The side view of a first rate flower should be that of a per- 
 fect hemisphere. 
 
 There is perhaps no example of this perfection of form 
 without some slight deficiency. The Countess of Liverpool 
 is one of the nearest to a perfect flower in this respect. 
 
 3. Colour. — This is looked upon by florists as an inferior 
 consideration to form, though it is usually the first to attract 
 the notice of common observers. 
 
 In flowers of one colour, or selfs, the colour ought to be 
 bright and distinct, without any breaking or blotching. 
 When there are stripes, mottlings, shadings, or edgings, 
 these should be clear and uniformly marked, the colours 
 distinct without clouding or running. 
 
 3. Size — Although large flowers with superior form and 
 clear distinct colours are esteemed superior to small flowers 
 with the same properties, yet size alone is looked upon by 
 florists as nothing when form and colour are defective." 
 
 Particular care should be taken with seeds, especially such 
 as are saved from fine sorts. If they are sown about the first 
 of April, on a gentle hot-bed, or in a green-house in plots, 
 
118 ANNUALS, HARDY AND TENDER. [May. 
 
 filled with light rich earth, covering the seeds about three- 
 eighths of an inch, and when they have made leaves, pot thenn 
 off singly into small pots, till time for planting out, or where 
 a quantity is grown, three plants may be put into one pot, 
 and thus planted, and when they bloom the bad can be 
 pulled up, leaving those of good character to stand for farther 
 trial : none should be kept but such as come up to the above 
 rules ; and if they do not do so the first year, there is little 
 hope of their being more perfect the second. 
 
 ANNUALS, HARDY AND TENDER. 
 
 By the first of the month finish sowing all hardy Annuals 
 and Biennials ; and about the middle of the month all those 
 that are tropical. The weather being now warm, they will 
 vegetate in a few days or weeks. Attend to thinning of 
 those that are too thick, giving gentle waterings to such as 
 are week in dry weather. Those that have been protected 
 in frames should be fully exposed therein night and day ; 
 lake the first opportunity of damp cloudy days to have them 
 transplanted into the borders or beds, lifting them out of 
 the frame with as much earth as will adhere to their roots. 
 
 CARE OF HYACINTHS, TULIPS, &c. 
 
 For the treatment of these, while in bloom, see last month. 
 The best time to take them out of the ground, is about five 
 weeks after they are done flowering, or when the stem ap- 
 pears what may be termed half decayed. The best method 
 to dry them is to place the roots in rows, with bulb to bulb, 
 the stems lying north and south, or east and west. Give the 
 bulbs a very thin covering of earth, merely to exclude the 
 sun, so that they may not dry too rapidly, being thereby 
 liable to become soft. When they have thoroughly dried it> 
 this situation, which will be in eight or ten days in dry wea- 
 
May.] CARE OF HYACINTHS, TULIPS, &C. 119 
 
 ther, (and if it rains cover them with boards,) take them to 
 an airy dry loft or shade, clearing off the fibres or stems, 
 and in a few weeks put them in close drawers, or cover 
 them with sand perfectly dry, until the time of planting, for 
 which see October. 
 
 It is not advisable to allow any of the bulbs of either Hy- 
 acinths or Tulips to seed, as it retards their ripening and 
 weakens the root, except where there are a few desired for 
 new varieties. The small ofF-sets must be carefully kept in 
 dry sand, or immediately planted. 
 
 ANEMONES AND RANUNCULUS, 
 
 These, while in bloom, should be carefully shaded from the 
 sun by hoops and thin canvass, or an erect temporary awning; 
 and as soon as they are done flowering, they must be fully 
 exposed and the waterings given up. 
 
 TUBEROSES AND AMARYLLIS, 
 
 That are not planted, should now be done. For full di- 
 rections, see last month. In many seasons, any time before 
 the twelfth is quite soon enough ; but nothing ought to be 
 delayed when the season will permit it to be done. It is 
 necessary to have them properly labelled. 
 
 AURICULAS, POLYANTHUS, AND PRIMROSES, 
 
 Will now be done flowering, but still must be care- 
 fully kept in a cool, shady situation, and all decayed 
 leaves cut off as soon as they appear. Examine them care- 
 fully and frequently, in case slugs of any description be 
 preying upon them. A dusting of hot lime will kill them, 
 or they may be otherwise destroyed. Some have recom- 
 mended to repot and slip those plants when done flowering, 
 " or they will contract a destructive disease;" which disease 
 
120 DOUBLE WALL-FLOWERS. [Mat/. 
 
 is a loss of verdure, and is induced by too much heat and 
 drought, and a few other causes from inattention ; but if at- 
 tended to as above, until September, when they should be 
 fresh-potted, they will have time to be sufficiently established 
 before winter, which is the most judicious time to take off 
 slips, for two reasons, namely, they do not want so much 
 nursing through the most precarious season of the year (sum- 
 mer) for these plants, and they begin to grow, and will root 
 afresh sooner. 
 
 DOUBLE WALL-FLOWERS. 
 
 As these are very seldom grown from seed, and are semi-bi- 
 ennials, art has to be used to preserve or renew them. About 
 the end of this month, take shoots of this year about three 
 inches long, cutting them carefully off, and smoothing the 
 cut end with a sharp knife : from this cut the lower leaves 
 off about one inch and a half, and then put it in the ground ; 
 choose a very shady spot, mi.xing the soil with a little sand 
 and earth, or decayed leaves. Sprinkle them three times a 
 day until they have taken root, which will be in a few weeks. 
 Keep the cuttings about four inches apart. 
 
 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 We do not consider that it is essential every month to re- 
 peat the necessity of tying up plants, cutting down weeds, 
 raking, &c., with many other similar observations. We 
 have already been full on these subjects, and expect these to 
 be remembered through the season. Particular care, how- 
 ever, is required to carnations, pi?iks, or any plants that have 
 heavy heads and slender stems. If carnations are desired to 
 flower strongly, cut off all the buds except three, leaving the 
 uppermost and any other two of the largest. All climbing 
 plants should have timely support, and tied securely every 
 week while they are growing. 
 
June and July.] Holland bulbs. 121 
 
 JUNE AND JDLY. 
 
 HOLLAND BULBS. 
 
 The lifting of these will be general in June. For direc- 
 tions, see May. It is not advisable to take up Jonquils, Fritil- 
 laria, Crocus, and Iris, oftenerthan every alternate year. Jon- 
 quils may stand three years. Anemones and Ranunculus 
 should be carefully lifted after their leaves begin to fade. 
 Do not expose them to the sun, but cover slightly with earth 
 or sand until they are perfectly dry, when they may be sifted 
 out of the earth, and put into drawers carefully labelled. 
 Some recommend to soak these roots in soap-suds, to de- 
 stroy a worm with which they are frequently attacked. We 
 know not how far this may be carried, nor the good or bad 
 effects, never having practised it. 
 
 AUTUMJN FLOWERING BULBS. 
 
 These are AiJiaryllis lutea,novf csWed Sternbergia lutea ; 
 A. Belladonna, now Belladonna purpurdscens ; Crocus sati- 
 vus, C. Palldsii, C. serotinus, and C. nudiflbrus, and all the 
 species of Colchicum, with species of several other genera 
 not introduced into the country. They should all be lifted 
 as soon as the foliage is decayed, and kept only a few weeks 
 out of the ground, and then again replanted in fresh soil. 
 The economy of the genus Colchicum in regard to its bulbs, 
 flowers, and seeds, is altogether singular, and may be termed 
 an anomaly of nature. In producing the new bulbs or off- 
 sets, in a very curious manner the old one perishes. The 
 flowers, which arise with long slender tubes from the root, 
 die off in October, without leaving any external appearance 
 of seeds. These lie buried all the winter within the bulb, 
 
 11 
 
122 CARNATIONS AND PINKS. [Juuc and July. 
 
 in spring they throw up a fruit stalk, and are ripe about the 
 first of June. How beautiful and admirable is this provision ! 
 The plant blooming so late in the year, would not have time 
 to mature its seeds before winter ; and is, therefore, so con- 
 trived that it may be performed out of the reach of the usual 
 effects of frost, and they are brought above the surface when 
 perfected, and at a proper season for sowing. 
 
 CARNATIONS AND PINKS. 
 
 In order to make the former flower well, if the weather 13 
 dry, give them frequent waterings at the root, and tie them 
 up neatly to their rods. The criterion of a fine Carnation is 
 — The stem strong and straight, from thirty to forty inches 
 high, the corolla three inches in diameter, consisting of large, 
 round, well formed petals, but not so many as to crowd it, 
 nor so few as to make it appear thin or empty ; the outside 
 petals should rise above the calyx about half an inch, and 
 then turn off in a horizontal direction, to support the interior 
 petals, they forming nearly a hemispherical corolla. The 
 interior petals should decrease in size toward the centre, all 
 regularly disposed on every side ; they should have a small 
 degree of concavity at the lamina or broad end, the edges 
 perfectly entire. The calyx above one inch in length, with 
 strong broad points in a close and circular body. The co- 
 lours must be perfectly distinct, disposed in regular long 
 stripes, broadest at the edge of the lamina, and gradually be- 
 coming narrower as they approach the unguis or base of the 
 petal, there terminating in a fine point. Those that contain 
 two colours upon a white ground are esteemed the finest. 
 
 The criterion of a double pink — The stem about twelve 
 inches, the calyx smaller, but similar to a carnation ; the 
 flowers two inches and a half in diameter ; petals rose edges ; 
 colour white and pure purple, or rich crimson ; the nearer it 
 approaches to black the more is it esteemed ; proportions 
 
 \ 
 
June and July ."l of laying carnations, &c. 123 
 
 equal as in carnation. Those that are very tasteful with 
 these flowers are attentive to the manner of their opening. 
 Where the calyx is deficient in regular expansion, to display 
 the petals ; that is, where there is a tendency to burst open 
 on one side more than on the other, the opposite side in two 
 or three different indentations should be slit a little at several 
 limes with the point of a small sharp knife, taking care not 
 to cut the petals, and about the centre of the calyx tie a 
 thread three or four times round to prevent any farther ir- 
 regularity. Some florists and connoisseurs place cards on 
 them. This is done when the calyx is small. Take a piece 
 of thin pasteboard, about the size of a dollar, cut a small 
 aperture in its centre to admit the bud to pass through. 
 When on, tie it tight to the rod, to prevent the wind from 
 blowing it about; and when the flower is expanded, draw up 
 the card to about the middle of the calyx, and spread the 
 petals one over the other regularly upon it. When these 
 plants are in flower, their beauty may be prolonged by giving 
 them a little shade from the mid-day sun by an awning of 
 any simple description. Where they are in pots, they can 
 be removed to a cool shady situation, (but not directly under 
 trees.) 
 
 OF LAYING CARNATIONS AND PINKS. 
 
 This is a necessary and yearly operation to keep a supply of 
 plants, and likewise to have them always in perfection. As 
 the process of laying, though simple, may not be known to 
 all who are desirous of cultivating these plants, we will give 
 an outline of the mode of operation. Provide first a quantity 
 of small hooked twigs, (pieces of Asparagus stems are very 
 suitable,) about three inches long, for pegging the layers down 
 in the earth. Select the outward, strongest, and lowest shoots 
 that are round the plant ; trim off a few of the under leaves, 
 and shorten the top ones even with the knife, and then ap- 
 plying it at a joint about the middle of the under-side of the 
 
124 OF BUDDING, &c. [Juue and JuIt/. 
 
 shoot, cut about half through in a slanting direction, nnaking 
 an upward slit toward the next joint, near an inch in extent ; 
 and loosening the earth, make a small oblong cavity one or 
 two inches deep, putting a little fresh lightearlh therein. Lay 
 the stem part where the slit is made into the earth, keeping 
 the cut part open, and the head of the layer upright one or 
 two inches out of the earth ; and in that position peg down 
 the layer with one of the hooked twigs, and cover the in- 
 serted part to the depth of one inch with some of the fresh 
 earth, pressing it gently down. In this manner proceed to 
 lay all the proper shoots of each plant. Keep the earth a lit- 
 tle full around the plant, to retain longer the water that may 
 be applied. Give immediately a moderate watering with a 
 rose watering-pot, and in dry weather give light waterings 
 every evening. Choose a cloudy day for the above opera- 
 tion. In about two months they will be well rooted. 
 
 OF BUDDING OR INOCULATION OF ROSES. 
 
 According to what we have previously hinted in regard to 
 havingroses as standards, where such are desired, the months 
 of July or August is a proper time for the operation of budding. 
 The kinds to be taken for stocks should be of a strong free 
 growth : such as Maiden'' s blush, Dutch tree, R.vildsa,R.ca- 
 mna, and frequently iheFrench Eglantine are taken. Bepro- 
 vided with a proper budding knife, which has a sharp, thin 
 blade, adapted to prepare the bud, with a tapering ivory haft, 
 made thin at the end, for raising the bark of the stock. For 
 tyings, use bass strings from Russia mats, which should be 
 soaked in water to make them more pliable. The height of 
 the stock or stem at which the bud is to be inserted, is to be 
 determined by the intended destination of the tree, (as it may 
 be properly called.) Choose a smooth part of the stem, from 
 one to three years old. Having marked the place, prune 
 awav all the lateral shoots about and underneath it. With 
 
June and July.\ of budding, &c. 125 
 
 the knife directed horizontally, make an incision about half 
 an inch long in the bark of the stock, cutting to the wood,, 
 but not deeper ; then applying the point of the knife to the 
 middle of this line, make a perpendicular incision under the 
 first, extending from it between one and two inches. Having 
 a healthy shoot of the growth of this year provided of the 
 kind that is desired, begin at the lower end of this shoot, cut 
 away all the leaves, leaving the footstalk of each. Being 
 fixed on a promising bud, insert the knife about half an inch 
 above the eye, slanting it downward, and about half through 
 the shoot. Draw it out about an inch below the eye, so as 
 to bring away the bud unimpaired with the bark, and part of 
 the wood adhering to it ^ the wood now must be carefully 
 detached from the bark. To do this, insert the point of the 
 knife between the bark and wood at one end, and, holding 
 the bark tenderly, strip off the woody part, which will readi- 
 ly part from the bark, if the shoot from which the piece is 
 taken has been properly imbued with sap.* Look at the 
 inner rind of the separated bark, to see if that be entire : if 
 there be a hole in it, the eye of the bud has been pulled away 
 with the wood, rendering the bud useless, which throw 
 away ; if there be no hole, return to the stock, and with the 
 haft of the knife gently raise the bark on each side of the 
 perpendicular incision, opening the lips wide enough to ad- 
 mit the prepared slip with the eye. If the slip is longer 
 than the upright incision in the stock, reduce the largest end. 
 Stock and bub being ready, keep the latter in its natural po- 
 sition ; introduce it between the bark and wood of the stocky 
 pushing it gently downward until it reaches the bottom of 
 the perpendicular incision. Let the eye of the bud project 
 
 * We once budded three eyes of the white moss rose, after they had, by 
 mistake, been carried in the pocket of a coat three days. The shoot was- 
 soaked six hours in water, and two of the buds grew. From this we infer 
 that shoots, if properly wrapped up, may be carried very great distances, 
 and grow successfully. 
 
 11* 
 
126 OF WATERING. [Jutie and Juh/. 
 
 through the centre of the lips ; lay the slip with the bud as 
 smooth as possible, and press down the raised bark of the 
 stock. The bud being deposited, bind that part of the stock 
 moderately tight with bass, beginning a little below the inci- 
 sion, proceeding upward so as to keep the eye uncovered, 
 finishing above the incision. In a month after the opera- 
 tion, examine whether the bud has united with the stock. If 
 it has succeeded, the bud will be full and fresh ; if not, it will 
 be brown and contracted. When it has taken, unite the ban- 
 dage, that the bud may swell, and in a few days afterward 
 cut the head of the stock off about six inches above the inocu- 
 lation, and prevent all shoots from growing by pinching 
 them off. This will forward the bud, which will push and 
 ripen wood this season ; but it must be carefully tied as it 
 grows to the remaining head of the stock. Some do not head 
 down the stock until the following spring, thereby not en- 
 couraging the bud to grow, which, if winter sets in early, is 
 the safest method. 
 
 OF watering: 
 
 If the season be dry, look over the lately planted shrubs, and 
 give them frequent copious waterings; and a few of the finest 
 annuals that are wanted to flower perfectly should be attended 
 to. We do confess that we used to be advocates for giving 
 plenty of water to the Dahlia, but the severe drought of 1838 
 put our science to the test, and the result was, that of about 
 ©ne hundred plants of our most choice kinds, which we re* 
 gularly watered three times a week, for nine weeks, during 
 which period we had not a drop of rain ; the plants grew 
 luxuriantly, but many of them never produced a perfect 
 bloom ; and those that had no attention whatever paid to 
 them, except a litttle manure or litter laid on the surface over 
 lihe roots, flowered almost as well as in our more moist sea- 
 
August.] EVERGREEN HEDGfES. 127 
 
 sons. Hence we infer that an occasional watering may be 
 of service, but continued and repeated artificial waterings are 
 injurious. 
 
 AUGUST. 
 
 EVERGREEN HEDGES. 
 
 These always make two growths in the season, and ths 
 best time to perform the operation of clipping or dressing 
 them is before the plants begin their second growth. Choose^ 
 if possible, dull and cloudy days, as in such weather they will 
 not be so liable to get brown or bruised by shearing. The 
 general practice in forming these is to have the sides even 
 and the top level, forming a right angle on each side. How- 
 ever neat in appearance this may be considered, it certainly 
 is stiff and formal. We never approve of clipping where it 
 can be avoided, and, when adopted, nature ought to be imi- 
 tated. Therefore, have all hedges and edgings tapering to- 
 ward the top. 
 
 • CARNATIONS AND PINKS, 
 
 If laid about the end of June, and have been properly at- 
 tended, will, by the end of this month, be well rotted and fit 
 for transplanting. Clear away the earth lightly, and cut them 
 clean oif from the parent plant, nearer the stool than the ori- 
 ginal slit. Raise them neatly out of the earth, with as many 
 of the root-fibres as possible ; cut off the naked part of the 
 stem close to the fibrous roots, and trim away the straggling 
 leaves. Plant the finest sorts in four-inch pots, and those 
 more common, three plants in five-inch pots, in the form of 
 
128 BULBOUS ROOTS. [AugUSf. 
 
 a triangle, which can be separated in spring to plant in the 
 garden. Any of the principal stools should be (if in the 
 ground) lifted and put into seven-inch pots to be preserved ; 
 the others may be allowed to stand through the winter, co- 
 vering them with a few dry leaves. Keep them in the shade 
 a few weeks, when they may be fully exposed. Give gen- 
 tle and frequent sprinkhngs of water until they have taken 
 fresh root ; or, if in want of pots, mark out a bed that can be 
 covered with a frame, preparing the soil therein properly. 
 Plant them from four to six inches apart. Shade them from 
 the sun until they begin to grow, giving sprinklings of water 
 over the foliage every evening. 
 
 BULBOUS ROOTS. 
 
 Look over the bulbs that are out of the ground, and exa- 
 mine those that require planting. Of Fritillaria there are 
 about twenty species, but few of them generally cultivated^ 
 except F. imperialis, Crown Imperial, and F. persica. Of 
 the former there are many very splendid varieties, such as 
 Crown upon crown, Lutea maocima, Striped leaved, Double 
 flowered, ^c. These will require planting, and ought not 
 to be lifted oftener than every third year. They require a 
 deep, rich, loamy soil, and, if in beds, plant them from five 
 to seven inches deep, and one foot apart. They will grow 
 under the shade of trees, or in any situation where the soil is 
 adapted for them. No imbricated or scaly bulb ought to be 
 retained long out of the ground. When any of these are 
 lifted, and the young bulbs taken off, they should be planted 
 at once. See particularly, on bulbous roots in general, next 
 month. 
 
 SOWING SEEDS OF BULBOUS ROOTS. 
 
 Where any seeds of these are saved, with the intention of 
 sowing, let it be done this month. Procure boxes about sevem 
 
September.] of dahlias. 129 
 
 inches deep, and, in size, proportioned to the quantity to be 
 sown. Put five inches of hght sandy soil in the box, level 
 it smoothly, and sow the seeds separately and thickly ; cover 
 with half an inch of light sandy loam, with a portion of earth 
 from the woods. Keep the box or boxes in a sheltered si- 
 tuation, giving frequent sprinklings of water, to keep the 
 earth damp, which must be protected with a frame, or co- 
 vered with leaves during winter. The plants will appear in 
 the spring, and must be watered and kept in the shade : when 
 the leaves decay in June, put one inch more soil upon them, 
 and the second year they can be planted with the small off- 
 sets in the garden, and treated as other bulbs. They must be 
 carefully marked every year. Tulips require several years of 
 trial before their qualities are known ; and a poor soil is besl 
 suited to produce their characters after the first bloom. 
 
 SEPTEMBER. 
 
 OF DAHLIAS. 
 
 See that all these plants are supported with proper stakes^^ 
 rods, &c., that the wind may have no effect in breaking down 
 or otherwise destroying the flower stems. Strictly observe 
 their respective heights and colours, that they may be duly 
 disposed and interspersed next year, if not done so this. At- 
 tend particularly to the merits of those grown from seed. 
 
 GENERAL CARE OF PLANTS IN POTS. 
 
 All the flowers that are in pots, and intended to be kept in 
 frames during winter^ should have a top-dressing and a ge- 
 neral preparation for their winter quarters, by tying up, &c. 
 
130 PREPARE BEDS, 6cc. [September. 
 
 The carnation and pink layers that were lifted and potted last 
 month, must be brought from the shade as soon as they be- 
 gin to grow , and those that are not lifted, have them done 
 forthwith, that they may be rooted afresh before the frost 
 sets in. All Wall-flowers and Stocks should be lifted about 
 the end of this month, and planted in five to seven-inch pots, 
 and treated as directed for carnation layers last month, until 
 they begin to grow, when they must be fully exposed. 
 
 PREPARE BEDS AND BORDERS FOR BULBOUS ROOTS. 
 
 Bulbous roots of every character delight in deep free soil ; 
 consequently, wherever they are desired to be planted, due 
 attention must be paid to put the soil in proper order, to have 
 them in perfection. Where there are a quantity intended to 
 be planted, to have them in beds is the general and prefera- 
 ble method. These ought to be dug from eighteen inches to 
 two feet deep, at the bottom of which place three or four 
 inches of decayed manure. Where the soil is poor it should 
 be enriched with well decomposed manure and earth from 
 the woods, incorporating both well with the soil, breaking it 
 all fine. This being done, allow it to stand until the middle 
 of next month, which see for farther directions. 
 
 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 Tie up carefully all the Chrysanthemums, Tuberoses, &c. 
 Clear away the stems or haulm of any decayed annuals or 
 herbaceous plants, that nothing unsightly may appear. Pro- 
 pagate the Pansy by layers, &c. See page 102. 
 
 SOWING AND SAVING SEEDS. 
 
 About the end of this month or beginning of next is an ad- 
 visable period to sow seed of Delphinium Ajdcis fibre plena^ 
 
October.] OF PLANTING, &c. 131 
 
 or Double Rocket Larkspur. This plant does not flower in 
 perfection unless sown in autumn, and grown a little above 
 ground before winter ; when a few leaves can be lightly 
 thrown among them, but not to cover them entirely, or a 
 few branches thickly laid on will answer as well. There are 
 several other annuals that bloom more early and much finer 
 by being sown about this period : such as Gilia, Coreopsis, 
 Centaurea, Clarkia, Collinsia, <^c. Be attentive in collect- 
 ing and saving all kinds of seeds, and have them correctly 
 named, with the year in which they were grown. 
 
 The finer kinds of Pansy seeds that may have been col- 
 lected during the season, should now be sown in a rich, free, 
 loamy soil, and in a situation where they can be covered 
 during winter with a temporary frame of boards : although 
 they are perfectly hardy, yet they will bloom earlier and 
 more superb in the spring by having a slight protection. 
 
 OCTOBER. 
 
 OF PLANTING VARIOUS BULBOUS AND TUBEROUS ROOTS, 
 
 From the first of October to the middle of November is 
 the best period for a general planting of bulbs, corms, and 
 tubers, which, if the ground has been prepared, as formerly 
 directed, will now be in readiness. We will give the names 
 and descriptions of a few of the leading sorts. 
 
 Anemone hortensis. The cultivation of this tuber has been 
 attended with less satisfaction than any other floral plant that 
 has been introduced into this country. The general failure 
 may, in part, be attributed to the very inferior roots annually 
 sent from Holland, which rarely arrive in good order, and 
 those that do grow, are very discouraging, never making a 
 luber sufficient for another year's planting. Several hundred 
 
V3^ OF PLANTING, &c. \ October. 
 
 varieties are cultivated in England with great care and com- 
 plete success. They are planted in a deep rich soil, using a 
 considerable portion of cow manure and decomposed leaves, 
 covering the crowns of the roots about two inches. The tubes 
 are flat, but the eye from whence the flower-stem arises is 
 apparent on one of the sides, which must be laid uppermost. 
 During the severity of winter, they should be protected by 
 a frame, and have a sprinkling of very dry leaves strewn 
 among them. 
 
 Crocus. There are upward of one hundred varieties of 
 this vernal flower in cultivation, attended with universal 
 success. They delight in rich soils, and may either be plant- 
 ed ill beds or rows, at least two inches deep, and six inches 
 from row to row — they seldom require removal; every three 
 or four years will be sufficient. They can be purchased at 
 from seventy-five cents to two dollars per hundred, accord- 
 ing to quality. When they are done blooming, the foliage 
 should not be removed till perfectly decayed 
 
 Fritillaria, or Crown Imperial. See last month. 
 
 Hyacinths. The ground that was prepared for these last 
 month, should be all divided into beds four feet wide, leaving 
 between each alleys of twenty inches. Skim off four or five 
 inches of the surface of the former into the latter, level the 
 bed smoothly with the rake, and mark it off in rows eight 
 inches apart. Plant the roots in the row eight inches asun- 
 der. Thus they will be in squares, and by planting the dif- 
 ferent colours, alternately, the bed will be beautifully diver- 
 sified. Cover each bulb with sand, when it can be procured. 
 Put about four inches of earth over the crowns, which will 
 make the beds from two to three inches higher than the al- 
 leys. The beds, before and after planting, should be gently 
 rounded from the middle to each side, to let the rain pass off. 
 Finish all by raking evenly, straighten the edgings with the 
 line, and clear out the alleys or pathways. 
 
 Wc have grown Hyacinths in great perfection — when, 
 in addition to the above, we covered them with two to three 
 
October.] jonquils — lilium. 13;1 
 
 inches of cow manure. The Dutch florists name nearly two 
 thousand varieties of this flower, and have large fields de- 
 voted to their culture. When the double varieties were 
 first brought into notice, they sold at from one to two thou- 
 sand guilders a roof, (about from four to eight hundred 
 dollars.) The finer kinds can be purchased at from two to 
 four dollars per dozen. 
 
 Iris, or Fleur de luce. The English and Persian irises are 
 coming in repute as showy garden flowers. They will grow 
 in any well prepared soil, and require to be planted in the 
 same manner as the tulip. 
 
 Jonquils. Double and single. Plant these in the same 
 soil as Tulips, six inches apart, and cover three inches deep. 
 They do not flower so well the first year as in the second and 
 third, therefore should only be lifted every third year. 
 
 Lilium. The family of Lilies are all splendid, very inte- 
 resting, and easy of culture, requiring merely a good deep 
 loamy soil — nowise inclined to moisture. They are all 
 hardy, except L. japbnicum and L. longiflbrum, which we 
 lift in November, and again plant them about the first of 
 March, keeping them through the winter in dry sand, in a 
 cellar free from frost. The hardy kinds, deserving most at- 
 tention, are L. Cdndidum, (the double variety of it is not worth 
 growing,) L. Chalcedonicum, and its varieties, L. Tigrinum, 
 L. Concolor, and L. Mdrtagon ; these, with the species 
 indigenous to this country, are all very beautiful. They 
 should be planted from three to five inches deep, according 
 to the size of the bulb, and need not be taken up oftener than 
 once in every three or four years. None of the species can 
 be transplanted after they have grown, without injuring their 
 flowering. 
 
 Narcissus require treatment similar to the Lily, except 
 the soil, which must be richer, and even then they do not 
 bloom so finely in a few years as they do when first imported ; 
 but they are cheap, and can annually be procured. 
 
 12 
 
134 p^oNiAS. [October. 
 
 PcBonias are all magnificent in flower, and, for display, 
 are not surpassed by any spring blooming plant; 
 and we do cheerfully urge our readers to cultivate 
 the choice sorts, which can scarcely be said to 
 have a rival. Such are — 
 P. Moutdn Bdnksii, common double blush, tree Paeonia. 
 P. Moutdn papaverdcea, single while, tree Paeonia, with 
 
 purple centre. 
 P. Moutdn rosea, large rose, semi-double tree Pseonia. 
 P.MoM^anoc/orafa, sweet-scented, rose-coloured tree Pseonia. 
 P. Moutdn albida pleno, double white, tree Psonia. 
 P. edulis albiflora, single white herbaceous Paeonia. 
 P. edulis xvldtleji, superb double white herbaceous Pseonia. 
 P. edulis Hiimei, very large double rose herbaceous Paeonia. 
 P. edulis frdgrans, double red, sweet-scented herbaceous 
 
 Pseonia. 
 P. edulis Reevesiana, Chinese double crimson herbaceous 
 
 Pseonia. 
 P. officinalis rubra, common double herbaceous Paeonia. 
 P. officinalis airopurpicrea, very dark crimson herbaceous 
 
 Paeonia. 
 P. officinalis dlbicans, changeable, white rose, or blush her- 
 baceous Paeonia. 
 
 There are several other splendid double varieties in some 
 rare collections of Europe, which have not yet made their 
 appearance in general culture. There are also a few very 
 choice single kinds that are desirable for growing to raise 
 new sorts from ; for it is from the single species that the 
 Chinese have been so successful in procuring the magnificent 
 double varieties, which are so anxiously and perseveringly 
 sought for. The seeds mature well in this country, and 
 should be sown as soon as ripe : they will vegetate the follow- 
 ing spring, and in three years may be expected to bloom. 
 The Pa^ony will grow in any rich loamy soil, which should 
 be at least fifteen inches deep. An eastern situation or 
 
October.] tulips. 135 
 
 aspect is best adapted for them in this latitude ; but in the 
 more southern states, they will display their flowers better 
 on a northern aspect, or where they will be shaded from the 
 sun, but not under the dripping of trees. The most suitable 
 lime for planting them is in September, October, or Novem- 
 ber. Spring-planted roots never succeed well the first year. 
 Paeony moutan and its varieties are all of a shrubby nature, 
 and will grow into large bushes, producing from fifty to one 
 hundred blooms of not less than fifteen inches in circumfe- 
 rence ; they can be propagated by division of the root, or by 
 layers. 
 
 Tulips. As this flower will soon be a decided favourite 
 over this might country, we will give a minute description 
 of the soil most genial to it, at the same time remarking that 
 it will grow in almost any soil or situation, though less per- 
 fect. Many of the kinds are of the most splendid colours 
 and strong in growth, frequently growing over three feet in 
 height, with cups sufficiently large to satisfy the greatest 
 Bacchus. All writers agree that Tulip beds should be "four 
 feet wide ;" though I think three and a half will be found 
 more convenient, and, in length, according to the number of 
 roots to be planted. The soil should consist of good, fresh 
 loam, mixed with a small portion of well rotted stable ma- 
 nure, at least two years old. The whole should be incor- 
 porated together four months previous to using. The com- 
 mon soil should be taken out sixteen inches deep, and 
 filled with the above compost. Raise the beds nbt less 
 than three inches above the paths at the outside, and about 
 six or eight inches in the middle ; this convexity will assist in 
 throwing off the water in times of heavy and continued rains. 
 The bed thus formed, plant the bulbs in rows, lengthwise on 
 the bed, about six inches from bulb to bulb, and seven inches 
 from row to row. The bed may be marked out by straining 
 a line very tight, lengthwise on the bed, and beating it with 
 the back of the spade, leaving a lined groove along the ground. 
 Then, with a lath four feet long, let the bed be marked across 
 
136 PLANTING AND TRANSPLANTING. [Octoher. 
 
 at six inches distance, so as to leave distinct impressions at 
 each crossing of the ground lines ; for these will form 1 he spots 
 where the bulbs are to be planted, by means of a dibber, 
 made larger than the largest bulb, and flattened at the end. 
 The holes are to be made four inches deep, and about half an 
 inch of sharp sand ought to be dropped in each. The centre 
 line ought to be planted with the tallest kinds, and the out- 
 side of the bed wiih the lowest. In severe frosts they should 
 be protected by boards or branches. Tulips have ever been 
 held in the highest estimation. As early as 1637 history re- 
 cords one hundred and twenty Tulips being sold at public 
 auction for no less a sum than nine thousand guilders, equal 
 to thirty-six hundred dollars ; and, in England, at the present 
 day, a good collection is valued at five thousand dollars. 
 Florists generally divide them into three classes, viz. : first, 
 Byhloemens, such as have a white ground, variegated with 
 purple, as jBzen/ati or Washington, &lc.\ secoudXy, Bizarres^ 
 having a yellow ground, variegated with scarlet, purple, rose, 
 or velvet, as Trafalgar, Due de Savoie, &c. ; and, thirdly, 
 Roses with white ground, variegated with rose, scarlet, or 
 crimson, as La Tendresse, Rose mignonne, &c. 
 
 The superb kinds are often very expensive, even fifty 
 pounds sterling is frequently given for a single bulb ; and 
 we doubt much if these high-priced kinds are finer than 
 Washington, Milo, or Trafalgar, which, with many others, 
 can be procured for less than one dollar each. 
 
 PLANTING AND TRANSPLANTING. 
 
 This is a very proper period to plant the beautiful and 
 early flowering Pyrws^opon/ca, now called Cydonia japoni- 
 ca. The blossoms are of a rich scarlet colour. It is the 
 earliest flowering shrub of the garden, and deciduous, though 
 said by some to be '* an evergreen." The plant is bushy, 
 and well adapted for single plants in grass plats, or forming 
 low ornamental hedges. There is likewise C. j. alba, a fine 
 
October.] grass and gravel walks. 137 
 
 blush variety of the same habit, and both are of the hardiest 
 nature. 
 
 Double Primroses, Polyanthus, Daisies, &c. Any of these 
 that were planted in shaded situations in spring, and have 
 been preserved through the summer, should have for their 
 farther protection a bed well sheltered from the north-west, 
 in which they should be planted four inches apart. Give 
 them a few sprinklings of water in the morning, and have a 
 temporary frame of rough boards put together to place over 
 them during the severity of winter. The frame may be co- 
 vered with the same in place of glass, which must be kept 
 over them while they are in a frozen state. 
 
 Any other plants that are in the ground, which are intend- 
 ed to be protected with frames through the winter, ought to 
 be immediately lifted and potted, and treated as directed for 
 all new-potted plants. 
 
 GRASS AND GRAVEL WALKS. 
 
 The former should be trimly cut and well rolled this month, 
 ihat they may appear neat all winter. Never allow decayed 
 leaves to lie any lime upon them, as they are apt to rot out 
 the grass. The latter should be divested of every weed, and 
 receive a firm rolling. Clear them at all times of leaves and 
 other litter. These, if on a declivity, and have not a firm 
 substantial bottom, will be subject to be cut up with every 
 heavy rain. A break should be put in every twenty, forty, 
 or eighty feet, to throw off the water. A strong plank will 
 answer perfectly well, but in such situations we would pre- 
 fer grass walks. 
 
 PLANTING EVERGREENS. 
 
 This month is the best period in autumn to plant these 
 shrubs ; and where there is a great extent to be planted, it 
 
 12* 
 
138 DAHLIAS. [November. 
 
 would be advisable to do a part of it now ; but we give the 
 preference to April, which see for directions. 
 
 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 When the plantings of bulbs, &c., are finished, every part 
 of the garden should have a thorough cleaning. All annual 
 flowers will have passed tlic season of their beauty ; there- 
 fore, remove the decayed flower stems or haulm, and trim 
 off the borders. Dig all vacant ground, especially that in- 
 tended to be planted with shrubs in the ensuing spring, 
 which ought to be dug from one to two feet deep. 
 
 NOVEMBER. 
 
 DAHLIAS. 
 
 It is not advisable to delay lifting the roots of the Dahlia 
 after the first of the month, as frequently severe frosts set in 
 about this period, and would totally destroy them. Choose 
 a dry day for the purpose, and with a spade carefully lift 
 every root, divesting it of any earth that may adhere thereto, 
 but not to shake it ofl", as thereby the neck of the tubers would 
 be bruised, and probably entirely destroy the vitality of the 
 plant for the coming season. With us, the frost generally 
 destroys the foliage and stems of the plants from about the 
 middle of October to the beginning of the present month. 
 The stems should then be cut to within a few inches of the 
 ground : when the roots should be lifted directly thereafter, 
 and the labels properly secured to them with metallic wire. 
 Many opinions are given for the best method of securing 
 
November.] erythrinas. 139 
 
 them during winter from the effects of frost, which is their 
 certain destruction. In this country, a dry close cellar, that 
 will retain a temperature of not less than thirty-five degrees, 
 and not over forty-five, will be the most proper place : if the 
 tubers are small, they should be covered with dry sand or 
 earth. The method we have adopted with our finest kinds, 
 which has resulted in complete success, is, to lay dry boards 
 on the cellar-floor, and place the roots closely thereon, co- 
 vering them to the stem with dry sand, laying mats overall: 
 in this manner they preserve till spring in the most perfect 
 order. They can also be kept in a cool green-house ; but 
 must be protected from drippings of water falling upon them. 
 
 TUBEROSES, TIGRIDIAS, AND AMARYLLIS. 
 
 These tubers and bulbs, as soon as the frost has partly in- 
 jured the foliage, should be taken up, and dried thoroughly 
 in the sun, taking care, at all times, to keep them clear from 
 frost. When they are dry, divest them of their foliage and 
 fibres, and pack them in boxes with dry sand or moss. 
 Store these away for the winter, either in a room or a dry 
 cellar, where they will, at all times, be exempt from frost, 
 the least touch of which would destroy them. We have 
 kept them completely secure in the cellar. 
 
 ERYTHRINAS. 
 
 Where there are any plants of E. herbdcea, E. laurifdha^and 
 E. crista-gdlla, which are intended to be lifted, they should 
 be carefully done and preserved in half dry earth, and kept 
 beside the Dahlias. They are magnificent ornaments in the 
 flower garden. 
 
 PRIMROSES, POLYANTHUS, AND DAISIES, 
 
 That were planted in a sheltered spot, as directed last 
 month, should have a frame placed over them, and their co- 
 
140 CHOICE CARNATIONS, &c. [NovemhcT, 
 
 vering in readiness for the approach of winter ; giving the 
 plants a light covering of leaves, which will preserve their 
 foliage from the effects of frost. 
 
 CHOICE CARNATIONS, PINKS, PANSIES, AND AURICULAS, 
 
 That are in pots, should be placed in the franne intended 
 for their abode during winter. If the pots are plunged to 
 the rims in dry leaves or saw-dust, it will greatly protect 
 their roots from the severe effects of frost. Where glass is 
 used for these frames, they should have besides a covering 
 of boards or straw mats ; those that are in beds may be co- 
 vered as above directed for Primroses, &c, 
 
 Thoy ought not to be uncovered while in a frozen state. 
 It is not altogether the intensity of cold that destroys these 
 plants so much as the alternate thawing and freezing. 
 
 All half hardy plants, such as Wall-jloioer, German stocks, 
 Sweet-bay, tender roses, with several others, should be pro- 
 tected as above direcred for Carnations. Earth or tan should 
 be put round the outside of these frames, which will be a 
 partial shelter from the changing state of the atmosphere. 
 Oak leaves answer the purpose very well, but they are a 
 harbour for all kinds of vermin, especially rats and mice, 
 which would destroy everything. It may be useful to say 
 a few words on the nature of tan or tanner's bark. Many 
 suppose that the smallest quantity will produce heat. If 
 three or four cart loads of it are put into one heap, and pro- 
 tected from the rain, it will ferment ; and when the first fer- 
 mentation is abated, by mixing it with leaves, a substantial 
 hot-bed made be made, or put it by itself into a pit ; and, 
 when there is no pit, boards may be substituted to keep it 
 together : either of these methods will produce a lasting heat. 
 But in small quantities, and exposed to rain, &c., no heat will 
 be produced, but rather the contrary. It is excellent, when 
 dry, in keeping out frost from any plants ; being a body no5 
 
November.] protection of seedling bulbs. 141 
 
 easily penetrated, similar to dry sand, saw-dust, or dry leaves. 
 Frequently the same opinion is held in regard to stable ma- 
 nure, small portions of which will never produce heat. 
 
 OF PROTECTING PLANTS IN THE GARDEN. 
 
 During this or next month, according to the stale of the 
 season, protect all the plants that are in the ground, which 
 are not completely hardy. The coverings may be straw, 
 Russia mats, canvass, boxes, or barrels. The two latter 
 must be perforated in the top, to let the damp air pass off, or 
 the plant would become musty and decay. Those covered 
 with straw or mats should have small stakes placed round 
 the plants, and covering tied tliereto, and remain so until the 
 month of March or first of April. Herbaceous plants that 
 are tender, may be covered with three or four inches of tan, 
 saw-dust, or half decayed leaves, which will tend greatly to 
 preserve their roots. These coverings must be carefully re- 
 moved on the first opening of spring. The shrubs that are 
 otherwise covered would be greatly benefited by having 
 their roots protected in a similar manner, as directed for her- 
 baceous plants. 
 
 PROTECTION OF SEEDLING BULBS. 
 
 If any seeds of Hyacinths, Tulips, or Fritillara, were sown 
 in pots or boxes, letthem be removed to a dry, sheltered situa- 
 tion, and plunged level with the ground ; or fill the spaces 
 between them with dry leaves or tanner's bark, and cover 
 the whole with new-fallen leaves, laying over all a few boards 
 to prevent the wind blowing them off. These form better 
 coverings than straw or haulm, which is liable to become 
 musty, and communicate the effect to the roots. The above 
 covering is not required until the approach of severe frost. 
 
142 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. [November. 
 
 OF PLANTING DECIDUOUS TREES AND SHRUBS. 
 
 It is not recommendable to make a general planting of these 
 at this period of the year ; the success entirely depending on 
 the nature of the season and the slate of the soil. If any are 
 planted, let them be those of the hardiest nature, and in light 
 and absorbent soil, not subject to be stagnated or over-flooded 
 during winter. When this and next month are mild, autumn 
 plantings are very frequently as sure as those of the spring. 
 But the precarious state of the season is not to be depended 
 upon, therefore avoid large plantings of any kind, and more 
 especially of delicate roses, the roots of which are apt to rot 
 off, except they have been previously grown in pots. No- 
 thing can be more injurious to a plant, at this season particu- 
 larly, than to bed its roots in mortar, by which the tender 
 iibres either perish or are cramped ever afterward. The 
 soil at the time of planting should be so friable as not to ad- 
 here to the spade, which is a good rule in planting at any sea- 
 son, or in any soil. 
 
 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 Carry out of the garden all decayed leaves and litter of 
 every description, cutting down any weeds that remain. Col- 
 lect all the stakes and rods that have been supporting plants, 
 tie them up in bundles for the use of next year, and put them 
 under cover. Look over every part of the garden, and see 
 that nothing has been omitted in the way of covering or other 
 protection. The sashes that are to be used on the frames 
 should be perfectly whole, every interstice in the glass put- 
 lied, and all ready for use when occasion may require. At- 
 tend to all plants in pots, and give them gentle waterings as 
 they stand in need ; but never during the time the soil is fro- 
 zen about their roots. 
 
December.] general observations. 143 
 
 DECEMBER. 
 
 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 Having in the preceeding months under this head given de- 
 tails for the protection of plants of a delicate nature, and the 
 forwarding of necessary work, only a few remarks remain to 
 be added. If there is any part therein described omitted, have 
 it done forthwith : every day increases the danger of severe 
 weather. If there are doubts of any plants or shrubs not 
 standing without some light covering, it is best to err on the 
 side of safety. Valuable plants on walls, and in danger of 
 being destroyed, it is advisable to be at the expense of having 
 a frame made to surround them, and cover the same with oil- 
 <;loth. The frame thus covered, should be taken off in mild 
 weather, and replaced again when necessary, causing very 
 little trouble ; and, if properly taken care of, will last many 
 years. Coverings of any construction, and of the same ma- 
 terial, would answer for any part of the garden, and are the 
 best in our opinion that could be adopted. 
 
THB 
 
 AMERICAN FLOWER GARDEN 
 DIRECTORY. 
 
 HOT-HOUSE. 
 
 ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF A HOT-HOUSE. 
 
 There have been many plans devised and visionary pro- 
 jects offered to the pubUc as the best for a well-regulated hot 
 house. As we intend forming one for practical purposes, we 
 shall adopt a convenient size, have flews for the conveyance 
 of heat, and coal or wood for fuel. 
 
 Site and Aspect. — The house should stand on a situation 
 naturally dry, and, if possible, sheltered from the north-west, 
 and clear from all shade on the south, east, and west, so that 
 the sun may at all times act effectually upon the house. The 
 standard principle, as to aspect, is to set the front directly to 
 the south. Any deviation from that point should incline to 
 the east. 
 
 Dimensions. — The length may be from ten feet upward ; 
 
 but, if beyond forty feet, the number of fires and flues are 
 
 multiplied. The medium width is from twelve to sixteen 
 
 feet. Our directions will apply to the two extreme points, 
 
 viz. : forty feet by sixteen, and in height, at back, from 
 
 twelve to eighteen feet ; the height in front six feet, including 
 
 about three feet in brick basement, to support the front glass, 
 
 which will be two and a half feet, allowing six inches for 
 
 frame-work. 
 
 13 
 
146 HOT-HOUSE. 
 
 Furnace and Flues. — It is of great importance to Iiave 
 these erected in such a manner as will effectually heat the 
 house. The greatest difficulty is to have the furnace to draw 
 •well. As workmen are not generally conversant on the sub- 
 ject, nor yet understand the effect or distribution of heat in 
 these departments, we will give minute details on their con- 
 struction. The furnace should be outside of the house, either 
 at back or end ; the former is preferable, circumstances not 
 always allowing it on the other plan. Dig out the furnace- 
 hole, or what is termed stock-hole, about five feet deep. Let 
 the door of the furnace be in the back wall of the house, 
 thereby having all the heated building inside, that no heat 
 may be lost. The brick-work round the fuinace should be 
 nine inches thick, laying the inside with fire-brick. Around 
 the outside leave a vacuum two or three inches wide, lo allow 
 the heat to arise from around the furnace into the interior of 
 the house, thereby saving the whole heat of the fuel. The 
 furnace will require to be two and a half feet long, ten inches 
 wide, and one foot high, before the spring of the arch and 
 clear of the bars ; leave one foot for an ash-pit, ihcn lay the 
 bars. They should be sixteen inches long, one inch broad 
 on the upper side, two inches deep, and two-eighths broad on 
 the lower side, and, with the door and frame, should be cast 
 iron. Half an inch between each bar will be sufficient. The 
 flue should rise from the furnace by a sleep declivity of from 
 twenty inches to two feet, and pass the door of the house, 
 (without a dip,) when it must be elevated above the level of 
 the floor of the house along ihe front, and at the opposite end 
 of the house must dip to pass the door. The dip must not 
 be lower than the bottom of the flue at the neck of the furnace, 
 and should be of a concave form, (avoiding acute angles.) 
 Lead it along the back to enter the wall over the furnace. 
 When thus taken round the house, the heat will be expanded 
 before it enters the chimney. The inside of the flues should 
 be from six to ten inches wide, and eight inches deep ; plas- 
 ter the bottom of it, but no other part, as plaster is partially 
 
HOT-HOUSE. 147 
 
 a non-coi\ductor. The above description is for burning an- 
 thracite coal; but where wood is to be the fuel, the furnace 
 must be one-half larger. We have been particular in the de- 
 scription of furnace bars, as those generally used are misera- 
 ble substitute. Circumstances may cause the furnace to be 
 placed at tlie end or fiont of the house. In either case the 
 stock-hole will not require to be so deep ; or where there is 
 only one door in the house, a siock-hole three and a half feet 
 deep will be enougji, which should be built like a cellar, to 
 keep out any under water. In all instances pass the first flue 
 to the front of the house, over which have a close table, co- 
 vered with two inches of sand, and, by keeping it moist, will 
 atford a very congenial heal to young and valuable plants. 
 Likewise over the furnace have a frame in the same manner, 
 which will be found useful for propagating. Any part of the 
 furnace or flue that is under the floor of the house, should 
 have a vacuity on both sides to let the heat pass upward. 
 
 Furnaces and flues on the above construction are the most 
 simple in arrangement, and the easiest to manage at all times. 
 But where capital, taste, and practical science can be united, 
 a more elegant disposition of healing conveniences can be 
 adopted : an excavation should be made for the flue to pass 
 along under the pathway, which pathway may be a casting of 
 iron, or wooden slats, fancifully put together, and at least six 
 inches above the flue. In building the furnace, place thereon a 
 boilorof cast-iron or copper, about two feet deep, two feet long, 
 and four inches wide, with a zinc or copper lid : having it pre- 
 pared to receive two pipes, one near the bottom and the other 
 about four inches from the top : these pipes may be from four 
 to six inches in diameter, and are to be taken along under 
 the table in front of ihe house, in a level position, and, at the 
 end of the house, joined together by a perpendicular pipe, or 
 joint which should have an end about one foot higher than the 
 highest part of the upper pipe. When all is properly fixed, fill 
 the boiler with rain or river water, if possible : the air in the 
 pipes will pass out at the perpendicular end, and, when all are 
 
148 HOT-HOUSE. 
 
 full, put a perforated cover on the end of the pipe. As soon 
 as the water becomes heated, it will arise from the bottom of 
 the boiler, and pass along the upper pipe, and return cool by 
 the under one. Or, in place of the pipe returning again by 
 the front, it can pass all round the house, only there must be 
 apiece of perpendicular pipe to allow the air to get out — the 
 consumption of water will not be over half a gallon in twenty- 
 four hours. If the pipes require to be higher than the boiler, 
 the boiler cover must be hermetically sealed, and the filling 
 operation conducted by the upright tube or pipe, which must 
 always be full of water. This we consider the most econo- 
 mical method of heating by hot water, and it is by far the 
 most simple — simple indeed in every part, though volumes 
 have been written on the subject. 
 
 Bark Pit. — We consider such an erection in the centre of 
 a hot-house a nuisance, and prefer a stage, which may be 
 constructed according to taste. It should be made of the best 
 Carolina pine, leaving a passage all round, to cause a free 
 circulation of air. The back and end paths may be about 
 two feet wide, and the front three feet. The angle of the 
 stage should be parallel with the glass, having the steps fron> 
 six inches to one foot apart. 
 
 Where there are some large plants, they may stand on the 
 floor behind the stage, or on tressels, according to their height. 
 
 Angle of the glazed Roof. — The pitch of the roof is usually 
 varied to agree with the design of the house, and the size of 
 the plants to be grown therein. Where pleasure and orna- 
 ment are the principal objects, the angle should be about 43'^, 
 but a few degrees of inclination either way is of minor im- 
 portance. 
 
 Materials f 07- glazed Sashes.— Carolina pine is the best ma- 
 terial for the wood-work, as it is not so subject to decay from 
 moisture and heat as the other kinds of pine wood. The 
 frames or sashes can be of any convenient lengih, not exceed- 
 ing ten feet, and about three and a half or four feet wide, and 
 
HOT-HOUSE. 149 
 
 made from plank two inches thick, divided so as ihey can be 
 gla/.ed with glass six iiiciies wide. 
 
 Of Glaztii^. — I'fie pieces of glass should not exceed six 
 inciies by eighi, i hough six by six is preferable ; ihe lappings 
 about one qu.irler of an inch. The fraines ought to have 
 two coals of paint previous lo glazing, and the glass bedded 
 in piiily. Some prefer llic lappings to be puttied also. If 
 is our opinion '.hat in a hol-house these slioiild not be puttied, 
 but, in the gieen-hoiise, the closer they can be made the bet- 
 ter. 
 
 Of Shutters. — These should be made of three quarters of 
 an incii white pine, aii(i bound on botti ends and sides, having 
 a cross piece m the middle of the same. They ought lo be 
 painted ai least once in three years. 
 
 HOT-HOUSE. 
 
 JANUARY. 
 
 At all limits he very careful of the tem[)eratnre of this de- 
 pariinent, and more especially at tliis season of the year, as a 
 ii'w ;iMnuies' neglect might materially injure many of the de- 
 licate plants. The thermometer ought to range between .55^ 
 and t\o^. In fine snnsliine days admit a little air by iiaving 
 some of the lop siishes let down one, two, or three inches, 
 according to the weather, and let it alvva^'^s be done from ele- 
 V /n to o.ic o'l.lock ; but by no means in such a manner as to 
 cause a drau<>lii m ilie interior of the house, which would 1)C 
 vry prejiidici.d. Tlicrefore be always cautious during cold 
 wedilh-r, 111 ad.Dinisteriiig that necessary element to vegeia- 
 lii),), wiiifh IS so conducive to health. 
 
 13* 
 
150 HOT-HOUSE. 
 
 OF FIRING AND FUEL. 
 
 The hot-house ought never to be left entirely to inexpe- 
 rienced persons, because they are not aware of what might be 
 •the result of inattention even for an hour. Attention to the 
 following observations will obviate every difficulty : About 
 this season of the year frost generally sets in very severe in 
 the middle states. Suppose the day may have all the cle- 
 mency of spring, the night may be directly the reverse. 
 Every precaution is necessary to guard against extremes. 
 The shutters are put on every night at sundown, and, in se- 
 vere weather, as soon as the sun goes off the glass. If the 
 shutters are omitted till late in severe frost, it will so reduce 
 the heat of the house, that you cannot overcome it by fire 
 until near midnight; and, when done, the fire or fires have 
 been made more powerful than they ought to be, proving 
 ungenial to the plants that are near the flues. The air, as 
 above directed, having been taken ofi' the house at one o'clock, 
 as soon as the mercury begins to fall in the thermometer, 
 kindle the fire, and, supposing it is anthracite coal, in twenty 
 minutes, with a good drawing furnace, the heat will operate 
 in the house. If a coal fire, kindled about four o'clock, it 
 will require an addition about six, and then may be made up 
 again about nine or ten, which will suffice until morning. 
 The quantity must be regulated by the weather. If the fuel 
 is wood, it must be attended to three or four times during 
 the evening ; and, when the mornings are intensely cold, a 
 fire maybe requisite. When there are bad drawingfurnaces,^ 
 the fires must be made much earlier, perhaps by two or three 
 o'clock, which will be easily observed by the time the fire 
 takes effect upon the air of the house. The temperature 
 ought never to be under fifty degrees of Fahrenheit. 
 
HOT-HOUSE. 151 
 
 OF WATERING THE PLANTS. 
 
 To do this judiciously, is so necessary to vegetation, and 
 so requisite to understand, and yet tlie knowledge so difficult 
 to convey to others, (being entirely acquired by practice,) 
 that if the power were in man to impart to his fellow-men^ 
 he would possess the power of perfecting a gardener by dic- 
 tion. However, the hints on this important point of flori- 
 culture will be as clear and expressive as can at present be 
 elicited. All plants in this work that are aquatic shall be 
 specified as such ; and those that are arid shall be duly men- 
 tioned. All others will come in the medium. 
 
 All the plants must be looked over every day, and those 
 watered that appear to be getting dry on the top. It must 
 be strictly observed not to give water to any but such as re- 
 quire it, and let it be given moderately at this season. There 
 is not so much liability to err, at present, in giving too little, 
 as in administering too much. Vegetation among the stove 
 or hot-house plants will soon begin to show,, and the soil 
 will become sour if it is impregnated with stagnant mois- 
 ture. Small plants should always be w^atered with a pot 
 having what is termed a rose upon it. The surface of the 
 rose, that is, where it is perforated with small apertures^ 
 ought to be level, or a little concave, which would convey 
 the water more to a centre, and make neater work,, by pre- 
 venting any water from being unnecessarily spilt in the 
 house. The size of the pot will be regulated by the person 
 to suit the conveniences of the place. Water, when applied 
 either to the roots or foliage of the plants, should be about 
 the medium temperature of the house. Where there are no 
 cisterns, a tank or barrel might be in the house, in which the 
 water could stand for one night or more, as is most suitable. 
 When water is given without being thus aired, it chills the 
 roots, prevents a luxuriant growth, injures the fresh and 
 
152 HOT-HOUSE. 
 
 healthful appearance of the foliage, and too frequently gives 
 lo all the plants a sickly hue. 
 
 OF INSECTS, THEIR DESTRUCTION, &c . 
 
 In this department insects begin to increase by hundreds, 
 and too frequently their ravages are very obvious before 
 their progress is arrested. We will treat of those which are 
 most common, under their respective lieads, with their na 
 lure and cure, as far as has come under our observation. 
 
 Aphis roscB, of the natural order of Hemiptera, or what is 
 commonly known by Green Fly, Green Lice, &c., infect 
 plants in general, and are particularly destructive in the hot- 
 house to Hibiscus rosa- sinensis, Ascleidas, Crdssula cocci/tea, 
 Lantdna, &c., and many other plants of a free-growing nature. 
 They attack the young and tender shoots at the point, leaving 
 a dark filthy appearance on the foliage. Many remedies for 
 their destruction have been offered to the public by various 
 writers, each equally secure in his own opinion. Extensive 
 practice alone can show the most easy and effectual cure. 
 Fumigating with tobacco is decidedly the most efficacious, 
 and in the power of any to perform. Take a small circular 
 furnace, made of sheet iron, diameter at top twelve inches, 
 and at bottom eight ; depth one foot, having a grating in it lo 
 reach within three inches of the bottom, which will leave 
 space for the air to pass, and where the ashes will fall and 
 be kept in safety, having a handle like a pail to carry it with. 
 This, or anything similar, being ready, put in it a few em- 
 bers of charcoal, ignited to redness ; take it into the centre 
 of the house, and put therein a quantity of moist tobacco. I f 
 it attempts to blaze or flame, sprinkle a little water thereon ; 
 and as it consumes, continue to add tobacco until the house 
 is entirely full of smoke, observing always to do it in still, 
 cloudy weather, or in the evening. If it is windy, the smoke 
 is carried off without having half the effect, and requires 
 
Jan.] HOT-HOUSE. — INSECTS, (kc. 153 
 
 more tobacco. The house must be closely shut up. There 
 are several plants whose foliage is of a soft downy nature, 
 such as HelHropiums, Callacdrpus, Salvias, and many of the 
 Lantanas, Vincas, with several others that cannot stand 
 strong fumigation without danger. These should be put 
 down in the house, or under the stage. These fumigations 
 will have to be repeated frequently, the time for which 
 will easily be perceived ; and, when required, ought not to 
 be delayed. Several species and varieties of the same ge- 
 nus. Aphis, can be destroyed in the like manner. 
 
 Acaris tellurius, or red spider, is caused by a dry atmo- 
 sphere, and its havoc generally is obvious before it is ar- 
 rested. With its proboscis it wounds the fine capillary 
 vessels of the leaves. If they progress in their destructive 
 work, the leaves will prematurely decay. On this appear- 
 ance, turn up the leaf, and you will see them running about 
 with incredible swiftness. Their body is of a blood colour, 
 and their feet light red. When very numerous, they work 
 thick webs on the under side of the leaf, and frequently all 
 over it, forming a mass of half dead plants, decayed leaves, 
 and thousands of spiders. The most effectual remedy is a 
 thorough syringing with water, and profusely under the fo- 
 liage. This being done every evening, will subdue and 
 eventually banish them. Had the house been syringed two 
 or three times per week, these intruders would not have ap- 
 peared. It is said by some writers, that watering only re- 
 duces them to a temporary state of inaction, and will not 
 destroy them. Laying aside the many prescribed nostrums, 
 we assert that the pure element is the most effectual cure, as 
 well as the most easy to be obtained.* 
 
 Thrips, order Hemiptera, are insects so minute as scarcely 
 to be preceptible to the naked eye. They generally lurk 
 close to the veins of the leaves of plants, and frequently at- 
 
 * Fumes of sulphur is instant death to them ; but it has to be used with 
 great caution and experience. 
 
154 HOT-HOUSE. — INSECTS, &c. [Jan. 
 
 lack esculents. When viewed through a glass, they are seen, 
 when touched, to skip with great agihty. The larva is of a 
 high brown or reddish colour. The thrip has four wings, 
 and walks with its body turned upward. It frequently at- 
 tacks the extremities of tender shoots or young leaves, which 
 become shrivelled, brown, and will rub to dust easily be- 
 tween the thumb and finger, When any leaves or shoots 
 are perceived to be so, if you do not observe the green fly, 
 expect the thrips. They may be destroyed by a fumigation 
 of tobacco, in the same manner as the green fly. By the 
 simple and expeditious method of fumigation, these insects 
 and several oihers may be destroyed effectually at any time 
 they appear. 
 
 Cocus hesperidus, or mealy bug, has appeared in the hot- 
 houses about Philadelphia within these few years, and, if not 
 instantly destroyed, increases rapidly. It is of a white dusty 
 colour ; when broken, of a brownish red, generally covered 
 with down, under which itdepositcs its eggs ; and ihey, in a 
 few months, come forth in great numbers. The cocus gene- 
 rally is of a dormant nature, but in warm weather they may 
 be seen moving rapidly up the stems of the plants. Fumi- 
 gating has no observable effect on these insects ; therefore, 
 as soon as they appear, recourse must be had to other means. 
 The liquid made from the following receipt is death to any 
 of the Cocus tribe : Take two pounds of strong soap, one 
 pound of flour of sulphur, one pound of leaf tobacco, one and 
 a half ounce of nux vomica, with a table spoonful of turpentine, 
 which boil in four gallons of river water to three ; then set 
 aside to cool. When boiling, stir it well with a stick, con- 
 tinuing to do so until it is reduced as above. In this liquor 
 immerse the whole plant, drawing it to and fro genlly, that 
 the liquor may penetrate everywhere. This done, lay the 
 plant on its side, until it begins to dry, then syringe well 
 with clean water, and put it in its respective station. Where 
 a collection of plants is free from any insects of the kind, 
 every plant that is introduced ought to be minutely scruti- 
 
Jan.] HOT. HOUSE. — INSECTS, &c. 155 
 
 nized, that the unclean may be kept from the clean : the 
 above insect will feed almost on any plant, but indulges on 
 Crdssulas, any of the bristly Cactus, Gardenias, and in fact 
 whatever is in the way. 
 
 Cocus , or brown scaly insect, is frequently 
 
 found on many plants, but we never could perceive that it 
 does any other material injury than soiling them. We have 
 ahvays observed, that it is found in winter to abound in 
 those situations which are most excluded from air ; there- 
 fore is of less importance than the other species, which eat 
 and corrode the leaves of tender plants, A washing with 
 strong soap-suds will destroy them, or the above liquid will 
 do it more effectually. Tie a piece of sponge on the end of 
 a small slick, and scrub every leaf, stem, and crevice. Fu- 
 migating destroys the larvje of this species. 
 
 Cocus , or small white scaly insect, which gene- 
 rally infests Cycas, Nerium, Oleas, and Acacias, &c., may be 
 destroyed by washing as above with a sponge, and a strong 
 decoction of tobacco, using the liquid about the warmth of 
 100°. Being thus heated, it irritates the insect, when, by 
 easing itself from its bed, the fluid passes under it, and causes 
 immediate death. If it is not thus irritated, it adheres so 
 closely to the foliage, that it will keep you at defiance. The 
 under, or dark side of the leaves is its residence ; and we 
 have observed a plant in a house where there was only light 
 on one side, with the dark side literally covered, while the 
 light side was clean. So much for having houses with plenty 
 of light. The effects of this insect are of a corroding nature, 
 extracting all the juice from the leaf; and where they have 
 got to the extremity, the foliage is completely yellow, and 
 of a decayed appearance. 
 
 Cocus , or turtle insect. We have never ob- 
 served this insect arrive to any extent. It is the largest of 
 any known among u?, and very like a turtle in miniature. 
 On lifting it from the wood, to which it generally adheres, 
 there appear to be hundreds of eggs under it, but fumigating 
 
156 HOT-HOUSE. — OF CLEANSING, &C. [Jan. 
 
 completely destroys the larvae. In our opinion, this turtle 
 insect is no other than the old female of the brown scaly in- 
 sect, which swells to a large size before depositing its eggs. 
 We have frequently observed the insect dead in this en- 
 larged state, and question if this be not the last stage of its 
 transmigration. The male insect is winged, and very active 
 in its movements. 
 
 Where bulbous roots, such as Hyacinths, Jonquils^ Ixias, 
 Lachenallas, &c., are required to be early in flower, they 
 may, during this month, be put in the front of the hot-house 
 and watered freely till they bloom, when they may be taken 
 to the green-house or parlour. 
 
 Azaleas Rhododendron Roses, and some other plants, do 
 admirably to force, and where there is a large stock, a few 
 should be brought into early bloom with the heat of this de- 
 partment. 
 
 OF CLEANSING PLANTS, HOUSE, &c. 
 
 This subject ought to be kept constantly in view. How- 
 ever correctly everyihing else may be executed, without that 
 adorning beauty, cleanliness, all will appear only half done. 
 Therefore let all the dead leaves be picked off every day, 
 the dust and oilier litter swept out of the house, and, when 
 necessary, the house washed, which will be at least once a 
 week. Tliat the foliage of the plants may always appear 
 fresh, syringe them every morning, when there is the appear- 
 ance of sun. At present, this will in a great measure keep 
 down the insects, and will prove a bane to the red spider. 
 
 Tie up neatly with stakes and threads of Russia mat all 
 ihe straggling growing plants ; let the stakes be proportion- 
 ate to the plants, and never longer, except they are climbing 
 sorts. Do not tie the branches in bundles, but singly and 
 neatly, imitating nature as much as possible. If any of the 
 plants are affected with the Cocus insect, let them be cleaned 
 
 *i 
 
Feb.\ HOT-HOUSE. 157 
 
 according to the plan already mentioned, taking particular 
 care also in washing the stakes to which they had been pre- 
 viously tied, and burning all the old tyingg, which contain 
 the larvae of the insect in many instances, especially of Cociis 
 hesperidus. It is premised, when any of these things are 
 done, that they will be well done, and not half doing, and al- 
 ways doing. Cleanliness, in every respect, promotes a pure 
 air, which is congenial to vegetation, and will, with other at- 
 tentions, always ensure a healthful and vigorous appearance 
 in the house. 
 
 FEBRUARY. 
 
 In the early part of this month the weather generally is 
 very cold and changeable in the middle states, and strict at- 
 tention, with the greatest caution, will require to be paid to 
 the management of the hot-house. Most of the tropical 
 plants commence an active state of vegetation; and, if checked, 
 by temperature or otherwise, they will not recover until 
 midsummer. The thermometer may be kept two or three 
 degrees higher with fire heal than last month : the sun will 
 be more powerful, and this will, in a great degree, increase 
 the vigour of the plants. Air may be admitted when the 
 thermometer rises to 75® or 80*^, not allowing it to rise higher 
 than the latter. In giving air, let it be done by the top 
 sashes. It is improper to give it in any way to cause a cur- 
 rent, for the external air is yet very cold, although the sun 
 is more powerful. An inch or two on a few of the sashes, 
 as has been previously observed, will be eflfectual in keeping 
 the temperature low enough. 
 
 14 
 
158 HOT-HOUSE. — OF INSECTS. [Feb, 
 
 With regard to firing, what was said last month may suffice 
 for this. Always recollect that it is more preferable to keep 
 out the cold than to put it out. It will frequently happen in 
 the lime of intense frost, that the weather is dull. In such 
 cases fire in a small degree is requisite all day. 
 
 Heavy snows ought never to be allowed to remain on the 
 shutters while they are on the house. If the snow lies on 
 the sashes one day, the internal heat will dissolve some of 
 it; night coming on, will freeze it to the wood-work, when 
 it will become a solid mass, and frequently cannot be se- 
 parated without much damage. If allowed to remain on for 
 two days, the plants are very much weakened and the foli- 
 age discoloured. Therefore, let the snow be cleared off in- 
 stantly, that no inconvenience may take place. 
 
 It will be observed that plants absorb more water this 
 month than last. The quantity given will require to be in- 
 creased, according to the increase of vegetation and the ad- 
 vancement of the season ; but never give it until the aoil be- 
 gins to dry, and then in such proportion as will reach the 
 bottom of the pot. The best time to water is, after the sun 
 has got on the house in the morning, observing all the direc- 
 tions given in January. 
 
 OF INSECTS, &c. 
 
 Perhaps sufficient observations were given under this head 
 last month ; but the importance of keeping these disagreea- 
 ble visiters out of the house, constrains us to make a few 
 more remarks, Man cannot be too frequently guarded 
 against his foes, more especially when they are summoning 
 all their forces, and no profession has more than that of the 
 Horticulturist. Let a strict examination be made about the 
 end of the month for the red spider ; they will be in opera- 
 tion some weeks before their depredations are observed on 
 the foliage. The under side of the leaf is their resort in the 
 
Feb.] HOT-HOUSE. — of potting plants. 159 
 
 first instance, and on such plants as have been already men- 
 tioned. 
 
 Observe daily the young shoots, in case the green fly be- 
 comes numerous. They give the foliage a very disagreeable 
 appearance, and it is too often intolerable, before their career 
 is arrested. It also takes a stronger fumigation, which has 
 frequently to be repeated the following day to the same de- 
 gree, much to the injury of many of the plants, and adding 
 to the disagreeableness of the continued vapour in the house. 
 
 OF REPOTTING PLANTS. 
 
 About the end of the month some of the plants of Curcu- 
 ma, Amomum, KcBtnpferia, Aljnna, Phrynium, Cdnna, Zin- 
 giber, Hedychium, and others that are on the dry shelf, will 
 be oflfering to grow. Let them be taken out of their pots, 
 some of their weakest shoots or tubers taken off, and the 
 strong ones repotted : give gentle waterings until they grow 
 freely, then give an abundance. (Soil No. 17.) 
 
 Dioncea mucipula, or Venus fly-trap, grows best in the 
 hot-house, and will, about the end of the month, stand in need 
 of being repotted. This plant is very seldom grown in any 
 degree of perfection, having been always considered a deli- 
 cate plant in collections. Take it out of the pot just before 
 beginning to grow afresh, and divested of all the soil, 
 leaving only a few of the young roots, (it is a bulb, and will 
 receive no injury by so doing,) put it in new soil ; when pot- 
 ted, place the pot in a saucer with one inch of water in it, 
 giving a fresh supply every other day ; this being repeated 
 every year, it will grow, flower, and seed in perfection. (Soil 
 No. 5.) 
 
 Gesnerias, if in small pots, give larger as they advance in 
 growth. This genus requires to have plenty of pot-room to 
 make them flower well. G. bulbosa and G. Sellbwii ought to 
 have a situation in every hot-house. They are remarkable 
 
160 HOT-HOUSE. — OF CLEANSING PLANTS, &C. [Feb. 
 
 for their many brilliant crimson flowers, and continue in 
 flower for a length of time. When the bulbs begin to push, 
 shake them out of the earth, and repot them into smaller 
 pots ; and, as soon as the roots reach the side of the earth, 
 which will be in about one month, put them in larger pots, 
 and continue to do so until flowering, which will be about 
 the first of June, observing always to keep the ball of earth 
 entire. G. Douglctsii, G. rutilla, G. acaiilis, and some 
 others, are all well worth attention. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Gloriosas must be repotted in the beginning of this month; 
 G. superba is the most beautiful and curious. The crown of 
 the roots ought to be planted one and a half inch deep, taking 
 care not to break ihem. Do not water much until they be- 
 gin to grow. The earth must not have much water. As 
 the plants grow, they will require a more liberal supply ; 
 yet it is necessary, at all times, to be moderate in giving it. 
 If well treated, the superb flowers will appear in June or 
 July. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Gloxinias are beautiful herbaceous plants, with large 
 showy flowers, requiring soil and treatment similar to (Ges- 
 neria.) G. speciosa, dark blue, G. speciosa pallida, pale 
 lilac ; G. Candida, pure white, and G. grandijiora, very 
 large light blue, are the finest, although several of the other 
 species are very interesting, especially G. hirsilta. 
 
 OF CLEANSING PLANTS, HOUSE, &c. 
 
 With regard to cleaning the plants. Sprinkling or sy- 
 ringing is at all times, to a greater or less degree, necessary. 
 The plants will, in this compartment, be in their first stage 
 of growth, and, if dust or foulness be permitted to lodge on 
 their foliage, the pores will be obstructed, the plants will be- 
 come unhealthy, and the growth of insects increased. 
 
 Let all moss, litter, decayed leaves, or weeds, be cleared 
 
March] HOT-HOUSE, — of cleansing plants, &c. 161 
 
 out of the house, the earth in the pots stirred up with a round 
 pointed stick, and fresh earth given where required, that the 
 air may operate therein freely. 
 
 The house ought always to be sprinkled before being 
 swept, to prevent the dust rising. 
 
 Attend to the bulbous roots as directed last month, such 
 as Hyacinths, Narcissus, &c. 
 
 MARCH. 
 
 If this department has been regularly attended to, the 
 plants will be in a fresh healthy state. Where there is any 
 sickly appearance, heat has been deficient, or insects of a de- 
 structive character are preying upon the plants. Too much 
 water at the root frequently causes the foliage to become yel- 
 low. Regular syringing must be continued in the morning, 
 and it is highly necessary that the water that is used should be 
 of the same temperature as the house; and at all times, what- 
 ever water is given to the roots, the same must be observed. 
 For airing, see last month, observing, as the season advances, 
 to increase the quantity. 
 
 Continue to fumigate when any of the Green-fly appears, 
 (see January for directions,) and where there are any of the 
 plants infected with the white scaly insect, clean them as 
 there directed. If overlooked for a few months, they will 
 be increased tenfold. Very frequently, where there are 
 only a few, they are neglected until the plant is overrun 
 with them, and then it may be said, it is impossible to dis- 
 lodge them entirely. Clear off all decayed leaves from the 
 plants which will have made fresh shoots, and the decayed 
 leaves very much disfigure the whole collection. We would 
 
 14* 
 
162 HOT-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, &C. [ApriL 
 
 not have repeated this observation if it was not an essential 
 point, and one which is so frequently neglected. 
 
 OF REPOTTING PLANTS. 
 
 Many of the young plants that are growing freely, and 
 where they may be desired to grow to a large size, should 
 be frequently repotted to encourage their growth. Gesneria, 
 Gloxinia, and others previously mentioned, must have larger 
 pots, as they require it. Flowering bulbs of Amaryllis may 
 be brought into the heat to make them bloom early ; before 
 they begin to grow, divest them of the old soil and put them 
 into fresh : this is particularly necessary, when the bulbs are 
 already in large pots. By thus renewing the soil, the pots 
 can be used much smaller : they require plenty of drainage 
 in the pot, and agree best with (soil No. 12.) 
 
 Where plants of the dwarf Musas are intended to be 
 grown for fruiting, they must have particular attention in 
 repotting as they grow ; about the first of the month will be 
 a proper time to begin : copious waterings are daily required 
 when they are in a growing state. Their soil is No. 12, 
 with one portion more manure. For farther detail, see 
 May. 
 
 APRIL. 
 
 Where the hot-house has been properly conducted, the 
 plants generally will have a vigorous and healthful aspect. 
 An error frequently arises in the conducting of these depart- 
 ments, by inexperienced operators being ambitious of out- 
 stripping their competitors. They keep the house in a very 
 
April] ~ HOT-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. 163 
 
 high temperature, and admit little or no air. Where such a 
 mode has been pursued, the plants will have got over their 
 first growth, and the foliage looks yellow and decaying ; thus 
 throwing the plants into a state of inactivity, when nature 
 herself commences her most active movements. The tem- 
 perature should not be under 55^ in the night, nor much 
 above 75° during the day, without admitting a little air by 
 the top lights. It will not do yet to give air by the front 
 sashes, the wind being cool, and a current in the house would 
 be hurtful. The sun is not so powerful but the heat can be 
 kept down by the air given from above. 
 
 Hot-house or tropical plants will not materially suffer with 
 lOQQ of sun-heat, provided they are not very near the glass ; 
 but such an extreme would be injurious to practice. 
 
 REPOTTING. 
 
 Where there is a general assortment of the Cacteae tribe> 
 and kept in this department, now is the proper period to 
 give them a general repotting. Of all the tropical floral pro- 
 ductions, there is not a family more curious, grotesque, inte- 
 resting, and beautiful than this : and, what still more enhances 
 their real value, they are in this country of the easiest cul- 
 ture ; it is with pleasure that we recommend a few of the 
 grand and the novel, which are faithfully described in the 
 general list given next month. The bottom of every pot 
 must be covered with an inch of pot-shreds, or rough gravel 
 for drainage. 
 
164 HOT-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, &CC. [Mui/r 
 
 MAY. 
 
 Very few directions for this department remain to be 
 given ; except for shifting plants, and a few observations on 
 those that are most desirable for the hot-house ; which we 
 will do in this month, considering May and June the best 
 months of the year for that operation. 
 
 The days and night will be very mild by this time, and 
 the sashes in every favourable day should be opened, both in 
 front and top, so that the plants may be enured to the open 
 air, which they will be exposed to by the end of the month. 
 Leave in the beginning of the month the top sashes a little 
 open every mild night, and gradually, as the heat increases, 
 leave the front sashes and doors open. Continue to syringe 
 them at least every alternate night, and, if possible, every 
 night ; and give them all, according to their respective wants, 
 liberal supplies of water every day. Absorption among 
 hot-house plants is as great during this month as in any pe- 
 riod of the vear. 
 
 OF REPOTTING PLANTS, &c. 
 
 It is our candid opinion that this and next month are the 
 best periods for shifting or repotting all or most of hot-house 
 plants ; the end of August being the time always adopted 
 around Philadelphia for that operation, (and then they are 
 done indiscriminately.) We will assign a few reasons for our 
 practice. 
 
 First, that it is not congenial to the nature of these plants 
 to have their roots surrounded with fresh soil when they 
 are becoming inactive ; secondly, that there is not a suffi- 
 ciency of heat naturally to quicken them to an active state 
 
May.] HOT-HOUSE. — of repotting, &c. 165 
 
 when they are encouraged ; and, thirdly, being thus in new 
 soil while dormant, they have a yellow and sickly aspect un- 
 til they begin to grow ; and the foliage, thus deprived of its 
 natural vigour, will not appear so healthful again : whereas, 
 if they are shifted or repotted in this or next month, at 
 which season they are between two stages of growth, they 
 immediately, on receiving fresh assistance, and by the in- 
 creasing heat of the summer, make new growths, are perfect- 
 ly ripened before the approach of winter, and never lose 
 that vernal appearance they have attained. These are our 
 reasons, acquired from a close practice and observation, and 
 are not influenced by the doings of others which are so much 
 aside. No practical operator especially, nor, in fact, any in- 
 dividual, ought to be governed by custom in regard to the 
 treatment of plants, without having an idea as to why and 
 wherefore, founded on the principles of nature, and governed 
 by her unerring results. 
 
 As many are desirous of having a knowledge of plants be- 
 fore they order them, and likewise which are the finest 
 flowerers and their general character, especially those who 
 are at a great distance, and seldom have the privilege of see- 
 ing what is most desirable, our descriptions will be limited, 
 but still will convey some accurate idea of the article de- 
 scribed. 
 
 Acacias. Several of these are desirable in the hot-house 
 for the grandeur of their foliage, beauty of flower, and a few 
 of them as specimens of valuable medicinal plants. A. Hous- 
 toni, now Annesleia Honstoni, is one of the most magnificent 
 of the Mimosa tribe, blooming from August to November in 
 large terminale spikes, of a crimson colour, stamens very 
 long and beautiful, leaves bipinnated in pairs. A. grandi- 
 jibra, likewise given to Annesleia, and similar to the former 
 in colour, has very large compound bipinnate leaves, with 
 from twenty to forty pairs. A. Catechu, flowers yellow, wood 
 spiny, leaves bipinnated, about ten pairs. The inner wood 
 of this tree is of a brown colour, from which the Catechu 
 
166 HOT-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, &C. [May. 
 
 used in medicine is prepared. It is disputed whether A. 
 vera or A. ardbica produces the gum Arabic, We are in^ 
 clined to think it is the latter, which grows principally on 
 the Atlas mountains. The gum exudes spontaneously from 
 the bark of the tree in a soft half fluid state. There are many 
 others of this genus belonging to the hot-house, but being shy 
 in flowering, are not generally esteemed. Most of the flow- 
 ers have the appearance of yellow balls of down, and are her- 
 maphrodite. The pots should all be well drained. (Soil 
 No. 1.)* 
 
 Ardisias, about eighteen species. Plants highly esteemed 
 for the beauty of their foliage, flowers, and berries. The 
 most popular in our collections is A. crenuldta. It has rose- 
 coloured star-like flowers, in terminale panicles, and produces 
 beautiful small red berries, which continue until other ber- 
 ries are produced the following year, and frequently there may 
 be seen on one plant the berries of three successive years, 
 thus being a very ornamental plant and very desirable. It 
 is vulgarly called the dwarf ever-bearing cherry. It will 
 keep in a good green-house, but not grow freely. A. soland- 
 cea has large oblong leaves, narrowed at each end, and bears 
 purple berries ; A. elegans has entire, oblong, shining leaves ; 
 A. umbellata, once A. littoralis, is also a fine plant for an 
 abundance of flower and beauty of foliage. The flowers are 
 pink, in large decompound panicles. 
 
 Areca, Cabbage-tree, ten species. They are a kind of 
 palms, with large pinnated leaves, or properly fronds. In 
 their indigenous state they are from six to forty feet high, 
 but in the hot-house they seldom exceed twenty feet. A. 
 catechu is used in medicine. A. olerdcea is cultivated exten- 
 sively in the West Indies, and the tender part of the top is 
 eaten by the natives. A montanu is most frequent in col- 
 lections. There is no particular beauty in the flowers. They 
 
 * These number* refer to the table of soils at the end of the work. 
 
May.] iroT-HousE. — of repotting, &c. let 
 
 are all easily grown, if plenty of heat be given. (Soil 
 No. 12.) 
 
 Aristolochias, Birth-wort. There are several of these be- 
 longing to the hot-house, but none of them deserving parti- 
 cular observation, except A. labibsa and A. brasiliensis. The 
 leaves are reniform, roundish, cordate, and amplexicaule ; 
 the flower or corolla is of a curious construction, being in- 
 curved, and at the base swelled or saccate, with a large lip, 
 and all beautifully spotted ; colour greenish brown. They 
 are climbing plants, and require a strong heat. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 AstrapcBas, three species. A. Wallichii is a celebrated 
 plant in Europe, and is frequently met with in our collec- 
 tions. It has a profusion of scarlet umbellated flowers, with 
 an involucre ; has twenty-five stamens united into a tube, 
 bearing the corolla with five petals ; leaves roundish, cordate, 
 accuminate, very large, with persistent, ovate wavy stipules. 
 The plant is of easy culture, and grows freely, wood very 
 strong. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Bambusas, Bamboo-cane, two species. Plants of very 
 strong growth, and are used in the East Indies, where they 
 are indigenous, for every purpose in the construction of huts, 
 for furniture both domestic and rural, for fences, boats, boxes, 
 paper, &c. It is frequently used as pipes to convey water. 
 The species thus useful is B. arundindcea, which grows to 
 a great height. We do not mention it as interesting in beau- 
 ty, but as a valuable plant for the many useful purposes to 
 which it is applied. It requires to be kept wet. (Soil 
 No. 15.) 
 
 Banisterias, a genus of about fourteen climbing evergreen 
 plants. Three of them are esteemed, B.fulgens, yellow 
 flowers in racemose spikes, leaves subovate and downy be- 
 neath. B. chriso'phylla has beautiful foliage, as if covered 
 with a shining gold-coloured dust; leaves large, oblong, acute. 
 B. splende?ts, flowers in spikes of a yellow colour ; foliage 
 large and silvery-like; the pots should be well drained. 
 (Soil No. 9. 
 
168 HOT-IIOUSE. — OF REPOfTING, &C. [^^01/. 
 
 Barringtunias, two species. B. specibsa has produced a 
 great excitement among cultivators, and is one of the hand- 
 somest plants produced within the tropics. The leaves are 
 large, oblong, acute, shining, with fleshy nerves, tinged with 
 red ; the flowers are large, full of stamens with four petals, 
 opens in the evening and fades at sunrise ; colour purple and 
 white ; grows freely in strong heat. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Beaumontias are strong growing climbing plants, w^ith 
 large foliage. B. grandijlbra is said to have beautiful large 
 white flowers approaching the Oleander. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Bletias, a genus of about eight species, all beautiful flow- 
 ering plants. B. TankervillicB is most superb, a small plant, 
 now (Jan.) in bloom, has upward of fifty full-blown flow- 
 ers, besides many buds — ihey are brown, white, and purple, 
 and about two inches in diameter. When out of flower, and 
 the roots become dormant, place the pots in a shady situa- 
 tion ; allow the soil to become dry, until the roots begin to 
 grow : as soon as this is observed, repot the plants and expose 
 them fully to the sun, giving plenty of water while growing. 
 B. >Sheppherdu IS a fine pink, and requires similar treatment. 
 (Soil No. 13.) 
 
 Brbwneas, five species of splendid plants, but scarce in 
 collections. B. coccinea has scarlet flowers in pendulous 
 bunches, corolla semi-double, foliage bipinnate, in three pairs. 
 B. rbsa, mountain rose of Trinidad. B. grandiceps is the 
 finest of the genus, leaves bipinnated ; leaflets cordate, accu- 
 minate, downy, and pendulous ; flowers rose-colour, in large 
 close heads. Drain the pots well. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 BruTifelsias, very fine, free flowering plants, with white, 
 yellowish, or purple flowers. B. grandijlbra blooms freely, 
 and is finely scented — a plant before me, now (28th of Jan.) 
 only one foot high, has six full expanded flowers upon it, 
 each fully two inches in diameter. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Buonapartea juncea, a very curious low growing plant, 
 with long narrow, recurved, round leaves ; with spikes of 
 small blue flowers. There does appear to be three distinct 
 
May.] HOT-HOUSE. — of repotting, &c. 169 
 
 varieties in cultivation, but are rarely attainable. (Soil 
 No. 12.) 
 
 Buddlea madagascariensis blooms profusely durino- win- 
 ter in spikes of orange-coloured flowers, of a kind of honey 
 fragrance — the plant is strong growing, and of the easiest 
 culture. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Calathea zebrina, frequently known as mardnta zehrina ; 
 it is a plant unique in appearance, having large elongated 
 ovate leaves, beautifully striped with green and dark purple, 
 and called the Zebra plant. It has light blue flowers in 
 ovate spikes, about the size of large pine cones. It is an 
 herbaceous plant; but in the warmest part of the hot-house 
 retains its splendid foliage ; requires a very liberal supply 
 of water, and ought to be in every collection. (Soil No. 
 
 11.) 
 
 Cdnnas, about thirty species, several of them deservino- 
 cultivation both for flower and foliage : they are principally 
 natives of the West Indies, and might all be easily obtained. 
 The finest are C. gigdntea, has large leaves and orange flow- 
 ers ; C. Ihnbdta, flowers scarlet and yellow ; C. discolor, has 
 large cordate, accuminate leaves of a crimson colour, the 
 flowers are scarlet ; C. iridiflbra, has large crimson nodding 
 flowers, very diflerent from any of the others, and the finest 
 of the genus. They all, while in a growing state, require a 
 liberal supply of water ; and, being herbaceous plants, water- 
 ing ought to be given up about the first of November, and 
 renewed in February, thus giving them a cessation which 
 they require to flower freely ; but when water is constantly 
 given, which is the general plan in our collections, they con- 
 tinue to push weak shoots and few flowers. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Cactus. This extensive genus is interesting, and varied in 
 character and habit ; it is now divided into seven distinct gene- 
 ra, according to their natural appearance and disposition. We 
 will describe a few of each genus, none of which going 
 under the name of Cactus, we will give them the six follow- 
 ing, premising that the time is not far distant, when this fa- 
 
 15 
 
170 HOT-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, (kc. [Mat/. 
 
 mily will be successfully cultivated in every parlour window^, 
 and the whole tribe will be sought for with more avidity 
 than any other class of plants that have ever been brought to 
 notice, not even excepting the Rose. They require a dry 
 heat, and will grow either in town or country, and are com- 
 pletely adapted for the denizen amateur, and will afford more 
 beauty and interesting display, than can be imagined, until 
 witnessed. 
 
 Mamillurias, above seventy species, and are those which 
 are covered with roundish bearded tubercles, and with small 
 red and white flowers. M. coccinea, M. simplex, M.pusilla, 
 M.conica, M.stellata, and M. acanthophlegma, are good spe- 
 cies, and will do well with water once a week during sum- 
 mer. (Soil No. 15.) 
 
 Melocdctus, seven species, and are those that are roundish 
 with deep and many angles, with spines in clusters on the 
 top of the angle. M. communis is the Turk's cap, named 
 from having an ovate conate crown upon the top, from 
 which proceed the small red flowers. M. macrunthus has 
 large spines ; M. pyramiddlis is a conical growing species. 
 These require the same treatment as the last, (Soil No. 15.) 
 
 Echinocdtus, a great number of species ; are those that have 
 many deep angles, and have a remarkable swelling, with each 
 parcel of spines ; E.gihbosus, E.crispdtus, E.recurvus, P. 
 roddntliia, and E. scopa, are curious in appearance, with 
 small while and purple flowers. These three genera in most 
 collections are not well known specifically, but it is easy lo 
 discriminate with which genus they are connected. (Soil 
 No. 15.) 
 
 Cereus. This is the most magnificent genus with regard 
 to the magnitude and beauty of the flowers, but not so closely 
 allied in character. It takes in all those of a trailing or erect 
 growing habit, having spines in clusters, solitary, or spine- 
 less. C. senilis is the celebrated monkey cactus. C. pe- 
 ruvianus and C. heplagbnus grow very erect, and to the 
 height of thirty or forty feet in Peru and Mexico, where 
 
Mat/.\ HOT-HOUSE. OF REPOTTING, &C. 171 
 
 thev plant them close together as fences, and they are 
 in a few years impenetrable. C. flagelliformus is a well 
 known creeping free flowering species, has ten angles ; will 
 keep in a good grsen-house, and produce in May and June 
 a great number of blooms. The petals are of a fine pink and 
 red colour ; the tube of the flower is long, and will stand a 
 few days in perfection, when others come out successively 
 for the space of two months, and during their continuance 
 make a brilliant appearance. C. grandiflorus is the cele- 
 brated " Night-blooming Cereus." The flowers are very 
 large, beautiful, and sweet-scented. They begin to open 
 about sun-down, and are fully expanded about eleven o'clock. 
 The corolla, or rather calyx, is from seven to ten inches in 
 diameter, the outside of which is a brown, and the inside a 
 fine straw yellow colour ; the petals are of the purest white, 
 with the stamens surrounding the stile in the centre of the 
 flower, which add to its lustre, and make it appear like a 
 bright star. Its scent is agreeable, and perfumes the air to a 
 considerable distance ; but these beauties are of momentary 
 duration. Ry sunrise they fade, and hang down quite de- 
 cayed, and never open again.* One of these ought to be in 
 every collection, and, if trained up a naked wall, will not oc- 
 cupy much room, and grow and flower profusely. C. mdl- 
 lisoni and C, scottii are the same, and have beautiful scarlet 
 flowers : it has been gratuitously (to say the least of it) called 
 " The Scarlet Night-blooming Cereus." C. speciosissimus 
 has most beautiful large flowers, about six inches in diame- 
 ter ; the outside petals are a bright scarlet, those of the inside 
 a fine light purple. One flower lasts a few days, and a large 
 plant will produce every year from ten to twenty flowers, 
 blooming from May to August. It has flowered in some of 
 
 * They may be preserved if cut off when in perfection, and put in spirits 
 of wine, in a glass vase, made air tight. A plant flowered in our collec- 
 tion in May, 1830, at 13 o'clock at noon — the only instance of the kind wq 
 ever heard of. 
 
172 HOT-HOUSE. OF REPOTTING, &C. [May. 
 
 our coUeciions, and is highly esteemed. C. triangularis has 
 the largest flower of the Cactece family ; the bloom is of a 
 cream colour, and about one foot in diameter. In its indi- 
 genous state it produces a fine fruit called " Strawberry 
 Pear," and is much esteemed in the West Indies as being 
 slightly acid, and, at the same time, sweet, pleasant, and cool- 
 ing. 
 
 Epiphyllums are those species of the Cactea} family 
 which have flat shoots, or leaves without spines ; from the 
 edges of those leaves the flowers are produced. They are 
 extensively cultivated for their profusion of bloom, and are 
 frequently grafted on Cereus triangularis and Pereskia, 
 which greatly promotes their growth, and prevents them 
 from so easily damping off" by over watering. The original 
 species are E. specibsmn, pink ; E. phylanthoides, or Hooke- 
 rii, white ; E. alatum, white ; E. iruncatum, scarlet ; flowers 
 tubular, from two to three inches in diameter. The plant is 
 of a very dwarf growth, and much branched ; when in bloom, 
 it is quite a picture, and rendered more beautiful when graft- 
 ed. There is also a variety of it called E. trunatum, Alten- 
 sieinii, the flower of which is rather larger, and is more rosy 
 coloured. E. Russellidnum is quite a new species, but has 
 not yet bloomed in our collections ; it is represented as 
 being a beautiful large crimson, and of the truncata habits. 
 E. Ackerrnania has a magnificent large crimson flower. Be- 
 sides these, there are many superb hybrid varieties, vying 
 with any of the originals. Among them are the following : 
 E. Hihbertii, E. Hoodii, E. Boydii, E. De vduxii, E. quil- 
 lardittii, E. Feastii, E. Vdndesii, and E. Naiperii, and no 
 doubt many other varieties and sub-varieties will be conti- 
 nually making their appearance. All the Epiphyllum tribe 
 require a very rich open soil, not of too sandy a nature, as 
 they thereby grow to wood, and bloom but sparingly — give 
 plenty of drainage. (Soil No. 18.) 
 
 Opuntias, upward of fifty species, and are those whose 
 branches are in thick joints, flat, oblong, or ovate ; spines 
 
May.] HOT-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, &C. 173 
 
 solitary or in clusters. Some of the plants are very desi- 
 rable for their singular appearance, and some of them, par- 
 ticularly 0. cochinillifera, are valuable for feeding the Co- 
 chineal insect. O. microddsys, 0. ferobx, O. lacte-spina, 
 O. sericed, and some others, are beautiful plants, and will 
 grow in any kind of soil, but No. 2 will suit them best. 
 
 Pereskias. About four species, and those that are of a 
 shrubby nature, producing leaves ; P. aculeata bears a fruit 
 called " Barbadoes-gooseberry." The flowers are very small 
 and simple, spines about half an inch long, leaves fleshy and 
 elliptical. (Soil No. 2.) 
 
 The whole of the plants in the family of Cactece require 
 very little water in winter, and delight in a dry, warm situa- 
 tion. They do not agree with veryfrequent repotting ; once 
 a year to young plants, and in two or three to those that are 
 established, with the exception of the large, free flowering 
 species, which should be repotted once in two years, and 
 never be allowed to shrink for want of moisture. 
 
 The operation of grafting is very simple, merely requiring 
 an incision to be made, and fitting in it a fresh cutting of 
 another kind, holding the cutting stationary in the incision 
 half a minute, till the juices of the two adhere together, when 
 it may be said the union is effected, and, in a few weeks, the 
 new branches will grow freely. We have seen the Mammil- 
 laria tribe growing neatly upon the triangularis, and other 
 species of the cereus. 
 
 Carissa, a genus of pretty little plants, particularly C. spi- 
 ndrum, which bears a profusion of white flowers like a jas- 
 mine. (Soil No. 4.) 
 
 Ceropegia elegdns is the only species of any merit : it is a 
 thin growing, climbing plant, producing a great profusion of 
 very curious flowers of a greenish colour, spotted with brown; 
 the interior and tips of the corolla are set with hairs — it is of 
 very easy culture. (Soil No. 7.) 
 
 Carolineas. About six species of tender plants, with 
 large digitate leaves, and of handsome growth. The flowers 
 
 15* 
 
174 HOT-IIOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, &C. [Mat/. 
 
 have numerous filaments, and are large and singular. C. m- 
 signis has the largest and most compact blossoms; C. alba is 
 the only one of the genus that has white flowers, all the 
 others being red ; C princeps and C. robusta are noble-look- 
 ing species, and are much esteemed. They require a good 
 heat, with which they will grow freely. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Carybta. A genus of palms. C. urens is an admired spe- 
 cies, produces flowers in long pendulous spikes, whicii are 
 succeeded by strings of succulent globular berries. In its 
 native state it produces a sweet liquor in large quantities, and 
 no stronger than water. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Caryophyllus aromdticus is the clove tree of commerce. 
 The whole plant is aromatic, and closely allied to Myrtus ; 
 the flowers are in loose panicles, the leaves oblong, accumi- 
 nate, entire. It is a fine evergreen. Pots must be well 
 drained. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Cerberus. About twelve species of strong growing trees, 
 full of poisonous juice. C. theveiia is an elegant plant, with 
 accuminate leaves, and large, nodding, yellow, solitary, fra- 
 grant flowers, proceeding from the axil ; C. ohouai produces 
 a nut which is deadly poison. C. odallam, once C. manghas, 
 has large star-like flowers, white, shaded with red. 'J'hey 
 are principally East India plants, and require great heat. 
 (Soil No. 17.) 
 
 Clerodcndrum. This genus contains some very beautiful 
 and fragrant plants ; C. fra grans Jlore pleno has a very beau- 
 tiful head of double white sweet-scented flowers, and does 
 tolerably well as a green-house plant; C.squamdtum has very 
 showy scarlet flowers. C. speciosissimum, the plant so 
 glaringly figured in some of the English periodicals, is the 
 same as C. squamdtum, a plant which has been grown in this 
 vicinity fifteen or twenty years. (Soil No. 2.) 
 
 Coffea Ardbica. It produces the celebrated coffee, and is 
 a plant universally known in our collections, and of easy cul- 
 ture. The leaves are opposite, oblong, wavy, and shining, 
 
May.] HOT-HOITSE.— OF REPOTTING, &C. 175 
 
 the flowers while, of a grateful odour, but of a short duration. 
 (Soil No. 17.) 
 
 Comhretums . Nine species of beautiful flowering climb- 
 ing plants, standing in very high estimation. The leaves of 
 the principal part of them are ovate, acute, flowers small, but 
 on large branches, the flowers all coming out on one side of 
 the branch. They have a magnificent effect. C. elegans^ 
 red; C. f or mosum, red and yellow; C. pulchellum, scarlet; C. 
 combsum, have crimson flowers in tufts; C . purpureum is the 
 most splendid of the genus. It was first cultivated in 1818^ 
 and so much admired that the whole of the species, as soon 
 as introduced, was extravagantly bought up; and none of them 
 has retained their character, except C. purpureum, which is 
 now called Poivrea coccinea. The flowers are bright scar- 
 let, in large branches, blooming profusely from April to Sep- 
 tember, and flower best in a pot. When planted in the 
 ground, it grows too much to wood, carrying few flowers. 
 This plant ought to be in every hot-house. (Soil No. 13.) 
 
 Coryplias, (Large fan Palm,) five species of the most noble 
 and magnificent of palms. C. amhraculifera, the fronds or 
 leaves are palmate. In Ceylon, where the tree is indigenous, 
 they are frequently found fifteen feet wide and twenty feet 
 long. Knox says they will cover from fifteen to twenty 
 men, and, when dried, will fold up in the shape of a rod, and 
 can be easily carried about, and serve to protect them from 
 the scorching sun. C. taliera, now Taliera hengalensis, 
 being stronger, is of great utility for covering houses. They 
 do not grow to such immense extent in artificial cultivation, 
 but require large houses to grow them. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Crinu??is, about one hundred species, chiefly stove bulbs, 
 many of them beautiful. Those that are of great celebrity 
 are C. erubescens, pink; C scubrum, crimson and white; C. 
 amabile, purple and white ; the neck of the bulb of the lat- 
 ter is long, is easily distinguished by its purplish colour, 
 and is unquestionably the finest of the genus. Several spe- 
 cimens of it are in our collections. Their flowers are in 
 
176 HOT-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, &C. [May, 
 
 umbels, on a stalk about three feet high ; coralla funnel- 
 shaped ; petals recurved ; nearly fifty flowers on each stem, 
 and a good plant will produce tiiree stems in one year. They 
 require large pots to make them flower well, and, when 
 growing, should be liberally supplied with water. (Soil 
 No. 12.) 
 
 Crotons. About twenty-eight species, few of them de- 
 serving cultivation ; but the genus is celebrated for its beau- 
 tiful C. pictus, leaves oblong-lanceolate, variegated with yel- 
 low, and stained with red, flowers small green, or axillary 
 spikes. C. variagatus, variety latifulia, is finer than the ori- 
 ginal variagatus ; the nerves in the leaves are yellow, and the 
 leaves lanceolate, entire, and smooth. To make them grow 
 freely, give them the warmest part of the hot-house, and drain 
 the pots well. (Soil No. 13.) 
 
 Cycas, four species, generally called Sago -palm, as an 
 English name. The plant from which Sago is extracted be- 
 longs to another genus, (see Sagus.) C. revolitta is a well 
 known palm, and will keep perfectly well in the green-house. 
 We have seen a beautiful specimen of it which is kept every 
 winter in the cellar ; but those that are kept so cool in winter 
 only grow every alternate year, while those that are kept in 
 the hot-house grow every year, which shows that heat is their 
 element. C. circinalis is a large growing species ; the fronds 
 are much longer, but not so close and thick. C. glauca is 
 a fine species ; tlie foliage is slightly glaucous. They re- 
 quire plenty of pot room, are much infested with the small 
 white scaly insect, and ought to be frequently examined and 
 carefully washed as prescribed in January. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Cypripedium insigne is a very beautiful nepal species of 
 this curious Ladies^ slipper plant. The flowers have a waxy ap- 
 parance, and very much in shape of an Indian shoe ; the co- 
 lours are green and purple : it likes a moist, half shaded si- 
 tuation. (Soil No. 16.) 
 
 Dillenias, three species of fine plants, with beautiful foli- 
 age. D. speciosa has produced considerable excitement in 
 our collections. The leaves are elliptic, oblong, simply ser- 
 
May.] HOT-HOUSE. — of repotting, &c. 177 
 
 rated, nerves deep; the flower is white, with five bold petals, 
 centre filled with barren anthers ; D. scdndens has ovate, 
 simply serrated leaves, but is not known as to flower ; it is a 
 fine climber. (Soil No. 2.) 
 
 Draecenas, Dragon-tree, about twelve species of Asiatic 
 plants, varied in character. D. Ferrea is plentiful in our 
 collections, and will keep in the green-house ; but the foliage 
 is not so well retained as when kept in the hot-house : the 
 leaves are lanceolate, acute, of a dark crimson colour. D. ter- 
 mindlis, striped leaved ; D. fragrans, when in bloom, will 
 scent the air for a considerable distance, leaves green and 
 lanceolate. D. margindta is rare, yet it is to be seen in a 
 few of our collections. /). stricta is now Charhoobdia* 
 stricta, flowers blush, and in loose panicles. D. Draco is 
 admired, and the most conspicuous of the genus. (Soil No. 
 
 11.) 
 
 Erdnthemums, about ten species, E. pulcJiellum and E. 
 hicolor are the finest of the genus ; the former is in our col- 
 lections. Plenty of heat is indispensable to make it flower 
 in perfection ; therefore it should have the warmest part of 
 the house, and it will produce flowers of a fine blue colour 
 from December to April. The flowers of the latter are white 
 and dark purple, with a few brown spots in the white ; blooms 
 from April to August, Drain the pots well, and give the 
 plants little sun during summer. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Eugenias, about thirty species, esteemed for their hand- 
 some evergreen foliage. This genus once contained a few 
 celebrated species, which have been divided. {SeeJambosa.) 
 The Allspice tree, known as Myrtus Pimenta, is now E. Pi~ 
 menta ; the leaves are ovate, lanceolate, and, when broken, 
 have an agreeable scent. There are several varieties, all of 
 the same spicy fragrance. The plant is in very few of our 
 collections. E. fragrans is sweet-scented ; the flowers are 
 on axillary peduncles; leaves ovate, obtuse. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 * In honour of Mr. Charlwood, an extensive seedsman of London, who 
 has made several botanical excursions on this continent. 
 
178 HOT-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, &C. [May. 
 
 Eiqjhorbia, (spurg,) a genus of plants disseminated over 
 every quarter of the globe ; a few are beautiful, many gro- 
 tesque, and several the most worthless weeds on the earth. 
 There are about two hundred species, and from ail of them, 
 when probed, a thick milky fluid exudes. Those of the tropics 
 are the mostcurious, and very similar in appearance to CdctuSy 
 but easily detected by the above perforation. There is a 
 magnificent species in our collections, which was lately intro- 
 duced from Mexico — (see Poinsettia.) E. splendens, fiov/ers 
 freely from December to May, and is of easy culture. E. 
 fulgens, same a.s jaquiniifldra, is a plant of a slender willow- 
 looking habit, but produces a profusion of flowers from the 
 axil of each leaf, which renders it very showy and rather 
 graceful. The flowers of the whole genus are apetalous, and 
 the beauty of those described is in a brilliant scarlet bractea, 
 which is very persistant. They must have plenty of pot- 
 room. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Erythrinas, (Coral tree,) a genus containing about thirty 
 species of leguminose, scarlet-flowering plants. Several .spe- 
 cies are greatly esteemed for their beauty and profusion of 
 flowers, which, in well established plants, are produced in 
 long spikes. E. corallodendrum blooms magnificently in 
 the West Indies, but in our collections has never flowered. 
 Perhaps if it were kept dry during its dormant season, which 
 is from November to January, and when growing greatly 
 encouraged, it might produce flowers. E. specibsa is a splen- 
 did flowerer, leaves large, ternatcd, and prickly beneath; stem 
 prickly. E.pubescens is valued for its large peculiar brown 
 pubescent leaves. E . princeps is quite a new species, and is 
 represented as being the finest of all the Erythrinas, and exhi- 
 bits its rich crimson flowers in great profusion ; to make them 
 grow well and bloom freely, they require plenty of pot-room ; 
 indeed, while in agrowing state, they should be repotted every 
 month. In regard to E. herbacea, which is a native of the Ca- 
 rolinas, and frequently treated as a hot-house plant, it is cur 
 
May.] HOT-HOUSE. OF REPOTTING, &C. 179 
 
 opinion that it would be more perfectly grown if planted about 
 the first of the month in the garden ; and, when growing, if 
 well supplied with water, it would flower from July to Sep- 
 tember. About the first of November lift the roots and pre- 
 serve them in half dry earth. E. laurijblia and E. crista- 
 gdlli are likewise often treated as hot-house plants, and m 
 such situations th-ey cast prematurely their first flowers by 
 the confined state of the air. They will keep in perfect pre- 
 servation during winter in a dry cellar, half covered with 
 earth, or entirely covered with half dry earth ; consequently, 
 the best and easiest method of treatment is, to plant them in 
 the garden about the first of May, and, when growing, if the 
 ground becomes dry, give them frequent waterings. They 
 will flower profusely three or four times in the course of the 
 summer. 
 
 We freely recommend the last species to all our patrons, 
 confident that it will give ample satisfaction, both in profu- 
 sion of flower and beauty of colour. The soil they are to be 
 planted into should be rich and well pulverized ; or, if they 
 are kept in pots, they must be enlarged three or four times, 
 when they are in a growing state, to make them flower per- 
 fectly ; otherwise they will be diminutive. (Soil No. 13.) 
 
 Ficus, Fig-tree, a genus containing above fifty hot-house 
 species, besides several that belong to the green-house : great- 
 ly admired for the beauty of their foliage. A few of them 
 are deciduous, and all of the easiest culture. We have seen 
 plants of F. eldstica hung in the back of the hot-house, with- 
 out the smallest particle of earth, their only support being 
 sprinklings of water every day. F. hrdssii and F. macro- 
 yhylla are the finest-looking species that have come under 
 our observation ; the leaves of both are very large and shading, 
 occupying considerable space. In small collections F. indica 
 and F. nitida are desirable ; F. repens is a climbing plant. 
 (Soil No. 13.) 
 
 Gardenias, a genus containing about seventeen species, 
 several of them very popular in our collections, going under 
 
180 UOT-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, &C. [May. 
 
 the name of Cape Jasmine, which do well in the green- 
 house, (see May.) The species requiring this department, 
 and deserving attention, are G. campanulata, of a soft woody 
 nature, with ovate, accuminate leaves ; fiowers of a straw co- 
 lour, and solitary ; G. amcena, the flowers are white, tinged 
 with crimson, lerminale and solitary, but seldom blooms ; G. 
 costata, admired for its beautiful ribbed foliage ; G. lucida 
 has a handsome, ovate, accuminate, shining foliage, flowers 
 white and solitary : ihey require to have the pots well 
 drained. (Soil No. 13.) 
 
 Geissomeria longiflbra. This is a new genus, and closely 
 allied to Ruellia. The species alluded to, is a free flowerer, 
 blooming from January to May, in close spikes of a scarlet 
 colour ; leaves opposite, ovale, elongate, and shining ; the 
 plants must be well drained, and in summer kept from the 
 direct influence of the sun. (Soil No. 2.) 
 
 Heliconia Iraziliensis. This very splendid plant is nearly 
 related to Strelitzia, and in splendour surpasses it. The 
 brilliant scarlet sheath that envelops the flowers, contrasts 
 most admirably with its rich green leaves. Give plenty of 
 drainage to the pots, and, when the plants are growing, give 
 a liberal supply of water. (Soil No. 17.) 
 
 Helitropiums, about twelve species, of little merit, except 
 H.peruvumum, H.corymb6sum,a.nd H. grandiflorwn ; these 
 are all very agreeably scented, especially the former, which 
 is a universal favourite. (Soil No. 3.) 
 
 Heritihra littoralis, looking-glass plant. This plant is uni- 
 sexual, has beautiful large, ovate, veiny leaves ; the flowers 
 are small, red, with male and female on the same plant, but 
 different flowers. It requires a strong heat and plenty of 
 pot room. How the English name becomes applicable to it, 
 we are not acquainted. 
 
 Hibiscus. This genus aff'ords many iine species and va- 
 rieties of plants for the hot-house, besides others for every 
 department of the garden. The most popular in our collec- 
 
May.] HOT-HOUSE. — of repotting, &c. 181 
 
 tions of the hot-house, is H.rbsa sinensis, with its varieties, 
 which are magnificent, and flower profusely from February 
 to September. The single or original species is also beauti- 
 ful ; the varieties are H. rosa sinensis I'itbro pUnus, double 
 red ; H. r. s. cdrnea plenus, double salmon ; H. r. s. varie- 
 gatus, double striped ; striped on the back of the outside pe- 
 tals; H.r.s.jidva-plenus,orcarnea,do\\h\e,h\]i^; H. r. s. lutea 
 plenus, double yellow, or rather sulphur. The plants grow 
 freely, and produce their flowers three or four inches in di- 
 ameter, from the young wood ; the leaves are ovate, accumi- 
 nate, smooth, entire at the base, and coarsely teethed at the 
 end. All the varieties are of the same character, and highly 
 deserving of a situation in every collection. There is said 
 to be a double white variety, which we doubt. H. mutubilis 
 fibre plena is a splendid plant, of strong growth, and will, 
 when well established, flower abundantly, if the wood of last 
 year is cut to within a few eyes of the wood of the previous 
 year ; the flowers are produced on the young wood, and come 
 out a pale colour, and change to bright red, and about the 
 size of a garden Provins rose ; leaves downy, cordate, angu- 
 lar, five-lohed, accuminate, and slightly indented. H. lillii- 
 fibrus is a new highly esteemed species ; the flowers are 
 various in colour, being pink, blush, red, and purple. The 
 leaves vary in character, but are generally cordate, crenate, 
 accuminate ; the petioles are brown, and the whole slightly 
 hirsute ; is deciduous, and requires to be kept in the warm- 
 est part of the house. 
 
 Hoyas, wax-plant, seven species. All of them are climb- 
 ing succulents, requiring plenty of heat and little water. H. 
 carnbsa is the finest flowering species of the genus, and 
 known in our collections as the wax-plant ; the leaves are 
 green and fleshy; the flowers are mellifluous, five-parted, and 
 in pendulous bunches, slightly bearded, and have every ap- 
 pearance of a composition of the finest wax ; of a blush colour. 
 H. crassifblia has the best-looking foliage, and the flowers 
 
 16 
 
182 HOT-HOUSE. OF REPOTTING, &C. [Mai/, 
 
 are white. The former will keep in the green-house, but 
 will not flower so profusely. 
 
 Ipo7ncBs, a genus of tropical clinnbing plants, nearly allied 
 to Convolvulus, but of greater beauty. Z. paniculata has 
 large purple flowers in panicles, with large palmated smooth 
 leaves, I. Jdlapa is the true jalap of the druggists, but not 
 worthy of any other remark. /. grandiflbra, large white 
 flowers, with acute petals ; leaves large, cordate, ovale. I. 
 pulchella has flowers of a handsome violet colour. /. hors- 
 fdllia has brilliant rosy crimson flowers, which it is almost 
 entirely covered with from December to May. /. ruhra- 
 carulea has large blue flowers, and striped with red while in 
 bud. They are all easily cultivated. It is said that /. tube' 
 rbsa is much used in the West Indies to cover arbours, and 
 will grow three hundred feet in one season : the flowers are 
 purple striped with yellow, leaves palmated. We are not 
 certain but the roots of this kind may be kept, like the sweet 
 potato, and become a useful ornament to our gardens. (Soil 
 No. 13.) 
 
 Isrnene arndncaes, or Pancrdtium amdncaes. This pro- 
 fuse yellow flowering bulb is richly deserving of cultivation, 
 and should be kept in the house all summer, repotting it as 
 often as the roots touch the interior side of the pot, giving 
 it pleniy of water when in a growing state ; but when dor- 
 mant, it must be kept dry till it offers to grow : when well 
 treated, it will bloom repeatedly during summer. (Soil 
 No. 12.) 
 
 Ixoras, a genus of fine flowering plants, and does extreme- 
 ly well in our collections in comparison to the state they are 
 grown in England. The genus specifically is much con- 
 fused among us, eitlier from error originating with those 
 who packed them for this country, or after they have ar- 
 rived. I. purpurea, leaves oblong, ovate, blunt ; flowers 
 crimson ; it is now called /. ohovdta. I. crocdta, leaves oval, 
 lanceolate, narrowing toward the stem, smooth underside 
 
May.] HOT-HOUSE. — of repotting, &c. 183 
 
 of the leaf ihe nerves are very perceptible ; flowers saffron- 
 coloured, and very profuse. /. 7-dsea, leaves large, regular, 
 oblong, a little acute, very distant on the wood, central nerve 
 strong ; flowers rose-coloured in large corymbs, branching 
 finely : /. handhuca, leaves very close to the stem, ovate, accu- 
 minate ; nerves straight, middle nerve stronger ihan any 
 other of the genus ; flowers scarlet. I. bldnda, leaves small, 
 lanceolate, ovate ; flowers blush, cymes branching in three. 
 /. (lichofhna, leaves largest of the genus, ovate, accuminate, 
 undulate footstalk three-eighths of an inch long ; whereas, 
 none of the leaves of the other species have footstalks of any 
 length ; it is now called 7. undulcUa, flowers are white. I. 
 grandifldra, leaves ovate, elongate, sessile ; flowers scarlet, 
 in crowded round corymbs ; is called I. coccinea in the Bo- 
 tanical Magazine, by which it is known in our collections, 
 and we think is the same as /. stricta. I.Jldmmea and /. 
 speciosa. I.fulgens, same as I. longifolia and /. lanceolata ; 
 foliage glossy ; flowers scarlet. I. Pavetta, ih e flowers are 
 white and sweet-scented, the leaves of all the species are op- 
 posite ; there are a few other species that we are not tho- 
 roughly acquainted with, but have been thus explicit to pre- 
 vent error as far as possible in this beautiful genus. They 
 are all evergreen, low growing shrubs ; the plants grow best 
 in Jersey black sandy earth, but flower most abundantly with 
 (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Jacardndas, a genus of beautiful shrubs, containing five 
 species, with Bignbnia-\\ke blue or purple flowers. /. mi- 
 inbsifolia and J.fdicifblia are the finest. The former has 
 blue, and the latter purple flowers ; in loose branching pani- 
 cles. Theyareevergreens, and easy of culture. (SoilNo.9.) 
 
 Jambosas, about twelve species, which have been princi- 
 pally taken from Eugenia, and contain its finest plants, and 
 is a splendid genus of evergreen shrubs. E. Jdmbos is now 
 Jambosa vulgaris, which flowers and fruits freely in our 
 hot-houses. The fruit is about an inch in diameter, eatable, 
 and smelling like a rose, hence called " Rose Apple." Tho 
 
J 84 HOT-HOUSE. OF REPOTTING, &C. [May. 
 
 petals of all the species are simple, and may rather be consi- 
 dered the calyx ; the beauty of the flowers is in the many 
 erect spreading stamens, either straw, white, rose, or green 
 colour. /. malaccensis, Malay Apple, is greatly esteemed 
 for the delightful fragrance of its fruit. We frequently see 
 /. purpurdscenSy which is a native of the West Indies, going 
 under /. m., which is an Asiatic species, with white flowers 
 and entire oblong leaves ; whereas, the leaves of J. p. are 
 small, ovate, accuminate, the young shoots and leaves are 
 purple. J. macrophylla, white, and /. amplcxicaulis, green, 
 have very large oblong, lanceolate leaves, and are of a strong 
 woody habit. They are all easy of culture. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Jasminion, Jasmine, is a favourite genus of shrubs, for the 
 exquisite fragrance of its flowers, of which none are more 
 delightful than J. samhac or Arabian Jasmine. There are 
 two other varieties of it, /. s. multiplex, perfectly double ; 
 and /. s. trifoliatum, double Tuscan Jasmine. The latter re- 
 quires a great heat to make it grow and flower freely. There 
 is also a semi-double variety in cultivation. J. hirsutum has 
 cordate downy leaves; flowers many, in terminale, sessile 
 umbels. J. j^dnaculatuin, white, flowering in terminale pa- 
 nicles from March to November ; leaves smooth, oval, ob- 
 tusely accuminate; plant scarce. J. simplicijblium is in our 
 collections under the name of J.lucidum ; plant spreading; 
 leaves oblong and shining. /. muUiJlorwn is a profusely flow- 
 ering and beautiful species. There are several others, all 
 with white flowers, and generally easy of culture. (Soil 
 No. II.) 
 
 Jdtropha, Physic-nut, is a genus of six strong growing 
 shrubs, natives of the West Indies. J. multiJiJa and J.pan- 
 durcBfolia have the handsomest foliage, and both have scarlet 
 flowers : the appearance of the foliage of this genus is the 
 only object; the flowers are small, in coarse disfigured pani- 
 cles, and several of the species have not been known to flow- 
 er in artificial cultivation. The seeds of J. curcas are often 
 received from the West Indies ; the leaves are cordate, angu- 
 
May.] HOT-HOUSE. — of repotting, &c. 185 
 
 lar, and smooth. /. manihot, now Manihot cannabina, is the 
 Cassada root, the juice of which, when expressed, is a strong 
 poison. They are all easy of culture : want of strong heat in 
 winter will make them cast their leaves, but does them no 
 other injury. (Soil No. 17.) 
 
 Justicia. A few species of this genus are fine showy hot- 
 house plants. /. coccinea has large terminale spikes of scar- 
 let flowers, blooming from December to March, and is a very 
 desirable plant, of easy culture, and should be in every col- 
 lection ; it is apt to grow spindley, if not kept near the glass. 
 /. picta, with its varieties, /. lucida and /. calycotricha, are 
 fine shrubby species. /. specibsa is a beautiful profuse pur- 
 ple flowering plant. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Kcernpferia, an Asiatic genus of tuberose rooted plants ; 
 none of them in our collections, except K. rotunda ; the flow- 
 ers come up a few inches above the pot, without the leaves, 
 in April and May, and frequently sooner ; they are purple 
 and light blue, partially streaked and spotted ; leaves large, 
 oblong, purplish-coloured beneath. The roots, when dormant, 
 ought to be kept in the pot without watering, otherwise they 
 will not flower freely. No bulbs nor strong tuberose rooted 
 plants will flower in perfection if kept moist when they are 
 not growing, (Soil No. 17.) 
 
 Lantana, a genus of twenty species, all free-flowering 
 shrubs ; the flowers are small, in round heads blooming from 
 the axils, in yellow, orange, pink, white, and changeable co- 
 lours ; principally of a rough straggling growth, and are not 
 esteemed. However, L. sellbi, light purple ; L. mutdbilis, 
 yellow, orange, and pink ; L. hicolor, white and pink, and L. 
 fucdta, (or Dougldsii of some,) lilac and white. These are 
 very handsome growing plants, and will even keep in a good 
 green-house ; but in such case will only bloom in summer. 
 They will not bear a strong fumigation : therefore, when the 
 hot-house is under that operation, they must be set down in 
 the pathway, or other low part in the house. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Latdnias, This genus contains three species of handsome 
 16* 
 
186 iioT-HousE. — OF REPOTTING, &c. [May, 
 
 palms. L. harhbnica is one of the finest of the Palmce, not 
 growing to great magnitude ; the leaves or fronds are plaited 
 flabelliform, leaflets smooth at the edge, footstalk spiny, and 
 the plant spreading. L. rubra, fronds same as the former, 
 but leaflets more divided and serrulate ; footstalk unarmed > 
 foliage reddish. L. glaiicophylla, sa.mG as L. rubra, only the 
 foliage glaucous. They are all valuable plants, and are ob- 
 tained by seed from the East Indies. They require plenty 
 of pot room. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Laurus. This genus, though of no beauty in flower, is 
 generally admired in collections for its fine evergreen foliage, 
 and aromatic or spicy flavour, and several trees are impor- 
 tant in medicine. The most esteemed are given to a genus 
 named Cinnamomum, as has been observed in the green- 
 house, (see March.) L. Chloroxylon is the Cogwood of Ja- 
 maica. L.persca is now Persea gratissima, Alligator- pear, 
 a fruit about the size of a large pear, and greatly esteemed in 
 the West Indies ; the plant is generally known in our col- 
 lections. C. verum is the true Cinnamon of commerce. 
 
 The part taken is the inside of the bark when the tree is 
 from five to eighteen years old. The leaves are three-nerved, 
 ovate, oblong ; nerves vanishing toward the point, bright 
 green above, pale beneath, with whitish veins. This plant 
 ought to be kept in the warmest part of the hot-house. C. 
 cassia is frequently given under the former name, but, when 
 compared, may be easily detected by the leaves being more 
 lanceolate and a little pubescent. They both make hand- 
 some plants, but require great heat. Drain the pots well of 
 the delicate sorts. (Soil No. 13.) 
 
 Mognifera, Mango tree. There are two species. M. in- 
 dica is in our collections, and bears a fruit which is so highly 
 esteemed in the East Indies, as to be considered preferable 
 to any other except very fine pine apples. The leaves are 
 lanceolate, and from six to eight inches long, and two or 
 more broad. The flowers are produced in loose bunches at 
 the end of the branches, but of no beauty, and have to be ar- 
 
May.] HOT-HOUSE. — op repotting, &c. 187 
 
 tificially impregnated, or it will scarcely produce fruit. The 
 shell is kidney-shaped, and of a leathery, crustaceous sub- 
 stance. They contain one seed, and in their indigenous 
 stale are more juicy than an apple. Drain the pots well, as 
 the roots are apt to get sodden from moisture. The other 
 species goes under the name oi oppositifblia, but we question 
 if it is not only a variety, for it has every character of the 
 one just described. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Malpighia, (Barbadoes-cherry,) about eighteen species, all 
 beautiful evergreen trees or shrubs. They are easily distin- 
 guished by having bristles on the underside of the leaves. 
 These bristles are fixed by the centre, so that either end of 
 it will sting. We are not aware of any other plant being 
 defended in this manner. M. urens has oblong, ovate leaves, 
 with decumbent stiff bristles; flowers pink. M. aquifblia 
 has lanceolate, stiff, spiny leaves, and we think the most 
 beautiful foliage of the genus. M.fucata has elliptical shining 
 leaves, with lilac flowers. M. glabra, leaves ovate, entire, 
 smooth ; flowers purple. They all have five rounded clawed 
 petals. The last species is cultivated in the West Indies for 
 its fruit. The pots must be well drained. (Soil No. 17.) 
 
 Mdrica, a genus of hot-house plants, closely allied to Iris, 
 between which there is no distinction in the leaves. The 
 flowers of M. coendea are beautifully spotted with light and 
 dark blue, the scape many-flowered. M. Sabini has flowers 
 similar, but not so dark in colour. iM. Northiana has splen- 
 did white and brown spotted flowers, spathe two-flowered. 
 These plants, when growing, require a liberal supply of water, 
 and should be greatly encouraged by frequent potting, to 
 flower well. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Melastoma was once an extensive genus, on which the na- 
 tural order MelastomacecB is founded ; but is now much di- 
 vided into other genera contained in the natural tribe Mi- 
 comece. There about thirteen species remaining in the genus. 
 They now display great unity of character, and many of them 
 may be considered very ornamental. The finest are M.he- 
 
188 HOT-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, &C. [Ma^. 
 
 teromalla, bluish purple, and an abundant bloomer; M.mala- 
 bdthrica, rose-coloured ; M. sanguinea, lilac; M. decemfida, 
 purple; M. pulverulcnta, red; a.nd M.aspera, rose. There 
 is a plant in several of our collections known as M. purpurea 
 and M. tetraguna, which is Ossaa purpurdscens ; leaves 
 ovate, lanceolate, accuniinate, five-nerved, pilose ; the foot- 
 stalk and nerves underside of the leaf covered with brown 
 hairs ; stem four-sided ; flowers purple. All the species are 
 easy of culture. M. nepalensis is a green-house plant. (Soil 
 No. 1.) 
 
 ilfwsa, (Plantain tree,) contains eight species, and is greatly 
 esteemed in the East and West Indies for the luscious sweet 
 flavour of its fruit, which can be converted into every deli- 
 cacy in the domestic cookery of the country. M. paradi- 
 sicea is the true plantain tree, has a soft herbaceous stalk, fif- 
 teen or twenty feet high, with leaves from five to seven feet 
 long, and about two feet wide. M. sapientum is the true 
 Banana tree ; habit and character same as the former, except 
 it has a spotted stem, and the male flowers are deciduous. 
 The pulp of the fruit is softer, and the taste more luscious. 
 M. rosacea, M. coccinea, and M. chinensis, are more es- 
 teemed in artificial cultivation for their flowers, and for 
 being smaller in growth. AI. Cavendishii produces immense 
 clusters of ripe and well-flavoured fruit, plants only four feet 
 and a half high ; will yearly produce about eighty pounds. 
 M. ddcca is another dwarf species, and in 1838 ripened a 
 cluster of fruit in the Royal Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh, 
 which weighed fifty pounds. These dwarf Bananas are now 
 being cultivated in Europe expressly for their fruit, which is 
 very delicious when perfectly ripened. They are Chi- 
 nese plants, and will soon be introduced into the West In- 
 dia Islands, where they will entirely supplant the large va- 
 rieties. 
 
 Myrtus Pimento, or, more properly, Pimcnta Vulgaris, is 
 the Jamaica pepper or allspice ; there is no beauty in the 
 
May.] HOT-HOUSE. — of repotting, &c. 189 
 
 flowers — the leaves are highly aromatic, and it is a handsome 
 evergreen. (.Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Nepenthes, (Pitcher-plant.) There are two species of this 
 plant. N. distillatbria is an esteemed and valuable plant in 
 European collections, and we are not aware of there being 
 any in this country, except in Philadelphia. The leaves are 
 lanceolate and sessile ; from their extremity there is a spiral, 
 attached to which are long inflated appendages that are ge- 
 nerally half full of water, which appears to be confined with- 
 in them by a lid with which the appendages are surmounted; 
 hence the name of pitcher plant. We have never observed 
 the lids close again when once open. Writers have called 
 it an herbaceous plant, but it is properly a climbing shrub. 
 The pot in which it grows should be covered with moss, and 
 the roots liberally supplied with water every day. It de- 
 lights to be in a moist state. The flowers are small, and in 
 long spikes. The plant is of easy culture, and even rapid in 
 growth : a plant with us, only nineteen months old, is now 
 five feet high. (Soil No. 5.) 
 
 Pancratiu7n is a genus of hot-house bulbs, and now only 
 contains five species. They are all free-flowering. Several 
 of them are handsome and fragrant. P. maritimwn and P. 
 verecundum are the finest; the flowers are white, in large 
 umbels ; petals long, recurved, and undulate. P. littoralis, 
 P. sjpecibsum, and P. carihcRum, are now given to the genus 
 Hymenocdllis, and are fine flowering species. Care must be 
 taken not to give them water while dormant. The soil ought 
 at that time to be in a half dry state. They are in flower 
 from May to August. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Panddnus, Screw Pine. There are above twenty species 
 in this genus, several of them very interesting, but none so 
 greatiyadmhed as 'P.odoratissimiis. Theleaves in established 
 plants are from four to six feet long, on the back and edges 
 spiny ; are spreading, imbricated, and embracing the stem, 
 and placed in three spiral rows upon it. The top soon be- 
 comes heavy when the plant throws out prongs one, two, or 
 
19\) HOT-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING. [Mat/. 
 
 three feet up the stem in an oblique descending direction, 
 which take root in the ground, and thus become perfectly 
 supported. Itiscultivated in Japan for its delightful fragrance, 
 and it is said, " of all the perfumes, it is by far the richest 
 and, most powerful." ^.titilis, red spined. We question 
 this species, and are inclined to believe that it is the former, 
 only when the plants are newly raised from seed, the spines 
 and leaves are red, changing to green as they become ad- 
 vanced in age. The plants are easy of culture, and will grow 
 almost in any soil. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Passifiora, *' Passion-Flower, so named on account of its 
 being supposed to represent in the appendages of its flower 
 the Passion of Jesus Christ." There are about fifty species, 
 all climbing plants, that belong to the hot-house. Many are 
 of no ordinary beauty ; a few species are odoriferous; others 
 bear edible fruits, though not rich in flavour. P. (data is in 
 our collections, and greatly admired ; the flowers are red, 
 blue, and white, beautifully contrasted, and flower profusely 
 in pots. P. racemosa, red flower. P. ccerideo-racemosa, pur- 
 ple. P. quadrangalaris has beautiful red and white flowers. 
 The plant is in several collections, but has seldom flowered; 
 it requires to be planted in the ground to make it flower 
 freely, and it will also produce fruit. V . picturata is a scarce 
 and beautiful various-coloured species. P. kermbsine, bright 
 rosy crimson, and, beyond all question, the most profuse 
 flowering species now in cultivation, and will do well in a 
 good green-house. P. Z,owrfo;jn, bright crimson ; V. ediilis 
 is cultivated for its fruit. There are many other fine species, 
 but these are the most esteemed sorts ; and, when well esta- 
 blished, will flower profusely from May to August. They 
 are desirable in every collection, and will take only a small 
 space to hold them, by training the vines up the rafters of 
 the hot-house. (Soil No. 13.) 
 
 P/io?m,r, Date-palm, about eight species, principally Asiatic 
 plants. The foliage is not so attractive as many others of the 
 palm family, but it is rendered interesting by producing a 
 
Muy.] HOT-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, &C. IQl 
 
 well known fruit called Date. P. dactyl'ifera will do very 
 well in a comnrion green-house. Jn Arabia, Upper Egypt, 
 and Barbary, it is much used in domestic economy. P. pa- 
 ludosa has the most beautiful foliage, and the best habit. 
 The flowers are dioecious. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Plurnhdgo rosea is a pretty free-blooming plant, with con- 
 tinued profusion of red flowers ; it requires plenty of heat 
 and a good drainage. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Plumerias, above twenty species. Plants of a slow growth, 
 robust nature, and are deciduous. The foliage is greatly ad- 
 mired. The plants are shy to flower, but are brilliant in co- 
 lour. P. acuminata has lanceolate, acute leaves, flowers 
 corymbose and terminale. P. tricolor has oblong, acute, 
 veiny leaves ; corolla red, yellow, and white. This and P. 
 rilhra are the finest of the genus. They ought not to get any 
 water while not in a growing state. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Poinsettia* pulcherrlma. When well cultivated, this is 
 truly the most magnificent of all the tropical plants we have 
 ever seen ; from December to April it is crowned with flow- 
 ers, surrounding which, are bright scarlet whorls of bracteas, 
 frequently measuring twenty-two inches in diameter. To 
 grow it to such perfection, we treat it as follows : In April 
 we cut the young wood down to within two inches of the 
 wood of the preceding year, and reduce the ball of earth, 
 putting it into a smaller pot. About the end of May we 
 plant it in the open ground, in light rich soil, giving it one 
 or two waterings after planting. During summer it will 
 grow three or four feet ; about the end of September, it is 
 carefully lifted and potted into a large-sized pot, and put into 
 the hot-house, carefully shading it for a few days — when it 
 
 * Named by Professor Graham, of Edinburgh, in compliment to the Hon. 
 J. R. Poinsette, (now secretary of war,) who introduced the plant in 1S28 
 to this country from Mexico, while he was Minister Plenipotentiary to that 
 Republic. He also, at the same time, introduced a rich and valuable col- 
 lection of Cactsea. 
 
192 HOT HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, &C. [M«y. 
 
 requires no more attention except a regular supply of water, 
 and to be kept in a temperature of from 55° to 75^. There 
 is also a pale yellow bracteced variety ; but we are not aware 
 of it being for sale in this country. When the plant is grown 
 in pots during summer, it must be repotted every month to 
 encourage its rapid growth. (Soil No. 18.) 
 
 Polyspbra axillaris, once called Camellia axillaris, though 
 in appearance it has no characteristic of a Camellia, and has 
 been frequently killed in the green-house by being too cold 
 for its nature ; leaves oblong, obovate, toward the extremity 
 serrulate. The leaves on the young wood are entire. Flowers 
 ■white ; petals a little notched. It is worthy of a situation in 
 every collection. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Pterospermum, five species of plants that have very curi- 
 ously constructed flowers, of a white colour, and fragrant ; 
 the foliage is of a brown rusty nature, and, before expansion, 
 silvery-like. P. suberifolium is in several of our collections, 
 and esteemed. V .semisagittatum has fringed braclaea; leaves 
 oblong, accuminate, entire, sagittate on one side. (Soil No. 
 11.) 
 
 Rhapis, a genus of palms that will grow very freely with 
 heat and room at the roots. R. jlabelliformis is an erect 
 growing palm, with a spreading head. It is a native of 
 China. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 RondeUtia speciosa is a new and rare plant, in every re- 
 spect equal, if not superior, to Ixora cuccinea; its large co- 
 rymbs of orange red flowers have a very striking appearance, 
 and it is easily cultivated in (soil No. 1.) It should have 
 frequent repottings when growing. 
 
 Roscoeo, a genus of about five species, all pretty, but not 
 much known. R. purpvrea has been introduced into our 
 collections, and is the finest of the genus. The flowers are 
 light purple, large, and in terminale sheaths at the top of the 
 stem. R. spicafa and R. capitata are both fine species, with 
 blue flowers. They are all herbaceous, with strong half tu- 
 
Mai/.] HOT-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING, &C. 193 
 
 berous roots, requiring little waler while dormant, and a 
 liberal supply when growing, (Soil No, 17.) 
 
 Ruellia. There are a few species, very pretty free-flow- 
 ering plants, of easy culture. R.formdsa, flowers long, of a 
 fine scarlet colour ; plant half shrubby. R.fulgida has bright 
 scarlet flowers on axillary long stalked fascicles. R.persici- 
 fblia, with unequal leaves and light blue flowers, is now 
 called R. anisophylla. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Ricsselia juncea, a slender plant of an upright habit, pro- 
 ducing, when well grown, a profusion of scarlet tubular flow- 
 ers, about one inch long each : it is of the easiest culture in 
 soil No. 19. 
 
 Sagus, Sago-palm. We are of opinion that the true palm 
 from which the sago of the shops is produced, has not be in- 
 troduced into our collections. It is very rare in the most exten- 
 sive collections of Europe, but it is not so fine a plant as the 
 one we have under the Sago, which is placed in the natural 
 order of Cycadea ; and Sagus is in that of PalmcE. The 
 finest of this genus is S. vinifera and 5'. Rumpliii. They 
 grow to a great height ; even in artificial cultivation they may 
 be seen from ten to twenty-five feet. We have not intro- 
 duced them here for their beauty, but to prevent error 
 (Soil No. \-Z.) 
 
 Soldndra, a genus of four species, remarkable for the ex- 
 traordinary size of their flowers, and are considered beauti- 
 ful. 5^. grandiflbra and S. viridiflbra are the best two. The 
 plants will bloom well if they are restricted in pot room, 
 and are only introduced as being worthy of cultivation. If 
 they are repotted once in two or three years, it is sufficient, 
 except where the plants are small and want encouragement 
 (Soil No. 13.) 
 
 Strelitzia, a splendid genus of noble-looking plants, aU 
 of which do perfectly well in the green-house, except S. au- 
 gusta, the flowers of which are pure white ; the leaves are 
 very large, being nearly six feet long and eighteen inches 
 
 17 
 
194 HOT-HOUSE. — OF HEPOTTiNG, (Sec. [May. 
 
 wide, and assume the appearance of the Banana tree : it re- 
 quires great, space for its roots, (Soil No, 12.) 
 
 Strophanthus, a snnall genus of beautiful tropical shrubs. 
 The segments of the corolla are curiously twisted before ex- 
 pansion. S. divergens is a neat spreading shrub, with yellow 
 flowers, a little tinged with red ; the petals are about four 
 inches long, undulate, lanceolate, S. dichotomus is rose-co- 
 loured, corolla funnel-shaped. The plants will flower freely 
 in a strong moist heat. Drain the pots well. (Soil No. 1 3.) 
 
 Sivietenia, (Mahogany tree,) the wood of which is cele- 
 brated in cabinet-work. S. mahogoni, common. This tree 
 varies much in general appearance according to soil and si- 
 tuation. The leaves are pinnated in four pairs ; leaflets ovate, 
 lanceolate ; flowers small, white, in axillary panicles. S.fu- 
 hrifuga, leaves pinnated, in four pairs ; leaflets elliptical ; 
 flowers white, in terminale panicles. The wood of the last 
 is the most durable of any in the East Indies. They are 
 fine plants, and require heat and pot room to produce flow- 
 ers. (Soil No. 15.) 
 
 TaberncEmontana, a genus of little beauty, except for one 
 or two species. A plant known in some collections as Ne- 
 rium coronarium, is now, and properly, T. coronaria. The 
 y^xiQiy, fibre pleno, is the one most deserving of culture, and 
 will flower profusely from May to August ; the flowers are 
 double white, fragrant, and divaricating. The plant will 
 lose its foliage if not kept in a strong heat ; iherefore place it 
 in the warmest part of the hot-house. T. densifibra is a fine 
 species, but very rare. Drain all the plants well, and keep 
 them in the shade during summer. 
 
 Tecbma, a genus of plants closely allied to Bignbnia, and 
 are free-flowering ; several of them much esteemed. T. mol- 
 lis, T. digitata, and T. siylendida, are the most beautiful of 
 those that belong to the hot-house. They have large orange- 
 coloured, tubular, inflated, ringent flowers, in loose panicles. 
 There is a plant known in our collections as Bignbnia stdns. 
 
May.] HOT-HOUSE. — of repotting, &c. 195 
 
 which is now T. stans ; has pinnated leaves, with oblong, lan- 
 ceolate, serrated leaflets; flowers in simple ternninale, raceme, 
 and of a yellow colour, and sometimes known by Ash-leaved 
 Bignbnia. It will always have a sickly aspect, if not well 
 encouraged in light rich soil. Drain the pots well, as much 
 moisture disfigures the foliage. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Thrinax parvijibra is a fine dwarf palm of the West In- 
 dies, with palmated fronds, plaited with stiff, lanceolate seg 
 ments. The plant is of easy cultivation, and will grow in 
 any soil. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 T/mrj&er^za, a genus containing six climbing plants of a half 
 shrubby nature. Some of them have a fragrant odour. T. 
 cocdwea, red ; T. grandiflbr a, h\ne; T./rao^rans, white sweet- 
 scented ; T. aldta has pretty buff and purple flowers, which 
 are in great profusion. The latter makes a very pretty an- 
 nual in the flower garden, with its beautiful white variety, 
 forming an elegant contrast. If sown in May, they will 
 bloom from July until killed be frost. (Soil No. 13.) 
 
 Tradescdntia discolor. Purple-leaved spider wort. This 
 is an herbaceous plant, and is only cultivated for its beautiful 
 purple foliage. It has curious small white flowers. (Soil 
 No. 10.) 
 
 Urania speciosa, a gigantic-looking plant closely connect- 
 ed to Musa, from which it differs in habit by the large leaves 
 being more erect : to grow it luxuriantly, give it plenty of 
 heat, water, and pot room. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Zdmia, a genus of plants in the natural order of CycadecE. 
 Several species of them are admired. Z. media, Z.furfurdcea, 
 Z. tenuis, Z. integrifblia, are the most showy that belong 
 to the hot-house. The whole genus is frequently kept in 
 this department. They are all plants of a slow growth, and 
 the beauty is entirely in the pinnated fronds, with from ten 
 to forty pairs of leaflets. The pois must be well drained. 
 (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Those genera of plants which we have enumerated under 
 the head of repotting in this or next month, are composed oC 
 
196 HOT-HOUSE. OF REPOTTING, &C. [May. 
 
 the finest hot-house plants that have come under our obser- 
 vation. There are perhaps a few of them that are not to be 
 found in the United States, or even on our continent ; but 
 the great object, in a choice collection of plants, is to have 
 the finest from all parts of the known world. There are 
 many plants whose nature does not require much support 
 from soil, which is frequently observed in those that are men- 
 tioned. And there are many hundreds of plants desirable 
 for beauty, ornament, and curiosity, which would take vo- 
 lumes to specify and describe. In fact, every year brings 
 many new things, and frequently both new and splendid, 
 either in flower, fruit, or foliage. 
 
 We have previously observed, that plants ought not to be 
 flooded with water when newly potted, as it saturates the 
 soil before the roots have taken hold of it ; and that the best 
 draining for pots is small gravel or pot-shreds broken fine. 
 We wish it to be understood that, when plants are repotted, 
 any irregular branch or shoot should be lopped off that can- 
 not be tied to advantage. And repotting may take place 
 either before or after the plc^nts are exposed to the open air, 
 according to convenience, 
 
 OF BRINGING OUT THE HOT-HOUSE PLANTS. 
 
 Where the hot-house is very crowded with plants, the best 
 method to have them exposed without danger is, to take out 
 those of the hardiest nature first, that have no tender shoots 
 upon them, thereby thinning the house gradually. This may 
 be done from the sixteenth to the twentieth of the month, 
 which will admit of a free circulation of air among those 
 that remain. All may bo exposed from the twenty-fourth 
 to the twenty-eighth of the month. This is a general rule, 
 though in some seasons there may be exceptions. Having 
 previously given all the air possible to the house, that no 
 sudden transition take place, which would make the foliage 
 
jl/at/.] HOT-HOUSE. OF REPOTTING, &C. 197 
 
 brown, and otherwise materially injure the plants, choose 
 calm days for the removing of them. 
 
 There are few plants while in pots that agree with the full 
 sun upon them ; or, if the plants receive the sun, the pots and 
 roots ought not. The best situation for them is on the north 
 side of a fence, wall, house, or other building, where they 
 are excluded from the mid-day sun, and they should stand 
 on boards or gravel, with the tallest at the back, firmly tied to 
 a rail or some other security, to prevent them from being over- 
 turned by high winds. Make a fanciful bed, and cover it with 
 sand or coal ashes, for the reception of the smaller plants, and 
 set ihemthinly and regularly thereon, is preferable to crowding 
 them with the taller sorts. And it may be desired to have 
 some of the plants plunged in the garden through the flower 
 borders. Of those that are so treated, the pots must be 
 plunged to the brim, and regularly turned round every two 
 weeks, to prevent the roots from running into the earth. If 
 the roots were allowed to do so, it might for the present 
 strengthen the plant, but ultimately would prove injurious. 
 
 Where a sufficiency of shade cannot be obtained, it would be 
 advisable logo to the expenseof a very thin awning, that would 
 not exclude the light, but merely the powerful rays of the 
 sun, attending to roll it up every evening. Plants will keep 
 in beautiful order by the above method, which amply repays 
 for the trouble or expense. Avoid putting plants under 
 trees ; comparatively few thrive in such situations. 
 
 When they are thus exposed to the open air, it will be 
 very little trouble to give them a gentle syringing every 
 evening when there is no rain, and continue your usual ex- 
 aminations for insects : when they appear, resort to the pre- 
 scribed remedies. Green-jiy will not affect them, but the 
 thrips may. Give regular supplies of water every evening, 
 and again in the morning to all that require it, carefully ex 
 amining those that are in small pots. 
 
 17* 
 
198 HOT-HOUSE. — OP REPOTTING, 6cc. [June and July. 
 
 SUCCULENTS, OR THE CACT^A TRIBE. 
 
 The Cereus Mammallaria, and Opuntia. Divisions of this 
 family are, in iheir indigenous state, exposed on rocks, hilly 
 lands, and arid situations, being at all times fully exposed to 
 the sun : still, with us, we find that they thrive best with a 
 partial shade, though we have frequently seen them doing 
 well when fully exposed to the influence of the sun ; but 
 where they are to be kept out of doors all the season, be care- 
 ful in choosing for them an airy situation, and never allow 
 the pots to become saturated with moisture. 
 
 The habits of the Epiphyllum tribe are entirely different j 
 they are generally parasites, growing on the branches and 
 about the roots of decayed trees ; consequently, they are often 
 much shaded, and they evidently show it, for they still de- 
 light to be shaded from the direct rays of a noon-day sun. If 
 they are kept in the house through the summer months, take 
 some whiting, and make a thin white-wash, and put it on the 
 inside of the glass, which will be found an agreeable and ef- 
 fectual shade ; but where time and means are at hand, a thin 
 awning, of gauze or muslin, is preferable, provided it is regu- 
 larly rolled up when the sun is not pow^erful. 
 
 JUNE AND JULY. 
 
 As the plants of the hot-house are all exposed to the open 
 air, the directions will include both months. If the repotting 
 is over, as recommended last month, all the attention they 
 will require until the end of August is, the administering of 
 water at the roots, and by the syringe overhead. It will be 
 impossible to say how great are their wants, these depending 
 
August.] HOT-HOUSE. OF REPOTTING, &C. 199 
 
 entirely upon the nature of the plant, the situation, and the 
 season; but never neglect to look over them every evening, 
 and after dry nights they will need a fresh supply in the 
 morning, observing lo give to none except they are be- 
 coming a little dry. Make weekly examinations for insects 
 of any description, and, when they appear, have them instant- 
 ly destroyed. 
 
 Always after heavy rains look over the pots, in case water 
 should be standing in them, which would injure the roots. 
 Where any is found, turn the pot on its side, and, in a few 
 hours, examine the draining which is defective; small pots 
 in continued rains should be turned likewise. 
 
 Tie up all plants and shoots lo prevent them from being 
 destroyed by the wind, and be attentive to pick all weeds 
 from the pots. Turn round all the plants occasionally, to 
 prevent them from being drawn to one side by the sun or 
 light. 
 
 AUGUST. 
 
 The plants of the hot-house that were repotted in May 
 and June, according to the directions therein given, will, at 
 present, be in an excellent state of health, provided they 
 have got, at all times, the requisite supplies of watering. 
 And as we already have been very explicit on that subject, 
 more remarks now would be merely repetition. 
 
 REPOTTING. 
 
 If any of the repottings were neglected during May or 
 June, let it be done about the first of this month. Let young 
 plants that are growing freely, where the roots have filled 
 the pots, and the plants required to grow, have pots one size 
 larger. In turning out the ball of earth, keep it entire, not 
 disturbing any of the roots. 
 
200 HOT-HOUSE. — DRESSING THE PLANTS. [Sept 
 
 OF PAINTING, REPAIRING, AND CLEANSING THE HOUSE. 
 
 The necessary repairs of the hot-house are too often put 
 off to the last day or week; and then with hurry are super- 
 ficially attended to. Previous to the first of September, 
 have all the wood-work painted, (which ought to have one 
 coat every two years,) and the glass all neatly repaired. 
 Have the flues and furnace examined ; plaster over all rents 
 and make good every deficiency. Give the flue a thick coat 
 of lime white-wash. Have the walls, shelves, and staging 
 properly painted. If there is a tan-bed, have that renewed; 
 take out what is most decayed, using two-thirds new tan, 
 which must be dried at least three days in the sun before it 
 is housed, and carefully protect it from rains. 
 
 SEPTEMBER. 
 
 DRESSING THE PLANTS. 
 
 Having last month put the house in complete order, all 
 that remains necessary to be attended to, is the state of the 
 plants and pots, which should be regularly examined, and of 
 those where the roots fill the soil, a little may be taken off 
 the top, supplying its place with fresh earth, thereby giving 
 what is called a top-dressing. Give each that requires it 
 a sufficient rod, tying the plant neatly thereto ; minutely 
 scrutinize each for insects, and where they are detected, 
 have them eradicated. 
 
 Finally, wash all contracted foulness from off the pots, at 
 the same time pick off any decayed leaves ; thus all will be 
 in perfect order to take into the house. If any plants have 
 been kept in the hot-house during summer, they must like- 
 wise go through the same operation. 
 
Sept.] HOT-HOUSE. GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 201 
 
 OF TAKING IN THE PLANTS. 
 
 From the 16th to the 24th, according to the season, is the 
 proper time to take in the hot-house plants. It is preferable 
 to have them what might be deemed a few days too early, 
 than have them in the slighest degree affected by cold. 
 
 Commence by housing the largest first, and those that 
 stand farthest in the house, observing to place the most ten- 
 der sorts nearest the heat or warmest part of the house. For 
 observations on them, see May : in regard to arrangement, 
 that must be according to the taste of the operator. We may 
 observe, that in a small collection it is better to have them in 
 a regular than in a picturesque form. A dry shelf is indis- 
 pensable in this department for placing on it all herbaceous 
 plants, such as Cdnna, Hedychium, Zingiber, KcEmjjferia, 
 &c., the watering of which from this time should be gradu- 
 ally suspended, that they may have their required cessation 
 to make them flower well. This shelf may be in any situa- 
 tion ; one in darkness, where other plants will not grow, will 
 answer perfectly well. If there is a bark bed, do not, until 
 the end of December, plunge, any of the pots therein. If 
 any plants of the Poinsettia are in the ground, have them 
 carefully lifted and shaded from the sun. 
 
 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 The plants being now all under protection, they must 
 have as much air as possible admitted to them every day, by 
 opening the doors, front and top sashes, closing only at night. 
 The syringings'must be continued, and care taken that plants 
 of a deciduous or herbaceous nature are not over-watered. 
 The tuberous species might be kept almost dry. Some 
 practical men of sound science repot these plants in this 
 month into fresh soil, and allow them to stand till January 
 almost without water. We have never adopted this method 
 
202 HOT-HOUSE. [Oct. 
 
 with any description of plants, but do not doubt of its suc- 
 cess with that genus. 
 
 See that the ropes and pulleys of the sashes are in good 
 order, and fit to stand all winter. 
 
 OCTOBER. 
 
 Very few directions remain to be given to the department 
 of the hot-house. The supplies of water for this and the two 
 succeeding months are, according to the state and nature of 
 tropical plants, more limited than at any other period of the 
 year. This is the first month of what may be called their 
 dormant state. Observe the herbaceous plants, that they are 
 set aside as soon as their foliage decays, in case of being to 
 liberally supplied with water. Airing is highly essential 
 about this period, that the plants may be gradually hardened ; 
 but guard against injuring them. The temperature should 
 never be under fifty degrees ; when the days are cool and 
 the wind chilling, airing is not necessary : and, when air 
 is admitted, always close up early in the afternoon, while 
 the atmosphere is warm, to supersede the necessity of fire as 
 long as possible. If, at any time, you have recourse to it in 
 this month, use it with great caution. 
 
 Examine all the shutters and fastenings, and see that they 
 are in good substantial order, and, where deficient, repair 
 them instantly, that they may be in readiness. Remove all 
 leaves, and give syringings in the morning of sunshine days, 
 twice a week. Clear off, sweep out, and wash clean, that 
 every part may be in the neatest order. 
 
 The succulent tribe will not require water more than once 
 a week, or once in two weeks. If any of them have ripened 
 seeds during summer, wash such carefully from the pulp, and 
 lay them past till the first of January, when they may be 
 
Nov.] HOT-HOUSE. — OP A CISTERN, &iC. 203- 
 
 sown on the surface of sandy soil, and gently pressed down. 
 Water them very carefully as they require ; cover the pot 
 with a piece or pane of glass, which will greatly assist their 
 vegetating. In a few weeks they will make their appear- 
 ance ; and, when they are one quarter of an inch high, plant 
 them out into other pots and fresh soil. In a few months 
 they will make wonderful progress in growth, and, in the 
 following year, will require to be potted singly, and treated 
 as recommended for established plants. 
 
 NOVEMBER. 
 
 The essential points to be attended to in the hot-house 
 during this month are, Jire, air, and water. The former 
 must be applied according to the weather, observing not to 
 allow the temperature to be under fifty degrees, and it ought 
 not to continue long at that degree ; fifty-two degrees being 
 preferable. The shutters should be on every night when 
 there is any appearance of frost, and taken off early in the 
 morning. Admit air in small portions every day that the 
 sun has any effect and the atmosphere mild, observing that 
 the temperature of the house be above sixty degrees previous 
 to admission. Shut all close early in the afternoon, or when 
 any sudden changes occur. 
 
 OF A CISTERN AND WATER. 
 
 In watering, it is important to have the v^rater of the same 
 temperature in this department as the roots of the plants. 
 To have this, there are two kinds of cisterns or tanks that 
 might be adopted ; one may be sunk in the house under 
 ground, either closely plastered, or lined with lead, and 
 neatily covered up, having a small perpendicular pump there- 
 
204 HOT-HOUSE. — OF WATER. [DeC. 
 
 in, or placed so that the water could be lifted by hand. The 
 other might, where convenience will admit, be placed over 
 the furnace, either in the back shed, or inside of the house, 
 and the water could be drawn oflfthis by a slop-cock. These 
 can be supplied, in part, with rain water, by having spouts 
 round the house to lead into the cisterns, supplying any de- 
 ficiency from the pump. Thus water of a congenial tem- 
 perature maybe always at hand, which is of great importance 
 to the healthful constitution of the plants. The water must 
 now be given in moderate portions, examining the plants 
 every day. Be careful in watering bulbs, as the smallest 
 supply is sufficient for them at present. Succulents will re- 
 quire a little every two weeks, except they are over the flues, 
 when they may have some every week. 
 
 Constantly clear off all decayed leaves, and carry them out 
 of the house, which sweep and wash clean, and keep all in 
 the neatest order. 
 
 DECEMBER. 
 
 The uncertainty of the weather in this month requires 
 the operator to be constantly on guard, to ward off danger, 
 either from frost, snow, or cutting winds. The temperature 
 observed last month must be continued, but not exceeded, 
 which would cause premature vegetation, of which the re- 
 sult and effects have already been observed. Always kindle 
 the fires in time, to prevent the heat from being lower than 
 what has been mentioned, lest a severe frost should take 
 place, as then a considerable lapse ensues before the fire has 
 any effect ; and if the wind blows high, the result might be 
 injurious, unless the house be very close. 
 
Dec] HOT-HOUSE. OF SHUTTERS. 205 
 
 OF SHUTTERS. 
 
 The benefit of these in severe weather is of material ser- 
 vice, for the preservation of an even temperature in the house 
 during the night, when changes are not observed ; but they 
 ought never to remain on through the day, when the fire can 
 be properly attended to. If the front and the lowest sash of 
 the roof are covered with these, it is generally sufficient. 
 They should be made of three-quarter inch boards, closely- 
 grooved together, having a cross bar in the centre, and one 
 at each end and each side, which will make them substantial. 
 If they are frequently painted with care, they will last many 
 years. Snow ought not to be allowed to lay on these while 
 they are on the glass, for reasons that we have assigned. See 
 January and February. 
 
 Some adopt double panes of glass to supersede the use of 
 shutters, which they think are attended with considerable 
 labour, (at the most only fifteen minutes a day, while in use.) 
 The sash frame is made a little deeper, so as to allow half an 
 inch between the panes of glass. The one is glazed from 
 the out and the other from the inside. It appears to answer 
 the purpose tolerably well, but the glass must be both fine 
 and even in the surface, lest a lens should be produced, 
 which would scourge the plants. We are almost confident 
 that we have seen this effect in some instances. There must 
 be a small hole about an eighth of an inch in both ends of 
 each row of glass, to allow a current to dry up the moisture 
 that may arise. Double sashes during the severe months are 
 frequently used ; but shutters are preferable to either. 
 
 OF PLACING BULBS, &c., IN THE HOT-HOUSE. 
 
 If any Hyacinths or other Dutch roots are wanted to flow- 
 er early, a few of them may be put in the hot-house near the 
 front glass, which will greatly tend to forward their time of 
 
 18 
 
206 HOT-HOUSE. — GENERAL OBSERVATiONS. [DeC, 
 
 flowering. By having some brought in every two weeks, a 
 continued succession of bloom will be kept up. 
 
 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 If there is a tan-bed in the house, and it was renewed in 
 September, the pots should now be half plunged therein. The 
 violent heat will partly be over, and the plants are not soli- 
 able to suffer at root in this as last month. It will in part 
 prevent the plants from being affected by sudden changes of 
 temperature. Be attentive in keeping all insects completely 
 under. This is the period that these are most neglected, but 
 by attending to the modes of their destruction, as already 
 given, no species of them will either be hurtful or unsightly. 
 Syringe the plants about twice a week, and always remember 
 that decayed leaves or litter, of any description, do not beau- 
 tify healthy plants, neither do they form a part of a well kept 
 hot-house. 
 
 ORCHIDEOUS EPIPHYTES OR AIR PLANTS. 
 
 Before we close the hot-house subject, it may be interest- 
 ing to some of our readers to know the nature and character 
 of a few of the most desirable of those tropical parasites, that 
 have within these few years caused so much excitement in 
 Europe. In several instances, houses upward of two hun- 
 dred feet long have been erected for their exclusive culture, 
 and unless they do thus have an apartment adapted to their 
 nature, no success will attend their cultivation. They grow 
 only in a very humid atmosphere, kept at a temperature of 
 from 70*^ to 100^, and also in a partially shaded situation : it 
 is only under such treatment that we have had any prosperi- 
 ty in blooming these peculiarly beautiful and interesting 
 plants. Annexed are the names of a few that are of the 
 easiest culture and most profuse of flower : 
 
Dec.] HOT-HOUSE. — AIR PLANTS. 207 
 
 Brdssia maculata, greenish yellow, spotted with purple. 
 Catasetum trifidhn, greenish yellow, spotted with dark 
 
 brown. 
 Cdttleya crispa, white and purple, and is considered a superb 
 
 plant. 
 Cdttleya labidta, rose and rich purple, striped and spotted 
 
 with carmine. 
 Cdttleya Forbesii, yellow, white, green and rose-coloured,^/2e, 
 Dendrbhium cuculldtum, rose and pale yellow. 
 Dendrdbium speciosiim, pale yellow flowers, in great pro- 
 fusion. 
 Epidendrum cucuUdtmn, dark brown with yellow, is a very 
 
 constant bloomer. 
 Gongora atropurpurea, dark purple ; the plant must be sus- 
 pended in a pot or small box. 
 Gongora speciosa, yellow with black spots. 
 Maxilldria Loddgesii, orange flowers in long racemes. 
 Maxilldria picta, yellow, beautifully spotted with red and 
 crimson ; it is in the mornings only delightfi^Viy 
 fragrant. 
 Oncidium crispum, brownish copper colour, sTid profuse 
 
 flowering. 
 Oncidium papilio, bright yellow, spotted with rich brown. 
 Oncidium luridum, flowers of a brownish green, 
 Rendnthera coccinea, a very superb scarlet flowering plant, 
 but does not bloom very freely; it grows in moss 
 and must be suspended in a pot or tied to a piece 
 of stick. 
 Stanhbpia grandijlbra has delicate white sweet-scented 
 
 flowers. 
 Stanhbpia insignis, yellow and white, spotted with purple > 
 
 and delightfully fragrant. 
 Vdnda Roxburghii, flowers pale yellow. 
 Zygopetalums, all very beautiful flowering, generally of a 
 yellowish green colour, spotted with brown. 
 They require to be kept in a hot dry atmo- 
 sphere. 
 
208 HOT-HOUSE. AIR PLANTS. [DeC. 
 
 Orchideous epiphytes, generally grow upon trees, in the 
 recesses of damp tropical forests, establishing themselves in 
 the forks of the branches, and even upon rocks, stones, or 
 decayed trees. Shade, therefore, is essential to their wel- 
 fare ; consequently, never permit them to be exposed to vio- 
 lent sunshine. They require but little water at the roots, 
 provided the atmosphere they grow in is very humid. The 
 best soil for them is a sandy, turfy peat, containing a large 
 portion of fibrous matter ; mix with this pieces of pot-shreds 
 or cork, and be careful not to place the plant deep in the pot, 
 or they will grow on sticks of wood. Although we use and 
 prefer small boxes (about six inches square) made of cork, 
 in which they grow finely and bloom profusely. With some 
 of the strong-growing kinds, we use, in addition to the above 
 soil, a little leaf-mould, using always plenty of drainage. 
 The house we cultivate them in has an eastern aspect. 
 Shade can easily be given to them by having creepers trained 
 up the rafters of the house, or an occasional large plant, 
 placed in such a situation as will afford most shade during 
 mid-day ; and it must be observed, that, although the plants 
 are fond of moisture, they never thrive, except the water has 
 a free passage from their roots. 
 
THE 
 
 AMERICAN FLOWER GARDEN 
 
 DIRECTORY. 
 
 GREEN-HOUSE. 
 
 ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF A GREEN-HOUSE. 
 
 In many respects, the construction of the Green-house 
 will be the sanne as the Hot-house, but might be made much 
 more an ornamental object, and could be erected contiguous 
 to the mansion-house, with large folding-doors to open at 
 pleasure, and be connected with the drawing-room or par- 
 lour. The extent may vary according to the collection to 
 be cultivated. 
 
 Ii was formerly the practice to build these houses with 
 glass only in front, and even to introduce between the win- 
 dows strong piers of brick or stone; but this is now abolished, 
 and has given way to a more light and ornamental style, by 
 which cheerfulness and the desired utility are better con- 
 sulted. There should be conveniences for the admission of 
 air in the highest part of the house, that a free current may 
 be obtained whenever desired, which is an essential point. 
 
 18* 
 
210 GREEN-HOUSE. [/c/7. 
 
 GREEN-HOUSE. 
 JANUARY. 
 
 This compartment requires particular attention, in order 
 to preserve the plants in good health, and carry them through 
 this precarious season of the year. A little air must be ad- 
 mitted at all convenient times. An hour or two at mid-day 
 will be of the utmost importance in drying up damp and 
 clearing off stagnated air, which is a harbour for every cor- 
 ruption. The top sashes being let down or turned a few 
 inches, in mild days (that is, Avhen it is not high and cutting 
 winds) from ten or eleven o'clock to two or three, according 
 to the intensity of the frost, will renovate the interior air of 
 the house and harden the plants. When the weather will 
 permit, let the front sashes be opened about one inch or more. 
 An assiduous, experienced hand will never omit an oppor- 
 tunity. 
 
 With regard to fire heat, the temperature must be regu- 
 lated to suit the nature of the plants in a general sense ; so 
 let the mercury, or spirits of wine, of Fahrenheit's tliermo- 
 meter, be from 35° to 50 ; if it begins to fall, give a little fire 
 heat. No doubt we have seen the thermometer much lower 
 in the green-house than the above, even as low as 24°, with- 
 out any immediate injury; but it was in an extensive collec- 
 tion, where the most hardy of the plants were selected into 
 one house. Many boast how little fire they give their green- 
 house, and how cold it is kept, not observing the miserable 
 slate of their plants — inexperience causing them to think 
 that the least fire heat will make them grow, and would ra- 
 ther look on naked stems than healthy plants. The above 
 temperature will not, in exotics, cause premature vegetation, 
 but will cause the plants to retain the foliage requisite to ve- 
 getative nature. A high temperature is not necessary for' 
 
Jan.] GREEN-HOUSE, — OF WATERING. 211 
 
 the generality of green-house plants ; on the contrary, it 
 might very much injure them. 
 
 OF WATERING. 
 
 In this month very little is requisite, and must be given 
 with great caution. Few plants will require much, and some 
 hardly any; but all must be attended to, and have their wants 
 supplied. Some will need it twice, some once a week, and 
 some in two weeks, according to their shrubby and woody 
 nature. Herbaceous and deciduous plants will seldom need 
 water. Perhaps, from the shedding of the foliage to the 
 commencement of vegetation, three or four times will be suf- 
 ficient. Particular attention should be paid to the state of 
 health and of growth, in which the plants respectively are, 
 in the application of water ; otherwise much mischief may be 
 done, and many entirely ruined. 
 
 Green-house plants being now in an absolutely inactive - 
 state, require little more water than merely to keep the earth 
 about their roots from becoming perfectly dry, by occasion- 
 ally applying a very small quantity at the root ; and, if done 
 with a watering-pot, as described under this head in the hot- 
 house of this month, very little will be spilt in the house to 
 increase dampness, which, if it does appear, by any of the 
 leaves of the plants becoming musty, they must be instantly 
 picked off; and, if it increases, give a little fire and air. Suc- 
 culent plants will not need any water during this month, un- 
 less omitted in December. 
 
 CAMELLIA JAPONICA. 
 
 This magnificent and attractive flower, with all its splen- 
 did varieties, will, about this lime, begin to open its beauti- 
 ful flowers. But for this admired genus of plants, our green- 
 houses, at this season, would be void of allurement. It is, 
 
212 GREEN-HOUSE. — OF ORANGES, &C. [Jan. 
 
 in this country, subject to red spider, and nriore especially in 
 the city, which appears to be from the nature of the air. 
 The effects of the spider on these plants, if not prevented, 
 would prove fatal ; as, from appearance, many have died by 
 it in several collections. If it has reached a great extent, 
 the leaves are brownish, having the appearance of being de- 
 cayed, or scorched with the sun. In taking hold of ihe leaf, 
 it feels soft, and altogether seems to have lost its nutritive 
 substance ; and, when the young foliage expands, it becomes 
 covered with dark brown spots, and finally very much dis- 
 figured ; and, when in this stale, the red spider is severe, and, 
 ultimately, death ensues. 
 
 If any of the plants are affected as above described, lake a 
 sponge, and wash every leaf minutely with soft water, and 
 syringe them with water three or four times a week, which 
 will clean ihem. All the young foliage will be healthy, and 
 that which has been affected will fall off. However, preven- 
 tion is better than cure ; and if the Camellias are properly 
 syringed every evening during summer, and once or twice 
 a week during winter, they will never be subject lo the ra- 
 vages of that destructful insect. 
 
 Tie up any of the flowers that are expanded to stakes, in 
 case of accident ; and, in syringing, observe not to let any 
 water fall on the flowers, as it causes premature decay and 
 change of colour. 
 
 OF ORANGES, LEMONS, &c. 
 
 As there will perhaps be more leisure in the green-house 
 this month than in any other during the winter, it is pre- 
 sumed that there will not be a moment lost. If any of the 
 trees are infested with insects, these, being now in their 
 inactive slate, may be more easily destroyed than at any 
 other time. It is the brown scaly insect that generally in- 
 fests them. For treatment, see Hot-house, January. The 
 plant or tree, after being washed, before it becomes dry, will 
 
Jan.] GREEN-HOUSE. OF CAPE BULBS, 6CC. 213 
 
 require to be syringed with water, otherwise the dust will 
 adhere to the glutinous particles of the soap. Set the plant 
 in an airy situation to dry, in case of damp. There are se- 
 veral others subject to this insect, such as Myrtles, Oleas, 
 Oleanders, &c., which treat in the same manner. Be careful 
 that these trees are not over-watered ; if the soil is moist, it 
 is sufficient. 
 
 OF CAPE BULBS, &c. 
 
 If there are any out of the ground, it is time that the whole 
 were potted, such as Lachenalia, Wachendorfia, Eiicomis, 
 Ixia, Gladiolus, with several others. Keep them in the 
 shade until they begin to grow ; then put them on shelves 
 near the light. Those that are growing must be kept in 
 front of the house, to prevent them being weak. Wachen- 
 dorfia has a beautiful large red tuberous root, and requires 
 a pot about six or seven inches deep. 
 
 OF HYACINTHS AND OTHER BULBOUS ROOTS. 
 
 All these roots must be carefully examined. In case slugs 
 or snails are preying upon the embryo of the flower, some of 
 those that are farthest advanced maybe put for a few weeks 
 in the hot-house. It will greatly accelerate their flowering, 
 but they must be brought out again before the florets expand, 
 and carefully tied up, leaving room for the increase and ex- 
 tension of the flower stem. Give them plenty of water, and 
 if saucers can be placed under them to retain it, it will be of 
 advantage. Change the water every week on those that are 
 in glasses, and keep all the growing bulbs near the light. 
 Narcissus, Jonquils, &c., may be similarly treated. 
 
214 GREEN-HOUSE. — ORANGES, &C. [Feb. 
 
 FEBRUARY. 
 
 The directions given last month respecting the airing and 
 temperature of the house may still be followed, differing 
 only in admitting air more freely as the season advances, and 
 according to the power the sun has on the glass, which now 
 begins to be considerable. 
 
 If the weather is tolerably mild, air may be admitted in 
 time of sunshine, so as to keep the mercury as low as 50^, 
 but be cautious in cold, cloudy, frosty weather. It is a prac- 
 tice with many in such weather to keep the shutters on the 
 house night and day, for the space of a week, and sometimes 
 more, never entering it ; and, when the weather has induced 
 them to look in, they find that the frost and damp have made 
 many lifeless subjects ; whereas, had the house and plants 
 been attended to, in taking off the shutters, and giving a lit- 
 tle fire when requisite, all would have been in safety, and 
 many plants that cannot be replaced still in the collection. 
 
 When watering, strictly adhere to the directions of last 
 month, except with Geraniums, and other soft wooded plants, 
 which require a little more water toward the end of the 
 month. If the days are mild and sunny about eight or nine 
 o'clock in the morning, all the plants would be benefited by 
 a gentle syringing, which retards the progress of insects, and 
 accelerates vegetation. 
 
 Succulents, such as Cactus, Mesemhrydnthemum, Aloes, 
 Furcrceds, Crussulas, Cotyledons, cj-c, will very seldom 
 need water, at the same time keep them from getting as dry 
 as powder. 
 
 OF ORANGES, LEMONS, &c. 
 
 Similar treatment to that recommended last month will do 
 for this. Where the soil in the tubs or pots requires to be 
 enriched, take of bone-dust or shavings, and fresh sheepdung, 
 
Feb.] GREEN-HOUSE. CAPE BULBS, &CC. 215 
 
 equal quantities ; put the mixture into a large tub or barrel, 
 until one-third full ; and fill it up with water. Stir it well two 
 or three times every day till it ferments, then give each 
 tree one good watering with the compound. Continue to 
 mix up afresh, and let it stand another week, and so on until 
 all the trees requiring it are watered. This watering will 
 greatly enrich the soil and invigorate the roots. 
 
 OF CAPE BULBS, &c. 
 
 The bulbs of Ferraria undulata, and F. antherosa, that 
 were taken out of the pots in October, will now require to 
 be planted. Five-inch pots will be large enough for good 
 roots. The grand criterion for planting bulbs is when there 
 is a protuberant appearance about the bottom, or root part of 
 the bulb, showing, by a principle of nature, the true time for 
 transplanting. When bulbous roots of any description ap- 
 pear above ground, they ought to be placed in an airy situa- 
 tion. They are very frequently placed under other plants, 
 by the inexperienced, until they show their flowers, and then 
 brought to the light, having weak flowers, and comparative- 
 ly of momentary existence. 
 
 Hyacinths, Narcissus, Gladiolus, Ixia, &c., having flower 
 stems, ought to have support, to prevent accident, especially 
 the two former ; keep them nigh the glass, and water freely. 
 Change the water regularly once or twice a week in the 
 bulb glasses, observing that their roots are never allowed to 
 become matted with fetid water. Any of the above plants 
 that are in flower might, if desired, be taken into the draw- 
 ing-room or parlour, washing the pots clean, and putting 
 saucers under them, keeping therein a little water. Twice 
 a week the decayed ones can be taken out, and supplanted 
 with those that are coming into bloom. 
 
216 GREEN-HOUSE. — CAMELLIA JAPONICA. [Feb. 
 
 CAMELLIA JAPONICA 
 
 Will, in this month, show a profusion of flowers ; and, 
 where there is a variety, they have truly a magnificent ap- 
 pearance. From a good selection, endless varieties, by seed, 
 of exquisite beauty, might be obtained by attention to the fol- 
 lowing rule : The best to select for bearing seed are Single 
 white, Atoniana, Grandiflbra, Waratali, Carnation Waratah, 
 Rubricaulis, Donkelarif and, in many instances, the pistil, or 
 pistillum of Variegata, Pompone, Pceoniflora, Intermedia, 
 and Hosackia, are perfect, with several others. When any 
 of the above are newly expanded, ( Waratali is most perfect 
 about one day before full expansion,) take a fine camel hair- 
 pencil, and put it gently on the farina or pollen, from the 
 double sorts, which is a yellow substance on the anthers, and, 
 when ripe, appears in thousands of small particles. Then, 
 with this on the pencil, dust it lightly on the stile of those 
 intended to carry seed. Between the hours of ten and 
 twelve in the forenoon is the most proper time for the ope- 
 ration ; the seed will be ripe in September or October, which 
 will be taken notice of, and directions given. For other par- 
 ticulars on cleaning and syringing, see January under this 
 head. 
 
 OF SHIFTING, &c. 
 
 The best time to repot Camellias is just when they are 
 done flowering, which will be before they begin to grow. 
 There are, though not frequently, some flowers after the 
 young foilage begins to appear, and probably it would be 
 better to discriminate the time by the buds offering to push, 
 which will answer to those that have no flowers as well as 
 those that have. The most general time in shifting Camel- 
 lias is in August and September, indiscriminately with other 
 plants ; and, if then not very gently handled, bad roots even- 
 tually are produced. Frequently very fine plants have been 
 
Feb.] GREEN-HOUSE. OF CLEANING, &C. 217 
 
 killed by probing, and breaking the young fibrous roots, thus 
 causing mortification. 
 
 In the process do not, by any means, break or bruis« any 
 of the roots ; and do not give large pots, with the idea of 
 making them grow fast : it acts on most plants diametri- 
 cally opposite to what is intended. A pot one or two 
 inches wider and deeper than the one they have been in pre- 
 viously, is sufficient. Healthy plants, under five feet, will 
 not require shifting oftener than once in two years ; from five 
 feet upward, in three or four years, according to the health 
 of the plants. This treatment, in the opinion of some, will ap- 
 pear insufficient for their support : it will be found enough 
 with a top-dressing every year to keep them in a healthy flow- 
 ering condition, the soil being according to our description. 
 
 On turning the plant out of the pot, it may easily be ob- 
 served if the soil has, in any degree, been congenial to it ; 
 for, if so, the roots will be growing all round the ball ; if 
 otherwise, no roots will appear. 
 
 Therefore, with a blunt pointed stick, probe away all the 
 bad earth, until you come to the roots ; then put the plant in 
 a pot about one inch in diameter larger than the combined 
 roots, previously putting a few small pieces of broken pots, 
 or clean gravel, to drain off the superabundant moisture, and 
 give light waterings, as the roots in this case will grow but 
 slowly. 
 
 Top-dress all that requires shifting, probe out the soil down 
 to the roots, and by the side of the pot, taking care not to 
 break the fibres; then fill up with fresh earth, watering gently 
 with a rose on the watering-pot to settle it. 
 
 OF CLEANING, &c. 
 
 If any of the plants require cleaning, either by fumigation 
 or otherwise, let it be done before the young foliage appears, 
 according to the directions heretofore given. Likewise tie 
 neatly all that require it, clean and top-dress those that will 
 
 19 
 
218 GREEN-HOUSE. — OF WATERING. [Mafck. 
 
 not be shifted, having every plant, and all in the green-house, 
 in perfect order before the throng of spring commences. 
 The weather will now admit, in very fine mornings, of the 
 plants being syringed, which may be done between seven 
 and eight o'clock ; and the path or pavement should be 
 washed out once a week, which is a great improvement to 
 the appearance of the whole interior. 
 
 In winter, when any glass is broken, it should be immedi- 
 ately mended. Broken glass in cold nights causes a very 
 destructive current of air. It should always be made water 
 tight, for if the drops fall into the pots upon the roots, they 
 will frequently prove fatal to the plants ; therefore care ought 
 to be taken during rain to remove those that stand in any 
 manner exposed. 
 
 MARCH. 
 
 The plants in this compartment will begin to assume a dif- 
 ferent aspect, and air must be admilled every day if practi- 
 cable, giving large portions in sunshine by the sashes regu- 
 larly over all the house, opening those of the front a little, 
 and hkewise the doors in fine mild days. To perform this 
 judiciously, give a little about eight or nine o'clock, more at 
 ten, and the whole from eleven till twelve o'clock, shutting 
 again by degrees. 
 
 Fire heat will now be dispensed with, but in frosty nights 
 have the shutters on about sundown. The sun is now pow- 
 erful, and the house can be early shut up in the afternoon, 
 and will gain as much natural heal as will keep up the re- 
 quired temperature, viz., 36° lo 45°. Perhaps there maybe 
 uncommonly cold vi'calher: at such limes be attentive toward 
 off danger by applying artificial heat. 
 
March.] green-house. — of watering. 219 
 
 OF WATERING. 
 
 Look over the pots and tubs at least every alternate day, 
 to see where water is wanted. In watering, too much cau- 
 tion cannot be used, especially during winter and the com- 
 mencement of spring. It was observed last month what 
 would be the effect of too much water. It may be remarked, 
 that if the exterior of the pot is very damp, the soil inside is 
 too wet, and, in that state, is uncongenial to vegetation, which 
 now begins to start, and ought, by all possible means, to be 
 encouraged. People may be frequently observed watering 
 all plants indiscriminately, not taking the trouble to look into 
 or feel the state of the soil in the pots or tubs, and thus, by going 
 over them three or four times in this manner, will be sufficient 
 to put the plants in such a state, that they will not be recruited 
 for some months. Hence the reason of so many sickly 
 plants. 
 
 Camellias, where there are collections, will continue to 
 flower. Treat them according to the directions given last 
 month. 
 
 OF ORANGES, LEMONS, &c. 
 
 Be sure they are not too wet, as too much humidity as 
 well as aridity causes their foliage to have a yellow appear- 
 ance, with this difference, that in the former case the foliage 
 is the same to the touch as when green ; but in the latter, it 
 is soft and dry. We have observed trees in tubs and half 
 barrels, with holes all round their sides. This is a ludicrous 
 idea, having the appearance of keeping the water from reach- 
 ing the bottom of the tub or barrel. For the best kind of tub 
 for large trees, see August under this head. If any of the 
 trees have stunted, straggling, or irregular heads about the 
 end of this month or beginning of next, head or cut them 
 down to the shape desired. The old wood will push fresh 
 
220 GREEN-HOUSE. — MYHTLES, &c. [March. 
 
 shoots. You may cut close, or shorten less or more, accord- 
 ing as you desire young shoots to arise; at the same time 
 observe that you do not cut below the graft or inoculation. 
 Trees thus headed down should be kept until May, and then 
 planted in the garden, (see May,) or, if that cannot be done, 
 turn it out, and reduce the ball of earth by probing with a 
 pointed stick all round the sides and bottom of the ball, cut- 
 ting off" any very matted roots. If any of the roots are de- 
 cayed, cut them into the sound wood. By being thus re- 
 duced, it will go into the same pot or tub, if not a less one. 
 Having a good supply of fresh earth ready, put a few inches 
 in the bottom of the pot or tub, place the tree therein, and 
 fill all around, at the same time pressing it down with the 
 hand or a stick. Give very little v^rater until there are signs 
 of vegetation. 
 
 MYRTLES, OLEANDERS, &c. 
 
 These, with similar exotics, may be treated as above. If 
 any of them have been infected with the scaly insect, after 
 heading down, &c., scrub the remaining stems with a strong 
 decoction of tobacco, heated to about 100°. Afterward 
 clean with soap and water. 
 
 GERANIUMS. 
 
 These will be growing freely. Keep them in airy situa- 
 tions, so that they may not grow too weak, and flower im- 
 perfectly. To flower these plants strong and of good colour, 
 they must not be crowded together, neither far from the 
 light, and have plenty of air admitted to them when the 
 weather is favourable. Keep them free from the green-fly, 
 by fumigating frequently. 
 
March.] green-house. — herbaceous plants. 221 
 
 HERBACEOUS PLANTS. 
 
 Plants of this character will, by the first of the month, be- 
 gin to grow. The best time to divide and fresh-pot them is 
 when the young shoots are about one inch above ground. 
 See under the head Shifting in this month. 
 
 OF GAPE BULBS, &c. 
 
 Cape Bulbs, such as Lachenalias, Oxalis, Ixias, Gladio- 
 lus, Watsbnias, Bahianas, ^c, will, in many of the species, 
 be showing flower. Keep all of them near the glass, to pre- 
 vent them from being weak and unsightly. 
 
 Hyacinths, Tulips, Narcissus, c^c. Those that have been 
 kept in the green-house during winter will be in great per- 
 fection. Have all the flower stems tied up neatly to small 
 stakes, (which, if painted green, will look much better,) and 
 keep them from the direct rays of the sun. The front of 
 the house, perhaps, will be the best situation. They must be 
 freely watered while in flower. Where there is convenience, 
 it will be essential to keep the pots in saucers containing wa- 
 ter : it will strengthen both stems and flowers, and likewise 
 preserve them longer in perfection. Those that are bloom- 
 ing should be put aside, and watered sparingly, until the fo- 
 liage begins to decay, when the pots may be laid on their 
 sides to ripen the bulbs. 
 
 REPOTTING. 
 
 We have aUvays considered that this month is the best pe- 
 riod for repotting the generality of Cape and New Holland 
 plants, and more especially those that you are desirous of en- 
 couraging. Large plants of the Citrus, Myrtus, and Olean- 
 der tribes may be deferred till August : these are of a strong, 
 robust habit, and will not be affected at that period ; and they 
 
 19* 
 
222 GREEN-HOUSE. REPOTTING. [MarcJt. 
 
 will then be out of doors, and more room can be had for the 
 operation, but by no means defer repotting your Acacias, 
 Erias, Leptospermum, Epucris, <^c.; and, for the guidance of 
 our more inexperienced friends, we give a descriptive list of 
 many of the finest, with a faint outline of their characters 
 and general trealment, which will prove a desideratum for 
 those who are inexperienced, and strangers to the beau- 
 ties, pleasures, and arts of exotic flora culture. Therefore, 
 if you have any of the following plants that you are de- 
 sirous of encouraging, they should be repotted this or next 
 month at the latest. Large plants will not require it, if they 
 were done in August. Pots one size larger than those that 
 they are in, are sufficient. 
 
 Acacias and Mimosas being now united into one genus, 
 there are above two hundred species. About one hun- 
 dred and thirty belong to the green-house. Among such 
 a beautiful family, both for elegance of flower and beauty 
 of foliage, it will be difficult to specify the most handsome 
 and desirable for this department. A. dealhata, A. glauce- 
 scens, A. verticilata, A. Jlorabimda, A. diffusa, A. arma- 
 hia, A. decipiens, A.fragrans, A.jmlchella, A. lophantha, A. 
 ta, A. verniciflita, A. decurrens, A. jmbescens, A. leucolb- 
 myrtifblia, A. conspicua, A. linearis, <^c. These will afford 
 a great variety of foliage, and are very desirable, flowering 
 principally in winter, or early in spring. The flowers of 
 those belonging to the green-house are of a yellow or straw 
 colour ; the most of those that are red or purple, with the ce- 
 lebrated medicinal species, belong to the hot-house, for 
 which see May. There are some of the species very subject 
 to the white scaly insect, which must be attended to, that 
 they may not get to any extent. (Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Agapdntlms, three species. A. umhellatus, with bright 
 blue flowers, is very celebrated, and well known in the col- 
 lections of the country. There is a variegated variety of it 
 highly desirable, the foliage being while striped, and fre- 
 quently the flower stem and the flower A. dlhidus has pale 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 223 
 
 whiteflowers, and asyet ratherscarce. They have very strong 
 roots, and require plenty of freedom. Plants are always 
 large before they flower, and when the pots, by frequent 
 shifting, become inconvenient, the plant should be divested 
 of all the earth, and, if too large, divide it, cutting off the 
 strongest of the fibres ; then they will admit of being put 
 into smaller pots. If the above operation is performed in 
 August or September, it will not retard their flowering, 
 which, when well grown, is very handsome, the flower stem 
 arising about three feet, and crowned with twenty or thirty 
 blossoms, continuing to bloom successively. (Soil No. 
 12.) 
 
 Aloe. Nearly a hundred species of grotesque-looking suc- 
 culent plants, and are principally natives of the Cape of Good 
 Hope, and, consequently, will do well in the warmest part 
 of the green-house, although, when convenient, they fre- 
 quently get a situation in the hot-house. A. vulgaris, known 
 as A.barbadensis, has orange yellow flowers; A. obliqiia, now 
 called Gasteria obliqua ; A. dichotoma ; and A. variegata, 
 which is perhaps the finest of the genus : the leaves are beau- 
 tifully striped, and commonly known as the partridge-breast 
 Aloe ; flowers scarlet and green. They ought to have very 
 little water, once a month is sufficient. They would grow 
 without it, and several of them would also grow by being sus- 
 pended in the house, without earth or any substitute about 
 their roots, by being frequently sprinkled with water. Few 
 of them are admired for the beauty of their flowers, but 
 the whole are considered curious- They flower from May 
 to September. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Alonsoas, five species, all soft-wooded, small, shrubby 
 plants, with scarlet flowers. A. incisifolia is known among 
 us under the name of Hemimeris urticifolia, and A. linearis 
 as H. linearis. If well treated, they form very handsome 
 plants, and flower freely. They will not bear strong fumi- 
 gation ; and, when the house is under that operation, they 
 must be put on the floor of the green-house, where they will 
 
224 GREEN-nousE. — REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 not be so much affected. They flower from April to Au- 
 gust. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Aloysa citriodbra, known in our collections as vey'hena 
 triphyUa. The flowers are small, in long spikes of a pale 
 lilac colour : the celebrity of the plant is in the delightful 
 odour of its foliage, which is linear, lanceolate, and ternate. 
 It is of very easy culture, and has been known to survive the 
 winter in the open air in Philadelphia. Where large plants 
 are desired, they should be planted in the ground during 
 summer and lifted in November, and put in a dry cellar or 
 under the stage in the green-house. Before they begin to 
 grow in the spring, trim the plants into a neat shape. (Soil 
 No. 9.) 
 
 Alstrczmerias, about sixteen species, all exceedingly desi- 
 rable, and many of them particularly beautiful ; such are — 
 A.durea, golden flowered ; A. acwft/oZia, scarlet; A.Hookerii, 
 rose-coloured; il. p^Zfo^reria, elegantly spotted; A.pulchella, 
 red flowered, and will grow six feet high, having its shoots 
 crowned with a profusion of flowers ; A. psittacina, red, yel- 
 low, and green ; A. tricolor, black, white, and yellow ; very 
 beautiful. They have, generally, tuberous roots, and should 
 be potted into fresh soil as soon as they show symptoms of 
 growth, and they will require repotting about every month 
 previous to flowering, taking care never to break the ball of 
 earth while they are in a growing stale. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 AmarijUis. This is a genus of splendid flowering bulbs, 
 containing about eighty species and one hundred and forty 
 varieties. They are natives of South America, but more 
 than one-half of them are hybrids grown from seed by culti- 
 vators. They are generally kept in the hot-house, but in 
 our climate will do perfectly well in the green-house ; and 
 we have no doubt that in a few years many of them will be 
 so acclimated, as to keep as garden bulbs, planting about the 
 end of April, and lifting them in October. As the beauty of 
 these plants is in the flowers, it will be proper to give a small 
 description of a few of them. A. striatifblia has a stripe in 
 
March.] green-house. — REPOXTrNC. 225 
 
 the centre of each leaf, the flowers are purple and white, an 
 esteemed species, A. Johnsdni, the flowers are a deep scar- 
 let, with a white streak in the centre of each petal, four bloom 
 on a stem of about two feet, each flower about six inches in 
 diameter : a bulb well established has two stems, ^l. regina, 
 Mexican Lily, has large scarlet pendent flowers, tube of the 
 flower fringed-like, with three or four on the stem. A. vit- 
 tata is an admired species with scarlet flowers, striped with 
 pure white : there are two or three varieties of it ; corolla 
 campanulate, three or four on the stem, about three inches 
 in diameter; petals a little undulate. A.fidgida, flower scar- 
 let, large, tube striped, petals acute, two flowers on the stem. 
 A. ciulica is one of the most magnificent, has from two to 
 four flowers about seven inches in diameter, erect on a stem 
 about two and a half feet high ; six petals, strongly united to 
 the capsule, bottom of the petals green, connected with spots 
 of dark crimson, which spread into fine transparent red, co- 
 vered with rich tints, nerves very perceptible, anthers bold ; 
 it is called Crowned Amaryllis. A. psittdcina, Parrot Ama- 
 ryllis, is scarlet striped with green, two or more flowers on 
 the stem, each about five inches in diameter. There are se- 
 veral varieties of it; the best that we have seen are cowhergia 
 and pulverulenta. A bulb known in our collections as A. 
 purpurea is now Vallotta purpurea, has beautiful erect scarlet 
 flowers, three or four on the stem, each about four inches in 
 diameter. There are three varieties of it, differing only in 
 habit. A. longifblia is now Crlnum capense, and is perfect- 
 ly hardy; flowers pink, inclining to white, in large umbels, 
 leaves long, glaucous, and is a desirable garden bulb. A. 
 longifibra striata has pure white flowers with bright pink 
 stripes, and each flower is about seven inches long; it was 
 introduced from South America by Mrs. R. Alsop, and is 
 a most superb flowermg bulb. A. solandrijlbra, large red ; 
 A. Augusta, buff" and orange ; A. eUgdns, red and green, and 
 many other superb kinds, especially the hybrid sorts ; from 
 Johnsbni there are above twenty cultivated varieties ; from 
 
226 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March 
 
 formbsa above twelve ; and from Griffini about ten, all of 
 ihenn esteemed. Where they have been kept in the earth 
 in which they were grown last year, the ball ought at this 
 repotting to be reduced ; when the bulbs are in a growing 
 stale, they ought to have plenty of water, and be fully ex- 
 posed to the sun, so that the foliage may have its full influ- 
 ence, and as the roots grow to the outside of the earth, give 
 them another and larger pot. They must have plenty of 
 drainage, and be kept from heavy rains. We prefer grow- 
 ing them in the green-house all summer, or into frames 
 under glass : about the end of October the watering must be 
 gradually withheld, and by the middle of November put the 
 bulbs where they will be kept dry till February or March 
 next, when they must be again potted (in soil No. 12.) 
 
 Andersbnia sprengelioides is the only species, and closely 
 allied to Epdcris, flowers small, and of a pale yellow colour. 
 Drain the pots well ; flowers from March to August. (Soil 
 No. 6.) 
 
 Anagyris, three species, evergreen, pea-flowered shrubs, 
 flowers yellow, nothing very attractive in either of the spe- 
 cies. A.fcetida is found in many collections, and we have 
 no doubt but it may prove, in this country, a hardy shrub. 
 
 Abius, two species, both fine leguminose plants. A.villbsa 
 is a native of Van Dieman's Land, and A. virgata is from 
 New Holland. The former is preferable. Both have yel- 
 low flowers, and are small evergreen shrubs. (Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Araucaria. This noble genus contains four species, which 
 are without exception the most noble plants we are acquaint- 
 ed with, for the beauty of their foliage and symmetry of 
 their growth, that belong to the green-house. A. excelsa, 
 Norfolk Island Pine, has leaves closely imbricated as if with 
 a coat of mail, and are imperishable. A. imhricata, Chile 
 Pine, is one of the grandest of trees, and is the hardiest of 
 the genus; the leaves are also closely imbricated. The other 
 two species are rarely seen even in European collections. 
 Tlie foliage of either of the species will adhere to the wood 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 227 
 
 many years after the plant is dead. They are all highly va- 
 lued : the pots must be well drained ; for if the plants get 
 much water while dormant, the foliage becomes yellow, and 
 never attains its beautiful green colour again ; otherwise they 
 are easily grown. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Arbutus, ten exotic species and six varieties. They are 
 generally hardy in England ; but we question if they stand 
 out in the middle states. A. unido riihra has the finest 
 crimson flowers ; A. serratifolia, the largest panicles ; and A. 
 Andrdchne, the finest foliage, and very profuse of bloom. 
 They flower in nodding panicles ; A. candriensis has very 
 neat pink flowers. They bear a pretty fruit similar to a 
 strawberry, ; hence it is called strawberry tree, and the fruit 
 will remain on the bush a long time. They are very fine 
 evergreens, and if any of them become acclimated, they will 
 be a great acquisition to our gardens. In the southern states 
 they make lovely evergreen shrubs. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Aster argophyllus, or musk plant, has no beauty in its flow- 
 ers, but is esteemed by some for its musky flavour when 
 the leaves are gently rubbed. Leaves ovate, lanceolate, and 
 silky beneath : the plant is of strong growth. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Aucuba japonica is the only species. The flowers are 
 small and almost insignificant, colour purple ; but the foliage 
 is a desirable object, being yellow spotted, or blotched. It 
 is tolerably hardy, and withstands our winters. It prefers 
 shade, and, if the situation were such when planted out, it 
 would grow more freely. The hot rays of the sun are very 
 prejudical to its growth. It is an evergreen shrub, and very 
 desirable. (Soil No. 2.) 
 
 Azaleas. The Chinese varieties of Azalea indica are al- 
 most without an end : we might properly say that they are 
 without end ; but the finest we have seen are those we shall 
 enumerate. The one that has been longest known in the 
 collections of this country is A. indica, a most splendid 
 shrub, with red flowers and dark spots. A. indica alba, 
 flowers of the purest white, rather larger than the former. 
 
228 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 A. indica purpurea pleno, double purple. This variety is 
 not so fine as many of ihe others. Properly it is not purple, 
 or, if it may be termed so, the colour is very light, and the 
 flower irregular. A. indica plioenicea, rich purple and a free 
 grower. A . indica smithii, of the French, and A. indica pur- 
 purea of the English, are alike, pale lilac and very profuse of 
 flower. A. indica coccinea, bright scarlet, a superb variety, 
 and extremely abundant of bloom. A. indica fiore variegata 
 is very subject to sport, having flowers pure white, salmon, 
 and occasionally striped. A. indica dlha fibre pleno, double 
 white. A. indica cdrnea, delicate flesh colour. A. indica 
 nova blanc, while with a greenish yellow spot on the upper 
 petals. A. indica elegdns, bright rosy purple, a very pro- 
 fuse flowerer and of a neat habit. A. indica Gillinghamia, 
 very large lilac, and of a strong habit. There are several 
 others which stand in high repute, which we have not seen — 
 these are latteritia, macrdntha, amdhile, &c. Azalea sinen- 
 sis does not belong to the indica tribe ; it is of a hard 
 woody nature, flowers of a golden yellow, in large clus- 
 ters ; it no doubt will prove a hardy species. The varie- 
 ties and sub-varieties of indica will, in a few years, be so 
 numerous, that the greatest difticully will be to keep clear of 
 those that are not decidedly distinct : to obtain this object our 
 own feeble exertions will be industriously applied. We 
 might have named a few other varieties, but they so nearly 
 approach some of the above, that it is better to avoid them. 
 A choice selection of the Chinese Azalea ought to be in eve- 
 ry green-house; they are all easy of culture, and bloom freely 
 from February to May. The pots must be well drained and 
 shaded from the sun during summer, though the tops of the 
 plants do best to have the full rays, to which we have them 
 fully exposed, and find ihot by such treatment they are eve- 
 ry year completely covered with their flowers, and grow 
 more stifi" in habit than when the whole plant is shaded. 
 They should be repotted as soon as done flowering in soil 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 229 
 
 No. 6, when ihey are flowering plants, and in soil No. 5, 
 when young plants. 
 
 Bdnksias. There are about thirty-two species, all curious 
 in flower, and handsome and various in foliage ; flowers in 
 large heads of cone shape, anthers mostly green, and con- 
 tinue a considerable time in flower ; produces a cone in shape 
 of a pine, but not imbricate. The substance is as hard as 
 bone, and contains many seeds. A cone of B. grdndis in our 
 possession weighs one pound twelve ounces, and contains 
 about one hundred and seven seeds. Those most admired for 
 the foliage are, B.dentdta, B. cemula, B. serrata, B. latifolia, 
 B. grdndis, which is the largest. B. specibsa has the longest 
 foliage. B. Cunninghdmii, B.spinulose, B.jJaUuddsa, and 
 B. repens, these will afl'ord a good variety. B. ■veriicilldta 
 is entirely difl'erent in appearance from the others. 
 
 They must be well drained, and placed in an airy part 
 of the green-house. Great care should be taken that they do 
 not get too dry, for they seldom recover if allowed to flag for 
 want of water. This genus is named in honour of Sir Joseph 
 Banks, a distinguished promoter of the study of natural his- 
 tory. (Soil No. ().) 
 
 Backias, above twelve species, of health-like appearance, 
 and, except for variety, are not otherwise desirable. B. cam- 
 pliordta is camphor-scented; B.pulcMlla is very neat; and 
 i?.i;M-o-ato flowers freely. Pots should be well drained. The 
 flowers of all the genus are white. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Barosjnas, above ten species of pretty plants, separated 
 from Dibsma. B. serratifblia, white ; B. pulchella, purple ; 
 B. foetidtssima, blush ; B. odordta, while ; and B. dioica, 
 pink, are the finest. (Soil No. 8.) 
 
 Beaufortias, only two species. B. decussdta is splendid ; 
 the flowers come out of the wood with stamens in fine par- 
 cels, colour bright scarlet, foliage decussate, oval, and many- 
 nerved, bloom persistant, and much esteemed. B. spdrsa, in 
 flower similar to the other ; colour light pink, foliage scat- 
 
 20 
 
230 GREEN-HOUSE. REPOTTING. [Mai'ch, 
 
 tered, both of easy culture, and flower abundantly. (Soil 
 No. 8.) 
 
 Begonias, a few species, are desirable for the green-house 
 especially. B. incarnuta, flesh colour, and bloonns during 
 winter ; B. insignis, profuse flowering pink ; ihey are of a 
 soft woody nature, and should be kept in the warmest part 
 of the green-house. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Benthamia fragifera. This beautiful new plant will make 
 a splendid hardy evergreen for the southern states, where it 
 will produce its pale white flowers in July, and an abundance 
 of fruit very much like strawberries, of a slight acid taste : 
 but we are doubtful if it will fruit in our green-houses, unless 
 greatly encouraged. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Billardieras, about five species, are desirable as climbers, 
 being of rapid growth, and abundant of flower. B. longijibra, 
 fruits freely, and has fine blue berries, which look handsome. 
 B. mutdhilis is changeable from purple to scarlet. The fruit 
 of B. scandens is covered with down, flowers straw-coloured. 
 B. fusifurmis diff'ers in colour from the others, the flowers 
 being blue. They require to be well drained. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Bletia hyacinthina is the only species belonging to the 
 green-house, once known as Cymhidium hyacintJunum. It 
 is herbaceous, and before it begins to grow, divide the root, 
 putting the best into six-inch pots. The spike of flowers 
 are hyacinth-like, and of a beautiful purple, flowering from 
 April to July. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Bouvdrdias, two species. B. fripJiylla is well known 
 among us, has brilliant scarlet flowers, and, when well 
 grown, will flower beautifully from May till September. To 
 keep the plants, they should be frequently renewed ; other- 
 wise they are liable to grow straggling, and become subject 
 to the small white scaly insect. B. jacquince. we suspect has 
 got confounded with the former, being very little difierenl, 
 except the foliage, which is more pointed. They flower 
 from the young wood, and throw their foliage in winter. 
 (Soil No. 3.) 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 231 
 
 Borbnia is a beautiful genus of New Holland plants, con- 
 tains about nine species ; most of them have been universal- 
 ly admired ; the flowers are star-like, rose-coloured, and 
 some of them sweet-scented. B. pinnata grows and flowers 
 freely. B. serruldta, foliage serrated and very crowded, 
 bearing the flowers on the extremity of the shoot, and does 
 extremely well in this country ; the flowers are bright rose, 
 and sweet-scented. B. alata has a fine appearance, and 
 grows handsomely. The foliage is winged and pinnate, strong- 
 scented ; of a hardy nature, and easy culture. They are in 
 flower about April and May, and continue a considerable 
 time ; are subject to mildew if not frequently syringed : drain 
 the pots well. (Soil No. 8.) 
 
 Bosea yervamora, Golden rod tree, leaves large, alternate, 
 ovate, acute, with purple veins and nerves, flowers brown, in 
 axillary dense panicles, grows strong and freely. (Soil No. 
 
 6.) 
 
 Brachysemas, two species, both evergreen climbers. B. 
 latifblium has the best foliage, and large purple leguminose 
 flowers. B. undulatum, flowers yellow, and more plentiful 
 than the former, continuing in long successions. The pots 
 require to be well drained ; very few plants of either in the 
 country. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Brugmdnsias, two species of strong, coarse-growing plants, 
 requiring great nourishment toflower them well. B. suaveo- 
 lens has very large white flowers, about five inches in dia- 
 meter, and sweet-scented. B. sangumea has flowers with a 
 green thorax, the brim of the corolla is of a dark orange co- 
 lour. If this plant is kept in the hot-house, it will drop its 
 flower buds. They must have very frequent repottings, and 
 be liberally supplied with water while growing. (Soil No. 
 18.) 
 
 Brunias, about ten species, have heath-hke foliage, very 
 fine, generally, on close observation, found to be three cor- 
 nered. The flowers are white and globular, the plants, when 
 young, are very handsome ; the finest are, B. nodiflbra, B. 
 
232 GREEN-HOUSE. REPOTTING. [Murck. 
 
 lanuginosa, B. comosa, B. ahrotanoides, and B.formbsa. 
 They require an airy situation, and, in summer, to be pro- 
 tected from the powerful rays of the sun. Drain the pots 
 well. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Brunsvigias are all large bulbs from the Cape of Good 
 Hope, and will keep in the green-house during winter, but 
 are better where they can obtain a situation in the hot-house. 
 It is a splendid genus, containing about ten species. Some 
 of the bulbs grow to an enormous size, and all of them, while 
 growing, require a liberal supply of water; but, when dor- 
 mant, it must be wholly withheld, and they should have 
 large pots, to make them grow and flower in perfection. B. 
 multijibra, flowers scarlet and green ; the leaves lay on the 
 surface of the pot. B. laticoma, flowers pale purple. B. Jo- 
 sephincB has splendid rose-coloured flowers, and the most ad- 
 mired species of the genus ; the foliage spreading, half erect, 
 and glacous ; flowers numerous, and in large umbels, on a 
 stem two feet high, blooming successively : there is a varie- 
 ty that has striped flowers. 
 
 Several other species have been given to different genera. 
 B.falcata is now Ammocharis falcata ; B. margindta, now 
 Jmhofia ; and B. cillioris is now Buphone cilliaris. They 
 all flower in umbels, on stems from si.x inches to two feet; 
 flowers lily-like, with six petals. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Burchellias, two species. B. ccq)cnsis is a beautiful dwarf 
 evergreen shrub, with tubular orange-coloured flowers, in 
 large terminale clusters ; when well treated, grows and flow- 
 ers freely, and highlydeservingof attention. B .pariiijlbra A\i- 
 fersfrom the above in theflowers, being smaller and paler, and 
 ihe foliage more pointed. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Cactus : for descriptions of, see hot-house in May. 
 
 Calceolaria. This genus of plants has undergone a com- 
 plete revolution. Within these few years hundreds of su- 
 perb hybrid varieties have been brought to notice, many of 
 them truly splendid. With us the herbaceous kinds are 
 very deUcate during summer ; they are generally all cut off 
 
March.] GREEN-IIOUSE, REPOTTING. 233 
 
 by our intense heat, or severe droughts. The shrubby varie- 
 ties appear to withstand the vicissitudes of our climate bet- 
 ter, though, as yet, we confess we are not even altogether 
 successful in their summer culture. However, a few of them 
 have done well, and are C. angustifblia, bright yellow, and 
 in great profusion ; C. hicblor, pale yellow, and while ; C 
 Jupiter, brown and yellow ; C. marjoridna superba, nearly 
 scarlet, and very beautiful ; C. smithii, red and yellow ; C 
 brutus, dark biown ; C. gem, beautiful red, edged with yel- 
 low. There are many others of very great merit of the shrub- 
 by kinds cultivated in Europe, such as whites of different 
 shades, dark crimsons, with while capes, and others blending 
 into almost every description of colour and character. Any 
 quantity of new sorts may be obtained by cross impregna- 
 tion between any two of very different colours : the seeds will 
 ripen in July, when they may be sown on light soil, and they 
 will flower the following season. Flowering plants require 
 to be greatly encouraged, and must be shaded during summer 
 from the violent noon-day sun. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Calothdmnus, four species. This genus is named in allu- 
 sion to the splendid appearance of the branches, covered with 
 scarlet flowers of curious construction, which come out of the 
 old Wood. Ail ihe species are of easy culture, and very like 
 dwarf pines. C. quadnffida has the largest flowers ; C. cla- 
 vdta the most abundant. They are all evergreens, and flow- 
 er from April to November, and are very desirable in a col- 
 lection. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Callicoma serratifblia,i\\e only species, and remarkable for 
 tufted yellow heads of flowers, which come out at the axils, 
 and continue from May to July. The foliage is ovate, lance- 
 olate, deeply serrated and opposite. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Camellias. There are about eight distinct species of this 
 plant, known in our collections ; and the varieties oijaponica 
 approach to one thousand, to which many are yearly added ; 
 but, unfortunately, their merits are not fully scrutinized be- 
 fore they are sent forth to the floral world, under names re- 
 
 20* 
 
834 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [MCT cJl. 
 
 presenting and expressing every quality that is grand or 
 beautiful in floral imagination. Such has been the rapid in- 
 crease of varieties in Europe, and even in this country, that, 
 in many instances, three or four distinct plants have come 
 out under the same name ; consequently, a great confusion of 
 names has been the result, which has caused much difficulty 
 in attaining the best of the names. The collections of this 
 country were kept comparalivelypwre till within the last few 
 years, that the anxiety of our cultivators to obtain variety, 
 caused them to import from the French and German markets, 
 which has thrown the nomenclature into an almost impene- 
 trable chaos. But still we can unite in saying, " What spe- 
 cies of plant is there which better merits the intelligent and 
 vigilant care of the amateur and horticulturist ?" The ele- 
 gance of its form, the beautiful verdure of its foliage, and the 
 pure and brilliant colours of the large and elegant flowers, suf- 
 ficiently justify the admiration of all. In fact, we may say, 
 there is not a green-house in which this lovely plant has not 
 found a place, where it stands in the first rank of floral 
 population. To give a full description of all the varieties 
 we know would occupy this volume. However, we will 
 give lucid details of nearly one hundred of the finest we have 
 seen in cultivation. But, in regard to the shades and spots 
 of colour, we must throw ourselves on the charity of our 
 readers; for many sorts are very capricious in that particular^ 
 though styled self-coloured, may come spotted, and even 
 those that are generally spotted sometimes show themselves 
 of one colour. 
 
 Camellia euryoides, flowers small, single white, and a little 
 fragrant ; plant of a slender growth. 
 
 C. oleiferia is cultivated principally in China for the oil 
 which is expressed from its seeds, which is much used in the 
 domestic cookery of the country ; flower single white. 
 
 C. Sescinqua, Lady Banks's. The foliage of this species is 
 very small, and paler, and the green not so fine as any of the 
 others. It seeds freely, and is often used as the female pa- 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 235 
 
 rent in producing new varieties ; flowers small, white, and 
 single, with many anthers. There are a semi-double and 
 double variety of it of the same colour. 
 
 C. sesdnqua rosea, or mallifldra of some, double pink, small 
 flowers, but in very great profusion ; the plant is of a free, 
 upright growth. The flowers are of about four weeks' dura- 
 ration : it is very much esteemed. 
 
 C. kissii. Small single while : the only species that is a 
 native of Nepaul. 
 
 C. reticulata was brought from China by Capt. Rawes in 
 1822. The foliage is very characteristic, being stiff and flat, 
 distinctly serrated, nerves deeply sunken ; flowers bright 
 rose, of a loose form, and above six inches in diameter, semi- 
 double. From present appearance, it will never be so plenty 
 as many of the others, being tardy of propagation ; only a 
 few eyes on the extremity of each shoot make young wood, 
 and, if these are cut off, the plant does not seem to push 
 afresh. Magnificent. 
 
 C. japonica, small, single, red. It is supposed that this 
 is the type of all the garden cultivated varieties of the Ca- 
 mellia, though some are inclined to think that it is a varie- 
 gated or striped species, not yet introduced, that has been 
 the origin of so many beautiful Chinese sorts. 
 
 The following are supposed to be its varieties : 
 
 C. aitbnia. This variety is a beautiful specimen of a sin- 
 gle flower, affording a developement of the organ of fructifi- 
 cation ; the petals are delicately pencilled, and the anthers 
 very bold, colour pink, and the flower very large ; grows 
 freely, and, in our opinion, is surpassed by none of the single 
 sorts for raising fine new varieties, if impregnated with the 
 pollen from double flowers. Good. 
 
 C. alba-plena, common double white, is admired by the 
 most casual observer, and is generally considered a very su- 
 perior flower, from the purity of its whiteness and the abun- 
 dance of its large flowers, which are closely and regularly 
 
236 OREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [Morch. 
 
 set with round petals. The foliage is large, and the plant 
 grows freely ; we have seen one shoot grow two feet in one 
 summer. It was imported into Europe from China, among 
 the first of the varieties, about eighty years ago. Magnifi- 
 cent. 
 
 C. semplex* alba, single white. It is mentioned some- 
 where as being very sweet-scented, though not very percep- 
 tible to us. The foliage and wood are very strong, the fine- 
 striped sorts have been raised from it; consequently, it is par- 
 ticularly desirable as a stock to grow new varieties from. 
 Its flowers are large and abundant. Good. 
 
 C. alth(BJlbra, hollyhock flowered, is a great beauty, with 
 large double dark red flowers, the veins are very prominent, 
 petals frequently irregular ; foliage large, smooth, and very 
 dark green, and is much esteemed. Fine. 
 
 C. anemonejlbra, or Waratah (from the central petals, 
 having the appearance of the Waratah plant, Telopia specio- 
 sissima.) This variety is very characteristic, both in flow- 
 er and foliage. The flower is dark crimson, with five 
 regular large outside petals ; those of the centre are very 
 small, and neatly plaited, with the stile (female organ) pro- 
 minent; the foliage is large and oblong, nerves very smooth, 
 and the wood strong, bark light. Had this kind not been 
 found, we would have been deprived of many most splendid 
 varieties which have originated from it, and we have no 
 doubt they may become as diversified as the roses of the 
 garden ; this variety, in a collection, for that alone is invalua- 
 ble. It seeds freely, and the pollen of any of the others ap- 
 plied to the style of this, will produce a new variety, which 
 seldom fails of being double, provided the pollen is from a 
 double variety. It must be applied the first day that the 
 
 * We have now, 1839, in flower, a single white, very similar to this, which 
 we have raised from the seod of Dahliajlora, a good double red variety ; it, 
 therefore, appears impossible to predict their character from the parent that 
 produced the seed. 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 237 
 
 flower is expanded, for the bloom is only of a few days' du- 
 ration. Those that are not acquainted with the buds of this 
 Camellia, will take them to be dead, because, before expan- 
 sion, they are very dark brown, and have a dried appearance. 
 Superb. 
 
 C. anernonejibra alba. Those that have seen the common 
 anemoneflora will be disappointed in the appearance of this, 
 not being pure white, neither properly anemone-flowered, 
 though a very superb flower, and very distinct from any 
 other ; the petals are irregular in the centre, shape resembling 
 pompojie ; flower very large. Superb. 
 
 C. ayieinonejibre rosea, fine rose, the exterior petals are 
 large and well rounded, the interior very full of small short 
 petals, flower very persistant — foliage large, cordate, accu- 
 minate. Superb. 
 
 C. amabile. This exceedingly perfect flower was raised 
 from seed by J. B. Smith, Esq., of this city ; it is regularly 
 imbricated, the extreme petals are bright rose, shading to de- 
 licate pink, and then again shading in the centre to light red. 
 The plant is full of foliage and of excellent habit, flower 
 about three and a half inches in diameter. Magnificent. 
 
 C. atrorube7is, Loddiges' red, is a good variety ; co- 
 lour dark red, outside petals large, inside small and irregu- 
 lar, forming a very distinct character ; foliage stiff ; grows 
 freely and flowers well ; and of long duration. We have 
 seen a flower stand fresh on the plant two months; however, 
 that cannot be a rule, as it depends on the situation. Good. 
 
 C. aucubafblia, bright rose, perfectly double, three and 
 a half inches in diameter, a free bloomer — foliage large, cor- 
 date, pale green, and sometimes spotted like Aucuba japoni- 
 ca. Good. 
 
 C. augiista, cherry red, large, finely double, centre petals 
 rather irregular — foliage dark green. Good. 
 
 C. Camjjbelli, very large flowers, pale white, striped, and 
 spotted with red, very regular in form, and considered an 
 
238 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 elegant striped variety, is of free growth and fine habit. 
 Magnificent. 
 
 C. candidissima, purest white flowers, very large, four 
 inches or more in diameter, full and most regularly imbri- 
 cated, and resemble very much the old double white, though 
 more perfect in form — leaves rather small, of an elongated 
 form, smooth and pale green, often spotted with yellow. 
 The plant is of vigorous growth, and a Japan variety. Mag- 
 nificent. 
 
 C. cdrnea, frequently known as Middlemist's blush. 
 Double pink, one of the original varieties, and frequently 
 produces seeds, from which many very fine varieties have 
 been obtained ; grows freely. Good. 
 
 C chandilerii, or versicolor, perfectly double, colour vivid 
 red, with occasional splashes of pure white ; the flowers vary, 
 and are often only red — they are of long duration, from six 
 to eight weeks ; foliage large and dark glossy green. Magni- 
 Jicent. 
 
 C. clivedna, large, irregular, double flower, of a bright 
 cherry red colour : plant of rather slow growth, but a profuse 
 bloomer. Superb. 
 
 C. coccinea, deep cherry red, a double flower of about 
 three inches in diameter ; plant of a very neat growth, and a 
 most profuse bloomer ; it frequently produces seed. Good. 
 
 C. Colvillea, pale blush, with rose spots and pink stripes, 
 is partially anemone formed ; but very compact and of free 
 growth ; leaves cordate. Superb. 
 
 C. conchiflora, flower bright cherry red, with splashes of 
 white, three inches in diameter; the petals are bold and erect; 
 the plant of a good habit, and an excellent bloomer. Very 
 good. 
 
 C. concinna, deep cherry red, a very perfectly imbricated 
 double flower, about three and a half inches in diameter ; fo- 
 liage generally a little undulated, wood slender. Superb. 
 
 C. conspicua, (Loddigies,) a shrub of strong handsome 
 
March.] green house. — repotting. 23^ 
 
 growth, with large dark green foliage ; flower very dou- 
 ble, five inches in diameter ; bright orange red, hemispheri- 
 cal shape ; petals erect, and appear as if three or four flowers 
 were united ; it is profuse of bloom and very conspicuous. 
 Magnificent. 
 
 C. corallina, coral-flowered, a deep scarlet double flower ; 
 but shows a number of stamens — the centre petals are oc- 
 casionally spotted with white. Good. 
 
 C. coro7iata, shrub of stiff growth ; foliage pale green ; 
 flower large, irregular, and double, of a clear pink colour ; 
 four inches in diameter. Very good. 
 
 C. crassinervis, a good improvement on the original ane- 
 Tnoneflbra or Waratah, and has much the same habit. Superb. 
 
 C. curvatifblia, leaves narrow and pointed ; plant of good 
 habit ; flower pure white ; regular and very double, petals 
 disposed in a regular rosette, about three and a half inches in 
 diameter. Superb. 
 
 C. decora, pale rose, flower perfectly double, four and 
 a half inches in diameter, three rows of exterior petals, those 
 of the centre short and thick, containing a few concealed 
 stamens — foliage large glossy green. Magnificent. 
 
 C. Derbyana, very bright dark red, flower finely double 
 cup-shaped, petals bold and broad spoon-shaped : a striking 
 flower, often over four inches in diameter — foliage of a very 
 beautiful green. Superb. 
 
 C. Donkelari, bright red, variegated and sprinkled with 
 pure white, three rows of large petals about one inch broad 
 and two inches long : centre full of slamens, flower fully four 
 inches in diameter ; leaves about two inches broad and four 
 inches long ; this will be an elegant variety to seed from, and 
 is of Chinese origin. Magnificent. 
 
 C. delectissima, white, profusely striped with rose, exterior 
 petals large and round ; those of the interior are closely set ; 
 flower nearly four inches in diameter ; leaves very large, 
 ovate, accuminate. Superb. 
 
 C, dorsettia or parthoniana, of the Belgians ; leaves flat 
 
240 GREEN-HOUSE, REPOTTING, [Ma7'ch. 
 
 and closely set, of a dark shining green, flower very large, 
 nearly five inches in diameter, of a pale red, mixed with rose 
 and white, petals closely imbricated, irregular, and nume- 
 rous; those of the centre small. Mag?iificent. 
 
 C. eclipse or Pressi, of the English, or imjjerialis of the 
 French ; flower pure white, with rose stripes, four inches in 
 diameter ; irregular, full, and double, with a few stamens ap- 
 pearing among the petals ; the whole flower forms an arched 
 centre, almost hemispherical ; leaves long and pointed, of a 
 clear rich green : we have seen flowers of this plant entirely 
 rose. Magnificent. 
 
 C. elegans, (Chandler's,) flower rosy red, fading to nearly 
 white in the centre ; three and a half inches in diameter, ex- 
 terior petals large and rounded ; those of the interior very 
 numerous, and beautifully harmonize ; forming, as it were, a 
 depressed sphere ; a profuse bloomer, and of a neat habit. 
 Magnificent. 
 
 C. eldta, violet crimson, spotted with white, flower three 
 and a half inches in diameter, perfectly imbricated to the 
 very centre, and of the most perfect double, foliage dark 
 green, plant of a good habit. Magnificent. 
 
 C. elphingstonia, red spotted with white, frequently four 
 inches in diameter, exterior petals very large, regularly gra- 
 duating to the centre, which cover a few hidden stamens, 
 foliage dark green ; plant of a fine habit. Magnificent. 
 
 C. Estherii* foliage nearly three inches wide and five 
 inches long, finely serrated — nerves prominent, flower, when 
 well grown, is five inches in diameter ; colour pure white, 
 spotted, and striped with rose and pink, petals broad, bold, 
 erect, and closely set; the bloom, when fully expanded, forms 
 a perfect hemisphere, and contains a few hidden stamina ; it 
 is the finest and largest of all the striped varieties, and is a 
 profuse bloomer. Magnificent. 
 
 * Grown by J. B. Smith, Esq., of this city, who is a very successful ama- 
 teur cultivator, and has raised some of the finest seedling Camellias that are 
 «t present known. 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 241 
 
 C excelsa, pure white, shape and size of C conchiflora, 
 is a plant of fine habit, a good grower, and profuse bloomer. 
 Good, 
 
 Cea?m7'a,( Chandler's,) flowers bright crinnson, four inches 
 in diareieter, of a perfect double imbricated form, foliage light 
 green and deeply serrated, nerves smooth ; it is of free growth, 
 but with us does not bloom freely. Magnificent. 
 
 C. Fdirlea : foliage large, ovate, acuminate ; of a smooth 
 shining dark green ; flowers nearly four inches in diameter, 
 of a rich crimson, marked with pure white, very double. 
 Superb. 
 
 C.firnhriata: fringed white. The size, shape, and set of 
 the flower same as alba-jylena, and the white as pure, with 
 the edges of the petals deeply serrated, or rather fringed ; is 
 equally as free in flowering, though not so strong in growth. 
 It is universally admired, and in great demand. Magmfice?it. 
 
 C.fiavescens, or incarnata. Lady Hume's blush, and by 
 some called huff. It is a very double flower, beautifully re- 
 gular, and imbricated, and frequently hexangular, or star- 
 like ; the bottom of the petals are most delicately tinged with 
 blush ; on looking into it, it shovv^s more like a blush vapour 
 than nature, and is a great favourite, and deservedly so: flow- 
 ers and grows freely ; foliage rhomboid, elongate, nerves 
 very visible, surface smooth and pale green, distinctly serrate, 
 growth strong and erect. Magnificent. 
 
 C. fiorida. Flower clear cherry red, large, frequently 
 above four inches in diameter ; very persistant ; exterior pe- 
 tals large and well rounded ; the interior small and closely- 
 set, rising in the centre : it is a profuse bloomer ; foliage dark 
 green. The plant is of a neat and regular habit. Magnifi- 
 cent. 
 
 C. Floyii, one of the most noble of the Camellias, both in 
 flower and foliage ; leaves three inches wide, and nearly five 
 long ; smooth dark green, plant of strong growth ; flower five 
 inches in diameter, of a perfectly double form, the extremity 
 is cherry red, diverging to a pale rose ia the centre ; the ex- 
 
 21 
 
242 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March, 
 
 terior petals are bold, round, and elegant, of a cup shape when 
 newly opened. It is frequently sold in Europe under the 
 inn posing name of Frederic the Great, though grown frons 
 seed by Mr. Floy, of New York, who has been very success- 
 ful in producing several other esteenned sorts. Magnificent. 
 C. Fordii, a free-growing plant, with lively green foliage 
 and graceful habit ; flower dark rose, three inches and a iialf 
 in diameter, perfectly double, and regularly imbricated, 
 forming a symmetrical bloom. Magnificent. 
 
 C. formosa, foliage very dark green : flower fully four 
 inches in diameter, of a dark rose colour, regularly double, 
 petals large and erect; interior shortened, covering a few 
 stamens. Superb. 
 
 C . frankof or tends, or Wellingtoni, a plant of a very com- 
 pact habit ; flower three inches and a half in diameter, beau- 
 tiful rose, occasionally spotted with white. Magnificent. 
 
 C.fulgens, flower three inches and a half in diameter, and 
 very bright double crimson, appi caching to C. atro-rubens, 
 but more brilliant ; petals regularly decreasing to the centre ; 
 foliage a lucid green, very smooth, young wood and wood 
 buds have a red appearance. We have no doubt but it 
 will occasionally seed ; if so, it will be a first-rate breeder. 
 Superb. 
 
 C. gdusonia, bright pink, flowers nearly four inches in di- 
 ameter : guard petals bold and expanding, interior petals 
 short and closely set, covering a few stamens, plant of a com- 
 pact habit, foliage a fine dark green. Good. 
 
 C. Gilesii, or Nancy Dawson. The leaves are large, ovate, 
 oblong, and pointed; flowers above four inches in diameter, of 
 a fine dark red colour, often striped with white, and is "dis- 
 tinguished for fragrance as well as beauty." Magnificent. 
 C. grunella, foliage oval and acute, of a deep glossy green, 
 flower while, three inches and a half; rather irregular, but 
 perfectly double, a profuse bloomer, and of good habit. Su- 
 perb. 
 
 C. Hendersbni, raised by the celebrated camellia grower. 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 243 
 
 Mr. Henderson of Woodhall, Scotland. It is a large flower, 
 four incliesand a half in diameter, beautifully iinhricaied 
 and perfectly double, of a bright rose colour, foliage round, 
 ovate, and distinctly serrated. Magnificent. 
 
 C. Hosackia, large dark crimson, nearly five inches in di- 
 ameter; flower rather flat, petals numerous, regularly de- 
 creasing to the centre, w'hich has an occasional speck of 
 white. It does seed, and will prove a first-rate variety 
 for that purpose ; foliage long and pointed, rather drooping; 
 is of a free growth and bloom. Superb. 
 
 C. imbricata, foliage very large, three inches wide and 
 four and a half long, of a pale green, often marked with while ; 
 flowers rich crimson, almost invariably marked more or less 
 with white ; they are full four inches in diameter ; the petals 
 are round, and regularly disposed, and imbricated on each 
 other; gradually decreasing to the centre, forming a most 
 perfect flower. The plant grows freely, and blooms pro- 
 fusely; no collection can be perfect without it. Magnificent, 
 
 C. ignescens, flowers rich crimson, about three inches in 
 diameter; petals, though few, are regular: it is a profuse 
 blooming variety ; this season, 18.S9, it has flowered, spotted 
 with white ; plant of rather a stiff* habit. Good. 
 ' C intermedia is a sport from C. poioniflbra ; it is a very 
 large blush, beautifully sufl'used with rose. Magnificent. 
 
 C. invincible, or punctata, flower three inches and a half in 
 diameter,rose ground, marked and striped with cherry red ; the 
 circumference petals are broad and convex, those of the centre 
 small and erect. This Camellia sometimes produces flowers 
 entirely red or rose-coloured ; it is of free growth, leaves 
 round, acuminate, and of a dark green. Superb. 
 
 C. Julianii, pure while, with an occasional stripe of red ; 
 flower three inches and a half in diameter, with five rows 
 of regularly imbricated petals, rather thinly set together, but 
 of a very neat form ; foliage rather undulating, and of a 
 lively green. Superb. 
 
 C. kermosine, leaves long and narrow, strongly nerved, of 
 
244 GREEN-HOUSE. REPOTTING. [Maj'ck. 
 
 a pale green, bud depressed at tlic extremity, flower cherry 
 red, double, petals rather numerous, among which are a few 
 stamens. Veiy Good. 
 
 C. Idctea, pink, marked with white, flower about three 
 inches and a half in diameter, irregular, two rows of large 
 petals in the circumference, the centre well filled with large 
 and small petals indiscriminately. Superb. There is a semi- 
 double white flower, of the same name. 
 
 C. Landrethia, or Jacksonia, very beautiful pink, fading to 
 ihe centre, a perfectly double and finely imbricated flower, 
 about four inches in diameter, a free bloomer, and a plant of 
 good habit; leaves ovate, acuminate, pale green. We have 
 seen the flower profusely spotted with white. This elegant 
 Camellia was grown from seed by D. and C. Landreth, and 
 bloomed first in the spring of 1829. Magnificent. 
 
 C. latifolia, leaves three inches wide and four inches and 
 a half long, point recurved, a fine glossy green ; flower cherry 
 red, cup form, interior petals irregular, festooned and curled, 
 those of the exterior bold and round, about three inches and 
 a half in diameter. Superb. 
 
 C. minuta, plant vigorous, leaves nearly orbicular, and 
 three inches and a half long, very shining and nerved flow- 
 er three inches in diameter, of a beautiful cherry red, petals 
 regularly imbricated, and arranged into a vase form ; the 
 centre is of a vivid red. Superb. 
 
 C.mutubilistraversii, foliage very large and almost cordate, 
 plant of an elegant and free growth, leaves rather reflexed 
 and of a lively green, nerves very conspicuous, flower four 
 inches and a half in diameter, regular, and very double: it 
 opens a delicate rose, and soon changes to a violet purple, 
 shaded with a faint line of white, an unique plant and flower. 
 Magriificent. 
 
 C. myrlifblia, known in some collections as involuta. There 
 are two varieties of it, major and minor ; the former is cer- 
 tainly the best, and has a very handsome, large, and regular 
 red flower ; the centre frequently is pink and purple ; it is 
 
Alarch.] GREEN-HOUSE. REPOTTING. 245 
 
 much the shape of double white, only the petals are more cup- 
 ped. The flower is of considerable duration. The foli;icre. 
 though small, is much larger than that of any of our common 
 myrtles, which might make many mistake its character ; and 
 another prominent feature is, the leaves are much recurved 
 and shining; plant pendulous, of a pale green. Maynifi- 
 cent. 
 
 C. nivalis, flower large white, very pure, having three 
 rows of large round exterior petals, the centre irregularly 
 filled with small petals, showing a considerable quantity of 
 stamens, foliage very dark green, plant of a good habit, and 
 will make an excellent variety for producing new sorts. 
 Superb. 
 
 C. pmonijibra : bright pink, large flower, fully four inches 
 in diameter, two rows of circumference petals; those of the 
 centre numerous, very close, erect, and in the form of a 
 sphere ; plant of slender growth ; leaves two inches broad 
 and three inches long, of a delicate green. Superb. 
 
 C. Palmeria alba : leaves two inches broad and three 
 long, rather reflexed, of a very dark green— -is a plant 
 of neat habit, and profuse in blooming — flowers finely dou- 
 ble, clear white, about three and a half inches in diameter; 
 petals bold and round — regularly imbricated, though not 
 closely set ; is a very graceful flower, and has been sold in 
 England as C. Candidissima, which is a superior article, and 
 even figured in the Florist's Magazine as such. There is 
 also another flower by this name, but very inferior, being 
 only semi-double. Superb. 
 
 Pdrksii, or Park's rose striped ; pale rose marked with 
 white; flower about four inches in diameter ; petals large, 
 round, and irregular; centre showing a few stamens. This 
 floweris tosome sweet-scented — leaves two and a halfinches 
 wide and three and a half inches long; roundish, oval, and 
 slightly acimiinate — deeply serrated ; plant of a stiff growth. 
 Sujjerb. (There is a French Parksii : single cri7ns on.) 
 
 C. Parmenteria, (Smith's,) bright red flower, perfectly 
 21* 
 
246 GREEN-HOUSE. REPOTTING. [March, 
 
 double ; three and a half inches in diameter ; petals very ir- 
 regular and compactly set; is very persistant; foliage pale 
 green, leaves two and a half inches broad and three and 
 a half inches long ; plant similar in habit to the old double 
 red, on which it is an improvement. Superb. 
 
 C. Philadelphica, (Smith's,) flowers four and a half to five 
 inches in diameter; the circumference petals large and round ; 
 those of the interior smaller, with a little convexity, per- 
 fectly double, colour changeable, bright crimson, spotted 
 with white ; dark rose, fading to the centre, or all crimson : 
 even the same plant producing all the variety ; plant of an 
 upright branching habit; leaves ovate, acuminate, of medium 
 size, and a very dark dull green ; bloomed first in 1834, 
 when only two years from the seed, and the flower was then 
 four and three quarter inches in diameter. Magnificent. 
 
 C.picturata : leaves three and a half inches wide and four 
 and a half inches long, of a bright green ; flower four inches 
 in diameter ; spherical and extremely double ; petals of the 
 centre irregular and closely folded ; those of the periphery 
 or circumference, round and entire, of a pure white, occa- 
 sionally striped with red — a few hidden stamens — plant of 
 an elegant habit. Magnificent. 
 
 C. pomponia, or Kew blush, flowers over four inches 
 in diameter; white, with a tinge of blush at the bottom of 
 the petals, which has a good effect in setting off the flower. 
 They frequently bloom all blush, having one or two rows of 
 guard or outside petals ; those of the inside are short, stubby, 
 and generally irregular, continues long in flower, yellow an- 
 thers among the short petals, and seeds when the female 
 organ is perfect ; foliage similar to pcBoniflbra, a very fast 
 grower, and flowers freely. Svpei-h. 
 
 C. P)-atiii ;* flower bright rose, full four inches in diame- 
 ter, frequently every petal having a white stripe from the 
 
 * In compliment to our late and esteemed patron, H. Pratt, Esq., of Le- 
 mon Hill. 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 247 
 
 apex to the base, very closely and regularly imbricated to 
 the very centre : in every respect equally as well formed as 
 C. imhricata ; leaves two and a half inches wide and four 
 inches long, of a rich smooth green — is a plant of free growth 
 and profuse flowermg ; bloomed first in 1836. With plea- 
 sure we say, it is our first seedling of merit. Magnificent. 
 
 C. Punctata, see Invincible. 
 
 C. Reevesit, foliage rather thin ; leaves two inches broad 
 and four inches long, of a very pale green ; plant of a loose 
 habit ; flowers three inches in diameter, of a bright pink, pe- 
 tals short and irregular, but very double ; is a fine bloomer. 
 Very good. 
 
 C. rosa-mundi, Gray^s Venus, punctata major, Venus ta, 
 and a labyrinth of other names ; leaves three inches wide 
 and four inches long, of a shining green ; plant of a vigorous 
 habit ; flower light rose, four inches in diameter, striped willi 
 red and spotted with white, circumference petals large and 
 rounding ; those of the interior, short, close set, and erect, 
 forming a large tuft, enclosing a few stamens. Superb. 
 
 C. rosa sinensis, a large double flower, four inches in di- 
 ameter ; colour bright rosy pink, petals long and full, closely 
 imbricated to the centre : a very distinct variety, with beau- 
 tiful dark green shining foliage, two inches wide and three 
 and a half long ; grows and flowers freely. Magnificent. 
 
 C. rosea, {China,) petals regularly and perfectly imbri- 
 cated, flower frequently star-shaped, like Harness blush, about 
 three inches in diameter ; colour bright rose, changing to 
 rosy purple ; foliage pale green; leaves one and a half inches 
 wide and three inches long ; plant of slender habit, though 
 well formed, and a profuse bloomer. Magnificent. 
 
 C. rubricdulis, Lady Campbell's, colour very rich dark 
 crimson, with spots of pure white, beautifully contrasted ; 
 three inches in diameter; petals round, stiff, erect, and thinly 
 set, showing a considerable quantity of anthers, and does fre- 
 quently produce fine seed ; foliage dark shining green, plant 
 of an excellent habit. Good. 
 
248 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 C. rubra-pleno, or Greavill's double red, is a strong grow- 
 ing and free flowering variety. The flowers are large, ir- 
 regular, and very double, and are of long duration ; foliage 
 of a yellowish green, leaves two inches wide and three 
 inches long ; plant of a stiff habit. Superb. 
 
 C. Rossii; buds very pointed; flower four inches in diantie- 
 ter; petals of the periphery large, graduating smaller to the 
 centre, though a little irregular, perfectly double, colour red, 
 with an occasional tinge of white ; foliage dull green, ovate, 
 acuminate, pointed, and pendent ; plant of a good habit and 
 free of bloom. Superb, 
 
 C. Sdbiyii: plantof good habit; leaves two inches wide and 
 three inches long, of a pale green ; flower white, with an oc- 
 casional dash of pink ; petals not numerous ; round and erect, 
 of a rosette form. Good. 
 
 C. sesanqua rosea. See among the species. 
 
 C. speciosa is a most splendid variety, has been called 
 Chinese striped Warat.ah. The guard petals are large, round, 
 and bold ; colour crimson with stripes of white; the centre is 
 full of irregular small petals, and spotted ; the foliage three 
 inches wide and four inches long, and more heart-shaped 
 than any of the others ; grows freely, flower persistant, four 
 inches in diameter, and highly esteemed, and considered one 
 of the finest of the coloured Camellias. Magnificent. 
 
 C. spicatum ; foliage very dark shining green ; leaves two 
 and a half inches wide and four inches long, very pointed ; 
 flower bright red, nearly four inches in diameter ; circumfe- 
 rence petals large and round, gradually diminishing to the 
 centre, and concealing a few stamens : the plant grows and 
 flowers freely, and is of an upright branching habit. Su- 
 perb. 
 
 C. splendens; rosy red, flower full and bold, nearly four 
 inches in diameter; petals few, but very large and round, 
 lying gently over each other, showing a few stamens in the 
 centre — is very attractive and conspicuous in a collection ; 
 foliage dark green, ovate, acuminate. Superb. 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 249 
 
 C. spoforthiana ; foliage deepplain green, acutely serrated, 
 plant handsome and vigorous ; flower three and a half inches 
 in diameter, of a pure white, with an occasional red stripe ; 
 petals rather irregular, full and double, though showing a 
 few stamens. Superb. 
 
 C. spoffbrthiana cdrnea ; flower larger than the former, 
 otherwise very similar. Superb. 
 
 C. sweetia vera ; leaves three inches long and four inches 
 wide, distinctly serrate, of a fine shining green, plant of an 
 upright free-growing habit ; flower nearly four inches in di- 
 ameter, with three rows of circumference petals — rose white, 
 sprinkled with bright red ; those of the centre small and 
 erect, concealing a few sieril stamens. Magnificent. There 
 is a spurious plant out under this name, which is very infe- 
 rior, 
 
 C. tricolor ; foliage pale green, two inches wide and three 
 and a half inches long, distinctly serrated, with the nerves 
 very prominent ; flower full four inches in diameter — semi- 
 double ; petals large and round — very beautifully set ; colour 
 white, shaded with various shades of red, rose, &c. It is 
 very rare, and will be a superb variety to produce seeds, 
 having the female organ very perfect, and was introduced 
 from China by Dr. Siebold. Superb. 
 
 C. triiXmphans ; foliage dark green : leaves roundish oval, 
 slightly pointed with nerves and serratures very distinct ; 
 flower nearly four inches in diameter, of a bright cherry red, 
 shaded with rose; petals regular, round, and large, a little re- 
 curved at the extremity, and gracefully imbricated to the 
 centre, which is occasionally striped with white : the plant 
 is of a good habit and free growth. Magnificent. 
 
 C. Vdndesia ; foliage dark green, ovate, lanceolate, and 
 occasionally undulated ; flower very dark red, four inches in 
 diameter, with large round petals, rather loosely set together, 
 centre exhibiting a number of stamens. Good. 
 
 C. variabilis : this is a sportive variety of C paoniflbrd, 
 with flower and foliage of same character ; frequently bloom- 
 
250 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 ing rose-striped, or marked with pink, blush, &c. Magnifi- 
 cent. 
 
 C. variagata is one of the old standard varieties, and very 
 much esteemed. It is striped with red and while ; some- 
 times the ground is red, with while streaks or blotches, and 
 vice versa ; nearly four inches in diameter, petals large and 
 round, rather loose, centre showing a number of stamens ; 
 foliage very fine dark green, three inches wide and four 
 inches long. We have had seed from it. Plant of a good 
 habit and a profuse bloomer. Superb. 
 
 C. Walbdnkiana ; foliage pale green, two inches broad and 
 nearly four inches long; plant of rather loose habit ; flower 
 greenish white, full four incites in diameter ; petals large and 
 oval, irregularly tufted, showing a number of stamens, though 
 very double. We are inclined to believe that this is the 
 liitea alba of some catalogues. Superb. 
 
 C. Wdrdii; very dark green foliage; leaves rather cordate 
 and undulate, of acoriaceous texture; plantof a branching stiff 
 habit ; flower full three inches in diameter, very persistant — 
 circumference petals large and round; those of the interior 
 small, round, and closely set, rather flattened, colour vivid 
 crimson. Tliis fine variety is another by Mr. Floy, of New 
 York. Superb. 
 
 C. Woodsii ; foliage light green ; leaves two inches wide 
 and four inches long ; plant of a rapid growth and regular 
 shape ; flower four and a half inches in diameter, of a bright 
 rose-colour; petals large and rounding in the periphery; 
 those of the centre rather irregular — perfectly double, and 
 blooms with ditHculty. We have observed it to bloom 
 finest when a gentle heat was applied, or when the plant 
 flowered in March or April. Magnificent. (Soil No. 11 
 for the whole family.) 
 
 There is another Camellia named Woodiana, with foliage 
 very similar to the former, but the flower is cherry red and 
 only semi-double. We beg to observe that, in giving de- 
 scriptions of the camellia, we have invariably, as far as 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 251 
 
 known, described the best variety, where there were several 
 varieties under one name ; and, when at the task, we were 
 under the impression that we would be able to give a de- 
 scription of the beautiful Chinese variety, called Leana su- 
 perba, very lately introduced to the continent ; but, to our 
 great morlificaiion, the plant proved to be only a poor sin- 
 gle red, which we were nursing with extra care : whereas, 
 the true sort is said to be a superb marbled doubled flower. 
 This is only one instance of disappointment ; but we could 
 quote twenty such, that we have felt as importers, within 
 four years on the article of Camellia alone. 
 
 Ca.rmichceha australis, the only species, has very curious 
 foliage, which the lilac leguminose flowers come out of, and 
 continue from April to June. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Ceanothus azureus is the only species of the genus worth 
 cultivating ; ii blooms profusely from May to July, and has 
 considerable attraction with its brilliant blue spikes of small 
 flowers. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Chorizemas, about ten species, foliage very variable; flow- 
 ers small and papilionaceous, often very profuse ; colour red 
 and yellow ; though small, they are very neat. C. nana and 
 C. ilicifblia are pretty ; but nothing of the kind can exceed 
 C. ovata and C. henchmunnii, with their beautiful scarlet 
 blossoms, which are in great profusion ; if grown from seed, 
 they will flower freely the second year ; drain the pots well. 
 (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Cinerarias, Cape aster, about twelve belong to the green- 
 house. They are herbaceous, or half shrubby, soft wooded 
 plants. C.specidsa, C. omelloides, {now caWed Agathceacceles- 
 tus,) C. purpiirea, and C. lanata, are among the finest of the 
 species ; flowers blue or yellow ; the latter is considered the 
 handsomest of the genus. The exterior petals are bright 
 purple, and the interior ones white, and, with A. ccelestus, 
 flowers most of the year ; flowers syngenesious and star-like. 
 The herbaceous species must be treated as previously men- 
 
252 GREEN HOUSE. — REPOTTING, \March. 
 
 tioned for that kind of plant. The new hybrids of this ge- 
 nus are rivalHng the species, both for beauty of colour and 
 size of flower; among these are, C hendersonia, C. router' 
 housia, and C. grandiflura. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Cinnamomum camphora is the camphor tree of commerce ; 
 it is an excellent evergreen, but has no beauty in its flower. 
 The foliage, when bruised, has a camphorated odour. (Soil 
 No. 10.) 
 
 Cistus, or Rock rose. There are above thirty species, 
 principally natives of Europe, consequently hardy there, and 
 form a great ornament to their gardens, being very abundant 
 and various in flower ; but with us they will not stand the 
 rigour of winter. We have no doubt, however, but, through 
 time, some kinds may be grown that will withstand the 
 greatest cold of the middle states ; they are low shrubby 
 plants, of easy cultivation. C. ladamferus, C. sdlignus, C.po- 
 polif alius, C.undulatus,3ind C.formbsus.are perhaps the best; 
 the flowers are of short duration, frequently only for one 
 day ; but the quantity makes up this deficiency, being con- 
 stantly in flower in May and June, and sometimes flower 
 again in autumn. C. creticus is most productive of the gum 
 laudanum, which is secreted about its leaves and branches. 
 The flowers are generally five-petaled, and some of them 
 large and showy ; centre full of stamens. (Soil No. 3.) 
 
 Citrus. This genus contains the most grand and noble of 
 fruit-bearing trees : Loudon says, " the golden apples of the 
 heathens, and forbidden fruit of the Jews, are supposed to 
 allude to this family." They are all handsome evergreen 
 shrubs or trees, bearing highly odoriferous flowers and beau- 
 tiful golden fruit. In cultivation, the orange fruit is dry and 
 more insipid than in the tropics, but the lemon is far superior 
 in its quality. The varieties of orange are extensive, nearly 
 eighty kinds being cultivated in Italy ; but, with us, the 
 sweet, sour, and rough-skinned are the principal sorts, and 
 more recently we cultivate the mandarin and other beauti- 
 ful dwarf Chinese varieties ; also, the striped-leaved varieties 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 258 
 
 of Bergamotte. The lemon are nearly as numerous, though 
 not so apparently distinct ; it is very valuable as a culti- 
 vated fruit, and should be in every green-house or conserva- 
 tory. The lime and the shaddock should not be overlooked, 
 as they are very ornamental, especially the latter when it 
 arrives at a fruit-bearing state. (Soil No. 18, when young 
 plants, and when fruit-bearing keep from it the portion of 
 sand.) 
 
 Clematis, Virgin's Bower. There are only six of these 
 belonging to the green-house, all climbing plants. C arista- 
 ta and C. hrachiata are the best ; flowers in racemose clus- 
 ters, pure white ; foliage small ; and natives of the Cape of 
 Good Hope. The foliage of C. aristata is cordate and 
 blotched. Some of the hardy species and varieties make 
 beautiful plants for the green-house, such as C. jibrida, C. 
 sieboldi, and C. cmrulea; they are profuse bloomers and free 
 growers. (Soil No. 3.) 
 
 Clerodendronfrdgrans multiplex, frequently known under 
 the name of Volkamenia japonica, which is a very different 
 plant, and not supposed to be in this country. It keeps in 
 a good green-house, and flowers well, frequently blooming 
 during winter, and, if planted in the garden during summer, 
 will flower superbly. The flowers have a delicious fra- 
 grance ; if the foliage is rubbed with the hand, the smell is 
 not so pleasant. The leaves are large, round, ovate, and to- 
 raentose ; flowers corymbose, compact, and terminale. (Soil 
 No. 12.) 
 
 Clethra arborea and C. arhorea variegata are both fine 
 shrubs ; the latter is preferable ; leaves are oblong, acumi- 
 nate, and serrated, having a gold-coloured edge; flowers white, 
 downy, in large branching racemose spikes, and sweet scent- 
 ed; grows freely. (Soil No. 2.) 
 
 Clidnthus punicens,* or Glory flower. This magnificent 
 
 * A plant five feet high, and only eighteen months old, now in the beauti- 
 ful conservatory of Gen. R. Patterson, of this city, has upward of fifty 
 
 22 
 
254 GREEN-HOUSE, — REPOTTING. [March, 
 
 plant a few years ago produced great excitement among Eu- 
 ropean cultivators, which consequently reached this country. 
 The plant sold at extravagant prices, and cost the writer up- 
 ward of fifty dollars to introduce a livingplant of it,which was 
 done three years ago. The plant has been cultivated in pots, 
 and has not yet given general satisfaction; the leaves are smooth, 
 pinnated, of a delicate green, consisting of eight pairs and an 
 odd one; ihe stem is of a soft woody nature; the splendid large 
 scarlet, leguminose, pea-like flowers grow in clusters, hanging 
 down from the axils of the leaves on the lateral branches ; 
 each flower is about two inches long. To have it in perfec- 
 tion, it must be grown in large pots, or planted in the ground 
 in the conservatory oi green-house, or even a good pit would 
 do ; it is a native of New Zealand, and is tolerably hardy 
 in the south ; it makes a magnificent hardy shrub. (Soil 
 No. 10.) 
 
 Clivea nuhilis, a tuberous herbaceous plant, closely allied 
 to Brunsvigia. The flowers are said to be very splendid ; 
 colour scarlet and green : although it has been in the country 
 several years, we are not aware of its ever having bloomed. 
 (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Cohcca scdndens, the only species. It is a climber of very 
 rapid growth, has been known to grow above two hundred 
 feet in one summer; large bell-shaped flowers; when they 
 are newly expanded, they are of a pale green colour, and 
 change to dark purple : will grow in the garden during sum- 
 mer, bearing a continual profusion of flowers, but will not 
 stand frost. When this plant becomes too large in the house, 
 do not cut it close to the root, except there is a young shoot 
 arising to carry ofl" the superabundant sap, for the old wood 
 will not push, which will soon cause a mortification. 
 
 The best method to adopt in such a case is, to turn back a 
 
 racemes or clusters of flowers, rarying from five to nine on a raceme, and 
 will be in full bloom in a few weeks ; this is the finest specimen we have 
 heard of in this country. 
 
 I 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 255 
 
 shoot, and lay it in the ground to root, when it will become 
 a young plant, which should always be done as soon as it 
 appears unsightly. It does best to be planted in the ground, 
 but will not give any satisfaction as to flowering in a pot. It 
 will flower as an annual if sown in pots this month, and 
 placed in a warm room or hot-bed, and planted into the gar- 
 den about the middle of May ; it seeds freely. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Cobkia punctata, Wampee tree, of China, named in honour 
 of the celebrated Capt. Cook. The fruit is much esteemed 
 in China, where it grows to about the size of a walnut, in 
 bunches; leaves pinnate, ovate, lanceolate, acuminate; when 
 rubbed, have a strong odour; flower small white, in race- 
 mose spikes; of slow growth. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Coronilla, a very few are fine species in the green-house. 
 C. glauca is a celebrated plant among us, as a free and early 
 flowering shrub. C. valentiana and C. imnindlis are equally 
 so, flower from April to June, colour yellow; papilionaceous 
 flowers in clusters ; agree best in summer with partial shade. 
 Drain the pots well. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Correa, five species, all very pretty dwarf shrubs, and 
 flower profusely ; foliage ovate, cordate, and either rusty or 
 downy beneath. C. alba and C. rufa have both white flow- 
 ers a little tubular. C. pulchella is a very handsome, erect 
 growing plant ; flowers large and tubular, of a bright orange 
 colour, and grows freely. C. specibsa has been long admired 
 as a splendid free-flowering plant ; flowers same shape as C 
 'pulcMlla, but more elongated ; colour red and yellowish 
 green. C. virens is a very free grower, flowers same shape 
 as the last two, colour entirely green. The last three men- 
 tioned are abundant flowerers, when the plants are well es- 
 tablished ; having a continued succession from November to 
 June, possessing the valuable requisite of flowering through 
 the winter, and ought to be in every collection. They re- 
 quire an airy situation and the pots to be well drained. The 
 plants in summer must not be fully exposed to the sun. (Soil 
 No. 6.) 
 
256 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 Crassula. This genus has no plant now in it attractive 
 in beauty. Several beautiful plants in our collections belong 
 to Rochea and Kalosdnlhus. There is a strong growing suc- 
 culent plant, known in our collections as C.falcata, which is 
 R.falcata. It seldom flowers ; the minor variety blooms 
 profusely every year from May to August, and has showy 
 scarlet flowers m terminale panicles. The plants known as 
 C. coccinea and C. versicolor are now given to the genus Ka- 
 losdnthus. The flowers of the former are scarlet, wax- 
 like, terminale, and sessile ; those of the latter are rose and 
 white, also wax-like, and are both desirable plants, requiring 
 very little water during winter. (Soil No. 18.) 
 
 Cratdg^us. There are none of these belonging to the 
 green-house ; but there is a plant in the collections, known 
 as C. glabra, which is Pliotinia serruldta, a native of China, 
 and is a very handsome plant, has long foliage, deeply ser- 
 rated, very shining. P. arbutifblia, a native of California, 
 and is the finest of the genus ; flowers in large dense pani- 
 cles, foliage larger than the former, and not so deeply ser- 
 rated ; they are both comparatively hardy, and we soon 
 expect to see them acclimated. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Crtnum, several species do well in the green-house, espe- 
 cially C. Mexicdnum, C. capense, and C. ascotica : they re- 
 quire considerable pot room to make them do well. (Soil 
 No, 12.) 
 
 Crbwea saltgni is among one of the finest plants of 
 New South Wales. It flowers at the axils of the leaves, 
 colour pink, with five petals, connected by entangled hairs ; 
 in flower from April to December, and frequently through 
 the winter ; foliage lanceolate, and a fine green. The plant 
 grows neat, and requires an airy situation : drain the pots 
 well. (Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Cunonia capnesis, the only species, and a handsome shrub, 
 with large pinnated shining leaves, beautifully contrasted by 
 numerous dense elongated branches of small white flowers, 
 
March.] GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. 257 
 
 and twigs of a red colour, having more the habit of a tropi- 
 cal than of a Cape of Good Hope plant. (Soil No. 2.) 
 
 Cupressus may be desired in collections, as erect and 
 handsome growing evergreen shrubs. C. lusitdnica the 
 famed cedar of Goa; Cpendulad^^ndi C.juniperoides a.ve the 
 most desirable; the flowers are insignificant and yellowish; we 
 have no doubt they may prove hardy. C. lusitdnica is the 
 handsomest tree of the genus. Its abundant, very long di- 
 chotomous branchlets distinguish it from all the evergreens 
 of the conoferious tribe. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Cyrtanthus, a genus of Cape bulbs, containing nine species, 
 and will do very well in the green-house, but we find the 
 assistance of the hot-house a great advantage. They are 
 closely allied to Crinum. The tubes of the flowers are long 
 and round, with various shades of orange, yellow, red, and 
 green. C. odbrus, C.stridtus, C. obliquus, and C.vittdtus, 
 are the finest. When the bulbs are dormant, which will be 
 from October to January, they should not get any water ; be- 
 fore they begin to grow, turn the bulbs out of the old earth, 
 repotting it immediately. At this time they should be potted 
 with the balls of earth entire, which will cause them to flow- 
 er stronger. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Dampieras, four species. The genus is named in honour 
 of Captain W. Dampier, a famous voyager, has Lobelia-like 
 flowers, either blue or purple. C. purpiirea, C. imduldta, 
 and C. stricta, are the finest; the former two are shrubby; 
 the latter is herbaceous ; they all flower freely. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Daviesias, above ten species, principally natives of New 
 South Wales, all yellow papilionaceous flowers. D. ulicina, 
 D. latifblia, D. aciculdris, and D. incrassdta, are very fine 
 species, flower and grow freely, and require to be well 
 drained ; bloom from April to August. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Dillwynias, above twelve species, and plants very little 
 known. D. cinerescens, D. Jlorihunda, D. teretifblia, and 
 D. phylicoides, are desirable plants; flowers small, papiliona- 
 ceous, and colour yellow and red. They are very liable to 
 
 22* 
 
258 OREEN-iiousE. — REPOTTING. \Marc7i. 
 
 suffer from too much wet ; while dormant, therefore, the pots 
 must he effectually drained. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Diosmas. This pretty genus of heath-looking plants has 
 recently been very much divided by botanical professors. 
 The generas that they have been given to are Adenundra, 
 Acmadenia, Agathosma, and Barosma. However, we in- 
 cline to adhere to the original name, and recommend D. ca- 
 intdta, D. oppositifdlia, J), rubra, D. alba, D.fragrdns, D. 
 unijlora, D. serratifblia, I), speciosa, and D. pulchella. They 
 arc all profuse blooming plants, with generally small flowers 
 of a while lilac or pink colour. It is supposed that the dried 
 leaves of pulchella is used by the Hottentots as powder to 
 mix with the grease with which they anoint their bodies. 
 Some travellers assert that it gives them so rank an odour, 
 that they sometimes could not bear the smell of those who 
 were their guides. In fact, the foliage of all, if rubbed by 
 the hand while on the plant, has a very strong smell, some 
 of them very agreeable, others disagreeable. They are all 
 evergreen small neat growii)g shrubs. They re({uire, while 
 growing luxuriantly, to have their young shoots topped to 
 make them bushy ; drain all the pots well, and keep them in 
 airy situations, and not crowded with other plants, or they 
 will become slender and unsightly. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Dipldcus puniceus. Thiss hrubby {mimulus) plant was 
 introduced by Mr. Nultall from California, by seeds, in 
 1830, and sent by us to England in 1837. The flowers are 
 of a scarlet orange, about one inch and a half long, and pro- 
 duced in pairs; from the axils of the leaves, on young wood, 
 the plant requires considerable nourishment ; for the more 
 rapid it grows, the more profuse are its flowers, which bloom 
 from May to September, and are rather showy. In the 
 southern states it will prove a hardy shrub, blooming nearly 
 the whole year. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Dracosna, or Dragon tree. The D. ausiralis and D.fer- 
 rea will keep in the green-house, and arc attractive plants 
 lor their foliage, especially the latter, which is of a purple 
 
Marcfl.] GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. 259 
 
 crimson and very unique ; the flowers are on large terminal 
 spikes. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Doryanthus cxcclsa, a Yucca looking plant belonging to the 
 natural order of Amaryllidca ; the leaves arise from the root, 
 and are about three inches wide and three feet long ; the 
 flowers are bright crimson, surmounted on a stem about 
 twenty feet high. The plant does not bloom till it is of con- 
 siderable size. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Drymulras. This genus is closely allied in character and 
 habits to Bdnksia, and contains above sixteen species. /). ni- 
 vea has most beautiful foliage, very long and deeply indented. 
 D.formusa, has a scent like the fruit of an apricot. D. ner- 
 vuso, D.jloribtmda, D. armata, I), plumusa, D. Baxteriy D. 
 nervosa, and D.falcata, are the most conspicuous, and all 
 highly desirable plants in collections. They are very deli- 
 cate of importation ; flowers are straw and orange-coloured, 
 and thistle-like. Seeds in small cones. Treat them the 
 same as direcled for Bdnksias. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Dycklas, two species of very curious growing plants, of a 
 dwarf habit with bright orange flowers ; they may be culti- 
 vated with the aloe tribe, to which they have a similarity. 
 
 D. rarijlura and D. ramotijlbra, the latter is in the country. 
 (Soil No. 18.) 
 
 Echeveria, a genus of succulent plants chiefly from Mexi- 
 co and California. E. grandijlbra, flowers green and red. 
 
 E. pulverulenta, flowers red. The foliage of this species is 
 delicately covered with powder, which gives it a very beau- 
 tiful appearance. E. hicolor is also a pretty species : they 
 require to be kept very dry during winter. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Edwdrdsias, about four species, very beautiful foliaged 
 plants, and have very curious yellow flowers, but do not 
 flower until the plant becomes large. E. grandijlbra, E. 
 chrysbphylla, and E. micrbphylla, are the best, and are tole- 
 rably hardy, though doubtful of ever being acclimated. The 
 flowers are leguminose, foliage ovate, pinnate, from eight to 
 forty on one footstalk, and appears to be covered with gold 
 
260 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 dust. The hardier they are grown, the more visible it will 
 appear. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Elichrysums. This genus is now extinct, and two splen- 
 did species of it given to others. E. proViferum is now Phos 
 nacoma jJroUfera, and has beautiful purple rayed flowers, 
 and highly esteemed : the foliage small, round, ovate, smooth, 
 and closely imbricated. E. spectdhile is now Aphelexis hu- 
 milis, has pine-like foliage, and large light purple flowers ; 
 care must be taken that they are not over-watered ; drain 
 the pots well. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Enkidnthus, only two species, both very fine. E. quin- 
 queflbrus has large, ovate, acuminate foliage, flowers pink and 
 pendulous ; very handsome. E. reticuldtus, the foliage is 
 netted, and the flowers blush : they are liable, when dormant, 
 to suffer from wet. Be sure to drain the pots well, and 
 be sparing in water while in that state. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Epdcris, above twelve species, and all very ornamental. 
 E.grcmdiflora has been celebrated ever since it was known ; 
 the foliage is small, flat, and acuminate ; flowers tubular and 
 pendulous, bright crimson, with a tinge of white, and very 
 abundant, in flower from January to June. E. pulchella is 
 likewise a most beautiful plant ; foliage very small and close- 
 ly set, flowers pure white, and in long spikes, sweet-scented. 
 E. impressa, foliage impressed, and flowers of a rose colour. 
 E. paludosa, flowers white, grows and flowers very hand- 
 somely, and is very fragrant. E. purpurdscens rubra is a 
 variety, with good bright red flowers. E. hetero7iema, deli- 
 cate white. They are mostly erect growing plants ; flower 
 from January till August, and a rough, turfy, sandy soil is 
 found most congenial. They are natives of the mountainous 
 districts of New South Wales. The pots must be well 
 drained ; the roots will run with avidity among the pot- 
 shreds. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Ericas, heath. There are in cultivation in Europe above 
 five hundred and fifty species and varieties of this magnifi- 
 cent genus. About sixty years ago it consisted only of a 
 few humble British plants, with the heath of Spain, E. Medi- 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 261 
 
 terranea, which is at present most common in our collec- 
 tions, though in a few years we may expect to see it sup- 
 planted by others more splendid. 
 
 In their native countries they are adapted to a great many 
 useful purposes. In the north of Britain the poorer inhabi- 
 tants cover their cabins or huts with heath, and build the 
 walls with alternate layers of it and a kind of cement made 
 with straw and clay. They likewise brew ale and distil 
 spirits from the tender shoots ; and it has been known to be 
 used in dying, tanning, and many oilier useful domestic 
 purposes. Encomium on their beauty is not requisite ; they 
 are almost as diversified in colour as colour itself. Many 
 are graceful and elegant ; hundreds are pretty ; a few 
 noble and splendid ; others grotesque, curious, and odorife- 
 rous. To cultivate and propagate them is considered one of 
 the most delicate branches of floriculture. Nevertheless, it 
 has been said by a scientific writer, that " those who com- 
 plain of the difficulty of growing the heath are ignorant peo- 
 ple, who have never had a heath to grow." The most splen- 
 did collection in Europe is under the care of Mr. M'Nab, of 
 the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh, where there are two 
 large houses devoted to their culture ; and through the v/hole 
 year a continued profusion of bloom is kept up. Some of 
 the plants are eight feet in diameter and fourteen feet high. 
 The soil used is a coarse sandy peat. Pots drained with 
 potshreds, and pieces of freestone are put down the sides of 
 the large pots and tubs : where these can be had they are'es- 
 sential to the culture of mountainous plants, preventing them 
 from being saturated with moisture, or from becoming dry, 
 thus keeping the roots in a medium state ; for if once the 
 roots are allowed to get thoroughly dried, no art of the gar- 
 dener can recover them. This may be the true reason why 
 they are said to be difficult of cultivation. 
 
 In the summer season the pots must be kept out of the vi- 
 olent sun, for in a few hours the pot would become heated, 
 dry the roots, and cause death, or a brownness of foliage 
 
262 
 
 GREEN-HOUSE — REPOTTING. 
 
 [March. 
 
 which would never again become natural. In winter too 
 much fire heat will also hurt them. They only require to be 
 keptfree from frost, need a great deal of air, and plenty of light ; 
 consequently, should be placed near the glass, that they may 
 have the benefit of all the air that is admitted. Their flowers 
 are as varied in shape as variety or colour, but they all par- 
 take of a wax-like nature, and are very persistant. (Soil 
 No. 5 for young plants : when older. No. 6 will do better.) 
 The finest and most select varieties that appear to with- 
 stand the severity of the summer, are the following : 
 
 WHITE FLOWERS. SCARLET FLOWERS. PURPLE FLOWERS. 
 
 Arborea, 
 
 Bowieana^ 
 
 Cuffra, 
 
 Conferta, 
 
 Jesminafibra, 
 
 Margaritdcea, 
 
 Odordta, 
 
 Pellucida, 
 
 Phylicuides. 
 
 YELLOW FLOWERS 
 
 Capitdta, 
 Epistoma, 
 Grandijibra. 
 
 Ardens, 
 Coccinea, 
 
 " grandiflbra, 
 Vernlx coccinea, 
 Vesiita coccinea. 
 
 RED FLOWERS. 
 
 Bella, 
 
 Canalicidatay 
 
 Curvijlbra rubra, 
 
 Gracilis, 
 
 Igndscens, 
 
 Plukenetii, 
 
 Pinea, 
 
 Mediterrdnea. 
 
 Amosna, 
 
 Deniiculdta, 
 
 Fascicularis, 
 
 Hispidula, 
 
 Mammosa, 
 
 Pubescens, 
 
 Tenella. 
 
 VARIOUS COLOURS. 
 Abetina, 
 Bdccans, 
 Cerinthbides, 
 Criienta superba, 
 Riibida, 
 Tubiflbra, 
 Ventricbsa superba. 
 
 Eriabbtrya japonica, Loquat, ot Mespilus japonica, is afine 
 plant, with large lanceolate, distantly serrated leaves, white 
 underneath ; small white flowers on a racemose spike, and 
 produces a fruit about the size of a walnut, of a fine yellow 
 blush colour, and of tartish flavour. If it flowers in the au- 
 tumn, it will require the heat of a hot-house to ripen the fruit, 
 
Mat'Ch.] GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. 263 
 
 It is of very easy culture, and its noble aspect is never passed 
 unobserved. It is perfectly hardy in the southern states, and 
 fornfjs a handsonae evergreen. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Erodiums, Heron's bill. There are about thirty species, 
 all of a geranium character, and there are among them some 
 very pretty flowering, soft wooded, shrubby, herbaceous, and 
 annual plants. Only a few of them belong to the green- 
 house, of which E. incarnatum, E. crassifdlium, and E. laci- 
 niatum, are the finest ; culture similar to Geranium. The 
 flowers of these are scarlet, pentapetalous, and veiny. (Soil 
 No. 10.) 
 
 Erythlina cristagdlli, or Coral plant. If this magnificent 
 scarlet flowering plant is desired to be kept in a pot or tub, 
 it must have a repotting every month till September : to keep 
 it in fine blooming condition, it is worthy of extra care, as it 
 will bloom three times during the season, if well treated. 
 (Soil No. 18.) For other methods, see Flower Garden for 
 April, May, and November. 
 
 EscaUdnia,SL shrubby genus, of about ten species, of rather 
 neat blooming plants, of a strong shrubby habit. They re- 
 quire great encouragement to flower them well, if kept in 
 pots : the best mode of treatment would be to plant them in 
 pits with other half hardy shrubs. E. rubra, red flowering ; 
 E. glandulosa, white ; and E. bifida, pink, are the finest. 
 (Soil No. 12.) They are perfectly hardy south of Virginia, 
 and we are not certain but they may become acclimated 
 here. 
 
 Eucalyptus, above fifty species of them, and the tallest 
 growing trees of New Holland ; foliage very diversified, ge- 
 nerally of a hard glaucous texture. From their rapid growth, 
 they soon grow higher than the loftiest house. The most 
 conspicuous are, E. cordata, E. rostrata, E. radiata, E. pidvi- 
 gera, E.glbbifera, E.pulverulenta, and E. resinefera. In Van 
 Dieman's Land a manufactory has been established, where 
 a tannin is extracted from many of the species. The last- 
 mentioned produces gum like that which the druggists call 
 
264 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 Kino. They ought not to be too much fostered, as it would 
 in some degree retard their growth. They are of a very 
 hardy nature. When large, the plants will flower freely, and 
 are similar in flower to Myrtle ; many stamina, proceeding 
 from a hard nut-like capsule. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Euchilus ohcordatvs is the only species. Flowers similar 
 to Eutaxia ; foliage almost unique, being inverse, cordate : 
 time of flowering from March to June. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Euonymus, one or two of this genus have been recently in- 
 troduced from China, and are found to be very ornamental in 
 having beautifully variegated, or rather marginated foliage. 
 E.japbnicus aureus has golden-edged leaves, and E.japbni- 
 cus argenteus* has silvery-edged foliage ; the flowers have 
 no beauty ; the leaves are ovate, acuminate, about one inch 
 and a half broad and two inches and a half long. (Soil 
 No. 11.) 
 
 Eupatbrium. There is only one species deserving of cul- 
 tivation in the green-house ; flowers syngenesious, white, and 
 in large flattened panicles ; very sweet-scented. The plant, 
 when growing freely, in the beginning of summer, should be 
 topped, which would make it more bushy ; if not, it is apt to 
 grow straggling. Known, in our collections, as E. elegdns. 
 (Soil No. 3.) 
 
 Eutdxias, two species. E. myrtifblia is a most beautiful 
 free-flowering evergreen shrub ; foliage small, but very neat ; 
 flowers leguminose, small, and very many; colour yellow and 
 red ; grows freely. The young plants should be frequently 
 lopped, or they will grow naked and unsightly. E. piingens, 
 similar to the other except in foliage. They flower from 
 March to June, and ought to have a place in every green- 
 house. Culture very easy. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Ficus, a few species, are good plants for this department, 
 especially F.e/asfeca; leaves smooth, shining green, frequent- 
 ly six inches wide and twelve long : this is the plant that 
 
 * This plant is in some collections as a variegated leaved camellia. 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 265 
 
 produces the gum elastic, or Indian rubber. F. australis is 
 also an excellent evergreen, with elliptic dull green foliage ; 
 very rusty underneath ; they grow almost too freely. (Soil 
 No. 11.) 
 
 Fuchsia, or Ladies' Ear-drop. There are an endless va- 
 riety of this lovely genus of deciduous small shrubs now cul- 
 tivated, but there are only a few, very few, to surpass the 
 common and celebrated Coccinea: true, many have been, and 
 are, represented as far surpassing it, but, when brought to the 
 test, they are, in some particular, found wanting. However, 
 among the many, F.glohosa, F. elegcms, and F. Groomianaoxe 
 profuse and beautiful bloomers. F.fulgens is a superb and 
 distinct species ; the foliage is very different from any other 
 sort^ leaves of a well-grown plant are four inches wide and 
 five inches and a half long : the flowers are from two inches 
 and a half to three inches long, of a pink and scarlet colour, 
 and the plant is nearly tuberous : it, when in bloom, is 
 very superb. F. virgata, F. thomsbnia, conica, &c., might 
 be added to the list. We would recommend our readers to 
 grow them from seeds when obtained : it is well known they 
 will produce variety, and it is even supposed by some that 
 the seeds of F. coccinea have produced by hybridizing nearly 
 all the varieties of the present day, which approach one hun- 
 dred ; most of the flowers are a bright scarlet, the stamens are 
 encircled with a petal of bright purple, and are of very cu- 
 rious construction ; they bear a dark purple berry, and are 
 of the easiest cultivation ; but during summer the pots must 
 be carefully kept from the sun, although the plants will not 
 be affected by it. If the plants are young and growing free- 
 ly, we find that a deluge of rain, and afterward a hot day, is 
 their instant death. Some of them do tolerably well when 
 planted in the flower-garden early in May. (Soil No. 10 
 or 13.) 
 
 GarJoquia Hookeri, a very pretty dwarf plant — native of 
 iheFloridas: it blooms profusely from June to October; flowers 
 are about one inch and a half long, of a tubular labiat form, of 
 
 23 
 
266 GREEN-HOUSE. REPOTTING. [Murck. 
 
 a bright orange colour ; it is easy of culture in (soil 
 No. 1.) 
 
 Gelsemium nitidum, Carolina jasmine, a most beautiful 
 climbing evergreen, flowering shrub. In the months of 
 April and May it produces many large yellow trumpet-like 
 blossoms of delicious fragrance. If much encouraged in 
 growth, it will not flower so freely. (Soil No, 6.) 
 
 Genista : a few of these are very pretty free-flowering 
 shrubs. G. rambsus, G. canaiiensis, G. tricuspiddta, G. 
 cuspidbsa, and G. umhelldta. are the finest green-house spe- 
 cies. All of them have yellow legurninose flowers in great 
 abundance ; leaves small, lanceolate. (Soil No. 1,) 
 
 Gnaphdlium, everlasting. There are above ten species, 
 most of ihem very splendid, persistant flowers, G. eximia 
 has brilliant red flowers, G. spiralis, G. speciosissima, G. 
 frnticans, G. oriantdlum, and G. imhricdtum, are all very 
 fine ; pots must be well drained, (Soil No. 8.) 
 
 Gnidias, about ten species of pretty green-house shrubs. 
 G. simplex, G. sericea, G. imherhis, and G.pinifolia, flower 
 the most freely; flowers straw colour, tubular, and corymbose. 
 G. simplex is sweet-scented, leaves small ; the pots must be 
 well drained, and care taken that they do not get either too 
 wet or too dry, for the roots are very delicate. The plants 
 must be kept near the glass, or they will be drawn weak. 
 (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Gompholbbiums, a genus of very pretty delicate plants, all 
 papilionaceous ; flowers generally yellow with a little red ; 
 foliage very variable. G. barbigerum, G. polijn6rfu?n, G. 
 latifblium, G. grandifiornm, and G. venustum, are fine : the 
 pots must be well drained, and care taken that they are not 
 over-watered; they grow freely. (Soil No. ti,) 
 
 Goodenia, a genus of about twelve species, with cordate, 
 serrate, alternate foliage. G. stelligera and G. sudveolens 
 arc sweet-scented ; G. ovata and G. grandijlbra are the best. 
 They are principally small shrubs, with terminale or axillary 
 flowers, and flower during summer. (Soil No, 6.) 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 267 
 
 Gorteria persondta is the only species that belongs to this 
 genus, and is an annual. There are several plants in our 
 collections known as Gorterias, but which properly are Ga- 
 zania, of which there are five species. G. ringens, when 
 the flowers are fully expanded, (which will only be while 
 exposed to the sun, closing at night and opening again with 
 the influence of the sun's rays,) is a great beauty. The rays 
 of the flowers are bright orange, and the centre dark purple. 
 G. pavonia has handsome foliage ; flower similar to G. rin- 
 gens, except the centre of the flower being spotted, and is 
 thought to be the finest, but does not flower so freely. G. 
 hetero])hyUa is of the same character, except the foliage, 
 which is variable, the colour orange and vermilion. They 
 are dwarf-growing plants, and during the months of July, 
 August, and September, are liable to damp off* at the surface 
 of the earth, from the action of heat and too much water. 
 Pots must be well drained, and the plants kept partially in 
 the shade. Their flowers are syngenesious, and about two 
 inches in diameter. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Grevilleas, about thirty species, A few of them very 
 handsome in flower and foliage, among which are G.^nmi- 
 cea ; G. acanthifolia, (beautiful foliage ;) G. concinna, very 
 pretty straw and rose-coloured flowers ; G. juniperina, gxeea 
 and straw-coloured; G. lijiearis, white flowers. The flow- 
 ers of the whole are curious, though not very attractive. 
 Some carry their flowers in racemose spikes, others on flow- 
 ering branches, which are recurved ; the petals are very small 
 and rugged ; the stile longer than the appendage. They 
 grow freely, flower and ripen seeds; all evergreen dwarf 
 shrubs. (Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Habrdnthus, about ten species of small South American 
 bulbs, nearly allied to Amaryllis. H. Andersbnii, H. versi- 
 color^ H. Candida, and H. robusta, are fine ; they are in colour 
 yellow, blue, white, and lilac. We have very little doubt 
 but these bulbs will do to plant out in the garden in April, 
 
268 GREEN-HOUSE. REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 and be lifted in October. Keep theni from frost. Thus 
 treated, they are very desirable. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Hakeas, about forty species, not generally so interesting or 
 attractive as the last genus ; floAvers all white ; construction 
 similar to Grevillea, but the foliage more varied. H. gibho- 
 sa, H. nitida, H. saligna, H. suaveolens, sweet-scented, H. 
 conculata, and H. lamberti, are the best, and afford a curious 
 variety of foliage ; flower in June. Drain the pots vyell. 
 (Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Helychrysums, above forty species, chiefly belonging to 
 the green-hoiise, all everlasting flowers. H. grandifibnim, 
 H. arbor eum, H. fragrans, H. adoratissimmn, H.fruticanSf 
 and H.fulgidum, are all very esteemed species, mostly with 
 soft downy foliage. The pots should be well drained, and 
 the plants kept in an airy situation, as they suffer from the 
 least damp. If the flowers are cut off before they fade, they 
 will retain for many years all the splendour of their beauty ; 
 but if allowed to decay on the plant, they will soon become 
 musty, and all their colour, fade. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Hibbertias, about ten species. Three of them are known 
 to be fine climbing evergreen shrubs, namely, i/. glossularice- 
 folia ; H. dentata ; H. volubilis, if closely approached, has a 
 disagreeable smell ; H. fascicidntn, H. saligna, and H. pe- 
 dunculata, are evergreen shrubs ; they have pure yellow 
 flowers of five petals, blooming from May to September. 
 (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Hoveas, about eight species, pretty plants of New South 
 Wales, blue pea-flowering evergreen shrubs ; the finest are 
 H. panbsa, H. atropurpurea, H. linearis, H. rosynarinijbliay 
 H' longifblia, and H. Celsii, which is the most superb, and 
 flowers in abundance. They grow and flower freely ; the 
 pots should be drained. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Hypericums, St. John's wort, about twenty species. A 
 few of them are very showy, and, with few exceptions, have 
 yellow flowers. //. monogymmi, H. balearicum H.floribun- 
 
 i 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 269 
 
 dum, H. canariense, H. cBgyptiacum, and H. cochinchinense, 
 which has scarlet flowers, are among the best, and all of 
 them flower freely ; five petals, filaments many in three or 
 five parcels. They are all of very easy cultivation, and 
 bloom generally from April to September. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Hydrangea hortensis is a well known plant, and much 
 esteemed for its great profusion of very elegant, though 
 monstrous, flowers. They are naturally of a pink colour, 
 but under certain circumstances of culture they become blue. 
 If grown in brown loam with a little sand, they will pre- 
 serve their original colour ; but if grown in swamp earth with 
 a little mould of decayed leaves, they will become blue.* 
 The swamp earth and vegetable mould being more combined 
 with aluminous salt than brown loam, is the cause of the 
 change : and, when first found out, (which was merely by 
 chance,) was thought a great wonder. It must have a very 
 plentiful supply of water when in flower, which is produced 
 on the shoots of the previous year. They will neither grow 
 nor flower well if they are not kept constantly in the shade. 
 When kept in the sun, the foilage is very brown ; and by 
 being neglected in watering, we have seen the flowers com- 
 pletely scourged. Being tolerably hardy, when the winters 
 are mild, by a little protection in the open air, they will 
 flower profusely ; the flowers will be very large, and in bloom 
 from June to October. They are deciduous, soft-wooded 
 shrubs. 
 
 Eex, Holly, of 7. aquifblium. There are above one hun 
 dred of them in cultivation in Europe, difl'ering in variega 
 lion, margin, shape, and size of the leaves ; some are only 
 prickly on the margin of the foilage, others prickly over all 
 the surface. In Europe they are all hardy, but with us few 
 or none of the varieties are so. If they become acclimated, 
 they will be a great ornament to our gardens, being all low 
 
 * Mix the iron sparks, from the blacksmith's shop, with any kind of soil, 
 and they will be a beautiful blue. One and a half quarts to a bushel will do, 
 
 23* 
 
270 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [Morch. 
 
 evergreen shrubs. The most common and conspicuous va- 
 rieties are the hedge-hog, stripedhedge-liog,iohiteed^ed, gold 
 edged, and painted ; the flowers are white and small, berries 
 yellow or red ; they do not agree with exposure to the sun. 
 J. Cassine and /. vomitbria have very bitter leaves, and, 
 though natives of Carolina, we have to give them the pro- 
 lection of a green-house. It is said that at certain seasons 
 of the year the Indians make a strong decoction of the leaves, 
 which makes them vomit freely, and after drinking and vo- 
 miting for a few days, they consider themselves sufficiently 
 purified. (Soil No. 15.) 
 
 lUiciums, Aniseseed tree, three species. I.foridanum has 
 very sweet-scented, double purple flowers, and the plant 
 grows freely and systematically if properly treated, and de- 
 serves particular attention. /. 'parviflbrum has small yellow 
 flowers ; /. anisatzim is so very like I. parvifiorum in every 
 respect, as to make us conclude they are the same, were /. 
 anisdtmn not a native of China, and the other two natives of 
 Florida. When the leaves and capsules of either of them 
 are rubbed, they have a very strong smell of anise ; they 
 grow very freely. (Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Indigofera ; Indigo tree, about twenty species, belong to 
 the green-house, and are chiefly pretty free-flowering shrubs. 
 /. denuddta, I. amcena, I. austrdlis, I. angulata, I. cdndicans, 
 and I.jilifblia, are very fine ; flowers papilionaceous, in long 
 panicles ; colour various, red, blue, yellow, and pink. (Sail 
 No. G.) 
 
 Isopbgons, about ten species of Pro^ea-like plants, all na- 
 tives of New Holland. They are very stiff" shrubs, with 
 leaves very much divided, and cone-like flowers at the ex- 
 tremity of the shoots. I. formosus, I. anemonifblius, I.at- 
 ienuatis, ^ndi I. poli/cephalis,are the finest; flowers are straw, 
 lilac, white, and yellow coloured ; the pots must be well 
 drained, and the plants not over-crowded. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Jacksonias, a genus consisting of five species. The fo- 
 liage is varied, and all natives of New South Wales. /. sco- 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 271 
 
 paria, J. horrida, and /, reticulata, are the finest ; the small 
 flowers come out of the young shoots, are yellow and papi- 
 lionaceous ; the pots should be well drained. (Soil No. 6.) 
 Jambbsa vulgaris, or Eugenia jnmbos, is a splendid ever- 
 green tree, producing a fruit of an agreeable odour and called 
 rose apple. /. australis has a very neat habit, and produces 
 purple fruit ; they are of the earliest culture in (soil No, 12.) 
 Jasminum, Jasmine. A few species of this genus are 
 celebrated either for the green-house or rooms. /. odora- 
 tissimutn, Azorian, has very sweet-scented yellow flowers, 
 blooming from April to November. /. revolutum is the 
 earliest flowering one, and of the same colour ; it is apt to 
 grow straggling, and should be close pruned as soon as done 
 blooming, which will be in May. /. pubigerum is also 
 yellow. /. grandifibrum is frequently called Catalonian, 
 and should be pruned early in spring to make it bloom well, 
 especially old plants. These plants are all perfectly hardy 
 in the southern states. /. officinale is a hardy climbing 
 plant for arbours, walls, &c. There are several varieties of 
 it. (Soil No. 3.) 
 
 Justicias. Only a few of these belong to the green-house, 
 and are very simple-looking flowers. (The most beautiful 
 of them belong to the hot-house. J. nigricans, small 
 striped flower ; /. orchioides and /. Adhdtoda, Malanut, are 
 the only ones that are worth observation, and are very easily 
 cultivated in any soil. 
 
 Kennedias, about twelve species, all beautiful evergreen 
 climbers, of the easiest culture, and flower abundantly. K. 
 monophylla, blue-flowered, and K. rubicunda, crimson- 
 flowered, are common in our collections. K. prostrdta, 
 one-flowered scarlet, and K. coccinea, many-flowered scar- 
 let, are very pretty. K. Comptonidna has splendid purple 
 flowers, K. nigricans, black flowers, and K. splendens and 
 K. marrydtta are thought the most superb. They have 
 bright crimson flowers, and are yet rare in our collections. 
 The pots should be well drained ; flowers are either in race- 
 
272 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [Marchr 
 
 inose spikes, or solitary, which is rather too much distinc- 
 tion for the same genus. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Lachnaas, about five species, remarkable for their downy 
 heads of while flowers ; leaves small, ovate, lanceolate. L. 
 glaiica, L. conglomerata and L. eriocephala are the best 
 species. The pots must be well drained, and in summer the 
 plants protected from the sun. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Lambertias, four species of very fine plants, natives of 
 New Holland. L.formosa is the finest of the genus that 
 we have seen ; flowers large and of a splendid rose colour. 
 L. echinata is said to be finer, but has not flowered in culti- 
 vation. L. uniflbra has single red flowers, and L. inermis 
 orange-coloured. They are rare plants in the collections on 
 this side of the Atlantic. Drain the pots well ; the foliage is 
 narrow, and of a hard dry nature. (Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Lasiopetalums, only two species. There were a few 
 more, but they are now Thomasias, plants of no merit what- 
 ever in regard to flower ; foliage three-lobed, small, rough, 
 and rusty-like. Thomasia solandcea and T. quercifblia 
 are the best species ; foliage of the former is large, cordate, 
 and deeply indented ; they are all of the easiest culture. 
 {Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Laurus. A few species are green-house plants. This 
 genus has been divided to Cinnambmum ; still, there are a 
 few celebrated plants in the original. L. nbhilis, sweet bay, 
 though hardy, is kept under protection. It will bear the 
 winter with a little straw covering; notwithstanding, there 
 should be a plant kept in the house in case of accident by 
 frost or otherwise ; there is a variegated variety of it. L. in- 
 dica, royal bay, L.foetena, L. aggregata, and L. glduca, 
 are favourites. There is a species known in our collections 
 as L. scdhra. The Camphor tree, known as L. camphbra, 
 is Cinnamomum campliora ; the wood, leaves, and roots of 
 this tree have a very strong odour of camphor. It is ob- 
 tained by distillation from the roots and small branches, 
 which are cut into chips, and put into a net suspended with- 
 
 ^1 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 273 
 
 in an iron pot, the bottom of which is covered with water, 
 having an earthen head fitted in it ; heat is then appHed, and 
 the steam of the boiling water acting upon the contents of 
 the net, elevates the camphor into the capital, where it con- 
 cretes on the straws, with which this part of the apparatus is 
 lined. They are all fine evergreens, (which the name de- 
 notes,) and easily cultivated. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Lavdndulas, Lavender, about seven species belong to the 
 green-house, and a few of them very pretty soft-wooded, 
 half shrubby plants, and, if touched, are highly scented. L. 
 dentata has narrow serrated foliage, very neat; L.formbsa 
 and L. pinnata are desirable ; blue flowers on a long spike ; 
 should be kept near the glass : they are of the easiest culture. 
 (Soil No. 7.) 
 
 Lechenaultia ; two species of pretty dwarf-blooming plants. 
 L.formosa is almost always a picture with its bright scarlet 
 flowers and heath-like foliage, and ought to be in every col- 
 lection ; it must have an airy situation and near the front 
 glass ; otherwise, it will be weak and spindling, and without 
 bloom. (Soil No. 19.) 
 
 Leonbtis, Lion's-ear, four species. They have very fine 
 scarlet tubular flowers, orifice-toothed. They come out in 
 large whorls, and look elegant ; but neither plant nor foliage 
 has an agreeable appearance. They are of the easiest cul- 
 ture. L. intermedia and L. Leoniirus are the best flow- 
 ering species. (Soil No. 7.) 
 
 Leptospermums, about thirty species, all pretty New Hol- 
 land evergreen dwarf shrubs, with small white flowers. L. 
 baccatum, L. pendulum, L. juntperinum, L. ovcitum, L. 
 stellatum, L. grandiflorum, and L. scopdrium, are the best 
 of the species. The latter was used as tea by the crew of 
 Captain Cook's ship. It is an agreeable bitter, with a plea- 
 sant flavour, when fresh. When young plants are growing, 
 they ought to be frequently topped to make them bushy, 
 and kept m an airy situation, or they will be drawn and un- 
 sightly. They are of very easy culture. (Soil No. 1.) 
 
274 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 Leucadendrons, Silver tree, above forty species, all na- 
 tives of the Cape of Good Hope. They are evergreens, with 
 handsome silvery-like foliage. L. argenteum (once Prbtas 
 argentea) is a great beauty ; foliage white, lanceolate, and 
 silky. It is a plant that has been long in cultivation, greatly 
 admired, and much sought for, and is the finest of the genus. 
 L. squarrosum, L. stellatum, (once Prbtea stellaris,) L, 
 tortum, L. serviceum, L. marginatum, and L. plumbsum, 
 (once P . parvi flora,) are all fine species. The pots must be 
 well drained and the plants never over-watered. They are 
 very desirable in collections for their beauty of foliage. 
 (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Leucospermums, about eighteen species, of Proteacous 
 plants, chiefly low growing, and are mostly downy or hairy ; 
 flowers yellow, in terminal heads. L.form6suin,L.gran' 
 diflbrmn, L. tomentosum, and L. candicans, rose-scented. 
 These are fine species. For treatment, see Proteas. (Soil 
 No. 9.) 
 
 Llnums, flax, two or three species are very fine, and flow- 
 er freely. L. trigynum has large yellow flowers in clusters, 
 and L. ascyrifblium, whose flowers are large, blue, and 
 white, and in long spikes. They bloom in February ; the 
 shape of them is very like the flower vulgarly called Morn- 
 ing-glory. (Soil No. 4.) 
 
 Liparias, about five species, much esteemed for their 
 beauty of foliage ; leaves ovate, lanceolate, downy or woolly ; 
 flowers yellow, leguminose, and capitate. L. sphcBrica, L. 
 tomentosa, L. villosa, and L. sericea, are the finest. L. 
 vistita and L. villbsa are the same, although put in many 
 catalogues as diff"erent species. None of them ought to be 
 much watered over the foliage, as it adheres to the down, and 
 causes the young shoots to damp off". Drain the pots well, 
 and keep the plants in an airy situation. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Lobelias. Several of them, when well treated, form pret- 
 ty flowering plants ; they are principally herbaceous. The 
 genus consists of about eighty species ; seventy of them are 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 275 
 
 exotics ; many of them natives of the Cape of Good Hope, 
 with httle flowers of brilliant colours. L. ccerulea, L. Thun- 
 hergii, L. coryvihbsa, L. pyramiddlis, L. erines,dLnd L. illici- 
 folia, are very fine species, of week growth, but flower freely. 
 (Soil No. 4.) 
 
 Lomatias, about six species ; flowers are white or straw 
 colour, and similar to Grevillea, but the foliage more hand- 
 some. L. silaifblia has leaves bipinnatifid and smooth, seg- 
 ments wedge-shaped and cut. L. dentata and L. illicifblia 
 are the finest ; the pots should be drained. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Lonicera japonica. There is a plant in our collections 
 known by that name, which is now Nintooa longiflbra; flow- 
 ers of a straw colour, but come out white. It has been 
 known to withstand the winter, but does not flower, and is 
 frequently killed entirely. (Soil No. 3.) 
 
 LophosjJermum scandens. This is a magnificent climb- 
 ing soft-wooded shrub, with rosy purple, campanulate flow- 
 ers, which are produced from the axils on the young wood ; 
 they bloom from May to September ; leaves large, cordate, 
 and tomentose ; grows rapidly, and flowers abundantly, 
 (Soil No. 3.) 
 
 Lychnis coronata is an esteemed Chinese plant ; flowers 
 in abundance, pentapelatous, large, and a little indented at 
 the edges ; colour a red-like orange ; flowers terminale and 
 axillary. A good method of treatment is to divide the roots, 
 and plant some of them in the garden ; they will flower well, 
 and could be lifted in the fall, and put under protection. If 
 not done so, plant them in four-inch pots, and repot them 
 into those of six-inch in May. Do not expose them while 
 in flower to the mid-day sun, for it will deteriorate the fine 
 orange colour. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Lysinhnas, four species, closely allied to Epdcris. In 
 every respect treatment the same. L. pentapitalum, L. con- 
 spicum, and L. rbseum, are the best ; the flowers of the 
 former two are white. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
276 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [Murch. 
 
 Magnblais, There are four species that require the pro- 
 tection of our green-houses ; all the others are hardy. M. 
 fuscata and M. annoncefblia are very similar in foliage and 
 flower: the young branches and leaves oi M. fuscata is co- 
 vered with a brown, rusty-like down ; the other by some is 
 considered merely a variety ; flowers small, brown, and very 
 sweet-scented. M. piimila is very dwarf-growing ; leaves 
 large and netted ; flowers semi-double, white, pendent, and 
 exceedingly fragrant. They are natives of China. We 
 have several others from the east, but being deciduous are 
 perfectly hardy. AI. odoratissima, now Talauma Condolii, 
 is a native of the Island of Java, and considered odorife- 
 rous, but it is very rare even in Europe ; said to have a straw- 
 coloured flower. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Manettia ; a genus of pretty climbing plants producing a 
 profusion of scarlet flowers, especially C. glabra, (of Don,) 
 or cordifdlia, (of Paxton.) which is a complete mass of flow- 
 ers from July to October, and is a lovely object when turned 
 into the borders during summer. There is now a distinct 
 plant from the above, lately introduced by Mr. Hogg, which 
 is said to be the true cordifdlia ; but it has not yet flowered 
 in the country. (Soil No. 17.) 
 
 Melaleucas, above thirty^pecies, and a beautiful genus of 
 New Holland plants, of easy culture ; flowers come out of the 
 wood-like fringes. M. elliptica, M.fidgens, scarlet, M. de- 
 cussata, M. Jnjpericifdlia, M. squarrbsa, M. linarifdlia, M. 
 incdna, M. tetragonia, M. thymifblia, are all very fine spe- 
 cies, and flower freely if they have been grown from cut- 
 tings ; the singularity of flower and diversity of foliage make 
 them generally admired. (Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Meldstoma nepalensis is a good green-house species, flow- 
 ering freely during winter, of a pale blush colour, and is of 
 the easiest culture. As soon as done blooming, the plant 
 should be well cut in to keep it into shape. (Soil No. 1.) ■ 
 
 Mehziesia is a family of pretty dwarf British plants, very 
 
March.'] green-house. — repotting. 277 
 
 similar lo the Erica in flower, and requfring the same mode 
 of treatment : they bloom in July and August. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Mespilus. See Eryabotrya. 
 
 Metrosideros, about fifteen species. Many have been add- 
 ed to Callistemon. M.jibrida, M. umhellata, and M. angus- 
 tifblia, are the best species, C. salignum, C. lanceolutum, 
 C. semper flor ens, C.glaucum, once M. speciosa, and C.for- 
 mbsum; these are all beautiful plants, with scarlet flowers. 
 Other two beautiful species with white flowers have been 
 given to Angophora. A. cordifblia, once M. Mspida, and A. 
 lanceolata, once M. costata ; these genera are very easily dis- 
 tinguished from any other Australasian shrubs, by the pecu- 
 liar character of having both sides of the leaves alike. The 
 flowers consist of stamens, stiles, and anthers, coming in 
 hundreds out of the young wood for the length of three or 
 four inches, forming a dense cone crowned with a small 
 twig, hence frequently called " bottle brush plant ;" leaving 
 capsules in the wood, which will keep their seeds perfect for 
 a great number of years. They grow freely, and the pots 
 should be well drained. (Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Myrsines, Cape Myrtle, dwarf cape evergreen shrubs co- 
 vered with snaall flowers from March to May. M. retiisa 
 has purple flowers; M. rotundifblia, flowers white and purple. 
 They will grow in any situation, and are of easy culture. 
 (Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Myrtus, Myrtle, is a well known and popular shrub, espe- 
 cially the common varieties, and was a great favourite (even 
 to adoration) among the ancients. It was the mark of au- 
 thority for Athenian rulers, and is among the moderns an 
 emblem of pre-eminence. They are elegant evergreen 
 shrubs, with an agreeable odour. M. communis multiplex, 
 double flowering, is a very neat shrub, and flowers abun- 
 dantly. M. comnnmis leucocdrpa, white-fruited myrtle. 
 M. itdlica varieguta, striped leaved ; M. itdlica maculdta^ 
 blotch leaved, are very fine shrubs ; and M. tomentbsa, Chi- 
 nese myrtle, is a magnificent erect growing shrub, with a 
 
 24 
 
278 GREEN-HOUSE, — REPOTTING. [Murck, 
 
 white down over the foliage ; the flowers are the largest of 
 the genus. When they first expand they are purple, and 
 afterward change to white, so that there are beautiful flow- 
 ers of several shades of colour on the plant. We have not 
 the smallest doubt but this species will become, in many in- 
 stances, as plentiful as the common myrtle. It is more easi- 
 ly grown, but cannot stand much exposure to the sun in 
 summer. M. tenuifblia is a very fine plant, and a native of 
 New South Wales. Myrtles in general should be sprinkled 
 with water in the evenings, to keep off" the red spider, (Soil 
 No, 11,) 
 
 Nandina domestica, the only species, and a popular shrub 
 in the gardens of Japan, where it is called Nandin. It has 
 supra-decompound leaves, with entire lanceolate leaflets, a 
 kind of foliage that is very rare ; the flowers are small, 
 whitish green, in panicles, succeeded by berries of the size 
 of a pea ; drain the pots well. (Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Nerium (Oleander) is a genus of beautiful erect growing 
 evergreen shrubs, of the easiest culture, and abundant in 
 flower, N. oleander is the common rose-coloured single 
 flowering species, from which many varieties have origi- 
 nated. At present the most popular is N. oleander splen- 
 dens, which has a double rose-coloured flower, N. a. striata, 
 jl. pi., has double striped flowers. N. macrbphyUum has 
 very large double pink flowers, N. lacteolum has very pale 
 flowers. There is one that has got into our collections as 
 double while, which is only semi-double. We have seen a 
 white variety as double as N. o. splendeyis, but it is yet very 
 rare. N. oleander elegantissimwn, a most beautiful plant, 
 with deep silver-edged foliage ; and the young wood is striped 
 white and green. We are not positive in respect to the 
 beauiy of its flowers, but it has a high character. There are 
 likewise single yellow, single white, and single blotched va- 
 rieties of N. oleander. They are subject to the small white 
 scaly insect, and should be frequently washed, as has been 
 directed, to keep it off". (Soil No. 1 2.) 
 
March.] green-house — repotting. 279 
 
 Okas, Olive, about twelve species and varieties. 0. Eu- 
 ropcea longifblia is the species that is cultivated to such an 
 extent in the south of France, and Italy. O. Europcaa la- 
 tifolia is chiefly cultivated in Spain. The fruit is larger 
 than that of Italy, but the oil is not so pleasant, which is ob- 
 tained by crushing the fruit to a paste, and pressing it through 
 a woollen bag, adding hot water as long as any oil is yielded. 
 The oil is then skimmed off the water, and put into barrels, 
 bottles, &c., for use. The tree seldom exceeds thirty feet, 
 and is a branchy glaucous evergreen, and said to be of great 
 longevity. Some plantations at Turin, in Italy, are sup- 
 posed to have existed from the time of Pliny. It frequently 
 flowers in our collections, but seldom carries fruit; flowers 
 white, in small racemose axillary spikes. O capensis has 
 thick large oblong foliage ; flowers white, in large terminale 
 panicles. O. verrucosa, foliage flat, lanceolate, and while 
 beneath, branches curiously warted. O.fragrans blooms in 
 winter ; foliage and blossoms are both highly odoriferous ; 
 the plant is much esteemed in China, and is said to be used 
 to adulterate and flavour teas. Leaves are elliptic, lanceo- 
 late, and a little serrated ; flowers white in lateral bunches. 
 It is subject to the small, white scaly insect, and ought to be 
 carefully kept from them by washing. O. rosea has pink 
 flowers. O. paniculata is also a fine species. They are all 
 very easily cultivated. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Oxylbhiums, seven species, plants very similar to Callista- 
 chys, with ovate, cordate, light-coloured, pubescent foliage, 
 with papilionaceous flowers. O. ohtus'ifbUum has scarlet 
 flowers ; O. retusum, orange flowers ; and O. ellipticum, yel- 
 low flowers. They grow freely, and should be well drained ; 
 flower from May to August. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Passiflora ; a celebrated genus of climbing plants, called in 
 common " Passion Vine." Those belonging to the green- 
 house flower during summer. Several of them are both 
 beautiful and profuse in bloom, especially P. Kermbsine, P. 
 
280 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 princepSf P. hybrida, and are three very distinct species; the 
 former is of a beautiful rosy crimson colour, (Soil No. 
 13.) 
 
 Pelargoniums, Stork's Bill. This genus, so universally 
 known among us as Geranium, from which it was sepa- 
 rated many years ago, is a family of great extent and variety, 
 for which we are principally indebted to the Cape of Good 
 Hope. There are many hundred species, with upward of 
 eight hundred beautiful and well-marked varieties, which 
 have been obtained from seed. They are of every charac- 
 ter, colour, and shade, of the most vivid description. The 
 easy cultivation of the Pelargonium tribe, or Geraniums, 
 as they are commonly called, has rendered them very popu- 
 lar ; also the agreeableness of scent and fragrance, of which 
 many of them are possessed, makes them favourites. 
 
 Their flowering season is also of considerable duration, 
 especially the bright scarlet and crimson varieties, which 
 bloom from March till August, which renders them quite 
 indispensable in collections. Some growers complain of 
 their straggling habits ; but it is only those that do not 
 know how to prune them : even some of the choice kinds of 
 the present day could not be made to grow irregularly — such 
 AS Perfection, Rose-mimdi, Gem, Hector, and olhers; indeed, 
 within these few years, the habits and beauties of the plant 
 are improved a hundred-fold, and those who are only ac- 
 quainted with the old sorts would be transported with a view 
 of the dazzling and beauteous colony of the new sorts that 
 have been procured by hybridizing those of good habit and 
 character. 
 
 The best method to adopt in impregnating these is, to 
 choose the female, one that has large flowers, of easy cultiva- 
 tion, and as nearly allied in character and other habits as 
 possible. When a flower of the intended female is newly 
 expanded, take a pair of very fine-pointed scissors, and cutoff 
 the anthers before the pollen expands ; then, as soon as the 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 281 
 
 summit of the stile divides, apply the pollen taken from the 
 anthers of the intended male plant on a very fine camel hair- 
 pencil, or cut out the stigma entirely, and place the anther 
 on the summit of the stile, which, if correctly done, will 
 have the desired effect. As soon as the seed is ripe, sow it 
 in light sandy soil; and when it has come up, take care not 
 to over-water the soil, which would cause them to damp off. 
 When they are about one inch high, put them into small 
 pots, and treat as the other varieties. Have them all dis 
 tinctly marked until they flower, which will be in the se- 
 cond year from the time of sowing. 
 
 The tuberous and fleshy stemmed species are very inte- 
 resting to the discriminating inquirer. Their habit and 
 constitution are so peculiar, that we have frequently won- 
 dered that they have not been separated into distinct genera. 
 The cultivation of them is more difficult, water being very 
 prejudicial to them when they are inactive. If they are 
 well managed, they flower beautifully, and the colours are 
 very superior and peculiar, having frequently bright green 
 and purple in the same flower. 
 
 The following list comprehends the most desirable varie- 
 ties that we have seen : 
 
 PURE WHITE, Micans, 
 
 Modestnm, 
 
 MARKED OR STRIPED, WITH Pictum. 
 RED, PURPLE, OR CRIMSON. 
 
 Ada, BLUSH, 
 
 Adelina, 
 
 Alba multiflora, marked or striped with 
 Americanum, red, &c. 
 
 Bella Donna, Admiral Codrington, 
 
 Bellissima, Albidum, 
 
 Duchess of Clarence, new, Amelia, 
 
 Imogene, Captain Cook, 
 
 Macranthum superbum, Celestia, 
 
 24* 
 
282 
 
 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. 
 
 [March. 
 
 Diversum, 
 
 Maid of Athens, F. 
 
 LILAC, 
 
 OF DIFFERENT SHADES. 
 
 Don Quixote, 
 Lauretta, 
 Lilac perfection, 
 Navarino, R., 
 Obovatum. 
 
 Francesca, 
 
 Gazelle, 
 
 Georginia, 
 
 Gem, 
 
 Phoenix, 
 
 Pulcherrima, 
 
 Rosinante, 
 
 Rosette, 
 
 Rosa mundi, 
 
 Sir John Broughton, 
 
 Statira, 
 
 Tam O'Shanter, 
 
 Wheelerii. 
 
 PINK. 
 
 Adansoni, 
 
 Britannia, 
 
 Decora, new,^ 
 
 Fair Maria, B., 
 
 Incarnatum superbutn, 
 
 Lovely Anne, 
 
 Maid of Athens, 
 
 Miss Annesly, 
 
 Miss Webster, B.^ 
 
 Ontario, 
 
 Queen of Beauties, ra^'e. 
 
 ROSE, 
 
 WITH DARK LINES OR SPOTS, 
 
 Adelina, 
 Amabile superb, 
 Conqueror, B., 
 Diomede, 
 Dulcinea, new. 
 
 RED OR SCARLET, 
 
 SHADED WITH ORANGE, CRIM- 
 SON, OR PURPLE. 
 
 Aladdin, 
 Etna, 
 Filigree, 
 Ne-plus-ultra, 
 Perfectum, R., 
 Queen Adelaide, 
 Red Rover. 
 
 BRIGHT SCARLET, 
 
 WITH BLACK LINES OR SPOTS. 
 
 Adonis, 
 Bellianum, 
 King of Scarlets. 
 Lucifer, 
 Macbeth, 
 
March.] green-house. — REPOTTiNtt. 283 
 
 Meteor, 
 
 Phoebus, LARGE CRIMSON, 
 
 Rough et Noir, 
 
 Wellington. with very dark shades. 
 
 Belvidere, 
 FINE LARGE RED, Black Rover, 
 
 Cicero, 
 WITH BLACK LINES OR SPOTS. Lord Dcnman, 
 
 Maria Louisa, 
 Admiral Nelson, Superbissimum. 
 
 Admiral Napier, 
 Agrippina, 
 
 Bancho, LARGE CRIMSON 
 
 Beauty of Philadelphia, B., PURPLE, 
 
 Concessum, good, but slender, 
 
 Dictator, with scarlet or black 
 
 Emperor of the west, marks. 
 
 Flagrans or Lord Yarboro, 
 Hector, Black Prince, 
 
 Hercules, Conspicuum, 
 
 Paragon, very rare, Don Juan, 
 
 Perfection, Dennis\ General Washington, 
 
 Queen of Scots, General Washington, Bolls. 
 
 Victory, Hericartianum, 
 
 Triumph. Humea grandiflora, 
 
 Purpurea coerulea. 
 
 Queen Adelaide, S. 
 BRIGHT PURPLE, 
 
 with dark lines. CLOUDED or OBSCURED, 
 
 Albion, WITH dark purple. 
 
 Capitatum superbum, 
 
 Lydia, African, 
 
 Purple Perfection. Champion of Devon, 
 
284 
 
 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. 
 
 [March. 
 
 DARK RED. 
 
 Augustissimun, 
 Grandissima, 
 Pavoninum maximum, 
 Servicia. 
 
 Densa, 
 
 Heroine, 
 
 Marginatum, 
 
 Obscurum grandiflorum. 
 
 Speculum mundi, 
 
 Yeatmaniana. 
 
 ROSE RED. 
 
 VARIOUS, CURIOUS, AND FINE 
 
 Glaucopis, SORTS. 
 
 Hero, Bipinatifidum, 
 
 Lord Hill, Comptonianum, 
 
 Lord Munster, Echinatum, 
 
 Roseland, Maculatum, 
 
 Van Huysen. Sanguineum, 
 
 Tricolor, 
 Tricolor major. 
 
 There are several others very recently introduced, which 
 have not bloomed so as to allow us to judge of their merits; 
 but their foreign characters are highly flattering. The re- 
 potting of the geranium tribe should be done as early in 
 the month as possible, or even about the end of last month 
 would be advisable in some seasons. (Soil No. 12, with a 
 little more manure.) 
 
 Persoonias, about sixteen species of dwarf evergreen 
 shrubs ; leaves oblong or lanceolate, hairy or downy ; flow- 
 ers axillary and solitary ; the pots should be well drained, 
 and the plants in summer protected from the sun. P. hirsii- 
 ta, P. mollis, P. territifblia, and P. lucida, are the most dis- 
 tinct, and grow freely. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Phormium tenax, New Zealand flax lily, the only species ; 
 foliage resembhng an Iris, and very thready. In New Zea- 
 land and Norfolk Island the natives manufacture from this 
 plant a kind of stuff like coarse linen, cordage, &c. ; the plant 
 is very hardy, and we would be nowise surprised to see it 
 stand the severity of our winters. It bears exposure to the 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 285 
 
 open air in Europe in the fifty-sixth degree of north latitude. 
 The flowers are said to be yellow and lily-like ; of the easi- 
 est culture. (Soil No. 7.) 
 
 Phylicas, above twenty-five species. Several of them are 
 very pretty growing evergreen shrubs, and of easy culture. 
 P. horizontdlis, P. squarrosa, P. imbricdta,P . myrtifblia, P. 
 callbsa, P. bicolor, and P. ericoides, are all neat growing ; 
 flowers small white, in heads : drain the pots well, and keep 
 them in an airy situation. The foliage of several of the spe- 
 cies is downy. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Phaseolus caracdlla, or snail-flower, is a very curious 
 blooming plant, with flowers of a greenish yellow, all spirally 
 twisted, in great profusion when the plant is well grown. 
 (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 PhcBnix dactylifera, common date palm ; a plant that at- 
 tains a large size, and of rather a rugged appearance ; its fruit 
 is the common well known dale. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Pimeleas, about fourteen species. Most of them are high- 
 ly esteemed, and are not often seen in our collections. P. 
 decussdta is the finest of the genus, both in foliage and flow- 
 ers, which are red, and in large terminal clusters; P. hispiduy 
 P. rosea, P. linifblia, P. spicdta, and P. drwpdcea, are all 
 fine species. The latter has the largest foliage, which is 
 ovate and acuminate ; berry-bearing. They should be well 
 drained. They are very small evergreen shrubs, with white, 
 red, or pink flowers. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Pistdcias, seven species of trees, principally of the south 
 of Europe. There is nothing particular in their appearance, 
 except their productions in their native country. P. tere- 
 binthus is deciduous, and produces the Cyprus turpentine. 
 P. lentiscus is the true mastich tree, which is obtained by 
 cutting transverse incisions in the bark. P. vera and P. re- 
 ticulata are good species; leaves pinnated; leaflets ovate, lan- 
 ceolate ; easily cultivated. (Soil No. 2.) 
 
 Pittosporums, about nine species, with handsome foliage, 
 and small white flowers in clusters, which are fragrant. P. 
 
286 GREEN-HOUSE. REPOTTING. [MarcJl. 
 
 tohira is a native of China, and nearly hardy ; leaves lucid, 
 obovate, obtuse, and smooth : there is a beautiful variegated 
 variety of it. P. undulatum, P. cnriaccum, P. revoliitum, 
 P.fidvum, and P. fcrrugineum, are very ornanneiital ever- 
 greens, and will grow with the nnost simple treatment. (Soil 
 No. 13.) 
 
 Plati/lohiums, Flat Pea, four species of fine free-flowering 
 plants ; flowers leguminose ; colour yellow. P.formbsum, 
 P. ovatum, and P. triangulare, are the best ; the foliage of 
 the former two is cordate, ovate ; the latter hastate, with 
 spiny angles. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Plumbagos, Lead-wort. There are only two species of 
 any consequence belonging to the green-house, P. tristis and 
 P. capensis. The former is a shy flowerer, but the latter 
 flowers freely ; colour beautiful light blue, and flowers in 
 spikes ; foliage oblong, entire, and a little glaucous ; of very 
 easy culture, and continues in bloom a considerable time. 
 (Soil No. 1.) 
 
 Podahjrias, about fourteen species of pretty Cape shrubs; 
 foliage oblong, obovate, and silky-like ; the flowers legumi- 
 nose ; colour blue or pink. P. sericea, P. styracifdlia, P. 
 cortiscans, P. argcntea, P. liparioides, and P. subhiforo, are 
 the finest and most distinct species, and flower abundantly. 
 (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Proteus, about forty-four species. The foliage of this ge- 
 nus is very diversified ; flowers very large, terminal ; sta- 
 mens protected by an involucrum ; many-leaved and imbri- 
 cated ; which is very persistent. P. cynnroides has the 
 largest flower, which is purple, green, and red. P. speciosa, 
 P. umbonulis, once P. longijlolia, P. melaleilca, P. grandijib- 
 ra, P. coccinea, P. cenocarpa, P. pdllens, P.formbsa, P. 
 magmfica, P. speciosa rubra, and P. mellifcra, will afi"ord a 
 very good variety. Tt is almost impossible to describe their 
 true colour, it being so various ; red, white, straw, brown, 
 green, and purple, are most predominant, and frequently to 
 be seen in the same flower. The plants must be well drained; 
 
March.] OREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. 287 
 
 and during warm weather be careful that they are not ne- 
 glected in water, for if they are suffered to droop, they sel- 
 dom recover. For this reason the pots ought not to stand 
 in the strong sun ; the plants can bear it, but to the roots it 
 is injurious. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
 Fultenceas, aho\it forty species, pretty little dwarf grow- 
 ing shrubs of New South Wales ; flowers small, leguminose, 
 all yellow, with a little red outside of the petals. P. suhum- 
 helluta, P. villbsa, P. ohcordata, P. argentea, P. plumbsa, P. 
 jlexilis, shining leaved, fragrant; P. Candida, and P. stricta, 
 are all fine species, and esteemed in collections. The leaves 
 are all small ; they require an airy exposure, and the pots 
 drained. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Rliodochiton voluhile, or Lophospemum rhodochiton: this 
 is a very fine climbing plant, with large tubular dark brown 
 flowers, blooming from July to October ; it is of rapid growth, 
 and may yet prove to be an excellent plant for the flower- 
 garden. The plant must have frequent repottings to make 
 it grow rapidly, for the finer it grows the more profuse will 
 it flower. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Rhododendrons, (Rose tree,) a magnificent genus, and 
 contains some of the most superb and gigantic plants that 
 adorn the green-house. At present the most admired is 
 R. arboreum with its varieties. It has deep crimson 
 flowers, with dark spots and flakes can)panulated, and in 
 large clusters ; leaves lanceolate, acute, rough, and silvery 
 beneath. R. arboreum album is very rare. R. arboreum 
 superbum, flowers same shape as arboreum, colour bright 
 rosy scarlet ; foliage one-third larger, but not silvery beneath ; 
 grows freely, and generally thought the finest variety. R. 
 arbbrea dlte-Cldrence is also very superb. R. arbor ea Rus- 
 selidnum, pictum, venusium, guttdtum, tigrinum, are all very 
 distinct ; but there are so many other varieties from seed that 
 they will soon be so much amalgamated, that the named sorts 
 will not be distinguished. A green-house without some of 
 the choice varieties of this plant, is deficient of a flower 
 
288 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 whose beauty and grandeur is beyond the highest imagina- 
 tion. It is a native of Nepaul in India, and, when found by 
 Dr. Wallach, awakened the ambition of every cuhivator and 
 connoisseur in Europe.* There are several other species 
 lately brought from that country, which are highly valued : 
 the species are, R.campanulatum,R. anthopbgon, and R.cin- 
 nmnomum. They are rarely seen in oiir collections, but a 
 few years will make them more plentiful. Their beauty of 
 flower is beyond description. The pots should be well 
 drained, and if they are large, put several pieces of sandy 
 stones or poishreds around the side, for the fine fibres delight 
 to twine about such, being mountainous plants. When 
 growing, give copious waterings at the root. For young 
 plants, (Soil No. 6.) And for blooming plants use one por- 
 tion of leaf mould. 
 
 RoeUas, pretty leafy shrubs, with blue terminals funnel- 
 shaped flowers, lip-spreading ; R. cilHata, R. spicata, and R. 
 pedvnculata, are the finest of the genus. The pots must be 
 well drained, and care taken that they are not over-watered. 
 (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Salvia (Sage) is an extensive genus of soft-wooded, 
 shrubby, or herbaceous plants ; very few of them do well 
 in the green-house, and many of them are very trifling, having 
 no other attraction than the flower ; and those of the tender 
 species, when compared with S.fulgens, S. splendens, S. 
 cmidea, and 5'. involucrata, (which in artificial climates con- 
 stitute the standard of the genus.) are not worth cultivation. 
 The best method to adopt with the summer flowering kinds 
 is, to plant them in the garden in May : they will grow strong 
 and flower abundantly, and in the fall they can be lifted, and 
 preserved during winter in pots. They neither grow nor 
 flower so well as when plaiUed out, and even a slip planted 
 in the ground in moist weather will root in a few days, grow, 
 
 ♦ Mr. Hogg, the eminent horticulturist of New Yorit, raised the first plant 
 of arboreum from seed in England. 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 289 
 
 and flower in a few weeks. S. spUndens is the best to se- 
 lect for the purpose. Colour red or blue in spiked whorls. 
 All will grow easily wiih encouragement. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Scbilias,\\\Tee. species of valuable plants; S . de,ntata,W\i\x 
 rosyleguminose blossoms; leaves opposite, ovate, acuminate, 
 serrate ; .S. angustifblia has brown flowers; S. trapeziformus, 
 leaves ovate, acute, serrulate. We do not know the colour 
 of Its flowers ; the pots must be well drained, and the plants 
 kept in the warmest part of the green-house, and near the 
 light. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Senecios. Some species of this genus are pestiferous 
 weeds all over the world. They are even found near the 
 limits of perpetual snow, where neither tree nor shrub is 
 able to rear its head, and yet there are a few species that are 
 neat lutle plants, and are worthy of a situation, namely — S. 
 grandijlbius, S. v enus ties, Sii)d S. cinerdscens,\\hh the double 
 while, purple, and red variety of »b\ elegans. The last three 
 varieties are free flowering, but if allowed to grow several 
 years, they become unsightly. Being very easily propa- 
 gated, a few cuttings of them should be put in, in September, 
 and in two weeks they will strike root, when they may be 
 put in pots to keep through the winter, and then planted in 
 the garden, continuing to renew them. The other men- 
 tioned species should be frequently done the same way. Do 
 not keep them damp during winter, or they will rot off. 
 Give iliem an airy exposure. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 oullya heterophyUa : a good climbing plant with bright 
 blue clusters of drooping flowers ; it is a native of California, 
 and will prove a hardy plant south of latitude 36". (Soil 
 No. 4.) 
 
 S/ arrmdnnias are strong-growing green-house shrubs. 
 S. africdna is a plant very common in our collections, with 
 large iliree-lobed cordate leaves, hairs on both sides ; flowers 
 from March to July. S. rugosa. The leaves are rugged; 
 flowers of both are white, in a kind of corymb, supported by 
 a long footstalk ; buds drooping, flowers erect. There is ^ 
 
 25 
 
290 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [Mttfch. 
 
 plant known in our collections as the free-flowering Sparr^ 
 mdnniay (which is Entelia arborescens,) and is easily distin- 
 guished from Sparrmdnnia by the leaves being cordaiC; 
 acuminate, and otherwise, by all its filaments being fertile, 
 and the flowers more branching, and blooming from No- 
 vember to June, profusely ; very easily cultivated, and desi- 
 rable. (Soil No. 12.) 
 
 Sphceroldbiums, only two species of leafless plants, with 
 yellow and red leguminose flowers, which proceed from the 
 young shoots. 6'. vimineum and S. medium. They flower 
 freely, and are easily cultivated. The old wood should be 
 frequently cut out where it is practicable. Drain the pots. 
 (Soil No.b.) 
 
 Sprengelia incarndta,\he only species, a very prelty plant, 
 allied to Epacris; foliage acuminate, embracing the siem ; 
 flowers small pink, bearded, and in close spikes ; grows free- 
 ly. The pots must be well drained, and the plants, when 
 dormant, watered sparingly ; for if they get sodden about 
 the roots, they very seldom recover. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Strelitzia, or queen plant : a genus of fine plants belonging 
 to the natural order of Musacea. S. regince, S. ovdta, and 
 S. humilis, are the most free and beautiful flowering species, 
 and are very similar, except in habit. The flower stalk is 
 from one to two feet long, producing about five flowers of a 
 bright yellow, having a large blue stigma, which forms a 
 distinct contrast. S.juncea and S.parvijlbra are also desi- 
 rable species, but are more rare than ihe former, which ought 
 to be in every green-house. (Soil No. 19.) 
 
 Streptocarpus rhexii, a free-blooming dwarf plant, of easy 
 culture in soil No. 4. 
 
 Styliaiu?n, six species of pretty htlle plants, with small 
 linear leaves, and remarkable for the singidar elasticity of 
 the style or column, which, when the flower is newly ex- 
 panded, lays to one side, and, on being touched with a pin, 
 stalls with violence to the opposite side. S.grarii 171 /folium. 
 S.fruticdsu7n, S. laricifblium, and S. adndt.um, arc all free- 
 
 I 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 291 
 
 flowering; flowers in spii^es, very small ; colour light and 
 dark pink ; blooms from April to July. S. adnatum is half 
 herbaceous, and should, when growing, be kept nigh the 
 glass, or it will be drawn, and the flowers become of a pale 
 colour. They are all of easy cultivation. Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Styphelias, seven species of very showy flowers, with mu- 
 cronate leaves; corolla in long tubular form, having several 
 bundles of hairs in it ; segments reflex and bearded. »S. tuhi- 
 jlbra, crimson, S.tnjlora, crimson and green, S.adscendenst 
 and S. longijlbra, are beautiful species. They grow freely 
 and should be well drained, as too much water is very hurt- 
 ful to them. In summer they ought not to be much exposed 
 to the hot sun, or the foliage will become brown. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
 Sutherlandiafrutescens, very similar to Sioansbnia ; flow- 
 ers fine scarlet. (Soil No. 2.) 
 
 Swainsbnas, four species of free-flowering, soft-wooded 
 shrubs, natives of New South Wales. S , galigifblia, S. co- 
 ronillcefblia, and <S'. astragalifblia,are red, purple, and white ; 
 leguminose flowers in spikes from the axils, are of easy cul- 
 ture, and deserving of a situation ; the foliage is pinnate ; 
 leaflets ovate, acute. (Soil No. 2.) 
 
 Tecbma is a genus of beautiful flowering plants, separated 
 from Bignbnia. They are of easy culture and desirable ia 
 all collections, T. capensis has bright orange flowers in 
 large clusters, and very profuse on large plants. T. austrU' 
 lis, know as Bignbnia pandbra, has while and pink flowers 
 in great profusion. T.jesminoides is quite a new plant, pro- 
 ducing very large clusters of white flowers with a bright 
 pink centre; it is a charming plant for climbing, and the fo- 
 liage is of a very agreeable shining green. The plants re- 
 quire encouragement. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Templetonia, a very pretty genus, containing only two 
 species. T. retiisa is an erect growing shrub, with wedge- 
 shaped green leaves. T. glduca, leaves glaucous, blunt, and 
 a little apiculate ; flowers of both scarlet. They are legumi- 
 nose plants of free growth, and should be well drained ; 
 blooming from April to June. (Soil No. 6.) 
 
292 GREEN-HOUSE. REPOTTING. [Murck. 
 
 Telopea speciosissimus is the only species, and was once 
 chWed Embothrium speciosissimus . It is now called Telopea 
 in allusion to the brilliant crintison flowers, which, from their 
 large size, are seen at a great distance, and which render it 
 one of the nnost conspicuous productions of New South 
 Wales. The leaves are oblong, deeply toothed, veiny, and 
 smooth ; wood strong; flower ovate, connate, and terminal, 
 and of considerable duration. There ought to be a specimen 
 of it in every collection. The pots must be well drained, 
 and the plant in the extreme heat of summer not too much 
 exposed to the sun. Very scarce. (Soil No. 19.) 
 
 Testudinaria, Elephant's foot, or Hottentot's bread, two 
 species, remarkable for their appearance. The root or bulb, 
 if it may be so called, is of a conical shape, and divided into 
 transverse sections. Those of one foot diameter are com- 
 puted to be one hundred and fifty years of age. It is a 
 climbing herbaceous plant, with entire reniforme leaves of 
 no beauty ; flowers small ; colour green. The pots must be 
 well drained, for when the plant is inactive, it is in danger 
 of suffering from moisture, and ought not to get any water. 
 T. elephdntiphes and T. montana are the species, natives of 
 the Cape of Good Hope, and require the warmest part of the 
 house. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Thea : a genus celebrated over the known world as fur- 
 nishing the domestic drug called Tea. C. vh'idis and C. 
 bohea are said to be the species which supply the tea. Some 
 have asserted that there is only one shrub used, but by exa- 
 mination it may be easily perceived that there are leaves of 
 various shape and texture, some of them similar to C. sasan- 
 qua. Dr. Abel gives an explicit detail of the growing and 
 manufacturing process of tea, from which, in compliment to 
 our fair patrons, we give a few extracts : 
 
 *' The tea districts of China extend from the twenty-se- 
 venth to the thirty-first degree of north latitude. It seems 
 to succeed best on the sides of mountains. The soils from 
 which I collected the best specimens consisted chiefly of 
 sand-stone, schistus, or granite. The plants are raised from 
 
March.] GREEN-HOUSE.— REPOTTING. 293 
 
 seeds sown where they are to remain. Three or more are 
 dropped into a hole four or five inches deep ; these come up 
 wiihout farther trouble, and require little culture, except that 
 of removing weeds, till the plants are three years old. The 
 more careful stir the soil, and some manure it, but the latter 
 practice is seldom adopted. The third year the leaves are 
 gathered, at three successive gatherings, in Febuary, April, 
 and June, and so on until the bushes become stunted or slow 
 in their growth, wliich generally happens in from six to ten 
 years. They are then cut in to encourage the production 
 of fresh roots. 
 
 " The gathering of the leaves is performed with care and 
 selection. The leaves are plucked off one by one : at the 
 first gathering only the unexpanded and lender are taken ; 
 at the second those that are full-grown ; and at the third the 
 coarsest. The first forms what is called in Europe imperial 
 tea; but, as to the oiher names by which tea is known, the Chi- 
 nese know nothing ; and the compounds and names are sup- 
 posed to be made and given by the merchants at Canton, 
 who, from the great number of varieties brought to them, 
 have an ample opportunity of doing so. Formerly it was 
 thought that green tea was gathered exclusively from C. vi- 
 rilis ; but that now is doubtful, though it is certain that I here 
 is what is called the green tea district and black tea district ; 
 and the varieties grown in the one district differ from those 
 of the other. I was told by competent persons that either 
 of the two plants will afford the black or green tea of the 
 shops, but that the broad thin leaved plant (C. viridis) is 
 preferred for making the green tea 
 
 "The tea leaves being gathered, are cured in houses which 
 
 contain from five to twenty small furnaces, about three feet 
 
 high each, having at top a large flat iron pan. There is also 
 
 a long low table covered with mats, on which the leaves are 
 
 laid, and rolled by workmen, who sit round it : the iron pan. 
 
 being heated to a certain degree, by a little fire made in the 
 
 furnace underneath, a few pounds of the fresh-gathered leaves 
 
 25* 
 
294 GREEN-HOUSE. — KEPOTTiNG. [March, 
 
 are put upon the pan ; the fresh and juicy leaves crack when 
 they touch the pan, and it is the business of the operator to 
 shift thetn as quickly as possible, with his bare hands, till 
 they cannot be easily endured. At this instant he takes off 
 the leaves with a kind of shovel resembling a fan, and pours 
 them on the mats before the rollers, who, taking small quan- 
 tities at a time, roll them in the palm of their hands in one 
 direction, while others are fanning them, that they may cool 
 the more speedily, and retain their curl the longer. This 
 process is repeated two or three times, or oftener, before the 
 tea is put into the stores, in order that all the moisture of the 
 leaves may be thoroughly dissipated, and their curl more 
 completely preserved. On every repetition the pan is less 
 heated, and the operation performed more closely and cau- 
 tiously. The tea is then seperated into the different kinds> 
 and deposited in the store for domestic use or exportation. 
 
 "The different sorts of black and green arise not merely 
 from soil, situation, or the age of the leaf; but after winnow- 
 ing the tea, the leaves are taken up in succession as they fall; 
 those nearest the machine, being the heaviest, are the gun- 
 powder tea ; the light dust the worst, being chiefly used by 
 the lower classes. That which is brought down to Canton 
 then undergoes a second roasting, winnowing, packing, &c., 
 and many hundred women are employed for these purposes.'* 
 Kaempfer asserts that a species of Camellia as well as Olea 
 Frdgrans is used to give it a high flavour. 
 
 Tascbnia pinnatistipula, a plant much resembling aPas- 
 siflora, both in flower and habits. When planted into the 
 ground, and trained up the rafters of the green-house, it makes 
 a pretty appearance with its profusion of rosy blush-coloured 
 flowers. (Soil No. 13.) 
 
 Tropceolum, a genus of generally delicate growing plants, 
 principally from South America. They require nicety of 
 treatment to bloom them well, unless a large bulb can be 
 procured, when it may be planted in a seven-inch pot, and 
 will then flower without farther care by training their deli- 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 295 
 
 cate shoots on a wire trellis, or small twigs of branches stuck 
 in the pots. T. U'icolorum, T tricolbrum superbu7n, and 
 T. pentapJiyllum, have beautiful scarlet flowers marked with 
 yellow and black, and are superb and lovely when in bloom. 
 T. brachysares and T. tuberosum have yellow flowers ; the 
 roots of the latter are considered a good vegetable. (Soil 
 No. 10.) 
 
 Trevirania coccinea has a scaly tuberous root, and re- 
 quires the pots to be kept entirely dry during winter : in this 
 month they should be taken from the old soil and planted 
 into fresh, giving gentle waterings till they begin to grow. 
 The flowers are bright scarlet, blooming freely from July 
 to October. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Verbena. The beauty of the green-house in spring, and 
 the flower-garden in summer, is greatly augmented by the 
 late introduction of this lovely family of perpetual flowering 
 plants. There are among them every shade of colour, from 
 the richest scarlet to the purest white, and, in addition to the 
 beauty and profusion of iheir flowers, several of them are 
 exquisitely scented. V. chamcedryfdlia, or melindres, was 
 the first scarlet species introduced, and it is yet pretty. V. 
 Tweediana, bright crimson. V. incesa, rose. V. Eyreixna, 
 bright pink. V. alba, white sweet-scented. V. arraniana, 
 bright bluish purple. V. intermedia, rosy crimson with 
 lilac centre. V. grandijlbra, bright red. V. sulpliurea, 
 sulphur yellow. These varieties and species require very 
 little water during winter, and should be kept on a dry airy 
 shelf till February, when the pots may be enlarged, except 
 those intended for the garden, which can be planted out about 
 the middle of April. Cuttings of the young shoots, placed 
 in sandy soil and covered with a glass, will root in a few 
 weeks. The whole family should be industriously collected 
 and cultivated ; for truly we are not acquainted with a tribe 
 of plants that will give as much satisfaction with as little 
 cost and trouble : they naturally grow on hills and elevated 
 plains, so that they must not be kept wet. (Soil No. 9.) 
 
296 GREEN HOUSE. — REPOTTING. \Maich. 
 
 Viminaria denudata, the only species. This plant i* 
 remarkable for its twiggy appearance, but it has no foliage, 
 except when growing from seed. It has at the extreniiiy of 
 the twigs or shoots an ovate, lanceolate leaf, disappearing 
 when the plant grows old; the flowers are small, yellow, 
 coming out of the young shoots, to the astonishment of the 
 beholder. It grows freely. (Soil No, 6.) 
 
 Viburnums. A few of these are very ornamental ever- 
 green shrubs, and almost hardy, V. tinus is tlie well known 
 Laurestine, (or what is commonly called Laureslinus,) is of 
 the easiest culture; flowers small white, and in large flattened 
 panicles ; blooming from February to May, and universally 
 esteemed. It will stand the winter by a little protection, 
 but the flower buds being formed in the fall, the intense frost 
 destroys them ; consequently, it will not flower finely, 
 except it be protected from severe frost. F. lucidum 
 is a good species, and superior in flower and foliage to the 
 former, but does not flower so freely when the plants are 
 small. When they grow large, they flower profusely. 
 There is a desirable variegated variety. V. odoratissimum 
 has smooth, evergreen, oblong, elliptic, distantly toothed 
 leaves, and frequently a stripe in them, is sweet-scented, but 
 not a free floweier. V. liirsutum has flowers similar to the 
 above ; foliage ovate, with rough brown hairs on both sides, 
 and very characteristic. V. strictum variagatiim is a very 
 fine variety, and upright growing. These plants are all very 
 desirable, blooming early in spring, and continuing for seve- 
 ral tiionihs; all easily cultivated, (Soil No, 17,) 
 
 Westringias, a genus of four species, very like the com- 
 mon Rosemary. W. rosmarimfbrmis, leaves lanceolate, 
 and silvery beneath ; W. longifbJia is similar ; both have 
 small silvery white flowers, and are easily cultivated, (Soil 
 No, 2,) 
 
 WitshniaSy four species. W. corymhbsa is a plant that 
 has stood in high estimation ever since it was known, but, 
 unfortunately, there is a very inferior plant. Aristea cy- 
 
March.] green-house. — repotting. 297 
 
 aneo, got into our collections under that name. The pani- 
 cles of W. corymbbsa is quite smooth ; those of Aristea are 
 hairy, which is itself sufficient to detect thenn ; but otherwise 
 the appearance of W. corymbosa is much stronger and more 
 erect growing, not inclining to push at the roots so much as 
 Aristea. The foliage is lanceolate and araplexicaule, the 
 leaves having much the nature and appearance of Iris. The 
 plant is of easy culture, and blooms from July to November; 
 colour fine blue. W. rambsa is a very fine species, similar 
 to ihe above; flowers yellow and blue; plant branching. 
 (Soil No. 8.) 
 
 Yiicca aloefolia and its beautiful variety varieguta are de- 
 sirable plants. They do not bloom till they have grown to 
 considerable size ; but still they make a decided contrast 
 among other plants ; the flowers are white and produced on 
 terminal spikes. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Zamias, about twenty species, eight of which belong to 
 this compartment. The foliage is greatly admired, and is 
 in large fronds, with oblique, lanceolate leaflets. Several of 
 them glaucous. They bear headsof flowers of a brown colour 
 in the centre of the plants, very like large pine cones. Z. 
 liorrida, the finest, Z.pungens, Z. spiralis, and Z.latifblia, 
 are the most conspicuous. They must be kept in the warm- 
 est part of the green-house ; and give them large well-drained 
 pots, watering sparingly during winter. They are imported 
 from the Cape of Good Hope. (Soil No. 11.) All the 
 plants herein named requiring to be drained, in preparing 
 the pots, place first a piece of broken pot, oyster-shell, or 
 any similar substitute, with the convex side on the hole of 
 the pot, and then put in a few, or a handful, (according to 
 the size of the pot,) of shivers of broken pots, or round gra- 
 vel about the size of garden beans. Those that we have 
 mentioned in this Repotting, as to be done in this or begin- 
 ning of next month, is not intended to apply to plants in ge- 
 neral, large and small, but to those that are young, and re- 
 quire encouragement, or to those that were not shifted last 
 
298 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [March. 
 
 autumn. The rools must not be diaturbed, but llie ball 
 turned out entire ; and put as much earth as will raise the 
 ball within about half an inch of the rim of the pot. Press 
 the earth down around it with a thin narrow piece of wood, 
 called a potting stick, frequently shaking it that no vacancy 
 may be left. If the roots are rotten, or otherwise injured, 
 take all such off. If this be the case, the plant will be sick- 
 ly. Give it a new pot of a smaller size, administering water 
 moderately until there are visible signs of fresh growth. 
 The plants must not be disturbed while flowering; let ihe 
 repotting be done afterward. Plants are, at certain stages, 
 if in good health, in a state that no one can err in shiftmg 
 them when desirous to hasten their growth. Those plants 
 that make two or more growths during the summer may be 
 repotted in the interim of any of these growths, and all 
 others just before they begin to push in the spring ; that is, 
 when the wood buds are perceptibly swelled. Never satu- 
 rate with water fresh-potted plants. There are many kinds 
 that, without injury, can be repotted when growing. When 
 done potting, tie all up neatly with stakes rather higher than 
 the plant, that the new shoots may be tied thereto during 
 the summer, to prevent them from being destroyed by 
 the wind. There may be many that do not require re- 
 potting, but would be benefited by a lop-dressing. This 
 should be done by probing off all the surface earth down to 
 the roots, replacing it with fresh compost, suitable to the 
 nature of the plant. 
 
 When the above is done, arrange all the plants in proper 
 order, and syringe them clean ; but if there are any of the 
 green-fly, they must be fumigated previous to syringing. 
 The pavement of the house should be cleanly and neatly 
 swept every day, and washed at least once a week. Thus, 
 every part of the house will be in order before the hurry of 
 the garden commences. 
 
March.] green-house. — of enarching, &c. 299 
 
 OF ENARCHING OR GRAFTING BY APPROACH. 
 
 In this method of grafting the scion is not separated from 
 the parent plant until it is firmly united with the stock; con- 
 sequenily, they must stand contiguously. We intend the 
 following method to apply directly to Camellias, as they are 
 the principal plants in the green-house that are thus worked. 
 The criterion for the operation is about the first of March 
 or June. Place the stock contiguous to the plant where the 
 graft or enarch is to taken from. If the branches, where 
 the intended union is to take place, do not grow at equal 
 heights, a slight stage may be erected to elevate the lower 
 pot. Take the branch that is to be enarched, (the wood of 
 last year is the most proper,) and bring it in contact with 
 the stock; mark the parts where they are to unite, so as to 
 form a pointed arch. In that part of the branch which is to 
 rest against the stock, pare off the bark and part of the wood 
 to about two or three inches in length, and in the side of the 
 slock wliich is to receive the graft do the same, that the in- 
 side rind of each may be exactly opposite, which is the first 
 part where a union will take place. Bind them firmly and 
 neatly together with strands of Russia malting, and protect 
 the joint from the air by a coat of close composition; clay of 
 the consistency of thick paint, turpentine, or wax, will equal- 
 ly answer. Fuiish by fastening the grafted branch to the 
 head of ihe slock or a rod. Many practitioners make a slit 
 or tongue into the enarch and stock, but we find it unneces- 
 sary, more tedious, and likewise more danger in breaking. 
 Camellias are also grafted and budded, but these two opera- 
 tions require great experience and continued attention, and 
 seldom prove so successful as enarching. When they have 
 perfectly taken, which will be in from three to four months, 
 begin to separate them by cutting the scion a little at three 
 different periods, about a week apart, separating it at the 
 third time. If the head is intended to be taken off the stock, 
 
300 GREEN HOUSE. — WATERING. [April. 
 
 do it in like manner. By the above method, many kinds 
 can be grown on the same stock. The same plan applies to 
 all evergreens. 
 
 APRIL. 
 
 Regarding the shifting or repotting of plants, the direc- 
 tions given last month may be followed. If the plants that 
 require it are not shifted, get them done as soon as possible, 
 Those that were repotted last month will have taken fresh 
 root in the new soil, and the advantage will soon be percep- 
 tible. In order to strengthen the plants, and keep them 
 from becoming drawn and spindly, admit large portions of 
 air every mild day. Indeed there will be very few days in 
 this month that a little air may not be given, always ob- 
 serving to divide the quantity regularly over the house, in 
 cool nights closing in time. About the end of the month an 
 abundance of air is indispensable, leaving the sashes and 
 doors open every mild night, that the plants may be inured 
 to the open exposure they will have in a few weeks. 
 
 WATERING. 
 
 As the season advances and vegetation increases, the wa- 
 terings will require to be more copious and more frequent. 
 Look over all plants minutely every day, and with judicious 
 care supply their wants. Those that arc of a soft shrubby 
 nature, and in a free-growing state, will require a larger por- 
 tion at one time than those of a hard texture, which may 
 only want it every two or three days. The weather and 
 situation, in some instances, may require a modification of 
 these directions. Plants in general will not suffer so soon 
 from being a little dry as from being over-watered. The 
 
April.] GREEN-HOUSE. ORANGES, &C. 30l 
 
 health and beauty of the foliage of the plants may be much 
 improved by syringing them freely three evenings in the 
 week, except in moist weather, when it ought not to be done. 
 The ravages of many insects also will be retarded, especially 
 mildew and red spider, which will be entirely destroyed. 
 If the red spider is on any of the plants particularly, take 
 them aside evening and morning, and give them a good 
 dashing with water through the syringe. Where there is 
 mildew, after syringing the plant, dust it on the affected 
 parts with flour of sulphur, and set them for a few days 
 where they will be sheltered from the wind, after which 
 wash off the sulphur. If the cure is not complete, renew the 
 dose. Always sweep out and dry up the water in the house 
 when any is spilt. The succulent plants will be in want of 
 a little water about once a week, but do not overwater them, 
 as there is not heat enough to absorb much moisture. If the 
 soil is damp, it is quite sufficient. 
 
 ORANGES, LEMONS, &c., 
 
 Will, in many instances, about the end of this month, be 
 showing flowers or flower buds. They must, under these 
 circumstances, have plenty of air to prevent them from fall- 
 ing off when entirely exposed. The reason that we see so 
 much fine blossom falling to the ground where the trees are 
 brought out of the house in May, is from the confinement 
 ihey have had. Where there is a convenience of giving air 
 from the back of the green-house, il should always be given 
 in mild days, especially in those houses that have a recess 
 back from the top of the sashes, for even if the sashes are let 
 down every day, still the house will not be properly venti- 
 lated. Any plants that are sickly and intended to be planted 
 in the garden next month to renovate their growth, may be 
 cut back (if not already done) as far as is required to give 
 the tree a handsome form, taking care not to cut below the 
 
 26 
 
302 GREEN-HOUSE. — MYRTLES, &C. [April. 
 
 graft or inoculation. Let the operation be done with a fine 
 saw and .sharp knife, smoothing the amputations that are 
 made by the saw ; and if they are large, put a little well- 
 made clay over the wound, to prevent the air from injuring 
 it. Bees'-wax and turpentine is preferable to clay, not being 
 subject to crack or fall off by the vv'eather. 
 
 If there are any Lag erstrcemias, Pome granule, or Hydran- 
 geas in the cellar, they should be brought out about the first 
 of the month, and planted in their respective situations. 
 Give the Hydiansea a very shady spot. It does not require 
 much sun, provided it has plenty of air, and do not plant it 
 into soil that has been lately manured. A large plant must 
 have great supplies of water in dry weather. If the plant is 
 very thick, the oldest branches may be thinned out, but do 
 not cut out any of the young shoots, as they contain the 
 embryo of the flower. Lagerstrcemias will flower abundantly 
 without pruning, but, to have fine large spikes of flowers, 
 cut in the wood of last year to about three eyes from the 
 wood of the preceding year : by this they will be much finer. 
 Pomegranates will only require a little of the superfluous 
 wood cut out. Perhaps some of them may be desired to 
 flower in pot or tubs during summer: the balls will admit 
 of being much reduced, and by this a pot or tub very little 
 larger will do for them. Do not give much water until they 
 begin to grow. 
 
 MYRTLES AND OLEANDERS. 
 
 If any of these have grown irregularly, and are not head- 
 ed down or otherwise pruned, as directed last monlli, it 
 should now be done. Oleanders are very subject to the 
 while scaly insect, and, before the heal of summer begins, 
 they should be completely cleansed. This insect is likewise 
 found on Myrtles, which are worse to clean, and ought to be 
 minutely examined twice every year. We have observed the 
 red spider on these shrubs, which makes the foliage brown 
 
April.] GREEN-IIOUSE. — GERANIUMS. 303 
 
 and unsightly. If it is detected in time, syringing is an ef- 
 fectual remedy. 
 
 GERANIUMS. 
 
 These will now begin to flower, and the sun will greatly 
 deteriorate their rich colours where they are near the glass 
 with a southern aspect. The glass should be white-washed, or 
 covered with thin muslin, which will cast a light shade over 
 them, and prolong the duration of the bloom ; but if they are 
 above five feet from the glass, shading is not requisite. The 
 strong kinds will be growing very luxuriantly, and require 
 liberal supplies of water. When syringing, do not sprinkle 
 the flowers, as it would make the colours intermingle with 
 each other, and cause them to decay prematurely. If they 
 have been properly attended to in that respect, it may be 
 dispensed with after they have come in flower. 
 
 Cape Bulbs. Those that flowered late in autumn, as soon, 
 as the foliage begins to decay, may be set aside, and the wa- 
 ter withheld by degrees. When the foliage is entirely gone, 
 and the roots dry, clear them from the earth, and after lay- 
 ing exposed in the shade for a few days to dry, pack them 
 up in dry moss, with tlieir respective names attached, until 
 August, when they may be again potted. Treat those that 
 are in flower the same as directed in last month. 
 
 Dutch Roots. All the species and varieties of these that 
 have been kept in the green-house during the winter, will now 
 be done flowering ; the water should be withdrawn gradually 
 from them ; and then the pots turned on their sides to ripen 
 the bulbs. Or, a superior method is, where there is the con- 
 venience of a garden, to select a bed not much exposed. 
 Turn the balls out of the pots and plant them ; the roots will 
 ripen better this way than any other. Have them correctly 
 marked, that no error may take place. They can be lifted 
 with the other garden bulbs. 
 
304 GREEN-HOUSE. — INSECTS. [Api'll. 
 
 FLOWERING PLANTS. 
 
 The best situation for most plants while in flower is, where 
 they are shaded from the sun and fully exposed to the air. 
 Primroses, both European and Chinese, flower best, and the 
 colours are finest, when the plants are in the front of the 
 house, and entirely shaded. The Chinese Azaleas and Rho- 
 dodendrons require, while in flower, a similar situation. 
 Have all the shoots tied naturally to neat rods, and keep 
 them clear from others by elevating them on empty pots, or 
 any other subtitute. See that there are no insects upon them ; 
 W they make a miserable contrast with flowers. The CaLla 
 (Bthiopica should stand in water when in bloom, and even 
 before flowering they will be much strengthened by it. 
 
 INSECTS. 
 
 Insects will, on some plants, be very perplexing. The 
 weather may admit of those that are infected to be taken out 
 of doors, and put into a frame in any way that is most con- 
 venient. Fumigating them about fifteen minutes, if the day 
 is calm, will be sufficient; but if windy, they will take half 
 an hour. When done, syringe them wel 1, and put them in 
 their respective situations. By the above method, the house 
 will not be made disagreeable with the fumes of tobacco. 
 
 Tie up neatly all the climbing plants. Keep those that 
 are running up the rafters of the house close to the longitu- 
 dinal wires. As previously observed, running plants should 
 not be taken across the house, except in some instances 
 where it can be done over the pathway, otherwise it shades 
 the house to much. Clear off" all decayed leaves and all 
 contracted foulness, that the house and plants may in this 
 month have an enlivening aspect, as it is undoubtedly one of 
 the most interesting seasons of the year in the green-house. 
 
May.] GREEN-HOUSE. FLOWERING PLANTS. 305 
 
 FLOWERING STOCKS. 
 
 Those that have been kept in the green-house, or in frames, 
 should be planted into beds or the borders, where they will 
 seed belter than if kept in the pots. The method generally 
 adopted is, to select the plants that are intended for seed ; 
 plant the different kinds distinctly and separately ; then take 
 a few double flowering plants of each kind, which plant 
 round their respective single varieties that are to be kept for 
 seed. Whenever any of the colours sport, that is, become 
 spotted or striped with other colours, plant such by them- 
 selves, for ihey will soon degenerate the whole, and ought 
 never to be seen in collections that have any pretensions to 
 purity. Many have been the plans recommended as the 
 best for saving and growing from seed the double varieties 
 of German slock. In every method we have tried we have 
 been successful and unsuccessful ; although we generally 
 practise planting the double kinds beside the single, where 
 ihey are intended for seed. We have no scientific reason 
 for it ; not seeing what influence these monsters of flowers 
 can have over a flower where the male and female organs 
 are perfect ; which in these are wanting. Some say that 
 the semi-double sorts are best : we have likewise found ihena 
 both abortive and fruitful in the desired results. 
 
 MAY. 
 
 About the first of the month all the small half hardy plants 
 may be taken out of the green-house, and those that are left 
 will be more benefited by a freer circulation of air, which 
 will enure them to exposure. The Geraniums ought to 
 
 26* 
 
306 GREEN-HOUSE. — WATERING, &.C, [May- 
 
 Stand perfectly clear of other plants, while in flower and 
 growing, or they will be much drawn and spindly. 
 
 WATERING. 
 
 We have advanced so much on this subject, another ob- 
 servation is not necessary; except as to succulents, which are 
 frequently over-watered about this period. Before they be- 
 gin to grow, once a week is sufficient. 
 
 OF BRINGING OUT THE GREEN-HOUSE PLANTS. 
 
 Those trees or plants of Orange, Lemon, Myrtle, Neriiim, 
 &c., that were headed down with the intention of planting 
 them into the garden, to renovate their growth, should be 
 brought out and planted in the situations intended for them. 
 A good light rich soil will do for either, and the balls of 
 earth might be a little reduced, that, when they are lifted, 
 they might go into the same pot or tub, or perhaps a less 
 one. This being done, the plants, generally in a calm day 
 from the 12th to the 18th of the month, should be taken out, 
 carrying them directly to a situation partially shaded from the 
 sun, and protected from the wind. Jn regard to a situation best 
 adapted for them during summer, see hot-house this month, 
 which will equally apply to green-house plants. All Prim- 
 roses and Polyanthus delight in shade. The reason of so 
 many plants of the D. odbra* dying, is from the effects of the 
 sun and water. We keep them always in the green-house. 
 
 ♦ On examining these plants, when the first appearance of decay affected 
 them, the decayed part was without exception at the surface of the soil, 
 which was completely mortified, while the lop and roots were apparently 
 fresh. This led us to conclude that the cause was the effect of sun and 
 water on the stem. We have since kept the earth in a conical form round 
 the stem, thereby throwing the water to the sides of the pot, and kept them 
 in the shade. Previously to doing this, great numbers perished every 
 year, and now no plants thus treated die with us. 
 
May.] GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING PLANTS. 307 
 
 The large trees may be fancifully set either in a spot for 
 the purpose, or through the garden. Put bricks or pieces of 
 wood under the tubs to prevent thenn from rotting, and strew 
 a Httle litter of any description over the surface of the soil 
 to prevent evaporation, or about one inch of well decayed 
 manure, which will, from the waterings, help to enrich the 
 soil. A liberal supply of water twice or three times a week 
 is sufficient. A large tree will take at one time from two 
 to four gallons. We make this observation, for many trees 
 evidently have too limited a supply. Continue to syringe 
 the plants through the dry season every evening, or at least 
 three times per week. All the tall plants must be tied to 
 some firm support, because the squalls of wind frequently 
 overturn them, and do much harm by breaking, &c. Keep 
 those that are in flower as much in the shade as will pre- 
 serve them from the direst influence of the sun. 
 
 REPOTTING PLANTS. 
 
 After the following-mentioned plants, or any assimilated 
 to them, are brought out of the house, and before they are 
 put in their respective stations, repot them where they are 
 required to grow well. Aloes. These plants, so varied in 
 character, have been divided into several genera. These are, 
 Gasteria, Pachidendron, Riphidodendron, Hoiodrthia, and 
 Apicra : of these there are about two hundred species and 
 varieties ; to enter into any specific detail would be beyond 
 our limits, especially with a tribe of plants that as yet have 
 but a few patrons. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 ChamcErops. There are about seven species of these 
 palms : four of them belong to this department, and are the 
 finest of those that will keep in the green-house. They all 
 Have large palmaled fronds, and require large pots or tubs to 
 make them grow freely, and are tenacious of life if kept from 
 frost. 
 
308 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING PLANTS. [Mui/, 
 
 Gardenia. This is an esteemed genus of plants, especially 
 for the double flowering varieties, which are highly odori- 
 ferous, and have an evergreen shining foliage. G, jibrida 
 fibre pleno, Cape Jasmine, is a plant universally known in 
 our collections, and trees of it arc frequently seen above se- 
 ven feet high, and five feet in diameter, blooming from June 
 to October. G. rddicans, dwari Cape Jasmine, G. longifblia, 
 G. multifibra, and G. latifblia, are also in several collections, 
 but not so generally known ; the flowers are double, and all' 
 equally fragrant. We are inclined to think they are only 
 varieties of G. flbrida, of which multifibra is one of the 
 finest. Any of the above will keep in the coldest part of 
 the green-house, and even under the front of the stage is a 
 good situation for them, where the house is otherwise crowd- 
 ed during winter. They must be sparingly watered from 
 November to March. Much water, while they are dormant, 
 gives the foliage a sickly tinge, a state in which they are too 
 frequently seen. G. rothmannia and G. Thunbergia are 
 fine plants, but seldom flower ; the flowers of the former are 
 spotted, and are most fragrant during night. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Mesemhryanthcmum, a very extensive genus, containing 
 upward of four hundred and fifty species and varieties, with 
 few exceptions, natives of the Cape of Good Hope. They 
 are all singular, many of them beautiful, and some splendid ; 
 yet they have never been popular plants in our collections. 
 The leaves are almost of every shape and form ; their habits 
 vary in appearance. Some of them are straggling, others 
 insignificant, and a few grotesque. When they are well 
 grown, they flower in great profusion ; the colours are bril- 
 liant and of every shade ; yellow and white are most preva- 
 lent. Each species continues a considerable time in flower. 
 The flowers are either solitary, axillary, extra axillary, but 
 most frequently terminal ; leaves mostly opposite, thick, or 
 succulent, and of various forms. They are sometimes kept 
 in the hot-house, but undoubtedly the green-house is the 
 best situation for them. They must not get water above 
 
June and July .'I green-house. — camellias. 309 
 
 twice a month during winter, but while they are in flower, 
 and through the summer, they require a more liberal supply, 
 and they seldom need to be repotted ; once a year is suffi- 
 cient. (Soil No. 18.) 
 
 CAMELLIAS. 
 
 These plants, when they are brought from the green- 
 house, (which should be about the end of June,) ought to 
 be set in a situation by themselves, that they may be the 
 more strictly attended to in watering and syringing. An 
 airy situation, where the sun has little effect upon them, is 
 the best. They should be syringed every evening when 
 there has been no rain through the day. After heavy rains 
 examine the pots, and where water is found, turn the plant 
 on its side for a few hours to let the water pass off, and then 
 examine the draining in the bottom of the pots, which must 
 be defective. 
 
 CAPE BULBS. 
 
 As soon as these are done flowering, and the foliage be- 
 gins to decay, cease watering, and turn the pots on their 
 sides, until the soil is perfectly dry ; then take out the bulbs, 
 and preserve them dry until the time of planting, which will 
 be about the end of August or first of September. 
 
 JUNE AND JULY. 
 
 The plants being out of the house, there need be little 
 added under this head. Their treatment is in the general, 
 and the required attention is in giving water according to 
 their different constitutions and habits. Where there is no 
 rain nor river water, it should stand at least one day in butts 
 
310 GREEN-HOUSE. — REPOTTING. [AugUSt. 
 
 or cisterns, to take the chilly air from it, and become soft- 
 ened by the surrounding atmosphere. This is more essen- 
 tial to the health of the plants than is generally supposed. 
 The small plants in dry weather will need water evening 
 and morning. Continue regular syringings as directed last 
 month. There are frequently rains continuing for several 
 days, which will materially injure many plants if they are 
 not turned on their sides, or defended by sash or shutters, 
 until the rain is over, especially small plants. The sy- 
 ringings should never be done till after the waterings at the 
 roots, and they should never be more seldom than every al- 
 ternate evening. Turn all the plants frequently, to prevent 
 them from being drawn to one side by the sun or light. 
 Carefully look over them at these turnings, to detect any in- 
 sects ; and observe that the tuberose-rooted or deciduo>is 
 geraniums, such as Ardens, Bicblor, Comptonia, Echinatum, 
 Tristum, &c., are not getting too much water, they being 
 now dormant. 
 
 AUGUST. 
 
 Any of the Myrtles, Oranges, Lemons, Oleanders, &c., 
 that were headed down in April or May, will be pushing 
 many young shoots. The plant must be carefully examined, 
 to observe which of the shoots ought to be left to form the 
 tree. Having determined on this, cut out all the others 
 close to the stem with a small sharp knife ; and if the re- 
 maining shoots are above one foot long, pinch off the tops to 
 make them branch out. 
 
 The trees that were entirely headed down should not 
 have above six shoots left, which will, by being topped, 
 make a sufficient quantity to form the bush or tree. 
 
August.] GREEN-HOUSE. — GERANIUMS, &C. 311 
 
 GERANIUMS. 
 
 These plants, about the first of the month, require a com- 
 plete dressing. In the first place collect them all together, 
 and, with a sharp knife, cut off the wood of this year to with- 
 in a few eyes of the wood of last year. Citriodorum and its 
 varieties do not need pruning. The plants grown from cut- 
 lings during the season, that have flowered, cut them to 
 about three inches from the pot. Tliis being done, have the 
 earth all prepared, and potsherds or fine gravel at hand, for 
 draining the delicate kinds. Choose a cloudy day for the 
 operation, and turn the plants progressively out of the pots 
 they are in, reducing the balls of earth so that the same pots 
 may contain them again, and allow from half an inch to two 
 inches, according to the size of the pot, of fresh soil around 
 the ball, carefully pressing it with the potling-stick. Finish 
 by levelling all neatly with the hand. Give very gentle 
 waterings from a pot with a rose mouth, for a few weeks, 
 until they have begun to grow. The tuberous-rooted and 
 deciduous species must be very moderately supplied. Be 
 careful, when watering, that the new soil does not become 
 saturated with water, for, though allowed to dry again, it 
 will not be so pure. When they grow afresh, expose them 
 fully to the sun, turn them regularly every two weeks, to 
 prevent them growing to one side. 
 
 ORANGES, LEMONS, &c. 
 
 As it is frequently very inconvenient to shift these trees 
 into larger tubs in the months of March and April, this 
 month is a period that is suitable, both from the growth of 
 the trees and their being in the open air. It would be im- 
 proper to state the day or the week, that depending entirely 
 on the season. The criterion is easily observed, which is 
 when the first growth is over, these trees making another 
 
312 GREEN-HOUSE. — ORANGES, 6CC. [AugUSt. 
 
 growth in autumn. When they are large, they require great 
 exertion, and are frequently attended with inconvenience to 
 get them shifted. Where there is a quantity of ihem, the 
 best plan that we have tried or seen adopted is as follows : 
 Have a strong double and a single block trimmed with a 
 sufficiency of rope ; make it fast to the limb of a large tree, 
 or anything that projecis and will bear the weight, and as 
 high as will admit of the plant being raised a few feet under 
 it. Take a soft bandage and put around the stem, to pre- 
 vent the bark from being bruised ; make a rope fast to it, in 
 which hook the single block. Raise the plant the height of 
 the tub, put a spar across the tub, and strike on the spar with 
 a mallet, which will separate the tub from the ball. Then 
 with a strong pointed stick probe a little of the earth from 
 among the roots, observing to cut away any that are affect- 
 ed by dry rot, damp, or mildew, with any very matted roots. 
 Having all dressed, place a potsherds over the hole or 
 holes in the bottom of the tub ; measure exactly the depth of 
 the ball that remains around the plant, and fill up with earth, 
 pressing it well with the hand, until it will hold the ball one 
 inch under the edge of the tub. If there is from two to four 
 inches of earth under it, it is quite enough. Fill all around 
 the ball, and press it down with a stick, finishing neatly off 
 with the hand. Observe that the stem of the tree is exactly 
 in the centre. This being done, carry the tree to where it 
 is intented to stand, and give it water with a rose on the pot. 
 The earth will subside about two inches, thus leaving three 
 inches, which will, at any time, hold enough of water for 
 the tree. Trees thus treated will not require to be shifted 
 again within four or five years, having in the interim got a 
 few rich top-dressings. 
 
 Frequently, in attempting to take out of the tubs those 
 that are in a sickly state, all the soil falls from their roots, 
 havino- no fibres attached. When there are any such, after 
 replanting, put them in the green-house, and shut it almost 
 close up, there give shade to the tree, and frequent sprin- 
 
August.] GREEN-HOUSE. — OF PRUNING, &C. 313 
 
 klings of water, until it begins to grow, when admit more air 
 gradually until it becomes hardened. Sickly trees should 
 be put in very small tubs, and a little sand added to the soil. 
 Give very moderate supplies of water, merely keeping the 
 soil moist. Tubs generally give way at the bottom when 
 they begin to decay, and in the usual method of coopering 
 after this failure they are useless, the ledging being rotten, 
 and M'ill not admit of another bottom. The staves should 
 be made without any groove, and have four brackets nailed 
 on the inside, having the bottom in a piece by itself, that it 
 can be placed on these brackets, and there is no necessity of 
 it being water-tight. Then when it fails, it can be replaced 
 again at a trifling expense. A tub made this way will last 
 out ihree or four bottoms, and is in every respect the cheap- 
 est, and should be more wide than deep. When made in this 
 manner they are easier shifted ; you have only to set the tub 
 on a high block of wood, and drive the tub off with a mallet, 
 when the tree can be easily replaced into another tub. Large 
 Myrtles and Oleanders may be treated in the same manner 
 as directed for the above. 
 
 OF PRUNING ORANGES, LEMONS, &c. 
 
 These trees will grow very irregularly, especially the 
 Lemon, if not frequently dressed or pruned. Any time this 
 month look over them all minutely, and cut away any of the 
 small naked wood where it is too crowded, and cut all young 
 strong straggling shoots to the bounds of the tree, giving it 
 a round regular head. It is sometimes necessary to cut out 
 a small limb, but large amputations should be avoided. 
 Cover all large wounds with clay, turpentine, or bees'-wax, 
 to prevent the bad eflfects of the air. 
 
 27 
 
314 GREEN-HOOSE. — BEPOTTING, &C. [AugUSt, 
 
 OF REPOTTING PLANTS. 
 
 Any of the plants enumerated in March under this head, 
 may be now done according to directions therein given, and 
 which apply to all sizes. This is the proper period for re- 
 potting the following : 
 
 Cdlla, a genus of four species. None of them in our col- 
 lections, and in fact not worth cultivation, except C.cethiopi' 
 CO, Ethiopian Lily, which is admired for the puiiiy and 
 singularity of its large white flowers, or rather spaiha, which 
 is cucuUate, leaves sagittate. It is now called Richurdia 
 cethiopica. The roots, which are tubers, should be entirely 
 dive.sted of the soil they have been grown in, breaking off 
 any small off-sets, and potting them wholly in fresh earth. 
 When growing, they cannot get too much water. The plant 
 will grow in a pond of water, and withstand our severest 
 winters, provided the rools are kept at the bottom of the 
 water. 
 
 Cyclamen. There are eight species and six varieties of 
 this genus, which consists of humble plants with very beau- 
 tiful flowers. The bulbs are round, flattened, and solid, and 
 arc peculiarly adapted for pots and the decorating of rooms. 
 C. cbum, leaves almost round ; flowers light red ; in bloom 
 from January to April. C. persicum, with its four varieties, 
 flower from January to April; colour while, and some wliite 
 and purple. C. Itcderctfbli u?n,lv y -]ca\od ; colour lilac ; there 
 is a white variety ; flowers from September to December. 
 O. EuropcEum, colour lilac, in bloom from August lo Octo- 
 ber. C neapolita>n/?n, flowers red, in bloom from Jidy to 
 September. These are all desirable plants. When the fo- 
 liage begins to decay, withhold the accustomed supplies of 
 water, keeping them in a half dry slate ; and, when growing, 
 they must not be over-watered, as they are apt to rot from 
 moisture. Keep them during the summer monilis in partial 
 shade. The best time for potting either of the sorts is when 
 the crown of the bulb begins to protrude. If the pels are 
 
August.] GREEN-HOUSE. OP REPOTTING, &C. 315 
 
 becoming large, every alternate year they may be cleared 
 front! the old soil, and put in smaller pots with the crown 
 entirely above the ground. When the flowers fade, the pe- 
 dicles twist up like a screw, enclosing the germen in the 
 centre, lying close to the ground until the seeds ripen, from 
 which plants can be grown, and will flower the third year. 
 
 Lachendlia, a genus of about forty species of bulbs, all na- 
 tives of the Cape of Good Hope, and grow well in our col- 
 lections. The most common is L. tricolor. L. quadricolor 
 and its varieties are all fine ; the colours yellow, scarlet, 
 orange, and green, very pure and distinct ; L. ruhida, L. 
 punctata, L. orchoides, and L. nervosa, are all fine species. 
 The flowers are on a stem from a half to one foot high, and 
 much in the character of a hyacinth. The end of the month 
 is about the time of planting. Five-inch pots are large 
 enough, and they must get very little water till they begin 
 to grow. 
 
 Oxdlis, above one hundred species of Cape bulbs, and, like 
 all other bulbs of that country, they do exceedingly well in 
 our collections, in which there are only comparatively a few 
 species, not exceeding twenty. O. hirta, branching, of a 
 vermilion colour; O.Jiahifblia, yellow ; O. elongata striped ; 
 and O. amcB7ia, are those that require potting this month. 
 The first of September is the most proper period for the 
 others. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 This genus of plants is so varied in the construction of its 
 roots, that the same treatment will not do for all. The root 
 is commonly bulbous, and these will keep a few weeks or 
 months out of the soil, according to their size. Several are 
 only thick and fleshy : these ought not to be taken out of the 
 pots, but kept in them, while dormant ; and about the end of 
 this month give them gentle waterings. When they begin 
 to grow, take the earth from the roots, and put them in fresh 
 soil. In a few months the bulbs are curiously produced, the 
 original bulb near the surface striking a radical fibre down 
 
316 GREEN-HOUSE. OBSERVATIONS. [AugUSt. 
 
 right from its base, at the extremity of which is produced a 
 new bulb for the next year's plant, the old one perishing. 
 
 Ornithogalwn, Star of Bethlehem, about sixty species of 
 bulbs, principally from the Cape of Good Hope. Many of 
 them have but little attraction. The most beautiful that we 
 have seen are, 0. lacteum, which has a spike about one foot 
 long, of fine white flowers ; O. 'peruviana, blue flowered, 
 and O. aureuvi. flowers of a golden colour, in contracted 
 racemose corymbs. These three are magnificent. O. ma- 
 ritimu7n is the officinale squill. The bulb is frequently as 
 large as a human head, pear-shaped, and tunicated like the 
 onion. From the centre of the root arise several shining 
 glaucous leaves a foot long, two inches broad at base, and 
 narrowing to a point. They are green during winter, and 
 decay in the spring; then the flower-stalk comes out, rising 
 two feet, naked half-way, and terminated by a pyramidal 
 ihyrse of white flowers. The bulb ought to be kept dry 
 from the end of June till now, or it will not flower freely. 
 
 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 Watering, and other practical care of the plants, to be 
 done as heretofore described. Frequently the weather at 
 the end of this month becomes cool and heavy. Dew fall- 
 ing through the night will, in part, supply the syringing 
 operation, but it must not be suspended altogether. Once or 
 twice a week will suffice. Any of the plants that are plunged 
 should -be turned every week. In wet weather observe that 
 none are suff'ering from moisture. 
 
Sept.] GREEN-HOUSE. OF WATERING. 317 
 
 SEPTEMBER. 
 
 During this month every part of the green-house should 
 have a thorough cleansing, which is too frequently neglected, 
 and many hundreds of insects left unmolested. Topreserve the 
 wood-work in good order, give it one coat of paint every year. 
 Repair all broken glass, white-wash the whole interior, giving 
 the flues two or three coats, and cover the stages with hot 
 lime, white-wash, or oil-paint; examine ropes, pulleys, and 
 weights, finishing by washing the pavement, perfectly clean. 
 If there have been any plants in the house during summer, 
 be sure after this cleansing that they are clean also, before 
 they are returned to their respective situations. 
 
 OF WATERING. 
 
 The intensity of the heat being over for the season, the 
 heavy dews during night will pervent so much absorption 
 among the plants. They will, in general, especially by the 
 end of the month, require limited supplies of water compara- 
 tively to their wants in the summer months. Be careful 
 among the Geraniums that were repotted in August, not to 
 water them until the new soil about their roots is becoming 
 dry. Syringing in this naonlh may be suspended in time of 
 heavy dews, but in dry nights resort to it again. 
 
 The herbaceous plants and those of a succulent nature must 
 be sparingly supplied. The large trees that were put in new 
 earth will require a supply only once a week, but in such 
 quantity as will go to the bottom of the tubs. 
 
 27* 
 
318 GREEN-HOUSE. STOCKS, &C. [Sept. 
 
 PREPARING FOR TAKING IN THE PLANTS. 
 
 About the end of the month all the plants should be ex- 
 amined and cleaned in like manner as directed for those of 
 the hot-house last month, which see. From the first to the 
 eighth of October is the most proper time to take them into 
 the gre6n-house, except those of a half hardy nature, which 
 may stand out till the appearance of frost. Always endea- 
 vour to have Geranium plants short and bushy, for they are 
 unsightly otherwise, except where a few very large speci- 
 mens are desired for show. All Myrtles and Oleanders that 
 were headed down, if the young shoots are too crowded, con- 
 tinue to thin them out, and give regular turnings, that all the 
 heads may grow regularly. 
 
 STOCKS AND WALL-PLOWERS, 
 
 That are wanted to flower in the green-house, (where they 
 do remarkably well,) and are in the ground, have them care- 
 fully lifted before the end of the month, and planted in six 
 or seven-inch pots, with light loamy soil. Place them in the 
 shade till they take fresh root, and give them frequent sprin- 
 klings of water. As soon as the foliagebecomes erect, expose 
 them to the full sun, and treat as green-house plants. 
 
 CHRYSANTHEMUMS. 
 
 These very ornamental plants blooming so late, and at a 
 period when there are few others in flower, one of each va- 
 riety (or two ot some of the finest) should be lifted and put 
 in eight-inch pots, in light loamy soil, and treated as above 
 directed for stocks, &c. These will flower beautifully from 
 October to December ; and, when done blooming, the pots 
 
Sept.] GREEN-IIOUSE. CAPE AND HOLLAND BULBS. 319 
 
 may be plunged in ihe garden, or covered with any kind of litter^ 
 until spring, when they can be divided and planted out. 
 
 CAPE AND HOLLAND BULBS. 
 
 About the end of this month is the period for all of these 
 that are intended for the green-house to be potted We spe- 
 cified some of the former last month, and will here enume- 
 rate a few others. 
 
 Bablana, a genus of small bulbs, with pretty blue, white, 
 and yellow flowers. B. distica, pale blue flowers in two ranks. 
 B. stricta, flowers blue and white. B. tuhiflbra is beautiful^ 
 colour white and pale red. B. plicdta has sweet-scented pale 
 blue flowers. There are about twenty species of them, and 
 they grow from six to twelve inches high. Four-inch pots 
 are suflicient for them. (Soil No. 11,) 
 
 Gladiolus, Corn-flag, a genus of above fifty species. There 
 are several very showy plants among them, and a few very 
 superb. G.fiorihundus, large pink and white flowers. G. 
 cardindlis, flowers superb scarlet, spotted with white. 6?. 
 hyzanthius, large purple flowers. G. hldndus, flowers of a 
 blush rose colour, and handsome. G. cuspiddtus, flowers 
 white and purple. G. racemo^ws, flowers rose and white. G. 
 psittdcinus is very magnificent, both in size and beauty of 
 flower ; the flowers are striped with green, yellow, and scar- 
 let, about four inches in diameter, in great profusion, on a 
 stem about two feet high, and, though rare in Europe, may be 
 seen in some collections in this country. The beauty of this 
 genus is all centred in the flowers. (Soil No. 10.) 
 
 Ixia, a genus containing about twenty-five species of very 
 free-flowering bulbs. I.monadelpha, flowers blush and green. 
 /. leucdntha, flowers large white. /. capatdta, flowers in 
 heads, of a white and almost black colour. /. conica, flow- 
 ers orange and velvet. /. columeldris is a beautiful shaded 
 rosy purple. I. kermosina, a fine vermilion colour. /. rii- 
 
320 GREEN-IIOUSE. — CAPE AND HOLLAND BULBS. [Sept. 
 
 bra cydnea, profuse flowering, red and blue. The flower 
 stems are from six to twenty-four inches high. (Soil No. 
 
 Lilium. The Chinese species of this emblem of purity is 
 everywhere esteemed, and the fine Chinese sorts are very 
 splendid, such as L. longiflbra, L. longiflora suaveolens, and 
 L. j'lponicum, are all pure white ; L. specibsum L. lancifb- 
 lium, and L. venustimi, are coloured and spotted with rose, 
 red, white, and crimson, but as yet are extremely rare : fif- 
 teen dollars are asked for a small root. They should be pot- 
 ted in seven or eight-inch pots, and kept in a cool part of the 
 green-house ; give the pots at least one inch of drainage. (Soil 
 No. 11.) 
 
 Oxdlis. AH the varieties and species may now be potted ; 
 the whole are pretty spring flowers, requiring to be kept near 
 the glass : among the many the following are very deserving 
 of attention : O. laxulus, or rosacea, bright rose. O. Bbwii, 
 bright rosy red, a large and profuse bloomer, and one of the 
 finest. O. inuUiflbra and Jlorabunda are aHke ; it is a pretty 
 free-flowering tuberous species. O. laxida alba, beautiful 
 pure white. O. versicolor, striped. O. dippii, lilac, which 
 blooms in summer. O. caparina, yellow ; there is also a 
 double yellow variety, though not pretty ; for a few others see 
 last month. There should be three or four bulbs planted in 
 a five-inch pot, giving very little water till they begin to 
 grow. They will all keep in good pits, as well as in the 
 green-house. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Spa7-dxis ; we are enraptured with this beautiful genus of 
 small bulbs, closely allied to Lria, but more varied in co- 
 lour. S. grandiflbra striata is striped with purple and while, 
 »S. versicolor, colours crimson, dark purple, and yellow. S. 
 tricolor, yellow, black, and scarlet. S- albida, large white, 
 with black spots. S. ccelestis, bluish purple. >S'. sulphurea, 
 yellow, S . 2)iirpu?-escens, purple. Treat as Oxdlis. (Soil 
 No. 11.) 
 
 Tritbnia, a genus of about twenty-five species. Few of 
 
Sept.] GREEN-HOUSE. HOLLAND BULBS. 321 
 
 ihem deserve culture in regard to their beauty. T. crocata 
 is in our collections as I. d'otata, which is among the finest, 
 and T. zanthospila has white flowers, curiously spotted with 
 yellow. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 Watsonia, a genus containing several species of showy 
 flowers, several of which are in our collections under the 
 genus Gladiolus, but the most of the species may be dis- 
 tinguished from it by their flat shell-formed bulbs. W. iri- 
 dijblia is the largest of the genus, and has flowers of a flesh 
 colour. W. rosea is large growing, the flowers are pink, and 
 on the stem in a pyramidal form. W. humilis is a pretty red 
 flowering species. W.falgida, once Antholyzafidgens, has 
 fine bright scarlet flowers. V^. riibens is an esteemed red 
 flowering species, but scarce. (Soil No. 11.) 
 
 These genera of bulbous plants are in general cultivation. 
 There are, nodoubt, some splendid species that have notcome 
 under our observation, and others which may be obtained 
 from the Cape of Good Hope and China that are not known 
 in any collection. There are hundreds of superb bulbs indi- 
 genous to these countries, and of the same nature and habit 
 as the above, that have not been seen in collections. Bulbs 
 generally require very little water until they begin to grow; 
 then supply moderately, and keep them near the light. Of 
 the Holland or Dutch bulbs, the Hyacinth is the favourite to 
 bloom in the green-house. A few of the Tulip, Narcissus, 
 Iris, and Crocus, may, for variety, be also planted with any 
 other that curiosity may dictate. When these are grown in 
 pots, the soil should be four-eighths loam, two-eighths leaf 
 mould, one-eighth decomposed manure, one-eighth sand, well 
 compounded ; plant in pots from five to seven inches, keep 
 the crown of the bulb above the surface of the soil, except of 
 the tulip, which should be covered two inches. When these 
 roots are potted, plunge them in the garden about three inches 
 under ground ; mark out a space sufficient to contain them ; 
 throw out the earth about four inches deep, place the pots 
 therein, covering them with earth to the above depth, making 
 
322 GREEN-HOUSE. — OF TAKING IN, &C, [Oct. 
 
 it in the form of a bed. Leave a trench all round to carry off 
 the rain. By so doing, the bulbs will root strongly, the soil 
 will be kept in a congenial state about then), and they will 
 prove far superior than if done in the common method. Lift 
 them from this bed on the approach of frost, or not later than 
 the second week of December ; wash the pots and lake them 
 into the green-house. 
 
 OCTOBER. 
 
 OF TAKING IN AND ARRANGING THE PLANTS. 
 
 As observed in the previous month, let the housing of 
 green-house plants now be attended to. Have all in before 
 the eighth of the month, except a few of the half hardy sorts, 
 which may stand until convenient. Begin by taking in all 
 the tallest first, such as Oranges, Lemons, Myrtles, Oleanders, 
 &CC. Limes ought to be kept in the warmest part of the 
 house, otherwise they will throw their foliage. In arrange- 
 ment, order is necessary to have a good effect ; and in small 
 houses it ought to be neat and regular, placing the tallest be- 
 hind, and according to their size graduating the others down 
 to the lowest in front. Dispose the different sorts in varied 
 order over the house, making the contrast as striking as pos- 
 sible. Having the surface of the whole as even as practica- 
 ble, with a few of the most conspicuous for shape and beauty 
 protruding above the mass, which will much improve the ge- 
 neral appearance, and greatly add to the effect. All succu- 
 lents should be put together. In winter they will do in a 
 dark part of the house, where other plants will not grow, 
 studying to have the most tender kinds in the warmest part, 
 and giving gentle waterings every three or four weeks. When 
 
Oct.\ GREEN-HOUSE. — OF TAKING IN, &C, 323 
 
 all are arranged give them a proper syringing, after which 
 wipe clean all ihe siages, benches, &c., sweeping out all litter, 
 and wash clean ihe pavement, which will give to all a neat 
 and becoming appearance. 
 
 Let the waterings now be done in the mornings, as often 
 and in such quantities as will supply their respective wants, 
 examining the plants everyday. 
 
 During the continuance of mild weather, the circulation of 
 air must be as free as possible, opening the doors and front 
 and top sashes regularly over the house. But observe in 
 frosty nights to keep all close shut. Be attentive in clear- 
 ing off decayed leaves and insects. 
 
 Any plants oiLogerstrcBmiu, Sierculia, Hydrangea, Pome- 
 granate, and others equally hardy, that are deciduous, may 
 be kept perfectly in a dry, light, airy cellar : give frequent 
 admissions of air, and one or two waterings during winter. 
 
 OF REPOTTING. 
 
 Anemones. Where A. nemorosa Jlbre pleno Viud A. tJialic'- 
 trbides fibre pleno are kept in pots in the green-house, tl)ey 
 should be turned out of the old earlli, and planted in fresh 
 soil. They are both pretty, low growing, double white 
 flowering plants, and require a shaded situation. The latter 
 is now called Thallctrum anemonoides. (Soil No. ] 1.) 
 
 Daphne is a genus of diminutive shrubs, mostly evergreens, 
 of great beauty and fragrance. Very few species of them 
 are in our collections. D. odbra, frequently called D.indica, 
 is an esteemed plant for the delightful odour of its flowers, 
 and valuable for the period of its flowering, being from De- 
 cember to March, according to the situation ; leaves scattered, 
 oblong, lanceolate, smooth ; flowers small white in many 
 flowered terminal heads : there is a variety equally as fine 
 with marginated foliage. D. hybrida is a species in high es- 
 timation at present in Europe, but little known here, being 
 
324 GREEN-HOUSE. — OF REPOTTING. [Oct, 
 
 only in a few collections ; flowers rosy purple, in terminal 
 heads, and lateral bunches in great profusion, and very simi- 
 lar to the former in habit and shape of flower; blooms from 
 January to May, and is of a pecuhar fragrance, D. oleoides 
 is what may be termed " ever-blooming :" flowers of a lilac 
 colour ; leaves elliptic, lanceolate, smooth. D. laureola, 
 Spurge laurel; D.pontua, D. alpina, and D. Cneorum, are 
 all fine species, and in Europe are esteemed ornaments in the 
 shrubbery, but they are not hardy in our vicinity. (Soil No. 
 
 15.) 
 
 Primula. There are a few fine species and varieties in this 
 genus, adapted either for the green-house or rooms. All the 
 species and varieties will keep perfectly well in a frame, ex- 
 cept the China sorts. Having previously observed a few of 
 the other species and varieties, we will observe the treatment 
 of these. P. sinensis, now prcenitens, known commonly as 
 China Primrose ; flowers pink, and in large proliferous um- 
 bels, flowering almost through the whole year, but most pro- 
 fusely from January to May — there is said to be a double 
 variety of it. Keep them in the shade, and be careful that 
 they are not over-watered during summer. As the stems of 
 the plant become naked, at this repotting a few inches should 
 be taken off" the bottom of the ball, and placing them in a 
 larger pot, will allow the stem.* to be covered up to the leaves. 
 P. p. alhijldra, colour pure white and beautiful. P. p. denit- 
 jlbra. There is also a white variety of this, both similar to the 
 former two, only the flower indented or fringed. All these re- 
 quire the same treatment. As they only live a few years, 
 many individuals, to propagate them, divide the stems, which, 
 in most cases, will utterly destroy them. The best, and we 
 may say the only metliod to increase them is, from seed, 
 whicli they produce in abundance every year. (Soil No. 2.) 
 
 P(2onia moutdn: this magnificent plantand its varieties are 
 quite hardy with us, but most of them require the green- 
 house in northern latitudes. These are P. moutdn, Tree 
 Paeony ; the flower is about five inches in diameter, of a 
 
Oct.] GREEN-HOUSE. — CAMELLIAS. 325 
 
 blush colour, and semi-double. P. M. Banksii is the com- 
 mon Tree Paeony, and called in our collection P. Moutan ; 
 it has a very large double blush flower, and is much ad- 
 mired. P. M. papaveracea is a most magnificent variety; 
 has large single while flowers, with purple centres. P. M. 
 rosea is a splendid rose-coloured double variety, and is scarce ; 
 there is also in China several other varieties, such as pur- 
 ple, scarlet, and crimson, which we have not seen in cultiva- 
 tion. These plants ought not to be exposed to the sun while 
 in flower, as the colours become degenerated, and premature 
 decay follows. 
 
 If the Dutch bulbs intended for flowering during winter 
 are not potted, have them all done as soon as possible, ac- 
 cording to directions given last month. 
 
 CAMELLIAS. 
 
 These plants ought to have a thorough examination, and 
 those that were omitted in repotting before they commenced 
 growing, may be done in the early part of this month ; but it 
 is not advisable, except the roots are all round the ball of 
 earth, which should be turned out entire. Examine all the 
 pols, stir up the surface of the earth, and take it out to the 
 roots, supplying its place with fresh soil. Destroy any 
 worms that may be in the pols, as they are very destructive 
 to the fibres. Look over the foliage, and, with a sponge and 
 water, clear it of all dust, &c. Frequently the buds are too 
 crowded on these plants, especially the Double white and 
 Variegated. In such case pick off" the weakest, and where 
 there are two together, be careful in cutting, so that the re- 
 maining bud may not be injured. 
 
 This is the beat period of the year to make selections of 
 these, as they now can be transported hundreds of miles with- 
 out any material injury, if ihey are judiciously packed inclose 
 boxes. In making a choice of these, keep in view to have 
 distinctly marked varieties, including a few of those that are 
 esteemed as stocks for producing new kinds, which are un- 
 38 
 
326 GREEN-HOUSE. — CAMELLIA SEED. \ Oct, 
 
 doubledly indispensable, and will reward the cultivator in a 
 few years with new sorts. Besides, it will afford unbounded 
 gratification to behold any of these universally admired or- 
 naments of the green-house improving by our assistance and 
 under our immediate observation. There is nothing to pre- 
 vent any individual from producing splendid varieties in a 
 few years. Mr. Hogg correctly observes, " It is very pro- 
 bable in a few years we shall have as great a variety of Ca- 
 mellias as there are of Tulips, Hyacinlhs, Carnations, Auri- 
 culas, &c." This shrewd remark is likely to be verified 
 much earlier than we anticipated. 
 
 It has been often said that these plants are difficult of cul- 
 tivation. This is unfounded ; indeed they are the reverse if 
 put in a soil congenial to their nature. When highly ma- 
 nured soils are given, which are poisonous to the plants, 
 sickness or death will inevitably ensue ; but this cannot be 
 attributed to the delicacy of their nature. We can unhesi- 
 tatingly say, there is no green-house plant more hardy or 
 easier of cultivation, provided they are kept at an even tem- 
 perature, say from 40^^ to 45" during night, and 45" to 50" 
 during day, and they are equally so in the parlour, if not 
 kept confined in a room where there is a continuance of dry- 
 ing fire heat, their constitution not agreeing with an arid at- 
 mosphere. 
 
 SOWING CAMELLIA SEED. 
 
 These seeds ripen generally during September and Octo- 
 ber, and must be sown as soon as ripe ; plant them about one 
 inch under ground into pots filled with leaf mould, loam, 
 and white sand, in equal portions ; if the pols after sowing 
 can be placed into a hot-house, they will vegetate in about 
 six weeks, and be ready to pot into single pots in February. 
 Many of them will bloom in the second year ; but if heat is 
 not accessible, keep the pots in the warmest part of the 
 green-house, and give an occasional watering, and the plants 
 
Nov.] GREEN-HOUSE. OF AIR, (fec. 827 
 
 will appear some time in May and June : they will be ready 
 to pot into single pots in September, and after doing so put 
 them into a close frame, and shade from the sun for a few 
 weeks ; use at this potting only about one-fifth of sand. 
 
 NOVEMBER. 
 
 OF AIR AND WATER. 
 
 Airing the house should be strictly attended to. Every 
 day that there is no frost it may be admitted largely, and in 
 time of slight frosts in smaller portions, never keeping it al- 
 together close when the sun has any effect on the interior 
 temperature of the house, which should not be allowed to 
 be higher than fifty degrees. 
 
 Water must be given in a very sparing manner. None 
 of the plants are in an active state of vegetation, consequent- 
 ly it will be found that looking over them thrice a week and 
 supplying their wants will be sufficient. Succulents will 
 need a little once in three weeks or a month. Give very 
 moderate supplies to the Amaryllis that are dormant, and 
 keep all these bulbs in the warmest part of the house. 
 
 OF TENDER BULBS. 
 
 Where there are tropical bulbs in the collection, and there 
 is not the convenience of a hot-house, they may be very 
 well preserved by shaking them clear of the soil. Dry them 
 properly, and place them in a box of very dry sand or moss, 
 and put them in a situation near the furnace, where they will 
 be free from damp. These can be potted about the first of 
 April. Give no water till they begin to grow, then plant 
 them in the garden about the middle of May, where they 
 will flower during the summer season, if they are mature. 
 
328 GREEN-HOUSE OBSERVATIONS. [DeC. 
 
 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 If there are any of the half hardy plants exposed, have 
 them taken into the house, or under the requisite protection, 
 in frames, pits, cellars, &;c. The autumn flowering Cape 
 bulbs should be placed near the glass, and free from the 
 shade of other plants. Cleanliness through the whole house 
 and among the plants ought at all times to be attended to. 
 
 DECEMBER. 
 
 The weather may probably be now severe, and it is" at al? 
 times advisable to keep the temperature as steady and regu- 
 lar as possible. The thermometer should be kept in the 
 centre of the house, and free from the effects of reflection. 
 As noticed last month, sun heat may be as high as 50° in the 
 house, and would not be hurtful, but it should not continue 
 so for any considerable time without admission of air. The 
 fire heat should not exceed 45^, and never below 35^. It 
 ought not to continue at that point — 36*^ is the lowest for a 
 continuation that with safety can be practised, and where a 
 collection of Cactii are kept, 40*^ should be the lowest. So 
 that no error may occur, the temperature ought to be known 
 in the coolest and warmest parts of the house, and the varia- 
 tion remembered ; then whatever part of the house the ther- 
 mometer is placed, a true calculation of the heat of the whole 
 interior can be made. We would recommend to the inex- 
 perienced to keep the thermometer in the coldest part of the 
 house, A green-house compactly and closely built, and the 
 lowest row of top sash all covered with shutters, (which no 
 house ought to be constructed without,) will seldom require 
 artificial heat ; but by being long kept close, the damp will 
 
Dec] GREEN-HOUSE. BULBOUS ROOTS. 329 
 
 increase. In such case give a little fire heat, and adnnit air 
 to purify the house. In fresh mild weather give liberal 
 portions of air all over the house; and though there is a little 
 frost, while mild, and the sun shining, the plants will be be- 
 nefited by a small portion of air for the space of an hour, or 
 even for half of that time. 
 
 Whatever state the weather may be through the winter,, 
 never keep the house long shut up. Thirty-six hours 
 should be the longest time at once ; rather give a little fire 
 heat. 
 
 We are no advocates for keeping plants in the dark, 
 and never think that our plants are receiving justice if kept 
 longer in darkness than one night. 
 
 BULBOUS ROOTS. 
 
 Those that were plunged in the garden, if not lifted and 
 brought under cover, this should now be done without delay. 
 Clean the pots, and stir up the surface of the soil. Hyacinths 
 grow neatest by being kept very close to the top glass ; the 
 flower stems are thereby stronger and shorter. Water mo- 
 derately until they begin to grow freely. 
 
 28* 
 
THE 
 
 AMERICAN FLOWER GARDEN 
 DIRECTORY. 
 
 ROOMS 
 
 PLANTS IN ROOMS. 
 
 To treat on llie proper management of plants in windows 
 is a subject of considerable difficulty : every genus requiring 
 some variation both in soil, water, and general treatment. 
 However, a great part of the labour will be abridged by re- 
 ferring to these subjects in the green-house culture, which is 
 quite apphcable to the parlour, green-room, or veranda. If 
 the room where the plants are kept is dark and close, but 
 few will ever thrive ; if, on the contrary, it is light and airy, 
 with the windows in a suitable aspect to receive the sun, 
 plants will do nearly as well, and, in some instances, better^ 
 than in a green-house. This is a well known fact, and may 
 be observed every day. We have seen as fine plants of 
 Cactus, Daphne, Roses, Geraniums, Callas, Laureslinus, Car- 
 nations, Azaleas, and ]\Iyrtles, grown in a window from year 
 to year, as ever could be grown in a green-house. Indeed, 
 when there is a failure, it can be traced to one of the follow- 
 ing three causes : 
 
 1st. Want of proper light and pure air — is, perhaps, the 
 most essential point of any to be considered ; for, however 
 ■well all other re:juisites are attended to, a deficiency in either 
 
ROOMS. PLANTS IN ROOMS. 331 
 
 of these will cause the plants to grow weak, yellow, and 
 sickly. Therefore, have them always placed as near the 
 light as possible, and receive as much air as can be admitted, 
 when the weather will allow, and, occasionally, in fine days, 
 carry them out of doors and give them a sprinkling of water 
 all over. 
 
 2d. Injurious watering — does more injury to plants in 
 rooms than many persons imagine ; and it is very often to be 
 observed, that some individuals destroy all with too much,, 
 and others kill all with too little of that nourisher of health. 
 To prevent the soil ever having a dry appearance, is an ob- 
 ject of great importance in the estimation of many : they, 
 therefore, water to such an excess, that the soil becomes sod- 
 den, and the roots consequently perish. Others, as we have 
 said, run lo the opposite extreme, and do not give sufficient 
 to sustain life, and this is a more common practice than that 
 of too much. The best plan is, always to allow the mould 
 in the pot to have the appearance of dryness, but never suf- 
 ficient to make the plant droop before a supply of water is 
 given, which should then be copious and thoroughly going 
 to the bottom of the pot ; but always empty it out of the 
 saucer or pan in which the pot stands: the water used should 
 always be about the same temperature as that in which the 
 plants grow ; avoid using it fresh from the pump. 
 
 3d. Being over-potted in unsuitable soil. This is also a 
 crying evil, and large pots invariably given to weak plants, 
 with the view of causing them to grow ; but such practition- 
 ers are like the unskilful physician who gluts the weakly 
 stomach of his patient, only hastening on what they are try- 
 ing to prevent. With weak plants the very reverse should 
 be practised, giving small pots to encourage their roots out- 
 ward : whereas, the earth in a large pot to a small plant, with 
 frequent waterings, soon becomes sour and stagnated, and 
 utterly obnoxious to the roots of even the strongest growing 
 plants. If the directions and table of soils, in this work, are 
 
332 ROOMS. — PLANTS IN ROOMS. [Jan. 
 
 properly followed up, unsuitable soils will rarely occur^ 
 especially when each genus is separately treated. 
 
 In fact, we have yet lobe convinced why all plants, with 
 the exception of a few tropical, and those belonging to EricecB 
 and Epacridece, will not grow and bloom well in rooms and 
 windows. With the following monthly instruclions, and 
 executing them properly, failure will seldom occur ; but 
 where failure should occur, we would call particular atten- 
 tion to the tribe of Cactii, which are varied, beautiful, and 
 truly interesting, and grow admirably in dry rooms, with or 
 without full exposure to the sun, and in any temperature 
 from 45c> to 85^, requiring only small portions of water once 
 a week in winter, and twice or thrice a week during sum- 
 mer : they also only require fresh soil once a year, or even 
 once in two years, for large plants, will be found sufficient. 
 The variety now cultivated is truly astonishing, and we 
 doubt not but, in a few years, large horticultural buildings 
 will be erected for their express culture ; and, to the inexpe- 
 rienced amateur, there is not a family of plants that will give 
 more satisfaction, or, when properly studied, will afford great- 
 er interest and amusement. 
 
 JANUARY. 
 
 Plants that are kept in rooms generally are such as re- 
 quire a medium temperature, say from 40" to 60°. Sitting- 
 rooms or parlours, about this season, are, for the most part, 
 heated from 60° to 70", and very seldom has the air any ad- 
 mittance into these apartments ; thus keeping the tempera- 
 ture from 10° to 150 higher than the nature of the plants re- 
 quire, and excluding that fresh air which is requisite to 
 support a vegetative principle. Therefore, as far as pracli- 
 
Jan.] ROOMS. — WATERING, &ic. 333 
 
 cable, let the plants be kept in a roonri adjoining to one 
 where there is fire heat, and the intervening door can be 
 opened when desirable. They will admit sometimes of be- 
 ing as low as 38°. 
 
 If they be constantly kept where there is fire, let the win- 
 dow be open some inches, once a day. for a few minutes, 
 thereby making the air of the apartment more congenial, 
 both for animal and vegetable nature. 
 
 WATERING, &c. 
 
 All that is necessary is merely to keep the soil in a moist 
 state, that is, do not let it get so dry that you can divide the 
 particles of earth, nor so wet that they could be beat to clay. 
 The frequency of watering can be best regulated by the per- 
 son doing it, as it depends entirely upon the size of the pot 
 or jar in proportion to the plant, whether it is too small or 
 too large, and the situation it stands in, whether moist or 
 arid. Never allow any quantity of water to stand in the 
 flats or saucers. This is too frequently practised with plants 
 in general. Such as Cdlla JEthibpica, or African Lily, will 
 do well, as water is its element; {\\\keSagittaria in this coun- 
 try ;) the Hydrangea and Hyacinths, when in a growing 
 state, will do admirably under such treatment. Many plants 
 may do well for some time, but it being so contrary to their 
 nature, causes premature decay; a fetid stagnation takes 
 place at the root, the foliage becomes yellow, the plant stunted,, 
 and death follows. 
 
 OF CAMELLIA JAPONICA. 
 
 In rooms, the buds of Camellias will be well swelled, and 
 on the double white and double variegated sorts perhaps they 
 will be full-blown. While in that state the temperature 
 should not be below 40^; if lower, they will not expand so 
 well, and the expanded petals will soon become yellow and 
 
334 ROOMS. — OF INSECTS, &c. [Jan. 
 
 decay. If they are where there is fire heat, they must have 
 plenty of air admitted to them every favourable opportunity, 
 and water freely given, or the consequence will be, that all 
 the buds will turn dark brown, and fall off. It is generally 
 the case, in the treatment of these beautiful plants in rooms, 
 that, through too much intended care, they are entirely de- 
 stroyed. They do not agree with confined air, and to sponge 
 frequently will greatly promote the health of the plants and 
 add to the beauty of their foliage, as it prevents the attacks 
 of the red spider. 
 
 When the flowers are expanded, and droop, tie them up 
 neatly, so that the flower may be shown to every advantage. 
 
 OF INSECTS, &c. 
 
 Insects of various kinds will be appearing on your plants. 
 For method of destruction, see Hot-house, January. It will 
 not be agreeable to fumigate the room or rooms, or even to 
 have the smell of tobacco near the house from this cause. 
 
 Take a tub of soft water, (if the day is frosty, it had bet- 
 ter be done m the house,) invert the plant, holding the hand, 
 or tying a piece of cloth, or anything of the kind, over the 
 soil in the pot, put all the branches in the water, keeping the 
 pot in the hand, drawing it to and fro a few times ; take it 
 out and shake it. If any insects remain, take a small fine 
 brush, and brush them off, giving another dip, which will 
 clean them for the present. As soon as they appear again, 
 repeat the process — for nothing that we have found out, or 
 heard of, can totally extirpate them. 
 
 OE BULBOUS ROOTS IN GENERAL. 
 
 If you have retained any of the Cape bulbs from the last 
 planting, let them be put in, in the early part of the month. 
 For method, see September. Those that are growing must 
 
Feb.] ROOMS. OF BULBOUS ROOTS, &c. 335 
 
 be kept very near the light, that is, close to the window, or 
 they will not flourish to your satisfaction. The fall-flower- 
 ing oxalis may be kept on the stage, or any other place, to 
 give room to those that are to flower. 
 
 Hyacinths, Jonquils, Narcissus, Tulips, &c., will keep 
 very well in a room where fire heat is constantly kept, pro- 
 vided that they are close to the window. A succession of 
 these, as before observed, may beautify the drawing-room 
 from February to April, by having a reserved stock, in a 
 cold situation, and taking a few of them every week into the 
 warmest apartment. 
 
 Wherever any of the bulbs are growing, and in the inte- 
 rior of the room, remove them close to the light, observing 
 to turn the pots or glasses frequently to prevent them from 
 growing to one side, and giving them support as soon as the 
 stems droop, or the head becomes pendent. The saucers 
 under the Hyacinth and Narcissus may stand with water, 
 and observe to change the water in the glasses once or twice 
 a week. 
 
 Every one that has any taste or refinement in their floral 
 undertakings, will delight in seeing the plants in perfection : 
 to have them so, they must be divested of every leaf that 
 has the appearance of decaying — let this always be attend- 
 ed to. 
 
 FEBRUARY. 
 
 At this season the plants cail for the most assiduous at- 
 tention. If the stage has been made according to our de- 
 scription in September, in very cold night it should be 
 drawn to the centre of the room, or at least withdrawn from 
 the window, observing every night to close the window 
 dght by shutters, or some substitute equally as good. And, 
 
336 ROOMS. — CAMELLIAS. [Feb. 
 
 if the temperature begins to fall below 40^, means should be 
 adopieil 10 prevent it from lowering, either by putting a fire 
 in the room, or opening anv adjoining apartment where fire 
 is constantly kept. This latter method is the best where it 
 is practicable, and ought to be studied to be made so. 
 
 Some very injudiciously, in extreme frosls, put into the 
 room, where there is no chimney, among the plants, a 
 furnace of charcoal, in order to heat the room. The effect 
 is, that the foliage becomes dark brown and hardened like, 
 and many of the planis die, the rest not recovering until 
 summer. 
 
 Watering may be attended to according to the directions 
 of January, only observing that those that begin to grow 
 will absorb a little more than those that are dormant. 
 
 Roses, especially the daily, if kept in the house, will 
 begin to show flower. Use means to kill the green-fly that 
 may attack them. 
 
 Hyacinths and other bulbs must have regular attendance in 
 tying up, &:c. Take care not to tie iheiii too tishily, leaving 
 sulBciency of space for the stem to expand. Give those in 
 the glasses their necessary supplies, and keepthem all near ihe 
 light. Never keep bulbous roots, while growing, under the 
 shade of any other plant. 
 
 Camellias, whh all their varied beauties, will, in this month, 
 make a splendid show. Adhere to the directions given in 
 the previous month, and so that new varieties may be ob- 
 tained, (see green-house, February, under the head of Ca- 
 mellia, )\\\\\c\\ directions are equally applicable here. When 
 the flowers are full-blown, and kepi in a temperature between 
 40° and 50°, they will be perfect for the space of four, five, 
 and frequently six weeks, and a good selection of healthy 
 plants will continue to flower from December to Afiril. 
 
 Be sure that there is a little air admitted al all favourable 
 opportunities. 
 
March.] kooms. — repotting. 337 
 
 MARCH. 
 
 If the plants in these situations have been properly at- 
 tended to by admitting air at all favourable limes, and when 
 the apartment was below 40^*, a little fire heat applied to 
 counteract the cold, keeping the heat above that degree, your 
 attention will be rewarded by the healthy appearance of 
 your plants. The weather by this time has generally be- 
 come milder, so that air may be more freely admitted, espe- 
 cially from ten to three o'clock. They will require a more 
 liberal supply of water, but always avoid keeping them wet. 
 Pick off all decayed leaves, and tie up any straggling shoots; 
 give the pots a top-dressing with fresh soil, which will great- 
 ly invigorate the plants, and will allow the fresh air to act 
 upon the roots, which is one of the principal assistants in ve- 
 getation. For those that require shifting or repotting, see 
 {green-house, March ;) the plants enumerated there equally 
 apply here, if they are in the collection, with this difference, 
 that well-kept rooms are about two or three weeks earlier 
 than the green-house. After the end of this month, where 
 there is a convenience, plants will do better in windows thai 
 look to the east, in which the direct rays of a hot sun are 
 prevented from falling upon them, and the morning sun is 
 more congenial for plants in this country than the afternoon 
 sun. Where there is any dust on the leaves of any of them, 
 lake a sponge and water, and make the whole clean; likewise 
 divest them of all insects. The green-fly is perhaps on the 
 roses ; if there are no conveniences for fumigating, wash them 
 off as previously directed. Where there are only a few 
 plants, these pests could be very easily kept off by examining 
 the plants every day. For the scaly insect, see January. If 
 they have not been cleared off, get it done directly ; for by 
 the heat of the weather they will increase tenfold. 
 
 29 
 
338 R00M8. — FLOWERING PLANTS. [March. 
 
 FLOWERING PLANTS. 
 
 Hyacinths, Tulips, Narcissus, Jonquils, and Crocus, will 
 be generally in flower. The former require plenty of wa- 
 ter, and the saucers under the pots should be constantly full 
 until they are done blooming. The others need only be li- 
 berally supplied at the surface of the pot. Give them neat 
 green painted rods to support their flower stems, and keep 
 ihem all near the light. The spring flowering Oxalis will 
 not open except it is exposed to the full rays of the sun. The 
 Lachenalia is greatly improved in colour with exposure to 
 the sun, though, when in flower, its beauties are preserved 
 by keeping it a little in the shade. 
 
 Primulas, or Primrose, both Chinese and European, de- 
 light in an airy exposure ; but the sun destroys the beauty of 
 their flowers by making the colours fade. 
 
 Camellias. Many of ihem will be in perfection. See 
 green-house this month for a description of the finest varie- 
 ties. Do not let the sun shine upon the blooms. Those 
 that are done flowering will, in small pots, require to be re- 
 potted. 
 
 The Hyacinths that are in glasses must be regularly sup- 
 plied with water. The roots will be very much reduced by 
 this method ; therefore, when the bloom is over, if possible, 
 plant them in the garden, or bury them in pots of earth, to 
 ripen and strengthen the bulbs. They cannot satisfactorily 
 be again flowered in glasses, and, properly, they ought not to 
 be allowed to bloom in the garden next year. Those that are 
 done flowering in pots can be set aside, and the usual water- 
 ings gradually withdrawn. Treat all other Dutch bulbs in a 
 similar manner. , 
 
ROOMS. DIRECTIONS, &C. 339 
 
 APRIL, 
 
 We remarked last month that, about this season, where it 
 is convenient, an eastern window is more congenial to plants 
 than a southern. The sun becomes too powerful, and the 
 morning sun is preferable to that of the afternoon. West is 
 also preferable to south. Some keep their flowering plants 
 in excellent order at a north window. But the weather is so 
 mild after this, that there is no difficulty in protecting and 
 growing plants in rooms. They generally suffer most from 
 want of air and water; the window must be up a few inches, 
 or altogether, according to the mildness of the day. And as 
 plants are liable to get covered with dust in these apartments, 
 and not so convenient to be syringed or otherwise cleaned, 
 take the first opportunity of a mild day to carry them to a 
 shady situation, and syringe well with water such as are not 
 in flower ; or, for want of a syringe, take a watering-pot 
 with a rose upon it ; allowing them to stand until they drip, 
 when they may be put into their respective situations ; or ex- 
 pose them to a shower of rain, but avoid allowing them to be 
 deluged, which would be very injurious. 
 
 DIRECTIONS FOR PLANTS BROUGHT FROM THE GREEN- ; 
 HOUSE. 
 
 Any plants that are brought from the green-house during 
 Ahe spring months ought to be as little exposed to the direct 
 rays of the sun as possible. Keep them in airy situations, 
 with plenty of light, giving frequent and liberal supplies of 
 water. Plants may be often observed through our city 
 .during this month fully exposed in the outside of a south 
 window, with the blaze of a mid-day sun upon them, and 
 
340 ROOMS. — FLOWERING PLANTS. [Ap-ll. 
 
 these, too, just come from the temperate and damp atmo- 
 sphere of a well-regulated green-house. Being thus placed in 
 an arid situation, scorched between the glass and the sun, 
 whose heat is too powerful for them to withstand, the transi- 
 tion is so sudden, that, however great their beauties may 
 have appeared, they in a few days become brown, the flow- 
 ers tarnish or decay, and the failure is generally attributed 
 to individuals not at all concerned. From this and similar 
 causes many have drawn the unjust conclusion, viz., that 
 " plants from green-houses are of too delicate a nature to be 
 exposed in rooms or windows at this early season." But 
 every year gives more and more proof to the contrary. There 
 are ladies in Philadelphia, and those not a few, whose rooms 
 and windows at this period vie with the finest of our green- 
 houses, with respect to the health, beauty, and order of their 
 plants, and we might almost say in variety. Some of them 
 have got above twenty kinds of Camellias in their collec- 
 tions, which afford a continual beauty through the winter, 
 with many other desirable and equally valuable plants.* The 
 plants generally are now growing pretty freely, and are not 
 so liable to suffer from liberal supplies of water, observing 
 never to give it until the soil in the pot is inclining to be- 
 come dry, and administering it in the evenings or morn- 
 ings. 
 
 FLOWERING PLANTS. 
 
 Our directions last month under this head will equally 
 apply now. The Chinese 7-oses and geraniums that are now 
 coming plentifully into flower should be kept near the light, 
 and in airy exposures, to brighten their colours, otherwise 
 they will be very pale and sickly. 
 
 * We know a gentleman in Washington city who cultivates, in great per- 
 fection, about one hundred varieties of ihe japonica, and that, too, in a room 
 with only one window. 
 
 I 
 
May,'] ROOMS. — bringing plants out, &c. 341 
 
 BRINGING PLANTS GUT OF THE CELLAR, &c. 
 
 All or most of the plants that have been in the cellar 
 during winter, such as Pomegranates, Lagerstrcemias, Hy- 
 drangeas, Oleanders, Sweet-bay, <SfC., may be brought out to 
 the open air any lime about the middle of the month. If 
 any of them stand in need of larger pots or tubs, have them 
 turned out, the balls reduced, and put ihem in others a little 
 larger, or, where convenient, they may be planted in the 
 ground. Be sure to keep the Hydrangeas in shady situa- 
 tions. It will not be advisable to expose entirely the orange 
 and lemon trees until the end of this or first of next month. 
 Where there are any scale or foulness of any kind collected 
 on the foliage or wood, have them cleaned directly before 
 the heat increases the one, and to get clear of the disagree- 
 able appearance of the other. 
 
 MAY. 
 
 All the plants will be able to withstand exposure, in the 
 general state of the seasons, about the tenth of the month. 
 Beffin about the first to take out the hardiest, such as LaU' 
 reslinus, Hydrangeas, Roses, Primroses, Polyanthus, &c., and 
 thus allow the others to stand more free and become har- 
 dened to exposure. The reason that plants are so often 
 seen brown, stunted, and almost half dead during summer, 
 is from the exposed situation they are placed in, with the 
 direct sun upon them, and too frequently from being so 
 sparingly watered. There are no shrubby plants cultivated 
 
 in pots that are benefited by full exposure to the hot sun 
 
 29* 
 
343 ROOMS. — CAPE BULBS. [May. 
 
 from this period to September. A north-eastern aspect is 
 the best for every plant except Cactus, Aloe, Mesemhryan- 
 the?nu77i, and such as go under the name of succulents, which 
 may be fully exposed to the sun, but not to long and conti- 
 nued rains. Where there are only a few plants, they should 
 be conveniently placed, to allow water from a pot w^th a 
 rose mouth to be poured frequently over them, which is the 
 best substitute for the syringe. Daphne, Corojulla, Fuchsia, 
 Camellia, Primrose, and Polyanthus, do not agree with bright 
 sun through the summer. There has been a general ques- 
 tion what is the cause of the death of so many of the 
 Daphne odura. It may be observed, that the first place 
 that shows symtoms of decay is at the surface of the soil, 
 and this takes place a few weeks before there are evident 
 effects of it. The cause is from the effect of heat or sun 
 and water, acting on the stem at least. If the soil is drawn 
 in the form of a cone round the stem, to throw off the wa- 
 ter to the edges of the pot, that the stem may be dry above 
 the roots, mortification does not take place, neither do they 
 die prematurely when thus treated. For farther remarks, 
 see green-house, this month. 
 
 CAPE BULBS. 
 
 Any of these that are done flowering, such as Ixia, Oxa- 
 lis, Lachendlia, &c., as soon as the foliage begins to decay, 
 turn the pots on their sides, which will ripen the roots, and, 
 when perfectly dry, clear them from the soil, wrap them up 
 in paper, wiili their names attached, and put them careful- 
 ly aside until the time of planting. 
 
June and July.] rooms. — repotting. 343 
 
 REPOTTING. 
 
 Where it is required, repot Cactus, Aloe, Mesemhrydnthe' 
 mums, and all other succulents, with any of the Amaryllis 
 that are required to be kept in pots ; also, Cape Jasmines. For 
 description of the above, see hot-house and green-house of 
 this month, under the same head. 
 
 JUNE AND JULY. 
 
 The only attention requisite to these plants is, in giving 
 water, keeping them from being much exposed to either sun 
 or high winds, and preventing the attack of insects. Water 
 must be regularly given every evening, when there has not 
 been rain during the day. Where they are in a growing 
 state, they are not liable at this season of the year to suffer 
 from too much water, except in a few instances, such as the 
 Lemon-scented Geranium, and those kinds that are tube- 
 rose-rooted, as Ardens, Bicblor, Tristum, &c., which should 
 have moderate supplies. 
 
 All the plants ought to be turned round every few weeks 
 to prevent them from growing to one side, by the one being 
 more dark than the other, and keep those of a straggling 
 growth tied neatly to rods. Wherever insects of any de- 
 scription appear, wash them off directly. Give regular sy- 
 ringings or sprinklings from the rose of a watering-pot. Be 
 particularly attentive in this respect to the Camellias, which 
 will keep the foliage in a healthy state. 
 
 If the foliage of Lilium longijlbrum, or Japonicum, has 
 decayed, do not water them while dormant, as they are 
 easily injured by such treatment. 
 
344 ROOMS. ' [August. 
 
 AUGUST. 
 
 For the kinds of plants that require potting, we refer to 
 the green-house for this month. All that are therein speci- 
 fied are peculiarly adapted for rooms, and we would call at- 
 tention to the genus Cyclamen, which has not been general- 
 ly introduced into the collections of our ladies ; as, from the 
 character and beauty of the flowers, they are very attracting 
 and highly deserving of culture. Attend to the Geraniums 
 as there directed, and be particular in having them cut down 
 and repotted, as there fully described. The Oranges, Le- 
 mons. Oleanders, and Myrtles, that are kept in cellars or 
 rooms, should have the same attention in this month as di- 
 rected in the green-house, which, to repeat here, would be 
 occupying space unnecessarily. 
 
 Reseda odordta, or Mignonette, is one of the most fragrant 
 annuals. To have it in perfection during winter, the seed 
 should be sown about the end of this month or the begin- 
 ning of next, into pots of fine light earth, and sprinkled with 
 water frequently. When it comes up, the plants must be 
 thinned out or transplanted : the former method is preferable. 
 Keep them from frost during winter, and always near the 
 light. 
 
 This will equally apply to the green-house. 
 
 Cape bulbs, such as Sparaxis, Ixia, Oxalis, and Lachena- 
 lia, should now be planted. For method and sorts, see 
 green-house in August and September. 
 
Sept.] ROOMS. GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 345 
 
 SEPTEMBER. 
 
 Where there is a quantity of plants to be kept in these 
 apartments, they should be disposed of to the best effect, and, 
 at the same time, in such a manner as will be most effectual 
 to their preservation. A stage of some description is better 
 than a table, and, of whatever shape or form, it ought to 
 be on castors, that it may, in severe nights of frost, be drawn 
 to the centre of the room. The shape may be either con- 
 cave, a half circle, or one square side. The bottom step or 
 table should be six inches wide and five inches deep, keeping 
 each successive step one inch farther apart, to the desired 
 height, which may be about six feet. Allowing the first 
 step to be about two feet from the floor, there will be five 
 or six steps, which will hold about fifty pots of a common 
 size, A stage in the form of half a circle will hold more, 
 look the handsomest, and be most convenient. We have 
 seen them circular, and, when filled, appeared like a pyramid. 
 These do very well, but they must be turned every day, or 
 the. plants will not grow regularly. With this attention it 
 is decidedly the best. Green is the most suitable colour to 
 paint them. 
 
 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 The directions given for the green-house this month are 
 equally applicable here. The late blooming Chrysanthe- 
 mums are particularly adapted for rooms. The colours are 
 so varied, and many of them are dwarf-growing, and even 
 neat in their habit, especially the new hybrid sorts. 
 
346 ROOMS. — OF BULBODS ROOTS. [Oct. 
 
 OCTOBER. 
 
 Have a stage or stages, as described last month, in the si- 
 tuations where they are intended to remain all winter ; place 
 the plants on them from the first to the eighth of this month, 
 beginning with the tallest on the top, graduating to the bot- 
 tom. It is desirable to place flats or saucers under each, to 
 prevent the water from falling to the floor, and the water 
 should be emptied from the flats of all except those of Cdlla 
 and Hydrangea. The latter, while dormant, should be kept 
 only a little moist. 
 
 Previous to taking in the plants, they should be divested 
 of every decayed leaf, insects, and all contracted dust, having 
 their shoots neatly tied up, and every one in correct order. 
 Every leaf of the Camellias ought to be sponged, and the 
 plants placed in an airy exposure, and from this period till 
 they begin to grow, have them exposed to the sun. If the 
 flower buds are too crowded, picking off" the weakest wiM 
 preserve the remainder in greater perfection, and prevent 
 them, in part, from falling ofl". Do not, on any occasion, 
 keep them in a room where there is much fluctuating fire 
 heat, as the flower buds will not expand, except they are 
 kept in an even temperature. See green-house, this month, 
 more largely on this subject. 
 
 OF BULBOUS ROOTS. 
 
 Those that are intended to flower in glasses should be 
 placed therein this month, and kept in a cool room. After 
 the fibres begin to push a few shoots, the glasses may be 
 taken to the warmest apartments to cause them to flower 
 early. Bring a few from the coldest to the warmest every 
 
Nov.] ROOMS. GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 347 
 
 two weeks, and thus a succession of bloom may be kept up 
 from January to March. Hyacinths and oiher Dulch bulbs 
 should now be planted in pots. See green-house for full 
 directions. 
 
 Cape Bulbs. All that are unplanted and offering to grow, 
 should be put in pots forthwith. Ample directions are given 
 for the planting of these in ihe two preceding months. 
 
 Repot. Riibus roscRfblius, or Bramble-rose. They should 
 have pots one size larger than those they are now in. To 
 make them flower profusely, when done blooming in May, 
 divideihem and put only a few stems in one pot, and repot 
 ihem in this month, as above directed. 
 
 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 Any herbaceous plants in the collection ought to be set 
 aside, and the water in part withheld. When the stems and 
 foliage are decayed, the plants may be put in a cool cellar, 
 where they will not be in danger of frost, and be permitted 
 to remain there until they begin to grow ; then bring them 
 to the light, and treat as directed for these kinds of plants. 
 Deciduous plants may be treated in a similar manner. 
 
 NOVEMBER. 
 
 GENERAL OBSERVATIONS. 
 
 The remarks and instructions that are given last month 
 for these apartments will equally answer here. Where the 
 Dutch bulbs were omitted to be placed in glasses, they ought 
 not to be longer delayed. 
 
348 ROOMS. [Dec. 
 
 Oxalis. The autumn-flowering species will now be in 
 bloom, and must be kept in the sun to make them expand 
 freely. The neglect of this is the principal reason that these 
 do not flower perfectly in rooms. 
 
 Camellias. These plants, where there is a collection, 
 flower from this period till April ; and the general desire to 
 be fully acquainted with the method of their culture has in- 
 duced us to be liberal in our observations on every point and 
 period through the various stages of their growth and flow- 
 ering. We will here only remind the inquirer, that a pure 
 air and plenty of water, giving the plants frequent sprin- 
 klings, are the present necessities, which only are conducive 
 to their perfection. 
 
 Attend to the turning of Geraniums and other rapidly 
 growing plants, that all sides of them may have an equal 
 share of light. 
 
 DECEMBER. 
 
 As the trying season is now approaching for all plants that 
 arc kept in rooms, especially those that are desired to have 
 a flourishing aspect through the winter, a few general in- 
 structions (although they may have been previously ad- 
 vanced) will, pe!-haps, be desirable to all those who are en- 
 gaged in this interesting occupation, which forms a luxury 
 through the retired hours of a winter season, and with very 
 little attention many arc the beauties of vegetative nature 
 that will be developed to the gratification of every reflecting 
 mind. The following is a routine of every-day culture : 
 
 Do not, at any time, admit air (except for a few moments) 
 while the thermometer is below 35^, exposed in the shade. 
 
 In time of very severe frosts the plants ought to be with- 
 
Dec] ROOMS. — ROSES. 349 
 
 drawn from the window to the centre of the room during 
 night. 
 
 Never give water until the soil in the pots is inclining to 
 become dry, except for Hyacinths and other Dutch bulbs 
 that are in a growing state, which must be liberally sup- 
 plied. 
 
 Destroy all insects as soon as they appear : for the means of 
 destruction, see next month. 
 
 Give a little air every favourable opportunity, (that is, 
 when the thermometer is above 35^, exposed in the shade,) 
 by putting up the window one, two, or three inches, accord- 
 ing to the state of the weather. 
 
 Clean the foliage with sponge, and water frequently to re- 
 move all dust, &c. The water thus used must not exceed 
 80Q, but 60O is preferable. 
 
 Turn the plants frequently, to prevent them growing to 
 one side. 
 
 Roses of the daily sort may be obtained early by having 
 them in a warm room, that has a south window, and 
 as soon as they begin to grow, admit air in small portions 
 about noon every day that the sun has any effect. Such 
 must be well supplied with water. 
 
 Bulbs in glasses must be supplied with fresh water at least 
 once a week, in which period they will inhale all the nutri- 
 tive gas that they derive from that element, if they are in a 
 growing state. 
 
 Camellias, when in bud and flower, should never be al- 
 lowed to become the least dry, neither confined from fresh 
 air. The effects would be, that the buds would become 
 stinted, dry, and drop off. Therefore, to have these in per- 
 fection, attend strictly to watering. Give frequent airings, 
 and wash the leaves occasionally with water. Never 
 keep them in a room where there is a strong coal fire. 
 The most of Camellias will bear 3^ of frost without the 
 smallest injury, so that they are easier kept than Geraniums, 
 except when they are in bloom. In that state frost will de- 
 
 30 
 
350 ROOMS. — CAMELLIAS. [Dec, 
 
 stroy the flowers. The air of a close cellar is also destruc" 
 live to the buds. 
 
 The reason that the Camellia does not bloom perfectly in 
 parlours, or other heated rooms, is owing to their being too- 
 warm and arid, destroying the vital vegetative principle of 
 the plant, and it soon perishes. There is one way in which 
 these plants can be kept perfect even in such dry places when 
 the recess in the windows is of sufficient depth as to allow 
 plants to stand within it, enclosing them from the apartment 
 by another sash : in such a situation water could be placed, 
 which would keep the atmosphere between the windows per- 
 fectly moist. The verdure would be rich and the flowers 
 brilliant ; and they would be completely protected from dust 
 — the whole would have a very pleasing effect. Attentior> 
 will be requisite to give them air during the mild part of the 
 day. There are several Camellias not proper for room cul- 
 ture ; those which have dry brown scaly buds are to be 
 avoided, such as anemoneflora, egertonia, cleviana, fulgens, 
 atroruhens ; also avoid ivoodsii, chandile?-n, and dorsetia, as 
 being difficult of expanding — they are so very full of petals. 
 Those most proper for room culture are, double white, con- 
 chijlora, eclipse, Jimbriata, Jlorida, imbricata, malijlwa, pceo- 
 niJlora,punctata, Colvillii,rossii, speciosa, variegata, and in- 
 carnata. Such will be found to bloom freely and fully : 
 many others might be added, but these will give an idea of 
 those sorts that agree best with room culture. We cannot 
 conclude our subject without giving our readers some hints 
 on the eff'ect of plants in household apartments. It has been 
 proven that the leaves of plants absorb carbonic acid gas by 
 iheir upper surfaces, and give out oxygen by their under ones, 
 thereby tending to purify the air in as far as animal life is 
 concerned, because carbonic acid gas is pernicious to animals, 
 and oxygen is what that life requires. It is in the light, how- 
 ever, that these operations are carried on, for in the dark, 
 plants give out carbonic, it does not appear that any of the 
 
Dec] ROOMS. — CAMELLIAS, 351 
 
 scentless products given out by plants are injurious to hun:ian 
 beings.because those who live among accumulated plants are 
 not less healthy than others, but rather enjoy more unin- 
 terrupted health, which, of itself, is a sufficient recommenda- 
 lion for all to spend their leisure moments in so healthful and 
 raUonal an enjploym^nL 
 
THE 
 
 AMERICAN FLOWER GARDEN 
 
 DIRECTORY. 
 
 ON THE CULTURE OF THE GRAPE. 
 
 We are not aware of any vegetable production that is more 
 conducive to the luxurious gratifications and pleasures of man 
 than the vine. In fact, there is no fruit so delicious appli- 
 cable to so many purposes, nor any that is so agreeable to 
 all palates : from the remotest ages the vine has been cele- 
 brated as the emblem of plenty and the " symbol of happi- 
 ness." Its quickness of growth, its great fertility, and asto- 
 nishing vegetative powers, with its unknown age, has rendered 
 it one of the most fruitful blessings bestowed by Providence; a 
 blessing which almost every inhabitant of this union may en- 
 joy, and we see no occasion to doubt but that thousands of acres 
 of our fertile uplands will be converted into vineyards, pro- 
 ducing the finest fruits and richest wines in the world. In- 
 deed, with very little care and attention, our unsightly post 
 and rail fences may be converted into grape espaliers, and 
 fine wines produced at as little cost as spruce beer ; every 
 square foot of surface might be made to produce a pound of 
 grapes, and every post, at least, round our gardens afford am- 
 ple space for one vine, which would yearly produce from 
 three to nine pounds of fruit, fit either for the table or the 
 wine-press. But the small space allotted in this volume wili 
 
ASPECT. 353 
 
 not allow us to dilate on this fruitful subject. Our object is 
 to give a few hints on the aspect, soil, propagation, and cul- 
 ture of the vine, so as to produce an extra crop in the small- 
 est given space. We will then consider, first, the 
 
 ASPECT. 
 
 As our climate gives us plenty of heat for the maturation 
 of the vine, we have, therefore, more scope in aspect than 
 any other country. However, the most preferable is one 
 from south to east, or west. Shelter from high and often 
 recurring winds is a prime consideration. Our western and 
 south-western gusts of wind are very destructive to the vine 
 when it is in the full vigour of growth : it dissipates all 
 the accumulated secretions of the foliage, and closes its pores, 
 thereby totally deranging the vital functions of the plant, 
 which (although in the height of the growing season) has been 
 known to be suspended for weeks. There are frequently 
 many local circumstances affecting the shelter of walls and 
 other buildings, which, where they exist, must determine the 
 best aspect for trainingt he vine. But if there be no such 
 local circumstances, we have no hesitation in stating that an 
 eastern aspect is the best. On such the sun shines with full 
 force during the morning, at which time there is something 
 highly favourable to vegetation in his rays, which seems to 
 stimulate the energies of plants in an extraordinary degree, 
 and to excite them to a vigorous exertion of all the functions 
 appertaining to vegetable life. 
 
 ON SOIL. 
 
 The soil most genial to the growth of the vine and the 
 maturity of its fruit is a rich, sandy, turfy loam, about two 
 feet deep, on a dry, gravelly, rocky, or sandy bottom ; the 
 roots run with avidity into such sub-soils, lying secure from 
 
 30* 
 
354 ON SOIL. 
 
 the excess of moisture, which always accumulates in clayey 
 or compact soils. The excrementitious matter discharged 
 from the roots of a vine is very great, and if this be given 
 out in close and retentive soils, they quickly become delete- 
 rious, and a languid and diseased vegetation ensues : this is 
 the great reason that so many failures exist. It may hence 
 be inferred that vines will not thrive in a cold wet soil, nor 
 one composed of stiff clay, which is easily accounted for from 
 the fact that they delight only in soils easily rendered dry 
 by evaporation, and free from excess of moisture, and are al- 
 ways more warm, which is so genial to the growth of this 
 plant. To elucidate this, we can record an instance that oc- 
 curred a few years ago in this vicinity : — A vine border was 
 dug out to the depth of three feet and a half, in a cold reten- 
 tive clay soil, twenty inches of stone, brick, and lime rub- 
 bish were put in the bottom, and the remainder filled up with 
 good compost for the vines, in which they were planted, and 
 grew well for two years, and produced some fruit ; finally, 
 they languished, and almost died, and it was at once pro- 
 nounced that fine foreign grapes would not do in this coun- 
 try. But, on examining the roots of the plants, it was disco- 
 vered that they were rotten from the excess of moisture 
 which was retained in this pit ; for though it had been par- 
 tially filled with a dry bottom, no provision was made to 
 carry off the water, therefore it proved to be a complete wa- 
 ter pail : a drain was necessarily dug to the full depth to 
 carry off the water, and the soil generally renewed ; the vines 
 were cut to within two feet of the ground ; they now (four 
 years after the operation) grow luxuriantly, and produce 
 abundant crops every year. Tlierefore, if the sub-soil is not 
 naturally dry, it must be made so by draining, which is the 
 basis of the work, filling up the bottom with a sufficient quan- 
 tity of dry materials, such as stones broken moderately small, 
 brick-bats, lumps of lime rubbish, oyster-shells, &c., which 
 will keep them dry and warm by the free admission of air 
 and solar heat, and to admit of heavy rains passing quickly 
 
ON SOIL. 355 
 
 through without being retained sufficiently long to saturate 
 the roots or injure the tender extremities ; having thus fur- 
 nished a dry bottom, cover to the desired height with turf 
 taken about three inches deep from a rich pasture ; and to 
 every four loads of turf add one load of thoroughly decom- 
 posed manure, at least one year old, interspersing it with 
 bones of any description, oyster-shells, or any other enrich- 
 ing material that undergoes slow decomposition : the whole 
 must be repeatedly turned, and allowed to settle before the 
 vines are planted. Extreme caution has to be exercised in 
 administering bone-dust, slaughter-house offal, and other 
 over-rich manures, especially if the vines are to be plant- 
 ed the same or even the following season. Soils glutted 
 with instant enriching manures are destructive to the vine. 
 The surface of the border should have a gentle descent from 
 the wall or fence : never crop your vine borders, and be care- 
 ful of treading much upon them ; a board trellis should be 
 laid for walking upon when the operation of pruning, tying, 
 &c., takes place, which is almost daily during summer. The 
 border, after it has been once made, ought never to be stirred, 
 except at intervals, to keep it from becoming hard and im- 
 pervious to heat or moisture ; and, when necessary, it should 
 only be forked up about two inches deep, at all times taking 
 care not to injure the roots. 
 
 In dry sandy soils all that is wanted for the full perfec- 
 tion of the grape is, to take out about one foot of the poor- 
 est of the ground, and replace it by turf from a meadow, 
 adding thereto aportion of well decomposed manure. Sweep- 
 ings from turnpike .roads, where there is much travel, is 
 an excellent article for incorporating with such soils ; it 
 is of an enriching quality, its component parts consisting 
 chiefly of sand, pulverized stones, dung, and urine, which is 
 of a more lasting nature than can be found in almost any 
 other compost ; it ought to be thoroughly incorporated with 
 the other soil soon after it has been collected from the road, 
 as all its valuable qualities will then be entirely preserved. 
 
356 ON SOIL. 
 
 The foregoing remarks in the preparation of soil, if followed, 
 will ensure the luxuriant growth of vines and the yearly 
 production of fine crops of grapes, and, when circumstances 
 will permit, should be practically adopted at all times. But 
 it must not be supposed that vines will not grow and mature 
 fine crops unless thus encouraged in extra prepared soils. 
 Such is not the fact, for vines will do well in any soil that 
 is not adhesive, and has a dry bottom ; but they grow finer 
 and bear greater crops of fruit within a given space of time, 
 when planted in ground that has been properly prepared for 
 their reception. For instance, if two cuttings be planted, the 
 one in a soil fully prepared, and the other in that of the lat- 
 ter description, it will be found at the end of three years 
 that the vine in the former soil is double the size of the 
 latter ; consequently, the strong vine will produce two-thirds 
 more fruit, and of a better quality, than the weak vine. 
 This difference occurring every year, and even greater as 
 the age increases, is sufficient to amply repay for all the 
 trouble and expense incurred in luaking a suitable compost. 
 However, the disadvantage of a poor soil may in part be com- 
 pensated for by planting the vines closer together. If, indeed, 
 vines could not be planted with any prospect of success, ex- 
 cept in borders purposely prepared, only a very small quan 
 lity of grapes would be grown, compared with what this rich 
 and fertile country is capable of producing. 
 
 Many instances occur in towns and cities, around dwell- 
 ings and otherdescriptions of brick and stone erections, which 
 present very favourable situations for the training of vines, but 
 which, nevertheless, are so situated as to admit of little or no 
 soil being placed at their roots. In such cases, if an opening 
 can be made, twenty inches deep, and as many wide, it will 
 be sufficient to admit of the roots of a young vine, which will 
 support it till its rambling roots have found their way under 
 the pavement, or along the walls to some more distant nou- 
 rishment ; if a wider space can be made, it will, of course, be 
 better : loosen the sides and bottom as much as possible, and 
 
ON THE PROPAGATION OF VINES. 357 
 
 fill up with compost, as previously directed, and therein plant 
 the vine. The surface covering, whether of brick or stone, 
 may be replaced after the soil has fully settled, leaving a 
 hole about six inches square to allow the stem of the plant to 
 swell in its future growth. The roots soon find their way 
 under the paving or along the foundation walls, and, indeed, 
 in'every direction in search after food, and will extract nou- 
 rishment from sources apparently barren. The fact is, that 
 the roots of the vine possess an astonishing power of adapt- 
 ing themselves to any situation in which they may be planted, 
 provided it be a dry one. 
 
 ON THE PROPAGATION OF VINES. 
 
 Vines are generally propagated in the open ground by cut- 
 tings and layers. 
 
 By cuttings. At the general pruning provide cuttings of 
 the preceding summer's growth; choose such as are of a me- 
 dium size, well ripened, and short-jointed, cut them into 
 lengths of about eighteen inches each, leaving at the ends 
 not less than two inches of wood to protect the eye, place 
 these temporary cuttings about three-fourths of their length 
 in the ground, in a warm and sheltered situ ation, where they 
 can be protected with a little litter from the severity of frost 
 during winter. The best time for planting them is about 
 the 25th of March in this latitude, earlier or later if more 
 south or north : if intended to plant the cutting where 
 the plant is to remain, which is the most preferable method, 
 prepare them in the following manner : 
 
 By cutting them into lengths of tree buds each, and let 
 the uppermost bud have an inch of blank wood remaining to 
 protect it, the extremity of which must be cut in a slanting 
 manner, and the slanting side opposite to the buds, to throw 
 off the moisture : the end that is to be inserted in the ground 
 cut transversely just under the bud, and the cutting will 
 
358 ON THE PROPAGA.TION OF VINES. 
 
 be complete ; the cuttings being thus prepared, plant them 
 forthwith ; if intended to reuiain, place two in each space, 
 inserting them in the ground so as the second eye may be 
 about half an inch under the soil, which must be pressed 
 close, when it will, most frequently, be found that the eye 
 thus placed will grow first and strongest, when the upper 
 eye can be displaced ; if both the cuttings grow, cut off the 
 weakest. During May, June, and July, care must betaken 
 to keep the cuttings constantly moist ; soap-suds or drainings 
 of the dung-hill can be used for the purpose once a week, 
 but not oftener, using rain or river water for general waterings. 
 If the soil should sink down and leave the buds higher than 
 abovementioned, more must be added to keep them as di- 
 rected. To prevent the ground from becoming hard by re- 
 peated waterings, and also to retain a regular moisture about 
 the cutting, cover the soil with shells, litter, or any such 
 substitute, which will greatly promote the vegetating pow- 
 ers of the scion. As soon as they have made shoots six 
 inches long, water may be more sparingly applied, and the 
 shoots must be carefully tied to some support, and their 
 tendrils and lateral shoots should be cut off, the latter to 
 ■within one eye of the main stem : about the first of Novem- 
 ber cut every plant down to within two eyes of the cutting. 
 But if the plants are intended to be removed, they should 
 be planted in such a situation as to be shaded from the mid- 
 day sun ; from four to six hours a day of sun is quite suffi- 
 cient. A spot sheltered from severe winds is also most 
 desirable. When transplanted, be careful of their small 
 roots, and choose a mild day, about the first of April, (or 
 earlier, is a good season,) for the operation. 
 
 By layers. This is a very expeditious mode of growing 
 young vines, provided the shoots be laid in pots ; but vines 
 raised from shoots, laid down in the open ground, should be 
 avoided as the worst of all plants : they make but few roots, 
 and, when removed, these nearly all die off from being cut 
 at the extremities in lifting, and the second year of such a 
 
ON THE PROPAGATION OF VINES. 359 
 
 plant is not much in advance of a good cutting. To grow 
 vines by laying the shoots in pots, the following directions, 
 if followed, will ensure success : For each intended layer pro- 
 cure a seven-inch pot, or a small box of a similar, or even 
 larger size, prepare some fine rich sandy mould, containing 
 a great portion of decayed leaves, then take the shoot and 
 run it through the hole in the bottom of the pot till you come 
 to the last three buds ; close up the aperture round the shoot 
 with moss, cotton, or any elastic substance, and then fill up 
 the pot or box to within half an inch of the top with the 
 prepared soil, having previously secured it in a safe and level 
 position ; and, where it can be conveniently watered during 
 the season, this must be attended to at least once a day, 
 Wl)en there is not time for this attendance, the pot or box 
 should be plunged under ground, and the layer placed there- 
 on, and firmly secured, so that its own force will not raise it^ 
 up, then cover up the shoots at least three inches, leaving space 
 for occasionally holding some liquid nourishment. Shoots 
 may be thus laid any time from the first of March to the 
 first of April. It must be clearly understood that the suc- 
 cess of the operation depends entirely on keeping the mould 
 in the pots moist, treating it as directed for watering cuttings. 
 The plant may be separated from the vine about the first of 
 September, and instantly planted into its desired locality, or 
 put into a larger vessel, and there remain till planting season ; 
 the following year displace the tendrils and laterals as di- 
 rected for cuttings, and in pruning cut it down to within 
 three eyes of the ground. We may safely assert, that it is 
 a species of strangling to a vine in the first three years of its 
 growth, to be sparing of the knife, allowing, at once, small 
 weak shoots to be laid in to form in a day (comparatively) 
 a plant that is expected to withstand the vicissitude of ages, 
 and produce yearly its quantum of fruit ; but more of this 
 when treating of pruning. 
 
 By eyes. This is our most favourite method of propa- 
 gating plants of this most valuable fruit. Early in the month 
 
360 ON ERECTIONS, &C. 
 
 of March we cut the shoots into eyes, leaving about an inch 
 of wood on each extremity, and plant those with their eyes 
 uppermost into pots, and place them in a hot or cold 
 frame, prepared for the purpose ; plant? from a single eye 
 may easily be made to grow six feet in one season, by con- 
 stant repotting and nourishing. The plants thus growing 
 are decidedly the best rooted, forming more capillary fibres, 
 consequently more nutritious support to the vine is absorbed 
 in the same given period of time ; they also form shorter 
 joints, and are capable of producing more fruit on a plant of 
 the same size. We are aware that some start at this idea, 
 and say that in a few years it is not observed. It reminds 
 us very much of the son of the " Isle of the Ocean," when 
 asked how old his brother was, replied, he was so much, but 
 in two years he would be " the same age." Nevertheless, 
 this method of propagating may not be generally accessible, 
 the former two plans being at the command of every one. 
 
 ON ERECTIONS FOR THE SUPPORT AND PROTECTION OF 
 THE VINE IN OUT-DOOR CULTURE. 
 
 To limit the proper height for training grapes would be a 
 preposterous idea, for they can be perfectly cultivated in this 
 country on any height from four to forty feet : indeed, on a 
 wall of the former, we have thirty sorts of grapes growing 
 luxuriantly, and fruiting in the most profuse manner. Some 
 of the vines, four years old, which have produced from six 
 to nine bunches of fine fruit, which only occupy, after 
 pruning, a space of about eighteen inches square. 
 
 Walls of brick are decidedly the most preferable for the 
 perfection of the grape ; and if they be built for the express 
 purpose, the most judicious distribution of materials would 
 be in the erection of several low walls, not more than seven 
 feet high. For the purpose of pruning, training, &c., walls 
 of this height are far preferable than those of a greater. 
 
ON ERECTIONS, &C. 361 
 
 and if built to run directly south or north, the entire surface 
 of both sides may be judiciously covered. The eastern 
 aspect would render a sure and abundant early crop : those 
 on the western side would not be so productive, and more 
 liable to be affected by our frequent severe westerly gales. 
 When in bloom, or when the fruit is ripening, would be the 
 period that they would be most liable to suffer. However, 
 as they would frequently produce a full crop, an astonishing 
 quantity of fruit may be produced on a very small space of 
 ground by erecting walls of this description, built parallel to, 
 and not far distant from, each other — say, at the nearest, from 
 twenty to twenty-five feet. If from local causes bricks can- 
 not be had, a good substitute will be found in strong ranges 
 of plank fencing made of well-seasoned wood, and closely 
 jointed, having three or four good coats of oil paint : grapes 
 raised in this way will be nowise inferior to those pro- 
 duced on walls : indeed we would prefer such to any wall 
 of stone that could be erected, it being of a more even surface 
 and more convenient for training, and not giving harbour for 
 insects, &c. A very great advantage will be derived by 
 having a coping on the wall or fence, projecting eight or ten 
 inches, turning on a pivot, so as it can be used in time of 
 heavy dashing rains while the vines are in bloom, or when 
 the fruit is ripening, which are the only periods that it will 
 be of actual service, for all dews and light rains are indispen- 
 sable to the health and maturity of the vine ; and if the 
 fence is north and south, the light and heat excluded by it 
 would be a serious draw-back on the ripening of the fruit. 
 We say, therefore, if it is not on a pivot, the plants will be 
 better without it, unless it have only one or two inches of a 
 projection, the dripping from the coping will fall on the fo- 
 liage, and that will carry it entirely free from the fruit ; but 
 we urge the great utility and even necessity for moveable 
 coping. Espaliers or trellises are in common use for the 
 training of the vine, also arbours : the former suits admi- 
 rably in small gardens where it is not desirable to go to ex- 
 
 31 
 
262 ON TRANSPLANTING THE VINE. 
 
 pense, but the latter should be avoided as the worst possible 
 construction for growing grapes; the interior is always filled 
 with a current of cold air highly prejudicial to the nnaturi- 
 ty of fine fruits ; but for coarse grapes it is a matter of little 
 consequence, as they are at best only fit for producing shade. 
 Upright trellises in city gardens may be made eight feet 
 high, with the spars not more than six inches apart, and 
 these should be make of the very best materials, and sup- 
 ported every three feet by uprights : strong wire makes an 
 elegant substitute for the cross slats, which, if kept well 
 painted, will not suffer by corrosion. We have seen an ele- 
 gant new erection by a tasteful grape amateur, and think it 
 will answer a very good purpose : it consists of an upright 
 double trellis, about one foot wide at the bottom, tapering to 
 one bar at the top, running north and south, which is about 
 eifht feet high ; from which, on each side, there is fixed a 
 small projecting sash at an angle about 48^^, which keeps the 
 vines perfectly secure from deluging rains, and even con- 
 centrates more solar heat for their maturity. The whole has 
 a light and rather imposing effect ; its practical utility re- 
 mains to be tried, as it is but lately finished : there is no ap- 
 parent doubt but it will prove very beneficial in its results. 
 
 ON TRANSPLANTING THE VINE. 
 
 The best period of the year for transplanting is during the 
 months of October or March. The longer its removal is 
 postponed after these periods, the more injurious will be the 
 effects of transplanting. Admitting the ground has been pre- 
 pared according to directions formerly given, dig a hole 
 about twenty inches deep, and as wide as will admit of the 
 roots, if possible, to their full extension, without crippling in 
 any manner. If any of them are injured in lifting, they must 
 be cut back to soundness : fill up the hole to within twelve 
 inches of the top, set the vine in the hole thus made, with 
 
ON PRUNING. 363 
 
 its stem about six inches from the wall or fence, and let the 
 plant be cut even with the ground, or, where there is plenty 
 of space, and the plant two or more feet long, plant the root 
 at a distance from where the stem of the vine is desired, and 
 then disbud the young shoot, except the uppermost three, lay 
 it down its full length, bringing the terminal buds to where 
 the plant is wanted ; by this method the whole extent of the 
 shoot will make roots, and be of infinite service for the far- 
 ther growth and support of the plant. When the eyes thus 
 left grow, displace the weakest two, leaving the strongest for 
 the permanent plant. We have seen old vines laid down in 
 this manner for the distance of thirty feet, and, in two years, 
 formed plants of most astonishing vigour and production. If 
 the vine has been grown in a pot, shake the ball of earth 
 from the roots, among which place, with care, new and fresh 
 soil, taking the plant and giving it several shakes to settle it 
 well about the roots, which will encourage the plant to put 
 forth new roots for its farther support. Transplanting should 
 always be done in dry and mild weather, and when the soil 
 is mellow and free. During the removal the roots must be 
 carefully kept from exposure ; the atmosphere would dry up 
 their tender extremities, and cause much injury ; and, when 
 vines are brought from a distance, this precaution ought to 
 be carefully put in practice. Its first season's growth should 
 be confined to one stem only, carefully cutting off all lateral 
 shoots within one eye of the main shoot, as directed on the 
 subject of propagation. 
 
 ON PRUNING. 
 
 The first year's growth of a transplanted vine should, in 
 November, be cut down within four inches of the ground, 
 and, on the appearance, cover the plant with about three 
 inches of stable litter, allowing it to remain in this state 
 till the middle of March. The plant will now push strongly, 
 
364 ON PRUNING. 
 
 and two of the best shoots should be trained their full length 
 during summer, carefully nipping off tendrils and laterals, 
 and, at all times, securing the shoots from the effects of high 
 winds. If walls are used for training, there should be slats 
 fixed about one inch from the wall to tie the shoots thereto, 
 using soft material for the purpose of tying : if the vines should 
 show fruit, cut it off. 
 
 Having the previous season retained two well-grown shoots 
 from near the surface of the ground, you will now, in No- 
 vember, tie these in a horizontal position, about six or eight 
 inches above the surface, cutting them at nearly two feet dis- 
 tance from the main stem. In the following month, February, 
 when the weather is mild, displace every alternate bud, ob- 
 serving that it is those on the under side of the shoot. If 
 everything has been attended to in soil, planting, and 
 pruning that we have advanced, there may be expected to 
 arise four shoots from each of these horizontal branches, which, 
 if any show fruit, it must be cut off : these young shoots must 
 be trained upright during summer, being careful to displace 
 every other as they appear. Some approve of training these 
 young upright shoots in a serpentine form, which, in our opi- 
 nion at present, is of little consequence ; but top them about 
 the end of August, or earlier if they are to the desired height. 
 In November of the third summer's growth, you may now 
 prune for fruit as above stated. Your horizontal branches 
 will have fully matured four luxuriant upright shoots. Cut 
 two of these alternately within one eye of the horizontal 
 shoot, which will produce wood to be fruited the following 
 year, and lay in the other two, in a serpentine form for fruit, 
 to about three feet in length. The vine has now assumed the 
 form in which it is permanently to remain, and it may be con- 
 sidered as the foundation of a system of alternately fruiting 
 four shoots, and training four out their full length every year, 
 which method maybe continued every year without any 
 alteration. After several years, if it is thought proper, the 
 arms may be lengthened by the training in of a shoot at their 
 
ON PRUNING. 365 
 
 extremities, and managing it in the same manner as when 
 the arms were first formed ; but it is not advisable that the 
 branches should be far extended, which would ultimately 
 prove injurious to those branches arising from the bosom of 
 the vine. This system of pruning and training the vine we 
 do not advocate as something new or original, but one which 
 we have seen in full and successful practice twenty years ago. 
 By procuring well-grown plants in pots, one year may be 
 gained on the above calculation ; for you can prune, and at 
 once take two shoots to prepare for laying the foundation of 
 your future plant ; but more than this cannot be accom- 
 plished. We are aware that many of our readers are already 
 startled at this tedious method of fruiting vines, and have al- 
 most concluded to have fruit the first year or none. Such 
 are too frequently the conclusions of many ; but, as sure as they 
 practice it, they as invariably meet with a failure, and that in 
 avery few years. The practiceof training vines to getthem up 
 to the top of arbours, &c., cannot be done with fine vines with- 
 out risk. As we have already said, it may and will do with our 
 native kinds, but no other. The general system of spur- 
 pruning has many advantages in in-door culture, but does not at 
 all agree with growing grapes in the open air. Our limits do 
 not admit of giving in detail our reasons for so saying, but 
 those who doubt may go on in the old way, giving the sys- 
 tem herein advised a trial with one plant only, and we gua- 
 ranty that in less than five years their old vines are headed 
 down to the stump, to begin on a system that yearly renews 
 itself, and can be perpetuated for ages on the same vine, 
 which may be said to " renew its youth every year." In 
 fact, it recommends itself by simplicity— by the small num- 
 ber of wounds annually made— by the clear and handsome 
 appearance of the vine, and by the great ease with which it is 
 managed— its occupying but a small space. We therefore 
 conclude this subject with the following few general rules : 
 Use a knife of the best description, and let it be perfectly 
 
 ' 31* 
 
366 ON MANURE. 
 
 sharp ; cut always upward and in a sloping direction, al- 
 ways leave about an inch of blank wood beyond a ternoi- 
 nal bud, and let the cut be on the opposite side of the bud. 
 In pruning out an old branch, cut it even with the parent 
 limb, that the wound may quickly heal. Never prune in 
 frosty weather, nor in the months of March, April, or May. 
 Let the general fall pruning take place about the end of Oc- 
 tober or first of November ; after which, stir up the ground, 
 and let a good coaling of fresh stable manure be laid thereon, 
 which will both protect the roots that are near the surface, 
 and also enrich the soil ; but if stable manure cannot be pro- 
 cured, leaves from the woods are an excellent substitute, 
 which, after decomposition, form a vegetable manure very 
 enriching, and one very congenial to the vine ; this being 
 done, nothing more is required till the first of March, when 
 the roughest must be removed, and the decomposed particles 
 forked into the borders. It may be proper to state, that in 
 more northern latitudes and greater altitudes than Philadel- 
 phia, it will be necessary to lay down the vines after pruning, 
 during winter, and give them a light covering of litter, straw, 
 leaves, or mats, which will completely protect them from the 
 severest frost ; although it is not altogether the severity that 
 destroys, but the alternate frost and sun acting on the plant 
 every twenty-four hours, which overcomes the vitality of 
 the plant ; and another fell-destroyer is, when we have a mild 
 February and a severe March. When such occurs, which is 
 but rarely, the vines must all be protected by mats while 
 there is danger. 
 
 ON MANURE. 
 
 This subject has been very recently indulged in to a de- 
 structive extent. We could record instances of soils strong- 
 ly impregnated with very enriching manures, being almost 
 death to the plant ; very rich soils are adhesive and reten- 
 tive of moisture, which is destruction to the roots of the vine. 
 
ON MANURE. 367 
 
 The celebrated Brassin, conductor of the royal vinery of 
 France, used to practise enriching his vine borders with ex- 
 citing manures: he now finds that cleansing of ditches, grass- 
 turf, and road sweepings, mixed well together and allowed to 
 ferment for a year, is far preferable. He now uses it en- 
 tirely as an annual dressing ; but, in our opinion, this cannot 
 be continued for any length of time, unless the border is also 
 yearly reduced ; consequently, manures that are of slow de- 
 composition are preferable, and nothing that we are acquaint- 
 ed with excels bones of every description ; but these are not 
 always at hand in quantity. When to be obtained, they 
 should always be put to a good purpose — an annual winter 
 top-dressing of manure of a few inches, and the roughest re- 
 moved in the spring, digging in the remainder not over four 
 inches deep, which will encourage the roots to the surface, 
 where they will be greatly benefited by solar heat and air. 
 Liquid manures are highly valuable where immediate effect 
 is required : they contain all the soluble parts of manure in 
 such a state as to admit of being taken up by the plant as 
 soon as applied. These are urine, which may be used pure 
 any time from the first of November to February when 
 the ground is not frozen ; but if used at any other period, 
 must be diluted with its equal quantity of water. Drainings 
 of manure-heaps and soap-suds can be used at all times, but 
 not loo frequently. Soot dissolved in water, in the propor- 
 tion of one to twelve, is an exceedingly strong manure, and 
 very stimulating ; but all these exciting manures must be 
 cautiously applied, as excess is very injurious to the fertility 
 of the vine ; and although one of the grossest feeders in na- 
 ture, even possessing the appetite of a glutton, it can be 
 satiated and destroyed. 
 
368 DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE, &C. 
 
 DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE OF GRAPES MOST SUITABLE. 
 FOR OPEN AIR CULTURE. 
 
 Golden Chasselas, Chasselas de Fontainhleau, D'Arhoyce 
 or Royal Muscadine. Bunches medium size, with very small- 
 shoulders, berries of a moderate size, round, when ripe, turn- 
 ing to a bright amber colour, having a thin skin, a soft flesh, 
 and a rich juice. This is an exceedingly fine grape, a free 
 bearer, is very hardy, and ripens early ; it may be considered 
 one of the best white grapes for out-door culture. 
 
 White chasselas or white muscadine. Bunches medium 
 size, shouldered, and well formed. Berries round and of a 
 good size, juicy, rich, and well flavoured ; it ripens about the 
 middle or toward the end of September, and is an excellent 
 hardy grape, and fully equal to the former. We consider 
 this grape the same as the Malmsey Muscadine. 
 
 White sweet water, (early.) Bunches rather large ; berries 
 of a good size, round, of a white colour, and, when perfectly 
 ripe, especially when exposed, they are shaded with a light 
 russet colour ; they grow close on the bunches, and when de- 
 sired to have large berries, the bunches must be well thinned^ 
 juice very saccharine and luscious. We consider this the 
 very best white grape for walls ; it is an excellent bearer, 
 makes good short-jointed wood, and is very early. We 
 have had it perfectly ripe on a south wall the first day of 
 September. 
 
 White Muscat of Alexandria, Jerusalem Muscat, Malaga. 
 Bunches large, but short and well shouldered ; berries large, 
 oval, and, when perfectly ripe, (which will not be till Octo- 
 ber,) are of a pale amber colour, often without stones, skirt 
 rather thick, the flesh firm, juice not plentiful, but of a sweet, 
 highly musky, delicious, and peculiar flavour. It is an extra 
 fine grape, and requires a warm situation. It does not bear 
 so freely as the former two. 
 
 White Frontignac or Frontignan. Bunches long and nar- 
 
DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE, &C. 369 
 
 row, without shoulders, rather closely set, of a dull white 
 or greenish yellow, and covered with a powdering bloonn, 
 juice very sugary and rich, with a delightful spicy flavour. 
 It ripens in September, and delights in a dry soil. 
 
 White Hamburg, White Lisbon, White Poj'tugal. Bunches 
 very large, short, and loosely formed : berries large and oval, 
 skin thick, of a greenish white colour, flesh firm, juice sweet, 
 slightly mixed with acid, one of our latest white grapes. 
 The plans is of a strong robust habit, and an excellent 
 bearer. 
 
 Austrian Muscat. Bunches large and tapering : berries 
 round, of a russet white colour, skin thin, juice rich and 
 musky, and of excellent flavour. It ripens about the second 
 week of September, and is an excellent bearer. 
 
 Black Frontignac, Violet Frontignac, Muscat Noir. 
 Bunches small and short : berries round, and grow close in 
 bunches, skin black, covered with a fine light bloom, flesh 
 lender and juicy, of a rich vinous spicy flavour. 
 
 Black Hamburg. Bunches tolerably large, with short 
 compact shoulders, tapering to a point : berries large, of an 
 oval form, skin rather thick, very nearly black, and covered 
 with a blue bloom ; flesh tender, sweet, and of a rich vinous 
 flavour : ripens about the first of October, but will hang on 
 the vine till frost. This is, in every respect, one of the 
 finest black grapes that can be grown in the open air : it is 
 also a constant bearer. The leaves in the fall are mottled 
 with green and yellow. 
 
 Black Prince. Bunches rather long and generally shoul- 
 dered : berries oval, and of a good size ; skin rather thick, of 
 a dark purple, and covered with a thick bloom ; flesh white, 
 sweet, juicy, and well flavoured : ripe about the first of Oc- 
 tober. 
 
 Black Lombardy, West's St. Peter''s. Bunches long and 
 well shouldered : berries large, round, and of a regular size ; 
 skin thin and very black, juice plentiful and of a very high 
 
370 DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUE, &C. 
 
 flavour ; is perfectly ripe about the middle of October, and 
 will keep on the vines till frost. 
 
 Black Muscadine, Black Chasselas, Violet Chasselas 
 Bunches about the size and shape of the Golden Chasselas: 
 berries perfectly round and covered with a blue bloom: flesh 
 juicy and of a very rich flavour : ripens about the first of Oc- 
 tober. 
 
 Frankendale. Bunches large, with small shoulders, and 
 rather longer than the Black Hamburg : berries round and 
 closely set ; skin deep purple, approaching to black, covered 
 with a thin blue bloom ; flesh tender, sweet, rich, and of a 
 luscious flavour : it is a great bearer, and fully ripe about the 
 end of September or first of October. 
 
 Grizzly Frontignac, Muscat Gris. Bunches of a medium 
 size, with small shoulders : berries round, of a light brown 
 colour, intermixed with red and yellow; \he juice is exceed- 
 ingly rich, and possesses a high spicy flavour : it ripens about 
 the middle of September. 
 
 Hansteretto. Bunches large and well formed: berries also 
 large and perfectly round, of a jet black colour when per- 
 fectly ripe ; flesh rather juicy and of a rich flavour ; leaves 
 deeply lobed and a little downy underneath. An excellent 
 hardy grape, but inferior in quality to the Black Hamburg : 
 ripe about the first of October. 
 
GENERAL INDEX. 
 
 Acacia, 165, 222. 
 
 Acmadenia, 258. 
 
 Aconitum, 35. 
 
 Adam's Needle, 48. 
 
 Adanandra, 258. 
 
 Adonis, 34. 
 
 Agapanthus, 222. 
 
 Agathea, 251. 
 
 Agattiosma, ?.58. 
 
 Air plants, 206. 
 
 Alligator Pear, 186. 
 
 Allspice tree, 177, 198. 
 
 Aloe, 223, 307. 
 
 Alonsoa, 223. 
 
 Aloysia, 224. 
 
 Alpina, 159. 
 
 Alstroemeria, 224. 
 
 Althaea, 16, 17. 
 
 Amaryllis, 104, 119, 121, 139, 224. 
 
 American cowslip, 39. 
 
 Amomum, 159. 
 
 Amocharis, 232. 
 
 Araorpha, 16. 
 
 Ampelopsis, 93. 
 
 Anagyris, 226. 
 
 Anemone, 14,34, 51, 131,323. 
 
 Aniseseed tree, 270. 
 
 Annesl^ia, 165. 
 
 Annuals, 62, 118, 130. 
 
 " for hot-bed, 25. 
 
 " hardy, 28. 
 Antbericum, 35. 
 Antirrhinum, 34. 
 Apicra, 307, 
 
 April Flower-garden, 61. 
 
 " green-house, 300, 
 
 " hot-house, 162. 
 
 " rooms, 339. 
 Araucaria, 226. 
 Arborvitse, 106. 
 
 Arbutus, or strawberry tree, 227. 
 Ardisia, 166. 
 Areca, 166. 
 Arislea, 296.' 
 Aristolochia, 90, 167. 
 Armeria, 46. 
 Ascldpias, 35. 
 Aster, 227. 
 Astraphjea, 167. 
 AtragSne, 90. 
 Aiicuba, 227. 
 
 August Flower-garden, 127. 
 " green-house 310. 
 « hot-house, 199, 
 " rooms, 344. 
 Auricula, 14, 44, 50, 119, 140. 
 " character of a fine, 99. 
 Autumn blooming bulbs, 121. 
 Azalea, 11, 227, 
 Babiana, 319. 
 Bffickia, 229. 
 Bamboo cane, 167. 
 Bambiisa, 167. 
 Banana tree, 188. 
 BanistSria, 167. 
 Banksia, 229. 
 Barbadoes cherry, 187. 
 Bark pit, 148. 
 
372 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 Barosma, 229, 258. 
 
 Barringtonia, 168. 
 
 Beaumontia, 168. 
 
 Beaufortia, 229. 
 
 Bee larkspur, 38. 
 
 Begonia, 230. 
 
 Bellis, 35. 
 
 Belladonna, 121. 
 
 Benthamia, 230. 
 
 Biennials, 32, 62. 
 
 Bignonia, 92, 194, 291. 
 
 Billardifira, 230. 
 
 Bithwort, 90, 167. 
 
 Bletia, 168, 230. 
 
 Boronia, 331. 
 
 Bosea, 231. 
 
 Bouvardia, 230, 
 
 Box edgings, how to make, 31, 107. 
 
 Brachysema, 231. 
 
 Bramble rose, 347. 
 
 Brassia, 207. 
 
 Brompton stock, 42. 
 
 Brownia, 168. 
 
 Brunfelsia, 168. 
 
 Brugmansia, 231. 
 
 Brunia, 231. 
 
 Brunsvigia, 232. 
 
 Budding roses, 124. 
 
 Buddlea, 169. 
 
 Bulbous roots, 49, 96. 
 
 " preparing ground for, 130. 
 
 " planting, 131. 
 
 " autumn blooming, 121. 
 Buonapartoa, 168. 
 Buphone, 232. 
 Burchellia, 232. 
 Cactus, 169. 
 Cabbage tree, 166. 
 Calathea, 169. 
 Calceolaria, 232. 
 Calla, 314. 
 Callistemon, 277. 
 Callicoma, 233. 
 Ciltha, 35. 
 Cape bulbs, 213, 215, 221, 303. 
 
 '« myrtle, 277. 
 Caprifojium, 93. 
 Carissa, 173. 
 Catasetum, 207. 
 Carolinia 173. 
 Carolina jasmine, 266. 
 Caryota, 174. 
 Cattleya, 207. 
 Calothamnus, 233. 
 Carmichfelia, 251. 
 Camellia, 192,211, 325. 
 " seed, 326. 
 
 Camellia described, 233, 
 
 " for seed, 216. 
 
 " repotting, 216, 
 Campdnuia, 14, .36. 
 Camphor tree, 272. 
 Canna, 159, 169. 
 Carnations, 14, 49, 127, 140. 
 " on laying, 123. 
 
 " character of a fine, 122, 
 
 Ceanothus, 251. 
 Centranthus, 47. 
 (^erbera, 174. 
 Cereus, 170, 198. 
 Cerop^gia, 173. 
 Chamaerops, 307. 
 Chelone, 36. 
 Cherianthus, 36. 
 Choriz^ma, 251. 
 Chrysanthemum, 36, 318. 
 Chinese hybrid roses, 63. 
 Cineraria, 251. 
 Cinnamomum, 186, 252. 
 Cistern, of a water, 203. 
 Cistus, 252, 
 Citrus, 252. 
 clematis, 37, 90, 253. 
 C'erodendrum, 174, 253. 
 Clethera, 253. 
 Clianthus, 253. 
 
 climbing plants described, 90. 
 Clivia, 254. 
 Cobosa, 254. 
 Coffea, 174, 
 Coffee tree, 174. 
 Colchicum, 121. 
 Colutea, 17. 
 Combretum, 175. 
 Convolvulus, 182. 
 Cookia, 255. 
 Coreopsis, 37. 
 Corn flag, 319. 
 Coronilla, 255. 
 Coral plant, 178. 
 Corrda, 255. 
 Corypha, 175. 
 Cowslip, 44. 
 Crassuia, 256. 
 Cralfpgus, 256. 
 Crinum, 175, 256. 
 Crocus, 121, 132. 
 Croton, 176. 
 Crowea, 256. 
 Crown imperial, 128. 
 Cunonia, 256. 
 Cupressus, 257. 
 CurcOima, 159. 
 Cycas, 176. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 373 
 
 Cyclamen, 314. 
 
 Cydonia, 136. 
 
 Cymbidium, 230. 
 
 Cypripedium, 176. 
 
 Cyrtanthus, 257. 
 
 Cylisus, 17. 
 
 Dahlia, arrangement of the, 112. 
 
 " character of a fine, 117. 
 
 " introduction of the, 109. 
 
 " lifting of the, 138. 
 
 " names of the choice, 114. 
 
 " propagation of the, 110. 
 Daisy, 14, 35. 
 Dampiera, 257. 
 Daphne, 323. 
 
 Daphne odora, death of, 306. 
 Dale palm, 190, 285. 
 Daviesia, 257. 
 Day lily, 40. 
 
 December flower garden, 143. 
 " green-house, 328. 
 " hot-house, 204. 
 " rooms, 348. 
 Delphinium, 38. 
 Dendrobium, 207. 
 Dianthus, 38. 
 Dictamnus, 38. 
 Digitalis, 39. 
 DilRnia, 176. 
 Dillwynia, 257. 
 Dionsea, 11, 159. 
 Diosma, 258. 
 Diplacus, 258. 
 Dodecatheon, 39. 
 Double rocket, 14. 
 Doryanthus, 259. 
 Dracffina, 177, 258. 
 Dracocephalum, 39. 
 Dragon's head, 39. 
 Dragon's tree, 177, 258. 
 Dry.andra, 259. 
 Dutchman's pipe, 90. 
 Dutch roots, 303. 
 Dyckia, 259. 
 Echeveria, 259. 
 Echinacactus, 170. 
 Edgings of bo.T, 107. 
 
 " of various plants, 33. 
 Edwardsia, 259. 
 Elephant's foot, 292. 
 Eiichrysum, 260. 
 Erabothrium, 292. 
 Enarching, 299. 
 Enkianthus, 260. 
 Entelea, 290. 
 Epacris, 260. 
 
 32 
 
 Epidendrum. 207. 
 Epiphyllum, 172, 198. 
 Epiphytes, 206. 
 Eranthemum, 177. 
 Erica, 260, 262. 
 Eriobotrya, 262. 
 Erodium, 263. 
 Erythrina, 139, 178, 263. 
 Escallonia, 263. 
 Eucalyptus, 263. 
 Euchilus, 264. 
 Eucomis, 213. 
 Eugenia, 177, 183, 271. 
 Eupatorium, 39, 264. 
 Euphorbia, 178. 
 Eutaxia, 264. 
 Evergreen hedges, 106, 127. 
 
 " planting, 21, 94. 
 Fan palm, 175. 
 February flower garden, 1'6. 
 
 " green-house, 215. 
 
 " hot-house, 157. 
 
 " rooms, 335. 
 Ferraria, 215. 
 Ficus, 179, 264. 
 Fig tree. 179. 
 Firing, 150. 
 
 Flower garden, on laying out, 9. 
 Flower de luce, 41, 133. 
 Flowering stocks, 305. 
 Flues, on constructing, 146. 
 Fox glove, 39. 
 Fritiliaria, 128. 
 Fiichsia, 265. 
 Fuel, 150. 
 Funkia, 40. 
 
 Furnace, on constructing, 146. 
 Gardenia, 179, 308. 
 Garden, on laying out a flower, 9. 
 Garddquia, 265. 
 Gasteria, 223, 307. 
 Geissom^ria, 180. 
 Gels^mium, 266. 
 Genista, 17, 266. 
 Geraniums, 303, 310, 311. 
 Gesndria, 159. 
 Geum, 40. 
 
 Gladiolus, 103, 213, 215, 319. 
 Glazing, 149. 
 Gloriosa, 160. 
 Gloxinia, 169. 
 Glycine, 91. 
 Gnaphalium, 266. 
 Gnidia, 266. 
 Gongora, 207. 
 Gompholobium, 266. 
 
374 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 Gooddnia, 266. 
 
 Gorteria, 267. 
 
 Grafting, 60. 
 
 Grape vine, aspect for the, 353. 
 
 « culture of the, 352. 
 
 '* erections for the, 360. 
 
 •' list of the best, 368. 
 
 " manuring the, 366. 
 
 " propagating the, 357. 
 
 " on pruning the, 363. 
 
 " soil for the, 360. 
 
 " transplanting the, 362 
 Grass plats and walks, 58. 
 Gravel walks, 60. 
 Green-house, on erecting a, 209. 
 Green-house plants, on bringing out, 
 306. the, 
 
 Green-house plants, on taking in 
 
 322. 
 Grevillea, 267. 
 Gum elastic tree, 265. 
 Habeniiria, 11. 
 Habranthus, 267. 
 Hiikea, 268. 
 
 Heartsease, culture of, 101. 
 Hcdera, 92. 
 Hedges, 106. 
 Hedychium, 159. 
 Helic(ma, 180. 
 Helichrysum, 268. 
 Helitrupium, 180. 
 Hemerociilis, 40. 
 Hemimeris, 223. 
 Herbaceous plants, descriptions of, 
 
 34. 
 Heritifira, 180. 
 Heron's bill, 263. 
 Hibbertia, 268. 
 Hibiscus, 41, 180. 
 Holland bulbs, 121. 
 Holly, 269. 
 Honeysuckle, 17. 
 Hot-bed, framing, how to prepare, 23 
 
 " how to sow seed in a, 24. 
 Hot-house, on the erection of a, 145. 
 
 " on repairing the, 200. 
 
 Hottentot's bread, 292. 
 Hot water, heating by, 147, 
 Hovea, 268. 
 Howarthia, 307. 
 Hoya, 181. 
 
 Hyacinth, character of a fine, 87. 
 Hyacinths, effects of careless plant 
 ing, 22. 
 
 " on lifting the, 118. 
 
 '• on planting the, 132. 
 
 Hybrid roses, list of, 64. 
 Hydrangea, 269, 302, 323. 
 Hypericum, 268. 
 Ilex, 269. 
 Indigofera, 270. 
 Indigo tree, 270. 
 Insects, 158, 304. 
 
 " their destruction, 152. 
 Imhofia, 232. 
 Ipomsea, 182. 
 Iris, 41, 133. 
 Irish ivy, 92. 
 Ismene, 182. 
 Isopogon, 270. 
 Ixia, 213, 215, 319. 
 Ix(>ra, 182. 
 Jacarandia, 183. 
 Jacksonia, 270. 
 JacobiEa lily, 104. 
 Jambosa, 183, 271. 
 January flower garden, 13. 
 
 " green-house, 210. 
 
 " hot-house, 149. 
 
 " rooms, 332. 
 Jasmine, 93. 184, 271. 
 Jasminum, 93, 184, 271. 
 Jatropha, 184. 
 Johnquil, 133. 
 
 June and July flower garden, 121. 
 " green-house, 309. 
 
 " hot-house, 198, 
 
 " rooms, 243. 
 
 Justicia, 185,271. 
 Kalosanthus, 256. 
 KennMia, 271. 
 Kosmpffiria, 159. 
 Lachenalia, 213, 305. 
 Ladies' ear-drop, 265. 
 Ladies' slipper, 176. 
 Lachna3a, 272. 
 Lagerstrocmia, 22, 302, 323. 
 Lamb6rtia, 272. 
 Lantana, 185. 
 Lasiopetalum, 272. 
 Lantania, 185. 
 Laiirus, 186, 272. 
 Lavandula, 273. 
 Lechenaiiltia, 273. 
 Leadwort, 286. 
 
 Lemon tree, 212, 219, 311, 313, 
 Leonotis, 273. 
 Leptospcrmum, 273. 
 Leucadendron, 274. 
 Liatris, 41. 
 Lilium, 11, 133, 320. 
 Lily, 133, 320. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 375 
 
 Linum, 274. 
 Lion's ear, 273. 
 Liparia, 274. 
 Lobelia, 274. 
 Lomatia, 275. 
 Looking-glass plant, 180. 
 Lonicera, 93. 
 Lophospermum, 275, 287. 
 Loquat, 262. 
 Lychnis, 42, 275. 
 LysinSma, 275. 
 Lythrum, 42. 
 Mangifera, 186. 
 Magnolia, 276. 
 Mahogany tree, 194. 
 Malpigia, 187. 
 Mammillaria, 170, 198. 
 Manettia, 276. 
 Mango tree, 186. 
 Mar nta, 169. 
 Marica, 187. 
 March flower garden, 22. 
 
 " green-house, 218. 
 
 •' hot-house, 161. 
 
 " rooms, 337. 
 Mathiola, 42. 
 May flower garden, 109. 
 
 " green-house, 305. 
 
 " hot-house, 164. 
 
 " rooms, 341. 
 Maxill^ria, 207. 
 Melaleuca, 276. 
 Mealstoma, 187, 276. 
 Melocactus, 170. 
 Menzie.sia, 276. 
 Mesembryanthemum, 308. 
 Mespilus, 262. 
 Metrosideros, 277. 
 Mignonette, sow for winter, 344. 
 Mimosa, 165, 222. 
 Mimulus, 42. 
 Monardia, 42. 
 Monk's hood, 35. 
 Monkey flower, 42. 
 Musa, 162, 188. 
 Myrsine, 277. 
 Myrtus, 188, 277. 
 Myrtle, 220, 277, 302. 
 Nandina, 278. 
 Napolitan violet, 47. 
 Narcissus, 133. 
 Nepenthes, 189. 
 N^rium, 278. 
 New Zealand flax, 284. 
 Night blooming cereus, 171. 
 
 Norfolk Island pine, 226. 
 November flower garden, 183, 
 " green-house, 327. 
 
 " hot-house, 203. 
 " rooms, 347. 
 October flower garden, 131. 
 
 " green-hoase, 322. 
 
 " hot-house, 203. 
 
 " rooms, 346. 
 CEnothdra, 43. 
 Olea, 279. 
 
 Oleander, 220, 278, 302. 
 Olive, 279. 
 Oncidium, 207. 
 Opuntia, 172, 198. 
 Orange trees, 212, 219, 311, 313. 
 Orchideous plants, 206. 
 Ornithogalum, 316. 
 Oxalis, 315, 320. 
 Oxslip, 44. 
 Oxylobium, 279. 
 Pachidendron, 307. 
 Paeonia, 134, 324. 
 Paeony, 134, 324. 
 Palm, 175. 
 
 Pancratium, 182, 189, 
 Pandanus, 189. 
 Pansy, culture of the, 101. 
 Passifldra, 94, 190, 279. 
 Passion vine, 94, 190, 279. 
 Pelargonium, 280. 
 
 " list of, 281. 
 
 Pentst^mon, 14. 
 Perennials, 34. 
 Pereskia, 173, 
 Periploca, 92. 
 Persoonia, 284. 
 Phlox, 43. 
 Photinia, 256. 
 Phylica, 285. 
 Physic nut, 184. 
 Phoenix, 190, 285. 
 Phormium, 284. 
 Phrynium, 159. 
 Pimelea 285. 
 Pimenta. 188. 
 Pinks, 14, 127, 140. 
 
 " on laying, 123. 
 Pink, character of a fine, 100. 
 Pistacia, 285. 
 Pitcher plant, 189. 
 Pittosporum, 285. 
 Plantain tree, 188. 
 Planting evergreens, 137. 
 
 " roses, 51. 
 
376 
 
 INDEX. 
 
 Planting shrubs, 19, 57, 142. 
 Plants, of bringing out the hot-house, 
 196. 
 
 " taking in hot-house, 201. 
 Platylobiuin, 286. 
 Plumbago, 191, 286. 
 Plum^ria, 191. 
 Podalyria, 286. 
 Poinsettia, 178, 191. 
 Poivrea, 175. 
 Polianthus, 100, 
 Pomegranate, 302, 323. 
 Polyanthus, 14, 119, 139. 
 
 " character of a fine, 100. 
 
 Polyspora, 192. 
 Pjotentilla, 45. 
 Primrose, 44, 49, 119, 139. 
 Primula, 44, 324. 
 Protea, 286. 
 
 Protecting plants in the garden, 141. 
 " seedling bulbs, 141. 
 
 " plants on walls, 143. 
 
 Pruning, 15, 16. 
 Pterospermum, 192. 
 Pultenoea, 287. 
 Pyrus, 136. 
 Queen stock, 42. 
 Ranunculus, 14, 51. 
 
 " character of a fine, 98. 
 
 Renanthdra, 207. 
 
 Repotting green-house plants, 221, 
 307, 314, 323, 
 " hot-house plants^ 159, 
 
 163, 164. 199. 
 Rhododendron, 11, 287. 
 Rhodochiton, 287. 
 Rhus, 17. 
 Richardia, 314. 
 RiphidodendroD, 307. 
 Robinia, 17. 
 
 Rochea, 2.56. ; 
 
 Rock-work, 12. 
 Rock rose, 252. 
 Roella, 288. 
 Rondelitia, 192. 
 
 Rooms, treatment of plants in, 330. 
 Roscoea, 192. 
 Rose apple, 183. 
 
 " tree, 287. 
 Rosemary, 29G. 
 Roses, planting a fence of, 13. 
 
 « budding, 124. 
 
 '« Chinese ever-blooming, 71. 
 
 " climbing, 57, 83, 84. 
 
 " of grafting, 69, 
 
 *' hardy garden, list of, 52. 
 
 Roses, hybrid, list of, 64. 
 
 " I'islede bourbon, 70, 71. 
 
 «' microphylla, 87. 
 
 '' musk-scented, 82 
 
 '' noisette, 79, 80. 
 
 '' odorata, or tea, 76, 77. 
 
 «' perpetual, 67, 68. 
 
 '' planting of, 51, 89. 
 Riibus, 347. 
 Ruellia, 193. 
 Russ^lia, 193. 
 Sage, 288. 
 Sago palm, 176, 193. 
 Sdgus, 193. 
 Salvia, 288. 
 Saponaria, 45. 
 Sarrac^nia, 11. 
 Sashes, materials for, 148. 
 Saxifraga, 45. 
 Scottia, 289. 
 Screw pine, 189. 
 Senecio, 289. 
 
 September flower garden, 129. 
 " greenhouse, 317. 
 
 " hot-house, 200. 
 
 ♦' rooms, 345. 
 
 Shrubs, deciduous, 94. 
 " planting, 57. 
 " evergreen, 21, 94. 
 Shutters of, 149, 205. 
 Silene, 45. 
 Silk vine, 92. 
 Silver tree, 274. 
 Snail flower, 285. 
 Sollya, 289. 
 Solandra, 193. 
 Sowing seeds of bulbs, 128. 
 Snapdragon, 34. 
 Sparrrainnia, 289. 
 Spardxis, 320. 
 Sphaerolobium, 290. 
 Spiraea, 46. 
 SpreiktMia, 104. 
 Sprengelia, 290. 
 Stanhopia, 207. 
 Star of Bethlehem, 316. 
 St. Barnos lily, 35. 
 St. Johnswort, 268. 
 Stutice, 46. 
 
 Stage for windows, 345, 
 Sterciilia, 323. 
 Sterenbergia, 121. 
 Stock jelly. 14, 42. 
 Stork's bill, 280. 
 Strelitzia, 193, 290. 
 Streptocarpus, 290. 
 
INDEX. 
 
 377 
 
 Strophanthus, 194. 
 
 Sutherlandia, 291. 
 
 Stylidium, 290. 
 
 Styphelia, 291. 
 
 Swainsona, 291. 
 
 Sweet William, 38. 
 
 Swiet^nia, 194. 
 
 Sword lily, 103. 
 
 TabernsBmont^na, 194. 
 
 Tacsonia, 294. 
 
 Tanner'3 bark, 140. 
 
 Taxanthema, 46. 
 
 Tea plant, 292. 
 
 Tecdma, 92, 194, 291. 
 
 Telopea, 292. 
 
 Templetonia, 291. 
 
 Testudinaria, 292. 
 
 Thalictrum, 323. 
 
 Th^a, 292. 
 
 Thrift, 46. 
 
 Thrinax, 195. 
 
 Thija, 106. 
 
 Thunbergia, 195. 
 
 Tiger flower, 105. 
 
 Tigridia, 105. 
 
 Trad esc antia, 195. 
 
 Trevirania, 295. 
 
 Tritonia, 320. 
 
 Trollius, 46. 
 
 Tropoeolum, 294. 
 
 Tub for orange trees, &c., 312. 
 
 Tube rose, 100, 119, 139. 
 
 Tulip, character of a fine, 97. 
 
 Tulip, lifting, 118. 
 
 " planting, 136. 
 
 " soil for the, 135. 
 Urania, 195. 
 Valeriana, 47. 
 Vanda, 207. 
 Verbena, 224, 295. 
 Veronica, 47. 
 Viburnum, 16, 17, 296. 
 Viminaria, 296. 
 Viola, 47, 101. 
 Virgin's bower, 37, 90, 253. 
 Volkameria, 253. 
 Wachendorfia, 213. 
 Walks, 105, 137. 
 
 " how to make, 11. 
 Wall-flower, 14, 36, 120. 
 Wampee tree, 255. 
 Watering the dahlia, 126. 
 
 " planU, 151, 211, 219, 300. 
 Watsonia, 321. 
 Wax plant, 181. 
 Westringia, 296. 
 Wind flower, 34. 
 
 Windows, culture of plants in, 349. 
 Wistdria, 91. 
 Witsenia, 296. 
 Wolf's-bane, 35. 
 Yucca, 48, 297. 
 Zamia, 195, 297. 
 Zingiber, 159. 
 Zygopetalum, 207. 
 
 32* 
 
LIST OF HARDY SHRUBS, 
 
 SEE PAGE 57. 
 
 Those marked thus *, require protection in winter, and those 
 marked thus t, shade in summer. 
 
 Amorpha, 
 
 Bastard indigo. 
 
 HlB^lSCUS, 
 
 Althaea. 
 
 fruiticosa, 
 
 shrubby. 
 
 syriacus. 
 
 Althsea frutax. 
 
 Amy'gdalus, 
 
 Almond. 
 
 var. var. 
 
 
 nana, 
 
 dwarf. 
 
 Hydr'angea, 
 
 
 pumila, 
 
 double-flowering. 
 
 all the varieties. 
 
 aersica, 
 
 peach-leared. 
 
 t* hortensis, 
 
 garden. 
 
 Andromeda, 
 
 
 'Ilex, 
 
 Holly. 
 
 all the species. 
 
 
 var. var. 
 
 
 Az'alea, 
 
 American honey- 
 
 Jasm^inum, 
 
 Jasmine. 
 
 
 suckle. 
 
 fruticans. 
 
 shrubby. 
 
 all the hardy species. 
 
 officinale. 
 
 climbing white^ 
 
 Aucu'ba, 
 
 Gold tree. 
 
 Junip'erus, 
 
 Juniper. 
 
 + japonica, 
 
 Japan. 
 
 suecica, 
 
 Swedish. 
 
 B'erberis, 
 
 
 virginicus, 
 
 Virginian. 
 
 all the species. 
 
 
 Ka'lmia, 
 
 American laurel. 
 
 Bu'xus, 
 
 Box tree. 
 
 glauca, 
 
 glaucous. 
 
 two species. 
 
 
 latifolia, 
 
 broad- leaved. 
 
 Calyc'anthus, 
 
 Sweet-scented 
 
 La^urus, 
 
 Laurel. 
 
 
 shrub. 
 
 * nobilis, 
 
 sweet-bay. 
 
 floridus, 
 
 purple-flowered. 
 
 var. var. 
 
 
 precox, 
 
 
 Lavend'ula, 
 
 Lavender. 
 
 var. var. 
 
 early. 
 
 spica, 
 
 spike-flowered. 
 
 Casti'nea, 
 
 Chestnut-tree. 
 
 Magn^olia. 
 
 
 pumila, 
 
 dwarf. 
 
 purpiirea, 
 
 purple. 
 
 Ce'rcis, 
 
 Judas tree. 
 
 Kobus, 
 
 slender. 
 
 canadensis. 
 
 
 gracilis. 
 
 
 Chiona'nthds. 
 
 Fringe tree. 
 
 grandiflora. 
 
 large-flowered. 
 
 virginica, 
 
 common. 
 
 var. var. 
 
 
 Cle'thra, 
 
 
 Thomsoniana, 
 
 hybrid. 
 
 all the hardy species. 
 
 conspicua, 
 
 zoulan. 
 
 CoRNCS, 
 
 Dogwood. 
 
 soulangeana, 
 
 hybrid. 
 
 florida. 
 
 large-flowered. 
 
 Philad'elphus, 
 
 mock-orange. 
 
 sangiiinea. 
 
 bloody. 
 
 grandiflora. 
 
 large-flowered. 
 
 Crataegus, 
 
 
 mana, 
 
 dwarf. 
 
 several species 
 
 
 variegatus, 
 
 variegated. 
 
 Cotoneaster, 
 
 
 P^mus, 
 
 Pine or Fir tree. 
 
 all are fine. 
 
 
 balsamea. 
 
 balm of Gilead. 
 
 Cy'tisus, 
 
 
 Pinckne'ya, 
 
 Georgia bark tree 
 
 all the species. 
 
 
 pubens, 
 
 downy. 
 
 Da'phne. 
 
 
 Pru'nus, 
 
 Cherry. 
 
 mezerium, 
 
 red. 
 
 * lusitanica, 
 
 Portugal laurel. 
 
 var. var. 
 
 white-flowering. 
 
 * lauroc^rasus, 
 
 English laurel. 
 
 
 fine. 
 
 P'yrus, 
 
 
 Dutzia scabra, 
 
 red, white, and pur- 
 
 all are very fine. 
 
 
 ple. 
 
 Rhododendron. 
 
 Rose-bay. 
 
 GORD'ONIA, 
 
 Franklinia. 
 
 catawbi^nse, 
 
 Catawba. 
 
 pubdscens, 
 
 downy. 
 
 
 
LIST OF HARDY SHRUBS, &C. 
 
 379 
 
 daiiricum, 
 
 var. var. 
 
 ponticum, 
 
 var. var. 
 
 maximum. 
 Rh^us, 
 
 cotinus, 
 Ri'bes. 
 
 aureum, 
 
 sanguineum, 
 
 ROBINIA, 
 
 hispida, 
 
 SoRBUS. 
 
 h^ybrida, 
 
 Spir^^a. 
 tomenfosa, 
 bella, 
 fnitex, &c. 
 
 daurian. 
 
 pink. 
 
 common. 
 Sumach, 
 mist tree. 
 
 fragrant, 
 bloody. 
 Locust tree, 
 rose-acacia. 
 
 mountain-ash — a 
 beautiful shrub. 
 
 tomentose. 
 red -flowered, 
 showy. 
 
 Symph'ora, 
 
 racem^osa, 
 
 glomerata, 
 Syr^inga, 
 
 all the species. 
 Ta'xus, 
 
 baccata. 
 
 hibernica, 
 
 Thu'ja. 
 
 occidentalis, 
 
 orient'alis, 
 Ti'llia, 
 
 parvif'olia, 
 
 coccinea, 
 Viburnum. 
 
 opulus, 
 
 var. 
 
 rosea, 
 
 Snow-berry, 
 white-berried, 
 red-berried. 
 Lilac. 
 
 Yew. 
 
 a handsome, erect 
 growing evergreen, 
 arbor-vitae. 
 American. 
 Chinese. [tree. 
 Lime or Linden 
 small-leaved, 
 scarlet. 
 
 guelder-rose. 
 
 rose-coloured. 
 
 LIST OF VERONICAS. 
 
 
 SEE PAGE 47. 
 
 Veronica. 
 
 Sweed-well. 
 
 incarnata, 
 
 officinalis, 
 
 officinal. 
 
 carnea. 
 
 cham'agdrys, 
 
 Germander. 
 
 leucantha, 
 
 media, 
 
 long-spiked. 
 
 bellidioides, 
 
 incana. 
 
 hoary. 
 
 verna. 
 
 6legans, 
 
 elegant. 
 
 am'osna, 
 
 spicata, 
 
 spiked. 
 
 pulchella. 
 
 grandis, 
 
 large white. 
 
 
 flesh-coloured. 
 
 pale red. 
 
 white-flowered. 
 
 daisy-leaved. 
 
 vernal. 
 
 fine-blue. 
 
 neat. 
 
TABLE OF SOILS. 
 
 The following compound of soils are adapted to the nature of the Plant* 
 contained in this work : 
 
 Number. 
 
 Savanna 
 
 
 Loam. 
 
 
 Leaf. 
 
 
 Sand. 
 
 
 Manure 
 
 1 
 
 2 
 
 - 
 
 1 
 
 
 - 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 2 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 3 
 
 
 2 
 
 - 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 3 
 
 - 
 
 . 
 
 4 
 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 i 
 
 . 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 2 
 
 
 1 
 
 . 
 
 
 - 
 
 _ 
 
 6 
 
 all 
 
 . 
 
 - 
 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 6 
 
 3 
 
 . 
 
 1 
 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 7 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 3 
 
 
 1 
 
 . 
 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 8 
 
 4 
 
 . 
 
 I 
 
 
 - 
 
 . 
 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 9 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 2 
 
 
 2 
 
 . 
 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 10 
 
 1 
 
 . 
 
 1 
 
 
 1 
 
 . 
 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 11 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 3 
 
 
 2 
 
 - 
 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 12 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 3 
 
 
 1 
 
 . 
 
 
 . 
 
 1 
 
 13 
 
 2 
 
 . 
 
 2 
 
 
 1 
 
 . 
 
 
 . 
 
 1 
 
 14 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 4 
 
 
 - 
 
 . 
 
 
 - 
 
 _ 
 
 15 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 4 
 
 
 2 
 
 . 
 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 16 
 
 4 
 
 . 
 
 - 
 
 
 1 
 
 . 
 
 
 . 
 
 _ 
 
 17 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 5 
 
 
 1 
 
 - 
 
 
 . 
 
 1 
 
 18 
 
 _ 
 
 . 
 
 1 
 
 
 1 
 
 - 
 
 
 . 
 
 1 
 
 19 
 
 1 
 
 - 
 
 1 
 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 - 
 
 REMARKS ON THE NATURE OF SOILS USED IN THE ABOVE TABLE. 
 
 Peat or Savanna sail — is of a dark colour, with a large portion of wrhite sand 
 incorporated with it, and is found frequently in New Jersey. A mixture 
 of two-thirds black earth from the woods and one-third of pure white 
 sand will be similar to it, and may be used as a substitute, but is not ex- 
 actly of the same nature. 
 
 Loam — is of a light brown colour, and is that from the top of old pastures or 
 commons, which should lie one year, and be frequently turned before 
 using. It ought not to be from a clay bottom, and merely three inches of 
 the turf taken. 
 
 Leaf mould — is that which is to be found on the surface of the ground in 
 woods, and is the decomposed leaves. It may be termed nearly of first 
 rate importance in vegetation. 
 
 Sand — is a substance that is generally known, and that which is found on 
 the surface is decidedly the best. If il is from a pit, it must be spread 
 out, and frequently turned, that it may assimulate with the atmosphere be- 
 fore using ; four months will be sufficient. 
 
 Manure — before using, must be decomposed to very fine particles. It will 
 require two years, during which time it must be often turned, and the 
 longer it lays it will be the finer and more congenial. 
 
ROBERT BUIST, 
 
 NURSERYMAN AND FLORIST. 
 
 City establishmenl, No.liO South Twelfth-street, Philadelphia. 
 
 Particular attention is paid to the most valued stock of 
 Camellias, Pelargoniums, Roses, and Dahlias ; the different 
 varieties of which, from his extended personal acquaintance 
 in Europe, he is enabled always to receive by the earliest 
 opportunity. Also, choice fruits, such as Apricots, Peaches, 
 and Nectarines on Plum stocks. Pears, Cherries, Grape 
 vines, &c. 
 
 He returns his very sincere acknowledgments to his friends 
 for their kind and extensive patronage, and trusts that, by 
 pursuing the path of moderation and integrity, he will be 
 able to retain and extend their custom. 
 
 To ffive his distant friends an idea of the extent of his 
 green-house department, he assures them that he has up- 
 ward of 12,000 square feet of glass occupied in his city gar- 
 den and nursery, which enables him to fulfil the most ex- 
 tensive orders. 
 
 CHOICE PI-OWER SEEDS AND DAHLLIA ROOTS ; 
 
 HYACINTHS, TULIPS, AND OTHER DUTCH BULBS. 
 
 N, B, — A.11 orders must be accompained with cash or re- 
 sponsibility. — Cash discount, 10 per cent. 
 
 Plants carefully packed and shipped to any port of North 
 or South America. 
 
WORKS ON GARDENING, AGRICULTURE, 6cc., 
 
 FOR SALE BY 
 
 E. L. CAREY & A. HART. 
 LOUDON'S 
 
 ENCYCLOPiEDIA OF PLANTS; 
 
 Comprising the Description, Specific, Character. Culture, History, Appli- 
 cation in the Arts, and every other desirable Particular, respecting 
 all the Plants Indigenous to, Cultivated in, or Introduced 
 into, Britian. 
 
 With nearly 10,000 Engravings on Wood. Second Edition, corrected. 
 
 One large vol. 8vo., boards. 
 
 The most useful and popular botanical work that has ever appeared in the 
 English language. — Jameson's Philosophical Jonrnal. 
 
 LOUDON, J. C. Encyclopsedia of Agriculture ; comprising the Theory 
 and Practice of the Valuation, Transfer, Laying out. Improvement, and 
 Management of Landed Property ; and the Cultivation and Economy of 
 the Animal and Vegetable Productions of Agriculture ; including the 
 latest Improvements ; a General History of Agriculture in all Countries ; 
 and a Statistical View of its Present State ; with Suggestions for its Future 
 Progress. One large vol. 8vo. With nearly 1,300 Engravings on Wood. 
 3d edition. 
 
 LOUDON, J. C. An Encylopaedia of Gardening ; comprising the Theory 
 and practice of Horticulture, Floriculture, Arboriculture, and Landscape 
 Gardening ; including all the latest Improvements ; a General History of 
 Gardening in all Countries ; and a Statistical View of its Present State ; 
 with Suggestions for its Future Progress in the British Isles. New edi- 
 tion, greatly enlarged and improved ; with nearly 1,000 Engravings on 
 Wood. 1 vol. 8vo. 
 
 LOUDON, J. C. Hortus Britannicus ; a Catalogue of all the Plants Indi- 
 genous to, Cultivated in, or Introduced into, Britain. Part 1. — The Lin- 
 naean Arrangement, in which nearly 30,000 Species are enumerated, &c. ; 
 preceded by an Introduction to the Linnaean System. Part 2. — The Jus- 
 sieuean Arrangement of nearly 4,000 Genera ; with an Introduction to the 
 Natural History System, and a Description of each order. 8vo., cloth. 
 
 LOUDON, J. C. Arboretum et Fruticetum Britannicum ; or, the Trees 
 and Shrubs of Great Britain, Native and Foreign, Pictorially and Bota- 
 nically delineated, and Scientifically and Popularly described ; with their 
 
( 3 ) 
 
 Propagation, Culture, Management and Uses in liie Arts, in Useful and 
 Ornamental Plantations, and in Landscape Gardening. Preceded by a 
 Historical and Geographical Outline of the Trees and Shrubs of Tempe- 
 rate Climates throughout the World. Eight thick volumes, 8vo., (four 
 of Letter-press and four of Plates,) consisting of above 3,000 Pages of 
 Letter-press, above 400 Octavo Plates of Trees, and upward of 2500 
 Wood-cuts of Trees and Shrubs. 
 
 LOUDON, J. C. The Suburban Gardener and Villa Companion ; adapted 
 for Grounds from one perch to fifty acres and upward in extent, and in- 
 tended for the instruction of those who know little of gardening and rural 
 affairs. By J. C. Loudon, F. L. S., H. S., &c. 1 vol. 8vo., cloth, let- 
 tered. 
 
 LOW, DAVID. Elements of Practical Agriculture ; comprehending the 
 Cultivation of Plants, the Husbandry of Domestic Animals, and the Eco- 
 nomy of the Farm. 1 vol. 8vo., 2d edition, with Alterations and Addi- 
 tions, and above 200 Wood-cuts, cloth, lettered. 
 
 SIR H. DAVY'S Elements of Agricultural Chemistry. 6th edition. 
 
 HORTUS WOBURNENSIS. The Flower and Fruit Gardens Pleasure 
 Grounds, &c., &c. At Woburn Abbey, the Seat of the Duke of Bedford. 
 By James Forbes, A. L. S. C. M. H. S., &c., Principal Gardener at Woburn 
 Abbey. Illustrated by numerous Views, Plans, &c. One Vol. 
 
 SINCLAIR'S HORTUS GRAMINEUS WOBURNENSIS. ,To which 
 will be added, for the first time, "The Weeds of Agriculture." By Mr. 
 Houlditch and Mr. Sinclair. Forming 1 vol.Svo., illustrated with many 
 Plates, beautifully coloured from Nature. 
 
 ON THE NATURE AND PROPERTY OF SOILS, and the best means 
 of permanently increasing their productiveness, and on the Rent and Profits 
 of Agriculture. By John Morton. 
 
 ROGERS' FRUIT CULTIVATOR, &c., or a practical and Accurate De- 
 scription of the best Species and Varieties of Fruit with plain Directions for 
 Planting. Training, Forcing, and Pruning, &c. Third edition. 
 
 THE GREEN-HOUSE, HOT-HOUSE, AND STOVE including selected 
 lists of the most beautiful spec.es of Exotic Flowering Plants and directions 
 for their cultivation. By C. M'Intosh. 1 vol. Illustrated by numerous 
 Plates, beautifully coloured. 
 
 THE FLOWER GARDEN, including selected lists of the most desirable 
 plants, with full directions for their cultivation, designs for gardens, &c., lUus- 
 trated by coloured Plates. 
 
 PAXTON'S PRACTICAL TREATISE on the cultivation of the Dahlia. 
 
 THE FRUIT, FLOWER, AND KITCHEN G-\RDEN. By Patrick Neill. 
 1 vol. 
 
 M'MAHON'S American Gardener's Calendar, adapted to the Climate and 
 Seasons of the United States. 1 vol. 8vo. 
 
 HINTS ON ORNAMENTAL GARDENING. Consisting of a series of 
 d^sTgns for Garden Buildings, useful and decorative Gates, Fences, Raihngs, 
 
( 4 ) 
 
 &c. Remarks on Rural Architecture, &>c. By J. B. Papworth. 1 vol. 
 Coloured Plates. 
 
 ALSO, 
 
 A variety of Works of " The Breeding, Rearing, Treatment, &c., of Cattle, 
 Horses," &c., and numerous Works on Rural Architecture. Illustrated by 
 coloured Engravings. 
 
 THE FOSSIL FLORA OF GREAT BRITAIN; or, Figures and Descrip- 
 tions of the vegetable remains found in a fossil state in Great Britain. By John 
 Lindley, Ph. D., &c., and W. Hutton, F. G. S., &c. 3 Vols. Plates. 
 
 AN INTRODUCTION TO BOTANY. By J. Lindley, F. R. S., &c. 2d 
 
 edition. 
 
 A NATURAL SYSTEM OF BOTANY ; or. Systematic views of the Orga- 
 nization, Natural Affinities, and Geographical Distribution of the whole 
 Vegetable Kingdom, together with the Uses of the most impoitanl Spe- 
 cies in Medecine, The Arts, Rural and Domestic Economy. By J. Lind- 
 ley, F. L. S., &c. Second edition, with additions. 
 
 A CATALOGUE OF ALL THE PLANTS Indigenous, cultivated in, or 
 introduced to Britain. Part 1. The Linnaoan Arrangement, in which nearly 
 30,000 species are enumerated : with the Systematic name and authority, 
 accentuation, derivation of generic names, literal English of specific names, 
 synonymes, systematic and English of both genera and species ; habit and 
 habitation in the Garden ; mode of Propagation, &c. Part 2. The Jus- 
 sieuean Arrangement of nearly 4,000 genera, &c. By J. C. Loudon. 
 
 THE FLORA OF LONDON. Containing a concise description of the 
 Phanogamous British Plants, which grow spontaneously in the vicinity of 
 the Metropolis, &c. By A. Irvine. 
 
 SYSTEMATIC ARRANGEMENT and Description of the Plants of North 
 America, By F. Pursh. 2 vols. 
 
 THE POMOLOGICAL MANUAL; or, Treatise on Fruits ; containing de- 
 scriptions of a great number of the most valuable varieties for the Orchard 
 and Garden. By W. R. Prince. 
 
 THE THEORY OF HORTICULTURE ; or, an exposition of the Phy- 
 siologiciil Principles on which the operations of Gardening are conducted. 
 By Professor John Lindley. 1 vol. 8vo. 
 
 I/THE LADIES' COMPANION TO THE FLOWER GARDEN, being an 
 U alphabetical arrangement of all the Ornamental Plants usually grown in 
 I Gardens and Shrul/licries, with full directions for their culture. By Mrs. 
 [ Loudon. 
 
 A POCKET BOTANICAL DICTIONARY, comprising the names, history, 
 and culture of all Plants known in Britain, with a full explanation of Tech- 
 nical terms. By John Paxton. 1 vol. 12mo. 
 
 THE QUEEN OF FLOWERS ; or, the History of the Rose, with coloured 
 Illustrations. 
 
 AN INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF BOTANY. By Sir James 
 E. Smith, M. D., &c., seventh edition, revised. By IV, J. Hooker. 8vo. 
 Plates, 
 
\^k2