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the flavour is inferior. I have grown a very handsome variety named Pernambuco. This is a distinct form and attains a good size, but for general cultivation the first-named four are the best."

To the above, which in itself is an admirable treatise on Pine-growing, I can add but little, only that the healthy vigorous appearance of the Pines was all that could be desired, and some of the fruit that was advancing towards maturity would be quite the weight Mr. Westland speaks of-9 lbs. or more. They were all of the same robust healthy character, just such plants as the most fastiduous Pine-grower might be justly proud of. The only drawback, as Mr. Westland justly observes, was that the lowness of the pit rather cramped some of the points of the foliage, but not to any serious extent, and he explained that this would be rectified if a house were built on purpose. Certainly the appearance of the plants as a whole was such as to induce my friend and myself to linger over them some time, for such excellence is not met with every day.

Of the other features of the kitchen garden, it is only just to observe that the crops everywhere showed the fertile character of the soil and skilful cultivation; but as the whole was likely to undergo a revolutionising process similar to that which the flower garden and its adjuncts, as well as the mansion, had been subjected to, and, indeed, was in what might almost be called a transition state, the character and uniformity which will eventually stamp it could only be guessed at, but there is little doubt but it will be noble in all its details. For present purposes I was told a reserve garden at some distance off was made use of to supply the requirements of the flower garden both winter and summer; and this would be no light affair for so large a place, where the choicest plants in the respective kinds were planted out in great abundance. I regret circumstances prevented my visiting much of the dressed grounds which surround this fine place, but I saw enough to be able to affirm that nothing has been omitted in later years in the way of planting-out immense numbers of the choicest kinds of Rhododendrons, Ghent Azaleas, and other shrubs, all of them apparently doing well, although to outward appearance the soil was not the kind these plants usually delight in. Conifers of all kinds seemed quite at home, and will, no doubt, eventually make a fine display, interspersed as they are amongst the deciduous trees of native growth. I was told there were some noble specimens of native trees in the park and woods adjoining; in fact, to outward appearance the district seemed well clothed with timber, and it was pleasing to see at the distance of some miles from Witley Court fine rising plantations of mixed timber trees, which I was told had been planted by the noble proprietor of that fine place; and as the general character of the soil around Witley seemed good, perhaps a little inclined to be stiff, it is the more likely to support trees to a greater age than lighter soils. At all events the healthy appearance of what aged trees I saw fully confirmed this view, and I have no doubt but at some future time Witley will be as remarkable for its fine Douglas Firs, its Wellingtonias, Piceas, Thujas, and the many other choice sorts of imported Conifera which the present age regards as of so much importance. When the many additions and improvements made on this fine domain by its present noble owner shall have been more fully developed, Witley Court will stand in as high a position with regard to its arboricultural as it now does in floral riches, while the mark left on the place by its present courteous and skilful gardener will also be permanent.-J. ROBSON.

WATERCRESS.

THERE are many edibles, natives of our own country, hawked about the streets, of which we might be supposed to know more than we actually do. The Watercress is one of them, and most of us no doubt have seen it growing where Nature has placed it, in some shallow and remote stream. Watercress thrives best in springs or clear running water, where the bottom is either sandy or gravelly; and in such a situation it will sometimes grow a foot above the surface, though its more usual height is about 6 inches above the water. It has, as is well known, smooth, shining, very often brownish-green leaves, composed of five or seven ovate or rather heart-shaped leaflets. The edges of the leaflets are very slightly sinuated or waved, which is a very good characteristic to distinguish them from those of the Water Parsnip, with which they sometimes get mixed, and which are decidedly serrated or saw-toothed.

Watercress has been introduced into North America, and into some of the British colonies. In New Zealand it forms a stem as thick as the wrist, almost choking-up many of the rivers. Housewives of a few generations back gave to their children, in the spring of the year, a "health-giving" draught, which was a decoction of Watercress, Brooklime, Scurvy Grass, and Oranges. It was said that the ancients ate Watercress chiefly with Lettuces, the stimulating properties of the former counteracting the coldness of the latter.

The first attempts to cultivate Watercress by artificial means in Europe appear to have been made, about the middle of the sixteenth century, by Nicholas Meissner, in the numerous streams which abound in the vicinity of Erfurt. The water and soil suiting the plants, they thrived, and their cultivation became a great pecuniary success. Cresses grown at Erfurt were, and are still, considered of superior quality, and are sent in large quantities to the markets of Berlin, a distance of about 150 miles. In the early part of the present century the Cress plantations of Erfurt were so profitable that they were let by the authorities of the city to the cultivators at the yearly rent of £2400; and the value has since that period considerably increased. The crops have been known to realise, in one year, as much as £8000. Watercress plantations have since been established in the neighbourhood of Paris, as the demand in the French capital in its more prosperous days was very great, the estimated annual value of the Cress sent to the Paris markets exceeding £37,000. For conveyance from the plantations the Cresses are packed in large baskets containing many dozen bunches each, in such a way as to leave an entirely open space down the centre of the basket, which admits of a free circulation of air. The whole are then well watered before being loaded into the waggons, and they are thus delivered quite fresh at the markets.

We read of Watercresses once growing in large quantities in the waters of Tothill Fields, Westminster, and even on the neighbouring banks of the Thames itself; but the first we hear of their cultivation in anything like a regular manner in England, was in the year 1808, at Springhead, near Gravesend, where they are still grown, and the Cress there is noted for its superior quality. When the success of this plantation became known, others soon started in many parts of the country where natural and suitable springs existed. In the neighbourhood of London especially were these Watercress beds formed, some of which were many acres in extent. Some still exist, some have been done away with, and some new ones have in course of time been formed, the produce being nearly all consumed in London; indeed, the supply is scarcely adequate to the demand. Some of the most noted Watercress plantations in the neighbourhood of the metropolis are at Uxbridge, Rickmansworth, and Waltham Abbey. Watercresses are also grown to some extent at Hackney and several other places near at hand, and at one time quantities were even brought to London from Salisbury. Some idea may be had of the importance of this branch of trade in London alone, when we state that it is computed that between six thousand and eight thousand bunches are daily brought into the markets, and that the sum annually realised from the sale of Watercresses exceeds £10,000. Watercress is undoubtedly a wholesome plant, and an excellent antiscorbutic; and there are but few to whom it is not agreeable in its fresh green state. It is, moreover, sometimes cooked for table in a manner similar to Celery.—(Food Journal.)

WORK FOR THE WEEK.

KITCHEN GARDEN.

SHOULD the weather set in frosty, wheel out manure to all vacant plots of ground, where heaps may be made and covered with soil till wanted. In many cases, however, it may be trenched-in at once, especially where Carrots, Parsnips, Beet, and Onions are to be sown. All these require to have the soil turned up some months previous to sowing time. Great attention must be paid to Cauliflowers in frames and under handlights. Stir the surface round them in mild weather, and give frequent dressings of dry soot, lime, and ashes, taking care also to give air whenever practicable. Continue to store up any of the late-tied Endive and Lettuces, and see that those formerly stored have as free a circulation of air as the weather will permit. All late Cabbages and Winter Greens should be earthed-up laid very thickly between rows of choice Broccoli, and confined if not already done; and if dry leaves are plentiful they may be there by sticking birch boughs round the outside of the beds. Snow's Winter Broccoli, which comes in at this season, should be taken up and protected whenever the heads are large enough

for use. Sow small salading under cover, and protect Turnip the bulbs will be sufficiently rooted to render it safe to remove Radishes in frames.

FRUIT GARDEN.

Figs against walls will require some protecting material placed over them in the midland and northern counties. Some wall trees, as Pears, Plums, and Cherries, &c., are often attacked by a species of scale insect, in which case the infested trees should be well washed with a mixture of soft soap, tobacco water, and lime; a half pint of turpentine may be added to four galions of the mixture when they are much infested. The lime is added to give body to the mixture, and to show that no parts of the trees are missed in dressing. Let this be applied during dry weather if possible, that it may remain on for some time, and before the trees are nailed.

FLOWER GARDEN.

In most gardens leaves can be collected, and when properly managed they form the most useful source of bottom heat with which we are acquainted, except it may be hot water. If not already done, all the leaves necessary for carrying on the business of the ensuing year should, therefore, be collected as early as possible, and laid close together to heat. After fermenting for three weeks or a month they will be in excellent order for use; in this state they will both heat with more certainty and tread more closely. In order to be ready to make-up propagating beds of all kinds, or to form linings, it is necessary to have a mixture at hand, composed of hot dung and leaves, in the course of next month. Hot dung should be drawn from the stable-yard to the leaf-yard and immediately thrown together, and well watered in order to dispel the fiery heat. When fermented thus for a week or so it may be mixed with the leaves. About four parts of the leaves to one of hot manure will make an enduring heat. This provided, a good frame or pit can be made up at any time, for if the dung has had one heating previous to its mixture with the leaves, little danger need be apprehended from the impure vapours, provided the most ordinary precautions are observed. As regards other matters, take the first opportunity of carefully looking over Carnation layers that are in frames. It is possible that dirt may have settled in the axils of the leaves; as this retains moisture in a very inconvenient degree, it is highly necessary for the health of the plants that

it should be removed.

GREENHOUSE AND CONSERVATORY.

them to a gentle bottom heat of about 55°, introducing the pots in numbers proportionate to the demand, at intervals of about a fortnight. In this manner a succession of flowers will be secured until those in the open air come into flower. In forcing, endeavour to prevent the roots from penetrating the fermenting material.

PITS AND FRAMES.

The bedding-out stuff must have attention, for in all likelihood many things are suffering from damp, and such plants as appear to suffer most should be removed to other quarters, where a drier atmosphere is kept. Keep the stock well ventilated, and the surface soil frequently stirred. Dust with sulphur Verbenas and similar plants attacked with mildew. Be particular in keeping the interior of pits containing plants of the above description as dry as circumstances will permit.W. KEANE.

and clean.

DOINGS OF THE LAST WEEK.

KITCHEN GARDEN.

CAULIFLOWERS that were protected with their own leaves and a little clean litter in the two nights when the frost was at all severe, have done good service, and a number still remain white Matters now demand our attention that may be considered extra gardening work, but we do not yet regret it much, as even digging and trenching were not done as we like to see them done owing to the wet. Cutting and pruning large trees, preparing for road-making where, owing to the altitude, there was no great excess of water, and pointing stakes, making tallies large and small, furnished enough of employment; the former when the weather was at all fine, and the latter when it was too wet to keep out.

Elevated positions, even if exposed and cold, have been the most acceptable this autumn and winter, when so much has been injured and destroyed by water and floods in low-lying districts.

Amid all that is distressing in the loss of property and comfort, it is cheerful to reflect that the death-rate has been reduced all over the country. It has often been said that a good sharp frost brings health in its train, but the greatest cold is generally the time when an extra number of the very young and very old are taken away. In such dull, foggy, drizzly weather as we have had, there is apt to be a heaviness and a depression of the spirits, but not so much of acute diseases. No doubt in low districts, where the floods have so prevailed as to turn much land into still lakes, there would be danger from miasmatic exhalations, bringing ague, intermittent fever, and rheumatism in their train. But, on the other hand, wherever much to sweeten and purify the atmosphere around us. the rains can run away, a good cleansing downpouring does

Where early Camellias are in bloom take care to keep as low a temperature as possible, in order to prolong their season; all drip must also be avoided. The forcing houses and pits will now be kept in full activity to supply the various calls for plants in bloom, which at this season of the year are more or less in demand in most establishments. Care should be taken before plants are moved to sitting-rooms to gradually harden them for a day or two, either by placing them in the conservatory or an intermediate house. In addition to keeping the conservatory gay with blooming plants, let the arrangement of the plants be With the wet and warmth combined we fear that some crops occasionally changed by grouping the plants somewhat differ will be too forward. Some of our young Cauliflowers are ently, and adding a few striking ones, as some of the hardest Palms, &c., for effect. Pay attention to the plants intended for buttoning, and these must be cleared out at once, as they would do no good in April and May. If severe frosts should come, the successive blooming. Insects should be kept down by the most forward Cabbages must be looked after, as a severe check syringe and fumigating, and every means enforced to keep the is apt to make them bolt, or in some cases to rot. In some foliage clean and healthy. The number of plants brought forseasons we have found it useful to nip the points of the roots by ward will depend upon the demand, and must be regulated elevating the plants a little with a fork, and then firming the accordingly. Azaleas, Rhododendrons, &c., for forcing, still out of doors, should have some protection should severe weather ground about them again, doing this work when the ground was occur, or remove them to any spare house till wanted. Nar-dryish. A good plan also is to draw a little earth to the plants when the surface soil is dry, drawing some more in a sort cissus, Hyacinths, &c., should be protected by a frame, as they of ridge on each side, but a little distance from the plants. now begin to grow; remove the plunging material down to the These little ridges protect from cold frosty winds, and, in fact, surface of the pots to prevent their rooting upwards. Migno- for early Cabbages act much the same part as little mounds of nette and Neapolitan Violets will require abundance of light dung in a line between the rows of Strawberries. and air to keep them from damping. As, with the exception of forced plants, most other things are now in an inactive state, the temperature of plant houses should fall to its minimum point consistent with the safety of its various inmates. Nothing can well be worse for the development of a vigorous habit in plants than subjecting them to a high temperature at the present season of the year, when light, so important to the healthy action of vegetable life, cannot accompany it. For late-flowering Hyacinths the bulbs, if not already planted, should now be put in; the best pots are 5-inch (48's) for one bulb, and 6 and 7-inch (32's and 24's) for three bulbs; and where a fine display is sought for, three roots grown together in one pot secure that object much better than single bulbs. For potting, the soil should be as rich as possible, such as one-half fresh loam cut from a pasture with the decayed turf in it, with well-decomposed cow or horse manure, and a small quantity of clean sand well intermixed. If, however, this kind of compost cannot be obtained, then the lightest and richest at command must be employed instead. Drain efficiently, and after filling the pots lightly with the soil, lice the bulbs upon the surface, slightly pressing them into the soil. After watering liberally set the pots thus planted out of doors on a dry bottom, and cover them with about a foot of old tan, ashes, sawdust, leaf soil, cocoa-nut refuse, or any light material. After remaining thus for a month

FRUIT GARDEN.

It is still too wet to do much in planting, as it is unfavourable for wheeling, and a little fresh soil is a great security for free, healthy, and not-over-luxuriant growth. The mild weather will encourage all sorts of insects; and for trees infested with scale we know of no cheaper remedy than, if a keen frosty day comes, to syringe the trees with water as near boiling point as may be. The sudden change seems to destroy the scale, and all the more if the heated water becomes a glittering sheet of ice. We have often seen the ice drop off and bring old bark and insects away with it. It will not be so effectual if such washing is done in mild open weather.

All forcing in such dull weather should be proceeded with very gradually. We had no means of keeping the wet off borders but a little litter; wooden shutters and tarpaulin we have found of great service in covering outside borders when Vines and Peaches were forced early. In borders not drained sufficiently, such delugings would be trying. When well drained the rains would do no harm, except for the cooling they would give the soil-a matter of less moment when the crops were but little forced. Sometimes in protected borders the soil is apt to be too dry.

Wet as the autumn has been, we have scarcely had a moulded

berry in a late house of Grapes, and that, though from fear of rats we never give any front air. A little has been left continually at the top in all this mild weather, and a little heat was given by the pipes every morning.

ORNAMENTAL DEPARTMENT.

Lawns swept and rolled never looked more beautifully green. Evergreens were just in their glory; walks when dryish were swept to freshen them, but the roller was kept off them, as apt to make them too smooth. A little roughness on the surface is more pleasant for the feet, as even ladies do not now think of using soles like wafers for their boots. A good substantial sole for boot or shoe is a great security against many evils. The wonder is that some of our labourers manage to get about so nimbly with such a weight of leather and iron beneath their ankles. After tramping for a day on damp soil with such a weight of boot, it is a luxury to get on a pair of nice slippers in an evening, and then have a spell at a good interesting book. Other agencies for giving a love and taste for reading have had their effect on us working men, but the most successful has been the penny newspaper. Two things have come under our notice that are greatly interesting. First, the great numbers of labourers with no great amount of wages, who will have their weekly newspaper, with a daily one occasionally; and secondly, how wise they are, as if by instinctive feeling, in making their selection, as those that are the most popular are those that are calculated to have the greatest refining and elevating influence. We gave all the air possible to cold pits and frames without admitting the rain. Shortened long shoots of Roses, and among other fresh work made preparations for planting. Primroses, Violets, and Cyclamens come in useful with Camellias, &c., for cut flowers.

Before this shall have been printed a new year will have dawned, and to every coadjutor and reader we earnestly hope it will be a year of happiness, and that those who in the year passing have experienced deep sorrow, will in the coming year realise the truest of joys.-R. F.

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LOCAL SHOWS (G. J.).-We will consider your suggestions. CUCUMBER CULTURE IN A HOUSE (J. B.).—We shall be glad to hear from you on the subject. We cannot stir in the movement you suggest.

POTATOES IN ROOM (F. C. H.).-In a single layer, if the room be cold and quite dark, the Potatoes will keep a long time; but we prefer keeping them in layers, alternating with dry sand.

DARK ROSES (I. C. H.).-If you only want very dark Roses, you may add to Prince Camille de Rohan, Xavier Olibo, and Souvenir de William Wood, the following-viz., Pierre Notting, Lord Macaulay, Auguste Neumann, and Monsieur Boncenne; also the following, not quite so dark:-Fisher Holmes, Charles Lefebvre, Duke of Edinburgh, Duke of Wellington, Louis Van Houtte, Maurice Bernardin, Horace Vernet, Sénateur Vaisse, Madame Victor Verdier, Dr. Andry, Alfred Colomb. The last four are, strictly speaking, deep red, and not dark Roses; but unless there is some particular reason unknown to us, we do not see why only dark Roses should be grown.

POTATO DISEASE (C. Prinsep).-You tell us, "It will soon be proved that there is a connecting link between the first appearance of the disease and the use of strong forcing manures, bad tilth, and wet summers." We will insert any results of experiments you can detail proving that statement. We know of no reward offered on the subject.

PRUNING PLUM, CHERRY, AND APRICOT TREES (A Constant Reader).—If the young shoots are thinly placed, cut them back to half their length; if they are somewhat close to each other, cut them back to two-thirds. Instead of allowing the shoots to grow so long, we would advise you to pinch them at 18 inches or 2 feet; more shoots would be formed by that means; it would also cause the buds at the base of the shoots to be more prominent. The trees managed in that way sooner furnish a wall, and are better set with blossom buds. The Apricots require somewhat similar treatment to the others. Do not cut the young wood away too much, and save the numerous small shoots and spurs, as they will be full of blossom buds.

GLOU MORCEAU PEAR SHRIVELLING (H. C.).-Our Pears are in most instances ripening pretty well this season, but they are very deficient in flavour. One variety, Beurré d'Aremberg, was overla len with fruit, which is going like yours; we do not think they will ripen. The proximity of the kitchen flue may have something to do with your Pears shrivelling, but we think it more probable that overcropping was the cause, combined with an unfavourable autumn.

PAINTING HOT-WATER PIPES-DRESSING VINES (Dr. Willett).-It would be dangerous to paint hot-water pipes with gas tar and naptha. Lampblack and boiled oil are the best paint for them. Gishurst compound diluted is a safe dressing for Vines; 12 ozs. to a gallon of water will not be too strong.

PRIMULA JAPONICA FROM SEED (Honor).-A successful mode is detailed on page 496.

INARCHING VINES (G. C.).—We consider the best age of wood for inarching is one year, but the operation may be practised successfully with older wood. The most speedy union we have known was in the case of wood of the current year. We inarched a strong shoot after it had become firm, but whilst its wood was quite green, on an old rod that would be nearly thirty years planted. The union was well and speedily effected.

PLANTING LARGE SHRUBS (W. N.).-The water standing in the pits you have made does not necessarily show the ground needs draining, as the longcontinued wet has saturated every description of ground with water. We should rather judge of the ground by what it was before; if it was wet it should be drained. It is of no use putting stones in the holes. The water lodging ought to be carried off, and have a proper fall and outlet. Small tiles would answer well for draining the ground. If the water is only a conse quence of the late rains, we think it will be "necessary to loosen the soil and rock for a little distance in front of each hole," so as to let the water out of the pits. We should go further, and trench the whole of the ground as deeply as the soil permits, placing the turf at the bottom. There is no comparison to be made between the growth of shrubs planted in holes formed in solid ground and those planted in trenched soil. The latter grow very much better than the former. Too much care can hardly be bestowed on removing the shrubs carefully and with good balls, filling up well and firmly about the balls, and securing them well against winds. Proper precautions at first are worth a good many after-considerations.

that in 1872 your Vines in pots were forced, they will not be suitable for planting VINES IN POTS AFTER FORCING (G. H. S.).—If by "last year" you mean

in a new vinery; but if they have had a year's fresh growth after being forced, they will be suitable for planting. Should they have been forced in 1872 you may destroy them, or you may restore them by cutting close down, and training a single cane from the bottom; and when this is strong and well ripened the Vines will be suitable for planting out or forcing.

CLERODENDRON BALFOURII LEAFLESS (Idem). With us at this season this plant is leafless, and we keep it rather dry-not so much so, however, as to cause the wood to shrivel. After February the plants are kept moist, and the new growths go directly to flower. Repot when the flowering is over, or when the shoots are a few inches long, and encourage growth by a moist atmosphere and brisk heat of 65 at night and 75 by day, with a rise from sun heat to 85° or 90. Water rather sparingly until the roots are working freely in the fresh soil, and then water abundantly, continuing the atmospheric and root moisture until the growth is complete, or up to the close of September; then give less water, and keep the plants dry in winter. Use a compost of two parts fibrous loam and one part each of sandy peat, leaf soil, and old cow dung, or well-rotted hotbed manure, with half a part of silver sand, and charcoal in lumps between the sizes of peas and hazel nuts, or larger, according to the dimensions of the plants; the whole well mixed. Good drainage is necessary. Afford a light and airy position.

HYACINTH ROOTS DECAYING (Careful).—It is very improbable that the roots have been destroyed by the pots standing on a stone floor. We should say they were injured by the heavy and continued rains we have experienced whilst they were plunged, which we presume was in the open ground. Placing them in the greenhouse whilst in a sodden wet state would only hasten the decay, which we presume had set in before the plants were removed from the ashes. In no other way can we account for the loss of roots. It would have been well had the plants been plunged in a cold frame, so that heavy rains might have been thrown off by drawing on the lights in a wet period, but keeping them tilted at back.

HEATING GREENHOUSE AND HALL (H. T.).-There will be no difficulty in heating the hall, greenhouse, and vinery in the mode proposed. Though the hall be lofty, still with opaque walls, and, we presume, a wooden or plastered roof, less heat in proportion will be required than for the same amount of cubical feet as a house with a glass roof. If we knew the exact position of the tool-house, hall, greenhouse, and vinery, we might be able to say more.

GLASS SHED (4 Subscriber).—We hope very soon to publish some notes on the structure you refer to.

DOBBIE'S CHAMPION LEEK.-If "N. S. S." send twelve stamps to Mr. James Dobbie, Glebe Street, Renfrew, Scotland, he will be attended to.

CONVERTING GREENHOUSES INTO VINERIES (Baron). We should have liked your houses better if you had been able to have planted the front and permanent Vines inside, but your proposed arrangements will answer. InStead of having Vines planted out in the back border, we should have them in large pots set on the border, allow them to root into it, and plant in it Camellias, which we would train to the back wall. Their flowers will be nearly as valuable as the Grapes, and by the time the back part of the house is covered with Vines they will be of good size, and will not be injuriously affected by the Vines in pots; whereas, were you to plant the Vines in the border the Camellias could not be planted until the Vines were removed and a proper border for the Camellias formed. Camellias will do well under the shade of the Vines, but we would not plant the latter nearer than 3 feet 6 inches, or allow a Vine to each rafter if the rafters are not nearer than 3 feet, though we should like them better at the former distance. The ground glass is not so good for Vines as 21-oz. sheet, yet we think the Grapes grown under it will be good. The Vines will give you in full crop 1 lb. of Grapes to every foot length of rafter, or for your house with six Vines 126 lbs. weight of Grapes. It is profitable to grow Cucumbers in pits heated by hot-water pipes, also in frames, and you have an advantage as coal is cheap, only carriage to market may tell much against your profits. For the first house, which we presume you wish to force, we should have entirely Black Hamburgh, and if you wish for white Grapes, Foster's White Seedling and Buckland Sweetwater; for the late house Muscat of Alexandria, Trebbiano, Alicante, Lady Downe's, and Gros Guillaume. If you wish the Grapes to hang after Christmas, omit the Muscat of Alexandria. The Vines will grow well in good light garden soil, well drained, adding bones, lime rubbish, and manure; but if, from the soil being unsuitable, you have to take out the soil for a border, form it of turf, with the additions above named.

PRUNING NEWLY-PLANTED OAKS (Yarmouth, I. of W.).-From the side branches of the Oaks recently planted remove only the side shoots, cutting off the strongest and leaving the small twiggy ones. Keep the plants to one good leader. The shoots removed should be cut off closely. The best time to do it is probably March. Go over the trees every year, and keep them to one leader, removing the strong side branches. This will make the leader grow more vigorously, and a straighter tree will be formed than if the trees were left to chance, dependance being placed on crowding the trees for decreasing the vigour of the side branches.

SHRUBS UNDER LIME TREES (H. H.).-Aucuba japonica thrives better than most of the subjects we have tried, and we have also seen thriving Alexandrian Laurel, Box, Butcher's Broom, Berberis Aquifolium, Spurge Laurel, Yew, Holly, Colchian and common Laurel. But as you say you have failed with the latter, your chances of getting the abovenamed to grow will be small, except in the case of the Aucuba and Butcher's Broom; therefore we advise you to plant Periwinkles and Ivies, the former at 2 feet, and the latter at 4 feet apart. Train the shoots over the ground, and you will secure a green covering sooner than by planting shrubs.

PLANTING AMARYLLIS FORMOSISSIMA (E. J. W. P.).-The bulbs of this, the Jacobea Lily, should be potted at once, placing six or more in a 6 or 7-inch pot, filled with a compost of two parts fibrous loam, one part leaf soil,

half a part sandy peat, and half a part well-rotted manure, with a free admix ture of silver sand, on which the base of the bulbs should rest, and these should be covered with soil to the neck. They should be kept in a house or pit safe from frost up to the middle of March, and may then be placed in a hotbed, and gently brought into flower; or they may be set in a vinery or other house, removing them to the greenhouse when they are flowering.

PLANTING PANCRATIUM MARITIMUM (Idem).—This, though hardy in a dry warm border, is best grown in pots, and should be potted at once in good rich loam and leaf soil, using a pot twice the diameter of the bulb, and placing it in a greenhouse. Do not water much until the plant begins to grow. It would start more surely if the pot were placed in a gentle hotbed, removing to a greenhouse after the plant had made good roots and was growing freely.

PLANTING LILIUM LONGIFLORUM (Idem). - Plant it out-doors if the weather continue mild, or as soon as it becomes so, adding some leaf soil and sandy peat to the soil. Place some silver sand under and around the bulbs, cover them with 3 inches of soil, and mulch over the spot with an inch thick of partially decayed leaves.

DATURA TATULA AND D. FEROX CULTURE (F. J. K.). Both are hardy annuals; but to ripen perfectly the seeds, which are what you require, we should sow in a hotbed in March, pot-off singly when large enough to handle, return to the hotbed, and shift into larger pots as required. Admit air freely after April, gradually harden-off, and plant-out early in June on a warm sheltered border of light soil, enriched with leaf soil and well-decayed manure. We think with watering in a dry period you should succeed with both, especially if you give a warm south border. Henfrey's "Elementary Course of Botany," edited by Dr. Masters, will suit you.

KALOSANTHES Browned (Amateur).—The growths have been checked at the points, probably by an excess of moisture and the plants having been kept too far from the glass and in too high a temperature. Place them near the glass, give no more water than enough to keep them gently growing, and remove the shrivelled leaves, which will come away without destroying the points. Or it may be that the points of the shoots have been attacked by thrips. In the latter case remove the shrivelled leaflets, and fumigate the plants with tobacco. These plants cannot be kept too near the glass, nor have a position too airy and well exposed to the light.

REPOTTING PYRAMID PEAR AND CHERRY TREES (Idem).-You may take up the trees now and pot them, using a compost of rather strong loam, with a third of well-rotted manure. Pot very firmly, and after potting place in a warm sheltered position out-doors, with the pots plunged to the rim.

In

February or March you may place them in the most light and airy position in the greenhouse, and they will, no doubt, give you flowers and fruit in due

course.

CONCRETING PEACH BORDER (A Reader).-To prevent the roots of the trees from going down you will succeed by proceeding as you propose taking out the soil to a depth of 3 feet 6 inches, and sloping from the wall outwards. Place 3 or 4 inches of rubble at the bottom, and ram it hard, then put on another layer of equal thickness, but smaller materials, and run with quicklime and two parts fine gravel or rough sand made into a thin mortar. Let it remain for a few days to dry, and then smooth over with a trowel. As your trees are liable to canker, we presume the ground is imperfectly drained. It should be drained efficiently to a depth of 4 feet, if you can command a proper fall and outlet for that depth. If the soil is unsuitable it should be removed and replaced by a good compost. The trees, we suppose, are protected from frost in spring and early summer.

USES OF LATE VINERY (Twelve-years Subscriber).—We think the only use to which you can put your late vinery is as a receptacle for plants that do not require more fire heat than 40° to 45°. A higher temperature would be injurious to the Vines, which need rest. You may also employ the house for protecting and forwarding salads. It would be still more profitable to make up a Mushroom bed, admitting air freely, in order that the heat generated by the bed may not interfere with the rest of the Vines. With a good bed that will not suffer if kept from frost and dry, for two months, or not less than six weeks, you will have an abundance of Mushrooms that will pay you better than anything we know. We should prepare the materials for the bed at once, and make it up as soon as the house is cleared of the Grapes. If you cannot procure sufficient materials to make up the bed at once, we should get together as much as we could, making portions at a time. The bed, or part of it, must be kept dry for six weeks after spawning.

DISSOLVING BONES (G Allen).—Any of the agricultural implement makers could supply you with a bone-crushing machine. To dissolve the crushed bones they must be put into a tub and frequently stirred in a mixture of sulphuric acid and water. The proportions are 12 ozs. acid, 12 ozs. water,

16 ozs. bones.

POULTRY, BEE, AND PIGEON CHRONICLE.

POULTRY IN THE PAST YEAR. We have kept on so peacefully during the past year that on this, our first issue in the new one, we are almost disposed to let well alone, and follow in the same groove. But it would not satisfy us; we want closer contact with the many, to whom we owe the success for which we are thankful. With that feeling we wish to join the assurance that the course which has been successful hitherto will still be followed by us, and this can only be conveyed by the means of an article addressed directly to them. It is with no small gratification that when we

think of subscribers, contributors, and others, we can address them all in the word Friends. For this reason we cannot pass the time without an especial word or two. We should be wanting in our duty, we should rob ourselves of a pleasure, if we did. Our little craft has sailed in smooth water. We have not a grievance: hence our difficulty. Half a dozen good and just causes for complaint would make our pen write all alone, and we should become verbose. But now before we add a few lines on the retrospect of 1872 as it bears on poultry, we can only say we heartily thank all our friends for the good services they have rendered us in that period of time.

In writing of these matters year after year we cannot always note an increase as compared with the previous one. There is a limit to everything, and we may well be content at that which has been accomplished, and thankful if we can keep it there.

When we say Dorkings have not increased in weight we do not mean to say there have not been birds shown that have seldom been equalled, but we believe the average has certainly not exceeded that of former years. They still form one of the most important classes at every show. The time-honoured Cochins have certainly improved, and are fast becoming what they were formerly. Those who saw the adult classes at Birmingham will long recollect them. The Brahmas stand almost at the head of all classes. The wisdom that encouraged them is manifest, and bears good fruit. The recent introduction of separate classes for the Light birds has been a great success. Beautiful birds are shown in large numbers.

It is hard to say anything about the Game. They are always numerous, and afford many perfect specimens. The Black and Brown Reds monopolise public patronage. The Duckwings do not improve, and many of the old breeds seem quite out of favour. Hamburghs hold their own everywhere; but at almost all shows the Golden, both Pencilled and Spangled, are superior to the Silver.

Spanish seem doomed for a time to mediocrity as a class. Although excellent birds are not wanting, we miss the high type of past years.

The public opinion has been a correct one as regards the French breeds. At many of the large shows three classes were formed-Crêve-Coeurs, Houdans, and La Flèche. The first two have not only held their own, but the birds bred in England have been quite equal to the imported; while the latter, lacking as they do all the main properties of good birds, have disappeared not only from the prize lists but almost from the catalogues.

weight than in that of any other poultry. Geese are stationary. Turkeys still get heavier. There is more real increase in their Aylesbury Ducks rather lose ground than otherwise, while the Rouens increase in weight, value, and numbers.

The old and celebrated Sebright Bantams can hardly make classes. The Blacks and Whites are far more numerous, while the name of the Game is legion. Bantam-makers, however, seem tired of the process. We have no novelties. The pretty Cochin Bantams, that were so attractive and that sold so readily at large prices, are not increased, and we seldom meet with them.

The new class for Ornamental Ducks is a great success. The many varieties shown, each more beautiful than its fellow, and the facility with which they are kept, will cause many to follow the example of the exhibitors, and keep pets pleasing not only on account of their beauty, but for their tameness and their attachment to their owner or feeder.

Thus the whole pursuit tends to increase food, to augment pleasure, and to study Nature in one of her most beautiful forms. That which was the object of the miscalled poultry mania has been fully attained. The quantity of food has been doubled, increased weight having done as much as increased breeding. The breeds have been well tested as to their suitability for certain soils and places, and many an overworked professional man has had cause to thank those who suggested a pursuit innocent and healthy; while the institution and increase of shows afford frequent opportunities for moderate excitement.

We have done all in our power to foster the pursuit. While our columns are always open to those who have legitimate cause of complaint, we carefully avoid all things that are purely As we never knowpersonal and destitute of public interest. ingly print an unjust remark or one that may cause undeserved praise, we can say to all with whom we are in contact in our daily life and pursuit, We wish you

A HAPPY NEW YEAR.

CUMBERLAND AND NORTH OF ENGLAND POULTRY AND PIGEON SOCIETY.-The above Show, fixed for the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th inst., has classes mainly divided into single cocks and pairs of hens,

18

with prizes of £2, £1, and 10s. in each, to which are added five- | guinea cups to the best pen in nearly all the different varieties. The Selling classes are also worthy of support, the first prize in each being £3, with that most useful article a knitting machine value £7 78., to the best of the lot. The most notable feature in the schedule is the way in which the entry fees are chargedviz., 5s. per pen for all pens entered to be sold at or under £5, with an additional charge of 28. on all entered above that amount. This will either enable fanciers to buy a pen of really good birds at a reasonable price, or compel those who own the best birds, and who are sure to win, to pay an additional entry fee: thus, if an exhibitor enters his birds at £10 he will have to pay 78. 6d. entrance.

LIGHT BRAHMAS AT THE CRYSTAL PALACE. YOUR correspondent "OUTIS" ably expresses what must be the feelings of all inexperienced exhibitors in reference to the judging at the above Show, but I do not think he is quite justified in laying all the blame upon those much-abused gentlemen the Judges. If we were, note-book in hand, to visit every important poultry exhibition during the year, in order to learn the standard of excellence, we should undoubtedly find ourselves so overpowered with conflicting evidence, that we should despair at ever arriving at a definite opinion. But the time has not yet come for us to increase our knowledge very materially from poultry exhibitions. After a few years' study of our particular fancy, we have imprinted on the tablet of our minds an ideal specimen which may or may not correspond with Mr. L. Wright's picture, and it affords us considerable gratification to compare our ideal with that which has a real existence, and this is about the amount of profit which we derive from poultry shows as at present constituted. No doubt we ought to be able to depend on the Judges' awards to furnish us with the information we require, but when the promoters of exhibitions care for nothing except to make them paying concerns, we cannot wonder at the result being unsatisfactory as far as the public "OUTIS" declares that the Light Brahmas were badly judged at the Crystal Palace, and he might have given the cup pullet as a notable instance of a judgment, to say the least, slightly astray. But was it altogether the Judges' fault that the wrong bird obtained the "blue ribbon ?" Was it possible for any man of ordinary capacity to give undivided attention to the examination of four or five hundred pens of birds, surrounded and hustled and jostled by a staring and jabbering multitude? Imagine Mr. Teebay proceeding, with that dignified solemnity for which he is justly famed, from pen to pen, measuring, and examining, and noting with critical eye every point, and just as he is about to record the result of his deliberations, the multitude rush in, press upon him, talk at him, trample on his toes, and in every possible way put him to extreme torture. Can we not fancy him with pathetic look turning to his favourites and saying, "Alas, my dear Brahmas, I can do you no justice. The Managers of the Crystal Palace Show will allow this horrible rabble to plague you and me. I really forget which of you should be first, second, or third, for I am literally bewildered, and therefore chance or a confused memory must decide the question of your merits."

is concerned.

I am sure when "OUTIS" considers the matter in this light, he will be inclined to congratulate the Judges on their extraordinary luck generally in giving the awards, for it can be nothing but luck which gives the right bird the prize under such adverse circumstances.-J. D. HOYSTED.

JUDGING SILVER-GREY DORKINGS. As Mr. Cato, in raising a discussion about the points of SilverGrey Dorking cocks, has introduced my name into the question, I think I ought to say a few words about the part of his letter personally affecting myself and my own strain of birds before giving my ideas on the general subject. Mr. Cato seems to think that the fact of my having shown one or two cocks with white in the breast has inclined the Judges to tolerate the fault; this I think hardly likely, but the fact I believe to be the reverse of it. Finding colour often disregarded, and prizes given to cock birds of faulty plumage on account of their size, I have lately been induced to try one or two birds which I should otherwise have kept at home; for it is an undoubted fact that larger birds can be bred with this blemish than with jet-black breasts. It may, however, be a consolation to Mr. Cato to know that all my winners in Silver-Grey classes have been perfectly black-breasted, and that nine out of ten cocks of my own strain are such. The fact that he has lately seen birds of mine with the fault in question is thus explained: During the severe spring I lost all my early Silver-Grey chickens but one; and so, finding my own more perfect stock too late to compete at autumn shows, I fell back upon some birds hatched from eggs of a famous Irish strain, rather than not enter at the great shows; and this strain, renowned for the beauty of its pullets, seems

most faulty in respect of cockerels' breasts, and has done me little good.

To turn to the general question. Two reasons have, I believe, together encouraged speckled breasts. In any breed where size and feather both enter largely into a judge's consideration, there cannot possibly be an exact standard. Judges cannot all strike an equal balance between the two great features to be regarded. At Birmingham last year everything went to size in this breed; and the most faultless cock I ever possessed, or, I believe, ever saw, was unnoticed from being a pound or so lighter than others which might have appeared in the Coloured classes. I shall try the same bird again at Bristol to see what the Judges there think of him.

Awards in the hen classes have of late greatly favoured the very pale birds; certainly they are exquisitely beautiful, but most experienced breeders must have discovered that they breed cocks with white in the breast.

If this discussion should lead to any practical result-viz., a decision of the leading Judges on the point, I shall be very glad; but I trust that that decision will not necessitate the breeding of cockerels and pullets from separate runs, which must be the case if very pale hens are required, and at the same time cocks with jet-black breasts.-O. ERNEST CRESSWELL.

MISTAKES IN CATALOGUES AT CROYDON

AND OXFORD.

IN answer to the statement in your Journal of December 12th concerning the Oxford Show, I enclose the entry-form on which Mr. C. Dennison, of Halifax, entered a pen of Owl Pigeons. I would recommend all persons, before they commence finding fault with the committees and secretaries of the different shows, to take care to ascertain that their statements are correct. There is no gainsaying that Mr. Dennison entered a pen of Pigeons, and it appeared in the Oxford catalogue in due course. If exhibitors who had entered birds would, some time before the publication of the catalogue, inform the secretary they did not intend to send them for competition, the statement would

appear in the catalogue.

With regard to the delay in receiving the birds on their return home, the fault, as far as my short experience goes, is not always that of the managers; for instance, every bird at the Oxford Show was in the hands of its owner, or in the charge of the various railway companies, before 1 P.M. the day after the Show closed; and yet in some few instances they did not reach their destination till late on Sunday, taking ninety-six hours to travel eighty miles.

Again, as to non-arrival of catalogues, every application as received was entered in a book. We had the wrappers ready addressed, and immediately the awards were in print they were posted in time for the mail out of Oxford at 5 P.M., the first day of the Show, and, with about three exceptions, we had no complaint of their not reaching their destination. In two cases out of the three the failure was traced to the insufficient address furnished us by the person applying.

In conclusion, I would mention that the last few days before and on the days of the Show the work has to be done at high pressure; and if exhibitors and others would carefully look over the rules and endeavour on their part to carry them out, in all communications to write legibly, and to send their full address, then I do not think we should hear so many complaints of the so-called negligent secretaries.-JOSEPH KING, Oxford.

DUNDEE POULTRY SHOW.

THE Coloured Dorkings were excellent classes. The cockerel class contained eighteen entries, and not an inferior bird amongst them. A very large bird in this class secured the cup for the best pen of Dorkings in the Show; besides the three prize birds, six were highly commended. The Coloured Dorking hens were grand, much better than the pullets. The Silver-Grey Dorkings, hens and pullets, were both good classes. Buff Cochins, though not very large classes, contained many splendid birds. The pair of Buff hens that secured the first prize were in faultless condition and as near perfection as possible; this pen also won the cup for the best pen of Cochins, and the champion cup, value ten guineas, for the best pen in the Show; thus winning for their owner at this Show prizes to the value of £15 3s. For Cochin cocks, any but Buff or Cinnamon, the first went to the splendid White bird that was second at Birmingham; the second prize to a beautiful Partridge; the third to a very good White. In the class for hens all the three prizes went to capital Whites. In both cockerels and pullets the Whites took the lion's share of the prizes. Brahmas had sixty-four entries, nearly all of the Dark variety, and were decidedly the best classes throughout The hens and chickens, however, were good. The quality of for quality in the Show. Spanish, adult cocks were not good. many of the cockerels' faces was all that could be desired, but Black and Brown Red Game cocks mustered seventeen entries, with very many of the combs were far too large and coarse.

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