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Plants directory, 1834
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TAe American Flower Garden Directory
Robert Buist, Hibbert and Buist
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THE AMERICAN
FLOWER GARDEN DIRECTORY,
CONTAINING PRACTICAL DIRECTIONS FOR THK CULTURE OF PLANTS,
IN THE
HOT-HOT/0B, O AXDBar-BOirsa, FLOWBR CMLBDBXf ASTD mOOMS OB ZABXtOURS,
FOR EVERT MONTH IN THE TEAR.
With
A DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANTS MOOT DESIRABLE IN EACH, THE NATURE 09 THK MIL AMD
SITUATION BEST ADAPTED TO THEIR GROWTH, THE PROPER SEASON FOR
TRANSPLANTING, &C
INSTRUCTIONS FOR ERECTING A
ALSO
Table of Soils most congenial to the Plants contained in the Work.
THE WHOLE ADAPTED TO EITHER LARGE OR SHALL GARDENS, WITH
LISTS OF ANNUALS, BIENNIALS, AND ORNAMENTAL SHRUBS,
CONTENTS, A GENERAL INDEX,
AND A FRONTISPIECE OF CAMELLIA FIMBRIATA.
By HIBBERT AND JBT719T*
EXOTIC NURSERYMEN AND FLORISTS.
PHILADELPHIA:
E. L. CAREY & A. HART - CHESNUT STREET.
BOSTON:
ALLEN & TICKNOR.
1834.
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Eastern District of Pennsylvania, to wit : No. 240.
Be it RKimantKD, dial on the nineteenth day of May, Anno Domini one thou- sand eight hundred and thirty-two,
HlBBKET & BCTIST,
of the said district, hath deposited in this office the title of a book, the title of which is in the words following, to wit ;
The American Flower Garden Directory, containing Practical Directions for the Col- tivation of Plants in the Hot-house, Garden-house, Flower Garden, and Booms or Parlours, 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 trans- planting, Ac.
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 adapt- ed to either large or small Gardens, with lists of annuals, biennials, and ornamental Shrubs, Contents, a General Index, and a Frontispiece of Camellia Fimbriate* By Hibbert Jc Buiet, Exotic Nurserymen and Florists.
The right whereof they claim as authors, in conformity with an Act of Congress,
.... ....... ... ... .. ^ -. . teW
Ok. District
entitled "An Act to amend the several Acts respecting Copy-Rights."
FRAS. HOPKINSON, Ok
For value received, I hereby transfer the within copy-right to Messrs. Carey & Hart Philad. Dec 31, 1833.
BOBT. BUIST, Surviving partner of the late firm of Hibbert A Buist
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PREFACE.
Thus volume owes its existence principally to the repeated requests of a number of our fair patrons, and amateur supporters, whose en- quiries and wishes for a practical manual on Floraculture, 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 increasing- ly interesting subject. It will at once be perceived that there are no pretensions to literary claims - the directions are given in the simplest manner- - the arrangement made as lucidly as was in our power - and the whole is presented with the single wish of its being practically use- ful. How far our object has been attained of course our readers must judge. Nothing has been intentionally concealed ; and all that is as- serted is the result of minute observation, close application, and an extended continuous experience from childhood. We pretend not to infallibility, and are not so sanguine as to declare our views the most perfect that can be attained. But we can so ftr say, that the prac- tice here recommended has been found very successful.
Some very probably may be disappointed in not having the means of propagating as clearly delineated 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
667870
IT FBSFACIL
both on this contioent and in Europe. In one of the former it is said, M Too may now propagate many kinds (Exotic Plants) by suckers, cuttings, and layers, which should he 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 grow- ing kinds, take off large cuttings at a joint, and plunge them in a pot of sand under a band-glass in the bark bed. Of the smaller kinds take younger kinds, and put them tinder 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 imperfect and unavail- ing, which, we flatter ourselves, is not the character that will attach to the present work. 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 be answered, if arranging, simplifying, digesting, and rendering Floraculture attainable by the humblest capa- city, with useful lists and tables on a plan quite novel, as we believe - offer nothing new, it may at least be called an improvement How- ever, we submit all to a generous public, to whom we are already under many obligations.
Hibbbxt & Btot. PytaddpKa, April l&ft, 1839.
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INTRODUCTION.
In presenting this work, constructed as a monthly calendar, which * is the most simple and easy method to convey the necessary opera- tions of the year, considerably more labour has been expended, than was at first expected, to render it as accurate as possible. Some verbal mistakes may have been overlooked in the botanical names. Where such occur, the list of names at the end of the volume will enable the reader to correct them ; as well as the accentuation. For such other errors as may be discovered, the indulgence of the reader is solicited.
Frequently, in the description of plants, there are Botanical and English names compounded, in order the more clearly to elucidate their several parts to those who are not fully acquainted with scienti- fic terms. The description of the colour of fiowers and habits of plants will be useful to such as are at a great distance from collec- tions, in enabling them to make selections judiciously.
Those plants described and recommended have all, with a few ex- ceptions, passed under our own observation, and are generally such as are moft worthy of attention, 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 gene- ' rally known, or difficult to obtain ; but in no case has there been sup- pression from selfish motives. Where the words " our collections" occur, it is meant for those of the country generally, and especially those immediately in the vicinity of Philadelphia. In all our observa- tions, no regard has been paid to what has been written by others,
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1 * INTRODUCTION.
either in the way of depreciation, or of particular apppreciation. Perhaps some other cultivators may differ from us respecting culture and soil ; however this may be, we rest satisfied, as our work is de- signedly and professedly given as the result of our own experience, the plan laid down is our own routine of culture, and the soils are those which we adopt. We do not say that there is no soil in which the plants will not grow better, fully aware that every art and profes- sion is subject to improvement. The table of soils has been construct- ed at the expense of much labour, and condensed as much as possible ; to every one that has a single plant it will be found invaluable. Many are the publications in Europe on Gardening and Floraculture, the , directions in which, when practised in the United States, prove almost a perfect dead letter. A work adapted to the climate must be the guide in this country, and not one which is foreign to us in every respect. On this account a work like the present has been a desideratum, considering the rapidly increasing and interesting ad- vancement of the culture of flowers amongst the fair daughters of our flourishing republic.
To aid them and others seeking information in this instructive and delightful pursuit - to enable them to examine more minutely, and judge more correctly of the qualities, properties, and beauties of plants - have been prominent objects in this publication. Here, as knowledge is increased, the warmer will be the devotion of the de- lighted student ; and as the mind correspondingly expands, the desire for further information will keep pace - advancing constantly in the development of nature, the mind will participate in the enjoyment, and become meliorated and purified - as the study of nature's works inevitably lead to the contemplation of nature's God, and the result of the whole prove a harmonious combination of personal gratification and mental improvement.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS.
HOT-HOUSE.
JANUARY.
Page
Pasre.
Of Temperature,
9
Of bringing out the Hot-house Plants, 255
Firing and Fuel,
ib.
Succulents
257
Watering
11
Insects, to destroy,
12
JUNE $ JULY.
Shifting Plants,
17
General Observations,
272
Cleaning do., &c,
19
AUGUST.
FEBRUARY.
Of Repotting,
284
Of Temperature,
33
Repairing the House,
ib.
Insects,
Shifting Plants, Cleaning do. and House,
34 35 37
SEPTEMBER.
Of Dressing the Plants, Taking in do.,
298 ib.
MARCH.
General Observations, Of Shifting Plants,
56
57
OCTOBER. Of Airing and Temperature,
NOVEMBER.
311
APRIL.
Of Temperature,
326
Of Temperature,
168
Cistern and Water,
ib.
Observations in general,
169
DECEMBER.
MAY.
Of Firing,
337
Of Repotting Plants,
219
Shutters,
ib.
Hot -house Plants described,
ib.
Placing Bulbs in the Hot-house, 333
GREEN-HOUSE.
JANUARY.
MARCH.
Green -house,
20
Of Temperature,
57
Of Temperature,
21
Watering,
58
Watering,
ib.
Oranges and Lemons,
ib.
Camellia Japonica,
22
Myrtles and Oleanders,
59
Oranges, Lemons, &c,
24
Geraniums,
60
Cape Bulbs, &c,
ib.
Herbaceous plants,
ib.
Hyacinths, &a,
25
Cape Bulbs,
ib.
Repotting,
61
FEBRUARY.
Enarching,
127
Of Temperature,
38
Watering,
39
APRIL.
Oranges and Lemons,
ib.
Of Repotting,
170
Bulbs,
40
Watering,
ib.
Camellia Japonica,
41
Oranges and Lemons, Myrtles and Oleanders,
171
Shifting,
ib.
173
Cleaning, 6tc,
43
Geraniums,
ib
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TABLE OF CONTENTS.
Page.
Of Herbaceous Plants and Bulbs, 174
Flowering Plants, 175
Insects, ib.
Flowering Stocks, 176
MAY. Of bringing out the Green-house
Plants, 258
Repotting Plants, 259
Camellias, 264
Cape Bulbs, 265
JUKE Sf JULY.
General Observations, 273
AUGUST.
Of Geraniums, 286
Oranges and Lemons, 287
Pruning do, 289
Repotting Plants, ib.
SEPTEMBER. Page.
Of Repairing the House, 300
Watering, 301 Preparing for taking in the Plants, ib.
Stocks and Wall-flowers, 302
Chrysanthemums, ib.
Cape and Holland Bulbs, 303
Repotting, 306
OCTOBER.
Of taking in and arranging the Plimts, *^
Repotting, Camellias,
NOVEMBER, Of Air and Water, Tender Bulbs,
DECEMBER.
Of Temperature, Bulbous Roots,
312 313 315
327 328
340 341
FLOWER-GARDEN.
JANUARY.
APRIL.
Flower Garden,
25
Of Annuals,
178
Of Framing, &c.
26
Biennials and Perennials,
179
Pruning,
27
Dahlias,
180
China Roses,
182
FEBRUARY.
Climbing M " Plants,
189
Of Pruning,
44
196
Planting Shrubs, Hyacinths and other Bulbs,
48
Deciduoui Shrubs,
199
51
Planting Evergreens,
ib.
Framing,
ib.
Care of choice Bulbs,
201
Anemone and Ranunculus,
203
MARCH.
Auriculas,
204
Of PlantingBoz Edgings, Sowing Tender Annuals,
130
Carnations and Pinks,
ib.
131
Polianthui tuberose,
205
Sowing Hardy u
132
Jacobea Lily, &c.
207
Sowing Biennials,
133
Tiger-flower,
208
Planting Perennials,
ib.
Walks,
209
Bulboui Roots,
152
Evergreen Hedges,
210
Repotting Carnations, Pinks an<
I
Box-edgings,
Grass-plats & Flowering-plants,
211
Primroses,
153
212
Auriculas,
154
Ranunculus and Anemone,
155
MAY.
Roses, planting,
ib.
Of Annuals, hardy and tender,
266
Pruning Climbing Roses,
159
Hyacinths and Tulips,
ib.
Planting Ornamental Shrubs, Grass-plats and Walks, Gravel-walks,
ib.
Anemone and Ranunculus,
267
160 162
Dahlia, Tuberose, and Amaryllis, ib. Auricula, Polyanthus and Prim-
Fancy-edgings,
ib ~
rose,
ib.
Grafting,
1631
Wall-flower, double,
268
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TABLE Of CONTENTS.
J UN'S AND JULY.
Holland Butts, 974
Aatoaift flowering-bulbs, ib.
Carnations and Pinks, . -275,
Of Lading Carnations and Pinks, 977
Pruning Rt*es, 378
Budding, 379
Watering, 981
AWV8T. ' „
Of Evergreen Hedges, 993
Carnation* and Pinks, 994
Bulbous Roots, ' ib.
Sowing Seeds of do. 295
44 and gathering Seeds, 996
SEPTEMBER.
Of Dahlias, 307
. General oare of Plants in poU, ib.
Beds for Bulbous-roots, 308
OCTOBER.
Of Planting various Bulbs, 917
" and transplanting* 909
Grass and Gravel-walks, 999
Planting Evergreens, ib*
NOVEMBER.
Of Protecting Choice Bulbs, 339
Tuberose, Dahlia, Tigridie, and
AmaryMis 990
Ervthrinas, * ib.
Primrose and Daisy, 391
Choice Carnations, Pinks, and.
Auriculas, . ib.
Protecting Plants, 399
« Seeding-bufbs, 999
Planting Deciduous Trees and
8hrubs, ib. '
DECEMBER:
General Observations, 349
ROOMS.
JANUARY.
r Cape bulbs,
ttm
Rooms,
9a
Repotting,
171
Of Temperature', '
ib.
Watering,
99
JUNE AND JULY.
Camellia Japonica, Insects, , Bulbous Hoots,
ib. 30 31
General Observations,
989
AUGUST
General Observations,
99C
FEBRUARY.
Sowing Mignonette,
997
Of Temperature,
54
-
Hyacinths,
55
SEPTEMBER. -
Camellias,
ib.
Of a Stage for Rooms,
900
MARCH. , -
General Observations,
310
General Observations,
165
OCTOBER.
Of Flowering Plants,
MB
Of taking in the Plants, -
993
APRit
Bulbous roots,
394
Of plants brought front the Green-
.
house,
914
NOVEMBER.
Flowering Plants,
Bringing plants out of the celloj
915
Of Ctanelhaa,4tc.
395
, jb.
-
' , -
DECEMBER.
MAY.
An outline of culture of plants, .
344
tjf Bringing eat the Plants,
#9
Inde* of Plants,
S53
On the construction of a HotJiouse l 945.
Description of Soils* ,
375
348
Table of Soils, .
ib.
« h «* Green-house, &49
On laying out a Flower Garden, 349, 359
Digits
zed by GOOgk
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OMITTED IN MARCH.
Jusrr&num, Jasmine. A few species of this genus are celebrated either for the Green-house or Rooms. «/. odoratissimutn, Azprian, has *ery sweet-scented yellow flowers, blooming from April to November. /. revofa- tom 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 about June. J. grandifikum is frequently called Catalonian, and should be pruned early in spring to make it bloom well, especially old plants. J. officinale is a hardy climbing plant for arbours, walls, &c. There are several varie- ties of it, and it is reported there is a double one.
ERRATA.
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THE
AMERICAN FLOWER GARDEN
DIRECTORY.
ftot^mowt.
JANUARY.
At all times be very careful of the temperature of this department, and more especially at this season of the year, as a few minutes* neglect might materially injure many of the delicate plants. The thermometer ought to range between 58° and 65°. In fine sunshine days, admit a little air by having some of the top sashes let down, one, two, or three inches, according to the weather, and let it always be done from eleven to one o'clock ; but by no means in such a manner as to cause a draught in the interior of the house, which would be very prejudicial. Therefore be always cautious during cold weather, in administering that necessary element to vegetation, which is so conducive to health.
OF FIRING AND FUEL.
The Hot-house ought never to be left entirely to in- experienced persons, because they are not aware of what might be the result of inattention even for an hour.
2
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JO HOT-HOUSE - FUEL. [Januakt.
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. Sup- pose the day may have all the clemency of spring, the night may be directly the reverse. Every precaution is necessary to guard against extremes. According to what.w.qa wd last month, it is understood that the '-Vfihutttfs-ftrb'put on every night at sundown, and in : : : ^prgr0:Wea|h?r % they must be put on as soon as the sun - : -" 'goes off tKe 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 mid- night; and when done, the fire or fires have been made more powerful than they ought to be, proving uncon- genial to the plants that are near the flues. The air, as above directed, having been taken off 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 draw- ing 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, one fire in the morning is requisite. When there are bad drawing furnaces 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 55° of Fahrenheit.
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j4NUA»r.] HOT-HOUSE-WATBR1NG PLANTS. | ]
OF WATERING THE PLANTa
To do this judiciously, is so necessary to vegetation, and so requisite to understand, and yet the knowledge so difficult to convey to others (being entirely acquired by practice,) that if the power was in man to impart it to his fellow-men, he would possess the power of perfecting a gardener by diction. However, the hints on this important point of floraculture, 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 mentioned. 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 are becoming dry, and let it be given moderately at this season. Two or three days may per- haps elapse before it need be repeated. There is not so much liability to err at present in giving too little, as in administering too much. Vegetation amongst the stove or Hot-house plants will soon begin to show, and the soil will prove uncongenial if it is impregnated with stag- nant moisture. Small plants should always be watered 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 preventing any water from being unnecessarily spilt in the house. The size of the pot will be regulated by the person to suit the conveniences
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12 HOTHOUSE - DESTRUCTION OF INSECTS. [January.
of the place. Water, when applied either to the roots or foliage of the plants, should be about the medium temperature of the house. The cistern, built on the plan herein recommended, will always give this, and sometimes more, which* can easily be reduced by add- ing cold water. 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 healthful appearance of the foliage, and too fre- quently gives to 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 re- spective heads, with their nature 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 de- structive in the Hot-house to Hibiscus rdsa-sinensis, As- cfopias, Crdssula coccinea, Alstrcem&ria, 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.
Digitized by
January.] HOTHOUSE - DESTRUCTION OF INSECTS. f 3
Extehsive practice alone can show the most «asy and effectual cure. Fumigating with tobacco is decidedly the most efficacious, and in the power of any to per- form: Take a small circular furnace, made of sheet iron, diameter at top twelve inches,' and at bdttom eight;, depth one foot, having a grating in it tQ re$ch 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 any thing similar, being ready, put' in it a few embers of ignited charcoal; take it into the certtre of the house, and put on the coals a quantity of moist tobacco stems. If they attempt to blaze or flame, sprinkle a little water over them ; and as they consume, 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 more tobacco. The house must be closely shut up. There are several plants whose foli- age is of a soft downy nature, such as Hetitripiums, CaUacarpas, Salvias, and many of the Lantdnas, Vincas, with several others, that cannot stand, without danger, strong fumigation. These should be put low 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 genus, Jlphis, can be destroyed in the like man- ner.
Acaris tellurium or red spider, is caused by a dry at-
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] 4 HOTHOUSE - -DESTRUCTION OF INSECTS. [January.
mosphere, and its havoc generally is obvious before it is arrested. With its proboscis, it wounds the fine ca- pillary vessels; and if the leaves are fine, they will ap- pear as if probed with a needle, and yellowish around the wound. If they have farther progressed in their destructive work, the leaves will prematurely decay. On this appearance, turn up the leaf, and you will see them running about with incredible swiftness. Their body is of a blood colour, and their feet, eight in number, light red. When very numerous, they work thick webs on the under side of the leaf, and fre- quently all over it, forming a mass of half dead plants, decayed leaves, and thousands of spiders. The most effectual remedy is a thorough syring- ing with water, and profusely under the foliage. 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 appeared. It is said by some writers, that watering only reduces 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.
Thrifts^ order Hemiptera, are insects so minute as scarcely to be perceptible to the naked eye. They generally lurk close to the veins of the leaves of plants, and frequently attack esculents. When viewed through a glass, they are seen, when touched, to skip with great agility. The larva is of a high brown, or reddish colour. The thrip has four wings, and walks with its
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Jahuajly.] HOTHOUSE - DESTRUCTION OF INSECTS. ] 5
body turned upwards. It frequently attacks the extremi- ties of tender shoots, or young leaves, which become shrivelled, brown, and will rub to dust easily between 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 fumi- gation of tobacco, in the same manner as the green fly. By the simple and expeditious method of fumigation, these insects and several others may be destroyed effec- tually 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 it de- posits its eggs; and they, in a few months, come forth in great numbers. The cocus generally is of a dor- mant nature, but, in warm weather, they may be seen moving rapidly up the stems of the plants. Fumigat- ing has no observable effect on these insects; there- fore, as soon as they appear, recourse must be had to other means. The liquid made from the following re- ceipt, is death to any of the Cocus tribe: Take two pounds of strong soap, one pound flour of sulphur, one pound of leaf tobacco, one and a half ounce of nux vo- mica, 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, continu- ing to do so until it is reduced as above. In this liquor immerse the whole plant, drawing it to and fro gently, that the liquor may penetrate every where.
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lg HOTHOUSE-DESTRUCTION OF INSECTS. [Jajtoait.
This done, lay the plant on its side, until it begin 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 scrutinized, that the unclean may be kept from the clean : the above insect will feed almost on any plant, but indulges on Crassxdas, any of the bristly Cactus, Gard&nias, and in fact what- ever 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 dirtying them. We have always observed, that it is found in winter to abound most in those situations which are most ex- cluded from air; therefore is of less importance than the other species, which eat and corrode the leaves of ten- der plants. A washing with strong soap suds will de- stroy them, or the above liquid will do it more effec- tually. Tie a piece of sponge on the end of a small stick, and scrub every leaf, stem, and crevice. Fumi- gating destroys the larvae of this species.
Cocus , or small white scaly insect, which
generally infests Cycas revoluta and circin&lis, the varie- ties of JVerium oleander, Okas, and several species of Acacias, 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
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Janu*»t.] * HoraousE - smFnNG FiiAirre. 17
- - . *
ance., The under, or dark side of the leaves is its
residence ; fend we have observed a plant in a house where there was only light on one side, with the datk " side literally covered, while the light side was clean. So mqph for having houses with plenty of light. The effects of this insect op of a corroding nature, extract- ing all the juices from the leaf under it, even straining to the other side; and where they have got to the extremity, the foliage is completely yellow, and of a decayed appearance.
Corns , or turtle insect We have never*
observed this insect arrive to any extent, but think that the Daikra arborea is most infested with it It is the 4arg*st of any genus known amongst us, and very dike a turtle in miniature. On lifting it from the wood, to which it generally adheres, there appear to be hun- dreds of qfg p ynder it, but fumigating completely de- stroys the larvae. In our opinion this turtle insect is no other than the old'ffemale of the brown scaly insect, which swells to a large size before depositing its eggs. We have frequently observed the insect dead in this enlarged state, and question if this is the last stage of its transmigration. The male insect is winged, and very active in its movements.
OF SHIFTING PLANTS.
At this- period of the season very little is required to grpw Caleeol&rias to perfection. They require a few months of the Hot-house, and if the directions given last month were followed up, some of these will have
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j 8 HOT-HOUBE - SHIFTING PLANTS. [Jahua&y.
advanced a little in growth. The herbaceous kinds, when grown about one inch high, ought to be divided, and put into four inch pots, sprinkled gently, and kept in the shade until they begin to grow; after which, keep them near the glass, to prevent them from becoming spindly and drawn- Their farther treatment will be observed as they require. This is a beautiful genus of plants, flowering very profusely all summer, and some of them early in spring.
Aktram&rias, about the beginning or middle of the month, will have made their appearance above ground. When shot about one inch, turn them out,and carefully shake them clear of earth ; and if required, divide the crowns, and put them in as small pots as possible, taking care not to break any of the strong fleshy roots.- (For Soil, see Table;) To flower these plants well, they require to be frequently shifted, during their active stage of growth, which must be duly observed. The most of the species of this genus will more than repay the attention, by their abundantly and beautifully spot- ted flowers. A. JMsmarttna, A. Pelegrtna, A. pulchtlla, and A. atropurpurea, are the most splendid. The former flowers very freely. All natives of South America.
Where bulbous roots, such as Hyacinths, Jonquils, Narcissus, Ixias, Lachendllas, &c. are required to be early in flower, they may, about the beginning or end of the month, be put in the front of the Hot-house, giving very little water until they begin to grow ; then water freely, and tie up the flower stems as they ad- vance.
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Janvabt.] HOT-HOUSE - CLEANING FLAOTB, HOUSE, fta - ] g OF CLEANSING PLANTS, HOUSE, fee
This subject ought to be kept constantly in view. However correct every thing may be executed, with- out that adorning beauty, cleanliness, all will appear only half done. Therefore let all the dead leaves be picked off every day, and with dust and other litter swept out of the hpuse, and when necessary, the house washed, which will be at least once a week. That the foliage of the plants may always appear fresh, syringe them in the evening, twice or three times per week; (when the weather is very cold, do it in the morning.) At present this will in a great measure keep down the insects, and will prove a bane to the red spider.
A hand engine is certainly the best Milne's pa- tent hand engine surpasses any that we have used. Nevertheless a hand syringe is very effectual. Some of these engines are powerful, throwing the water above forty feet. Read's patent of London is excellent. At the store of D. & C. Landreth, Phila., there is a very good kind, which answers admirably in small houses. Tie up neatly with stakes, and threads of Russia mat, all the straggling growing plants; let the stakes be pro- portionate to the plants, and never longer, except they are climbing sorts. Do not tie the branches in bun- dles, 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 according to the plan already mentioned, taking particular care also in wash- ing the stakes to which they had been previously tied,
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20* 'GREENHOUSE. [I
and burning atf the olci tying*, which contain the larv© of the insect in many instances, especially of Cbcus hespe- ridus. It is premised, Wjien any of these things are done, that they will be well done, and not half doing, and always -dping. Cleanliness, in every respect, pro- motes a part air, which is congenial to vegetation, and will, with other attention, always ensure a healthful and vigorous appearance in the house.
QStttv^monm.
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 admitted at all convenient times. An hour or two at mid-day will be of the utmost import- ance in drying up damp, and clearing off stagnated air, which is a harbour for every corruption. The top sashes being let down, or turned a few inches, in mild days (that is, when 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,
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jAMTAftv.j GREEN-HOUSBlWATEftmOI ^1 .
let the front sashes be opened about one inch or more. An assiduous, experienced hand will never omi> an op- portunity. \ * %
With regard to fire heat, the temperature must be regulated to suit the nature of the plants in a general sense; so let the mercury, or spirits of wine, of Fahren- heit's thermometer, be from 34° to 43° ; 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°, without any immediate in- jury ; but it was in an extensive collection, 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 mise- rable state of their plants, - inexperience causing them to think, that the least fire heat will make them grow, and would rather 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 vegetative nature. A high temperature is not necessary for 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
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22* GREEN-HOUSE - CAMELLIA JAPONICA. [Jamvaet.
to their shrubby and woody nature. Herbaceous and deciduous plants will seldom need water. Perhaps, from the throwing of the foliage, to the commencement of vegetation, three or four times will be sufficient 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 mis- chief may be done, and many entirely ruined.
Green-house plants, being now in an absolutely in- active state, require little more water than merely to keep the earth about their roots from becoming per- fectly dry, by occasionally applying a very small quan- tity 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. Succulent plants will not need any water during this month, unless omitted in December.
CAMELLIA JAPONICA.
This magnificent and attractive flower, with all its splendid varieties, will, about this time, begin to open its beautiful flowers. But for this admired genus of plants, our Green-houses, at this season, would be void of allurement It is, in this country, subject to mildew and red spider, and more especially in the city, which appears to be from the nature of the air. The effect* of mildew on these plants, if not prevented, would
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Juvaet.] GREEN-HOUSE-CAMELUA JAFON1CA. 23
prove fatal; as, from appearance, many have died by it in our city. If it has reached a great extent, the leaves are brownish, having the appearance of being decayed, or scorched with the sun. In taking hold of the leaf, it feels soft, and altpgether seems to have lost its nutritive substance; and, when the young foliage expands, it becomes covered with dark brown spots, and finally very much disfigured; and, when in this state, it is attacked by red spider, and, ultimately, death ensues.
If any of the plants are affected as above described, take a sponge, and wash every leaf minutely with soft water, and syringe them with water three or four times a week, which will clean them. All the young foliage will be healthy, and that which has been affected will fall off However, prevention is better than cure; and if the Camellias are properly syringed every evening during summer, and once or twice a week during win- ter, they will never be subject to the ravages of mildew or of red spider.
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.
The mildew first appears like small particles of very fine flour, around the under edge of the leaves, and visible to the naked eye; so that, syringing, spong- ing, &c. under the leaf is most requisite ; but, as the mildew extends, both sides of the leaves are covered with these white particles.
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24 GREfiW-HOtlHIB-^APBTBPLIW,*^ [Jamjait.
*
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 presumed that there^will not be a moment lost If any of the trees are infested with insects, these, being now in their inactive state, may be more easily destroyed than at any other time. It is the brown scaly insect that generally infests them- For treat- ment, see Hothouse, January. The plant, or tree, after being washed, before it becomes dry, wiU 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 several others subject to this insect, such as Myrtks, Okas*, 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 LaehendUa, WachendSrfia, Eiuomis, 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 grow* ing must be kept in front of the house, to prevent them being weak. Wachendorfa has a beautiful large red tuber root; and, as the new root descends, give it a pot about six or seven inches.
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January.] .- FU3WER GARDEN. 25
* OF HYACINTHS AND OTHER BULBOUS ROOTS.
AH these roots* must be carefully examined. In . case slugs or snails are preying upon the embryo of th^ flower, some of those that are farthest advanced/ may be 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 care- fulty tied up, . leaving room for the increase and exten- sion 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.
jfUfimt ezutxttn.
JANUARY.
If the covering of the beds of choice bulbs, herba- ceous plants, or tender shrubs, has been neglected last month, let it be done forthwith. The season is now precarious, and delays are dangerous. For particular directions, see December. Any bulbous roots that have been kept out of the ground, should be planted imme-
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26 FLOWER GARDEN - OF FRAMING, Ac. [January.
diately, according to directions in October. Some writers have recommended keeping some* of the bulbs until this month, in order to have a- continued succes- sion. Experience will prove the inefficacy of the plan, and will satisfactorily show that the difference is almost imperceptible, tfhile the flowers are very infe- rior and much degenerated ; and in place of having " a long continued succession of bloom," there appear, along with your finest specimens, very imperfect flowers, calculated to discourage the admirers of these 44 gaudy" decoratives of our flower gardens. Whereas every art employed should be to the advancement and perfection of nature.
OF FRAMING, &c.
The plants and roots that are in frames, should be protected with straw mats, and the frame surrounded with litter, or leaves, or what is more advisable, bank- ed with earth - the former being a harbour for mice and other vermin. For full directions, see December. Under this head the plants, such as Auriculas, Polyan- thus, Daisies, Carnations, Pinks, Gentianellas, Campanula pyramidalis, Double rocket, Double stock, or StockgiUys, Double Watt-flower, Anemone, Ranunculus, &c. as pre- viously enumerated 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 state under it, so never remove snow from covering cold frames, even suppose it should lay for months, - nature will operate here herself.
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JiNUAftT.} FLOWfcR GARDEN - OF PRUNING, &c. 27
All the above plants except Anemone and Ranunmdus are kept in perfection in the Green-house; but where neither this nor framing can be obtained, they will, in most winters, keep tolerably, if well covered with litter - the roughest from the stable, straw or hay, or such like, using means to secure it from being blown over the whole garden.
OF PRUNING AND PREPARING FOR SPRING.
It is not advisable to carry on a general pruning in . this month, in whatever state the weather may be. The severest frosts generally are yet to come, and too frequently in this operation, what is done now has to be repeated on the opening of spring, causing at that time work to a disadvantage ; because, if pruning, when done just now, is accomplished judiciously, whatever more on the same bush is requisite to be done in spring, from the effects of frost, will be in- judicious. Hence it is far preferable to delay it until the frost is over, when all can be done to advantage.
There are, undoubtedly, some shrubs that may be pruned any time, from the end of November to the first of March, such as Hibiscus syriacus (JHlhea), and all its varieties, except the Double White, which is in some instances entirely killed by our severe winter, and cer- tainly, for precaution, would be the better of some sim- ple protection.
In many seasons, the beginning of this month is open, and admits of the operation of digging, which if it is not all done as advised last month, ought not to
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28 *. - , ROOMS. * [Janujc*t.
- *
m be delayed. .The fruits of it will appear in the mellow- ed state pf your soil in 4 spring.
If there is any spare time, straight sticks or stakes may be prepared for summer. Tie them up m neat bundles, which will be of great service during thm
% hurried period of the year. An opportunity of thiskiiul should always be laid hold of; the beneficial results will in season be displayed.
HUMMUS*
JANUARY.
Plants that are kept in rooms generally are such as require a medium temperature, say 40°. Sitting rooms or parlours, about this season, are, for the most part, heated from 55° to 65°, and very seldom has the air any ad- mittance into these apartments, thus keeping the tempe- rature from 1 5° to 25° higher than the nature of the plants requires, and excluding that fresh air which is requisite to support a forced vegetative principle. Therefore, as far as practicable, let the plants be kept in a room adjoining to one where there is fire heat, and the inter- vening door can be opened when desirable. They will admit sometimes of being as low as 33°.
If they be constantly kept where there is fire, let the
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Jakuary.] ROOMS - WATERING,**;. . -- 28
-* * »
window be opened some inches; tw,6 br thre£ time* a day, for a few minutes,- thereby Inakiqg'the air o£ the apartment more congenial, both for animal and vege- table nature. *
WATERING, &c. # *
There are very few plants killed for want of* water, during winter. 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 person doing it, as it depends entirely upon the size of the pot or jar in proportion to the plant, whether it is too little 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 Calla JEthidpica, or Afri- can Lily, will do well, as water is its element, (like Sagiitdria in this country ;) and the Hydrangea hortensis, 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 foetid stagnation takes place at the root, the foliage becomes yellow, and the plant stunted ; and in the. winter season, death will ensue.
OF CAMELLIA JAPONICA.
In rooms the buds of Camellias will be well swelled,
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30 ROOMS - OF INSECTS, fcc. [Januakt.
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 34° ; if lower they will not expand so well, and the'expanded petals will soon become yellow and decay. If they are where there is fire heat, they must have plenty of air admitted \o them every favourable opportunity, or the conse- quence 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 destroyed. In the city, they do not agree with confined air, and they cannot get too much of pure air, if ihey are kept from frost or cutting winds. 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 mildew. In this season they do not require much water at root, which may be observed in the slight ab- sorption by the soil. See this subject under the head of Watering.
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.
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Jakuary] ROOMS-OF BULBOUS ROOTS. 31
Many ingredients have been compounded, and pre- scriptions recommended, for the destruction of these nefarious pests. Many of them are altogether ineffec- tual. Of receipts specified in Works of this kind, not a few of them (though eagerly sought for) by men of ex- tensive practice, have been rejected. We shall give the most simple, and in part effective receipt for the destruction of the Green fly.
Take a large tub of soft water, (if the day is frosty, it had better be done in the house,) invert the plant, fold- ing the hand, or tying a piece of cloth, or any thing 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, giying 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.
OF 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 be kept very near the light, that is, close to the window, or they will not flourish to your satis- faction. The fall-flowering 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
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32 R00M8-0F BULBOUS ROOTS; &«. [January.
very well in a room where fire heat is constantly kept, providing that they are close to the window. A suc- cession of these, as before observed, may beautify the drawing room from February to April, by having a re- served 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 in- terior of the room, remove them close to the light, ob- serving to turn the pots or glasses frequently to prevent them from growing to one side, and giving them sup- port as soon as the stems droop, or the head becomes pendant The saucers under the Hyacinth and Nar- cissus especially may stand with water, and observe to change the water in the glasses, as already mention- ed.
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 attended to.
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33
ftofeftotMrt*
FEBRUARY.
In the early part of this month the weather generally is very cold and changeable in the middle states, and strict attention, 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 vegeta- tion; 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 heat 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 ther- mometer 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 current, for the external air is very cold, al- though the sun is more powerful. An inch or two on a few of the sashes, as has been previously observed, will be effectual in keeping the temperature low enough, except the weather is very mild.
With regard to firing, what was said last month may suffice for this. Always recollect that it is preferable to keep out the cold than to put it out It will fre- quently happen in the time of intense frost, that the
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34 HOT-HOUSE - OF INSECTS, At. [F*MLUAmY.
weather is dull. In such cases fire in a small degree is requisite all day.
Heavy snows ought nerer 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 too frequently cannot be separated without much dam- age. If allowed to remain on for two days, the plants are very much weakened, and the foliage discoloured. Therefore let the snow be cleared off instantly, 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 increased, according to the increase of vegetation and the advancement of the season ; but never give it until the soil begins to get dry, and then in such pro- portion as will reach the bottom of the pot. After the sun has got on the house in the morning is the best time to water, observing all the directions given in January.
OF INSECTS, &c.
Perhaps sufficient observations were given under this head last month ; but the importance of keeping these disagreeable visitors out of the house, constrains us to make a few more remarks, and perhaps it may be necessary every month. Man cannot be too fre- quently guarded against his foes, more especially when
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Fkbku4jly.] HOT.HOUSE - SHIFTING PLANTS. 35
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 operation some weeks before their depredations are observed on the foliage. The under side of the leaf is their resort in the first in- stance, and on such plants as have been already men- tioned.
Observe daily the young shoots, in case the Green fly becomes numerous. They give the foliage a very dis- agreeable appearance, and with most people it is intole- rable, before their career is arrested. It also takes a stronger fumigation, which has frequently to be repeat- ed the following day to # the same degree, much to the injury of many of the plants, and adding to the disa- greeableness of the continued vapour in the bouse.
OP SHIFTING PLANTS.
The Calceolarias that were put in small pots about the beginning or middle of last month, will, if they have done well, require, about the end of this, to be put in pots a size larger.
If any of Lilium kngiflbrum, Specidsum, or Japonicum, are wanted to flower early, and were put in the Hot- house in December, without dividing, those that are to flower will have pushed their flower stems, and can be separated from those that will not flower, and put singly into pots ; the two former into five or six inch pots, while the latter require six or seven inch pots.
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3ft HOT^OTOE-rflHIFTING PLANTS. [frnuABr.
Of those that do not flower, three or four can be put into one pot
About' the end of the month, some of the plants of Eurc&ma, AmSmum, Kcempferia, GISbba, Phrynium, C&n- no, Zingiber, Hedychium, and others that are on the <Jry shelf* will be offering 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 abun- dance.
Diorum 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 perfectipn, having been always considered a delicate plant in collections. The opera- . tor has never had courage to treat it according to its nature in a cultivated state. If it is taken out of the pot, just when beginning to grow afresh, apd 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 potted, place the pot tn a sau- cer with one inch of water in it, giving always a -fresh supply, when necessary. A shady and moist situation is best adapted to it; this being repeated every year, it will grow, flower, and seed in perfection. *
GesnSrias, if in small pots, give larger as they ad- vance in growth. This genus requires to be well attended to make them flower well. G. bu/b6sa ought to have a situation in every Hot-house. It is remark- able for its many brilliant crimson flowers, and conti- nues in flower for a length of time. When the bulb
Digitized by
FmcAiT.] HOT^OUSE-CLEAMWNG PLANTS, Aa - 37
begins to push, shake it out of the earth, putting it into a small pot; and, as soon as the roots reach the side of the earth, which will be in about one month, put it In a larger pot, and continue to do so until flowering, which will be about the first of June, observing always to keep the ball of earth entire. Gbrtdsas must be repotted in the beginning of this , month. Etymologists have said that this genus is named from the glorious appearance of its flowers. G. supSrba is the most beautiful and curious. -The * roots ought to be planted one and a half inch deep, - taking care not to break them ; if there is a bark bed, place the pots in it Do not water much until they begin to grow. Where there iq no bark bed, put the pots into Others three inches larger, filling all round with sand, and place them in the warmest part of the house. Keep the sand moist, which will assist to keep the soil in a moist state. 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 florfers will appear in June or July.
-
, OF CLEANSING PLANTS, HOUSE, &c
With regard to cleaning the plants. Sprinkling^ or syringing, 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
Digitized by
38 ' GREEK-HOUSE. [Fdeuary.
obstructed, the plants will become unhealthy, and the growth of insects increased.
Let all moss, litter, decayed leaves, or weeds, be cleared 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.
®tttv&ftont$t.
FEBRUARY.
The directions given last month respecting the air* ing 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 45°, but be cautious in cold, cloudy, frosty weather. It is a practice 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,
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FkMtuA*Y.] GREEN-HOUSE - ORANGES, ** ' 39
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 at- tended to, in taking off the shutters, and giving a. little . fire when requisite, all would have been in safety, and many that cannot be replaced rftill in the collection.
When watering, strictly adhere to the directions of last month, except with Geraniums, and other 89ft wooded plants, which require a little more water* i 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 Cdctus, Mesembrydnthcrrwm, dhes, Furchrmasi Cr&ssulat, Cotyledons, &c. will very seldom need water, at the same time keep them from getting as dry as powder. - " b « -
. . of oranges, lemons* ac.
^Similar treatment to that recommended last month will do for this. Where the soil in the tubs or pots requires to be enriched, take df bone dust or shavings, and fresh sheep dung, 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 for a week, 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
Digitized by
40 tfREEN-HOTOB-CAPE BULW, Ipt . [Ehmmbv.
requiring it are watered. This catering will grteatly enrich the soil, and invigorate the roots. ~
- .*
- ' * - OF CAPE BULBS, &c.
The bulb% of Ferr&Aa undulata and F. antherdsa, tfaftt were taken out of the pots in October, will now require tq 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 princi- ple of nature", the true time for transplanting. Wheq bulbous roots of any description appear above ground,' they ought to be placed in an airy^ situation. They are very frequently placed under other plants, by the inexperienced, until they show their flowers, aud then brought to the light, having weak flowers, and com- paratively of momentary existence.
Hyacinths, Narcissus, GladWus, Ixia, &c. having flower stems, ought to have support, to prevent accident, -es- pecially the two former; keejrthem nigh the glass, and' water freely. Change the water regularly in the bulb glasses, observing that their roots are never allowed to become matted with foetid water. Any of the above plants that* are in flower, might, if desired, be taken into the drawing room or parlour, washing the J>ots 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 com- ing into bloom.
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GREKMKHB^-OF 8H0HNCh t 4* . 41
CAMELLIA JAPONICA
Will,* in this month, show a profusion of flowers ; and,- where there is a variety, they have truly a magni- ficent appearance. From a good selection, Endless varieties, by seed, of exquisite b Atuty, migljt be obtaiqed by attention to the following rule: The best to select for bearing seed are Single white, rftoniana, Grandi/hpt, Waratah, Carnation Warutah, Fulgens, and, in many' in-
^ stances, the pistil, or pistHlum of Variegata, Pompone, Ptkoniflora, and Intermedia, are perfect, with several others. , Wtoen any of the above are newly expanded, ( Waratah is . most perfect about one day before expansion,) take a fine camel fiartr pepcil, and put it gently on the farina or pollen, which is a yellow substance on the anthers, afi<J, when ripe, appears* in thousands of small particles. Take Ae finest double kinds, then,Vith this on the pencil, rub lightly the stile of those intended to carry seed. Between the hours 6f ten and twelve in the fore- jfbdh, % is the most proper time for the operation ; the seed wiH be ripe, in September or October, which will ba laken notice of ? and directions given. For other
, particulars on cleaning and syringing, see January ufider this head.
OF SHIFTING Ac
The b^st 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 yojflg foliage begins to appear, and probably
6
Digitized by
42 GREEH-HOUBE - OP SHIFTING, &e. . PtAcaet].
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 Camellias is in August and Sep- tember, indiscriminately with other plants ; and, if tbeU not very gently handled, bad roots eventually are pro- duced. Frequently very fine plants have been killed by probing, and breaking the young fibrous roots, thus causing mortification.
In the process, do not, by any means, break, or bruise any of the roots : and do not give large pots, with the idea of making them grow fast : it acts on most plants diametrically opposite to what is intended. A pot one or one apd a half inches wider and deeper than the one they have been in previously, is sufficient Healthy plants under five feet will .not require shifting oftener than once in two years ; from five feet upwards in three or four years, according to the health of the plants. This treatment, in the opinion of some, will appear not sufficient : it will be found enough with a top- dressing every year to keep them in a healthy, flowering condition, the soil being according to our description.
On turning the plant out of the pot, it may easily be observed if the soil has, in any degree, been con- genial 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 the pot about one inch in diameter, larger than the combined roots, previously putting a few small
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fcuuMftY.] FLOWER-GARDEN - OF CLEANING, &c. 43
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 fumi- gation or otherwise, let it be done before the young foliage appears, according to directions heretofore given. Likewise tie neatly all that require it, clean and top dress those that will 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 half past seven and half past eight; 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 whenever any glass is broken it should be im- mediately 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.
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44
iFlotttr €f»t Jjfen.
FEBRUARY.
Where the borders and beds were dug in the fall, and compost or a thin coating of well decayed manure given, the advantage will now in part be experienced. If the weather is open about the end of the month, 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 accomplished, under the idea that there is time enough.
OF PRUNING, 6c .
Generally about the end of the month the very se- vere frosts are over; and when none need be appre- hended that would materially injure hardy shrubs, they may freely be pruned of all dead branches, and the points cut off such shoots as have been damaged by the winter. Most of shrubs require nothing more than to be pruned of straggling, irregular, and injured branches, or of suckers that rise round the root, ob- serving 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 expell- ed as unworthy of a taste the least improved by re- flections on the beauty, simplicity, and grandeur of
Digitized by
nmuiT.] FLOWHLGAMCN - OF PRUNING, ** 45
nature- In feet, the pruning of deciduous hardy shrubs should be done in such a manner as not to be observa- ble when the plants are covered with verdure. It may frequently be observed in Flower-gardens, that roses and shrubs of every description are indiscriminately cut with the shears, the Jlmdrphas and AUh&as sharing the same fate.
RoUnias, CoKiteas, Cyticus, Rhus, Genistas, with several of the Viburnums, and many others, bear their flowers on the wood of last year, and when thus sheared afford no gratification 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 flowering giants.
Climbing shrubs, and others that are trained against outbuildings, walls, or such as are sheltered thereby, and not? now in danger of suffering by frdst, 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 a\ all times, if possible, the crossing of any shoots.
There is not a shrub in the garden that agrees so well with close cutting, as the Jllthki) and all its va- rieties. These can be made either bushes or trees, and kept at any desired height. Where the wood of last year is cut to about two or three inches from the wood of the former year, the young shoots of this year will produce the largest and finest flowers, and likewise - more profusely. When they have attained the desired
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46 nttWEMAMHW-Of'FWnmiG,** [FknmT.
height, let them be kept in the most natural and hand- some shape that the taste of the operator can suggest They will bear cutting to any degree.
Honeysuckles of every description may with all free- dom 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 bush handsomer, if they were regularly thinned out, divest- ing them of all naked and superfluous 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 throw out plenty of fine young wood, which give room for, and train them straight, and to the full, extent, during summer. These shoots will flower profusely the following season, and in like manner, when thought proper, the other half can be cut. . Roses of the hardy kinds (termed garden roses) that were not attended to in November, should, if the wea- ther 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 within a few inches of the surface, thereby re- novating it, and, in part, preserving the flowers. Those that are cut dowp will put out several luxuriant shoots,
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FoMUftY.] FLOWfflUSABDEN-OF PRUNING, Ac. 47
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 re- sumed a different, and more agreeable aspect By the above treatment, these ornaments of the garden will always have a neat 1 and healthful appearance, afid the roses will be much finer. Where they are intended for the borders, they should never be allowed to get too high. In a border from* four to sit 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 would have a, superior appearance in every respect, if they were kept and trimmed like small trees. They may be of different frizes and heights, according to the extent of the grass plat or clump. A single stem may arise from six' inches to six feet, with a head in propor- tion io the height of the stem. Where it is necessary to have them above two feet, and likewise to carry a good head, inoculation must he resorted to, which, in the months of June and July, will be fully treated of. All under two feet (except the weak growing kyids) will do on their own stems, taking care not to allow shoots to arise from the bottom duHng the summer. Fqr directions for pruning climbing roses, see March and April.
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48 HjOWERjGARDBR-OT PLABTMQ aHEUBB^&c [Fhwuxt.
OF PLANTING SHEUBS;**
As soon as the frost is out of the ground, these should be planted if the soil is not too wet ' Where soil is binding, upon no consideration plant in '% while wet, rather defer it until the end of March.
Shrubs, if they are well arranged, are the chief orna- ment, grfe the most pleasure, and afford the greatest delight 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 *>ur enjoyments. Our walks in summer would be oppressive, but foi; their agreeable shade; in the fall a*J winter, we would be left exposed to the chilling winds, but for the shelter they .afford.'
Likewise they produce a great variety of flower*; a varied foliage, and are itanding ernainents tbbt give no great trouble. In the character of screens Xhcy* are particularly useful, whether to hide disagreeable ob- jects, or as a guard against the weather; and fof either of these purposes, they can be planted 1 nearer to the house than large treeg. Or, if they are planted in masses at a distance, they soon become v agteeal)|| ob»» ject^ frequently very much improve the scenety of the place, become objects of utility as well as ornatiiqnt, and, in such case, afford, the highest satisfaction. When formed so as to exclude offices from &%view of the house, or for sheltering the latter, or for connect-* ing the house with the garden, orchard, or any similar purpose, shrubs are both useful and interesting.
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-fkuuAAT.] FLOWEfc GARDEN - PLANTING SHRUBS Jcc. 49
Where many shrubs are to be planted, the" disposing of them properly is a matter of considerable import- ance to the future welfare of the whole ; and, whether s deciduous or evergreens be mixed or grouped, ihdt fe, , indiscriminately planted together, or the evergreens planted by themselves, as is frequently done, aregulaflr aqd natural arrangement is indispensable for establish- ing ornaipent. -
Arranging, no doubt, depends very much on fancy; §till, there ought always to be plenty of evergreens pknted v that the whole may be more cheerful in win- ter. %
If shrubberies were made to a great extent, the scenery wcmld be much more varied and characteris- tic by. grouping judiciously than by indiscriminately planting. *
However, in siqaU flo'wej gardens and shrubberies, thp 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 fgd confuse the whole. The dwarf and more bushy £orts should be placed next to the walks, or edges, in order that they may conceal the naked stems 9f thebthers. Generally when shrubs ore plant- , ed, they are small; therefore, to have a good effect - from the* beginning, they should # be planted much thicket than they are intended to stand. When they have grown a few years, and interfere with each other, they can be Hfted, and such as have died, or become sickly, replaced, and the remainder can h# planted in .tome other direction. Keep them always distinct, one
Digitized by
50 FLOWER GARDEN - PLANTING SHRUBS, 6c. (Towum*.
from another, in order that they may be the better shown off. 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 four or five feet apart; the larger, or taller sorts, six or eight 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 im- posing effect during winter; and, as this is not the pro- per season for planting evergreens, (April and Octo- ber 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 business until good, mild weather. Accord- ing to directions in November, the ground will be weH prepared, and only requires a hole dug for the recep- tion 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 ate 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 item 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,
Digitized by
' FtHUU*T.] , FLOWER GARDEN - OF FRAMING, &c. 5]
and support the plant. If it. is tajl, or top heavy, put in a good stake for a support, and place a small, bandage between the stake and stem of the plant, .shrub, or tree t where the tie is to be madq, to prevent the barfc 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 dis- tance, the roots should be carefully kep€ from air, by tying damp moss, straw, or Russia mats about them, as circumstances will admit;. their success grefetly de- pends on due attention beiug paid to this,
of hVAcinths and other bulbous roots.
It sometimes occurs that Hyacinths and other bulb- ous roots that were planted in the fall, are thrown above ground-by the frost. : This will take place if the soil is inclined to moisture, and they not being deep enough planted. If such is the case, cover them with wood earth, old decayed tan, or soil, whichever is most convenient; if not done, the sun and air over- power the bulbs, and, although the fibres have hold of the ground, the flowers will be miserably weak. Hya- cinth bulbs, and many others of Holland, are very hardy. Even exposure to our severest frosts would not kill them, but they would be much weakened.
OF FRAMING, &c.
Where a frame or hotbed is wanted to grow some
Digitized by
52 - - FU>W^R GARWW - FfcAMIMG, fta." , fffcjpwiv -
1 gf the finest apd mpre tender annals, it is time, abotft -the SOtlx qf the month, to collect end prepare manure; . fpr the desired hotbed. ,An^ as that operation, in- ' many invtaitpes, is* very imperfectly preformed, a fefcr, . observations on the subject may be useful. .' .
Take three, parts of fresh hot stable manure, with one part of fresh oak learns. , Have a sufficient quan- tity to make the, intended bed or beds frppa three to four feet high. Shake and mix up.beth together ip a Compact conieal heap, iij order to encourage fermenta- tion. If the breather is cold and windy, cover it with -traw or leaves and boards, which is necessary to pro- duce 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 excessive 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 ex- treme 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, hav- ing 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 rod perpendicularly. The ground ought to be higher than that around it, to prevent water from getting into the bed, which, if low,
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- tmtoktj * . fLOWE* GARDW - FRJUKNG, fe.* ; >53
must be filled up ; br, ff supposed that water may Jpdfce there, a iit*le Brushvtobd sftfgbt tie put uoder the> ffianuw* which would keep It from being -inundated. The immure tawf be built-up iujhare and 'level, shak- ing mixiag, and beating it mgularfy with the butt of ' the fork. * When you have' it to the' desired l\ejght> (three feet wtfl be sufficient for annuals,) /leave the centrtfof tfoe bed a little Tiigher thaii tte' sides, thjfc allowing it more to subside. When finished, put QQ the frame and sash or sa&h&, keep then*' close until the hedt arises, covering them it night with mate aiad- shutters. As soon as you feel the heat increased, give x air by tilting the sashee a few inches to let off the stem and stagnated air, observing to close in the afternoon* and ct^ver at night If the Jieat is violent, about an inch .of air might be left daring 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. 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 to prevent them from being weak, or damping ( off, which many of them will do if they have not air \ regularly admitted. When they begin to crowd, thin them out, to allow those that remain to grow strong. k is better at all times to have one strong, healthy plant, than two weak and sickly objects.
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54
2&OQ$tf0*
FEBRUARY.
A\ thfa'seasori, the plants call for the most assiduous attention. If the stage has been made according to our description, in very cold nights it should be drawn to the centre of the room, or at least withdrawn from the window, observing every night to close the window tight by shutters, or some substitute equally as good. And, if the temperature begins to fall below 34°, means should be adopted to prevent it, either by putting a fire in the room, or opening any 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 frosts put into the room, where there is no chimney, amongst 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 plants die, the rest not recovering until summer.
Watering may be attended to according to the di- rections 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
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FinuAiT.] ROOMS. 55
begin to show flower buds: Use means to kill the Green-fly that may attack them.
Hyacinths and other bulbs must have regular attend- ance in tying up, &c. Take care not to tie them too tight, leaving sufficiency of space for the stem to expand. Give those in the glasses their necessary supplies, and keep them all near the light. Never keep bulbous roots while growing under the shade of &ny other plant.
Camellias, with all their varied beauties, will, in this month, make a splendid show. Adhere to the direc- tions given in the previous month, and so that new varieties may be obtained, (see Green-house, February, under the head* of Camellia,) which directions are equally applicable here. When the flowers are full blown, and kept in a temperature between 34° and 44°, they will be perfect for the space of four, five, and fre- quently six weeks, and a good selection of healthy plants will continue to flower from December to April.
Be sure that there is air admitted at all favourable opportunities. Give a little every day that there is sunshine, if it is only for a few minutes. '
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56
ftofeftotue*
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 insect^ of a destructive character are preying upon them. Too much water at the root frequentl y causes the foliage to become yellow. It will add greatly to their general improvement, to syringe the whole twice or three times a week, observing to do it in the morn- ing about sunrise ; and it is highly necessary that the water that is used should be of the same temperature as the house; and at all times, whatever 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 ap- pears, (see January for directions,) and where there are any of the plants infected with the white scaly in- sect, clean them. as there directed. If overlooked for a few months, they will be increased tenfold. V«ery frequently, where there are only a few, they are neglect- ed until the plant is overrun with them, and then it may be said, it is impossible to dislodge them entirely. Clear off all decayed leaves from the plants. These will have made fresh shoots, and the decayed leaves very much disfigure the whole collection. We would
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«
Mabol] v GREBW-HOUSf. * ^ : 57
- * ' » - . - - .
not have repeated this observation^ if itnvaftnotan es- sential point, and one which is so frequently tegl^pfted.
OF SHIFTING PLANTS. *
Those Aktrvmkrias that are growing freely, and ip small pots, should be put into pots ef a larger size. This genus of plants will not flower except they are encouraged with frequent shilling : they are all beauti- ful.
QSltttXUttQUflt.
MARCH
The plants in this compartment will begin to assume ar different aspect, and air must be admitted every day if practicable, giving large portions in sunshine by the sashes regularly over all the house, opening those of the front a little, and likewise 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 powerful, and the house can be early shut up in the afternoon, and will gain as much natural heat as will keep up the required temperature, viz. 36° to 40°. 8
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Perhaps there may bet uncommonly cold weather ; at such times be attentive to ward off danger by applying artificial heat
OP WATERING.
Look over the pots and tubs at least every alternate day, to see where water is wanted. In watering, too much caution cannot be used, especially during winter, and the commencement of spring. It was observed last month what would be the effect of too much wa- ter. 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 encou- raged. 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 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.
CamSllias, where there are collections, will continue to flower. Treat them according to the directions gi- ven 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 appearance, with this difference, that in the former
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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 reaching 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 shoots. You may cut close, or shorten less or more, according as you desire young shoots to vise; 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, cutting off any very matted roots. If any of the roots are decayed, cut them into the sound wood. By being thus reduced, 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 round, at the same time pressing it down with the hand or a stick. Give very little water until there are Bigns of vegetation.
MYRTLES, OLEANDERS, ftc.
These, with similar exotics, may be treated as above. If any of them h*ve been infected with the
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6b < . * "gREEN-HOUBE-CAPE BULBS, &c. [Maec*.
scaly insect, after heading down, &c. scrub the remain- ing stems with a strong- decoction of tobacco, heated to about 100°. Afterwards clean with soap and water.
_ GERANIUMS.
These will be growing freely. Keep them in airy situations, so that they may not grow too weak, and flower imperfect. To flower these plants strong, and of good colour, they must not be too crowded together, neither far from the light, and have plenty of air ad- mitted to them, when the weather is favourable. Keep them free from the Green-fly by fumigating frequently.
HERBACEOUS PLANTS.
Plants of this character will, by the first of the month, begin 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 CAPE BULBS, *c.
Cape Bulbs, such as Lachendlias, OxaHs, hias, Gladio- lus, Watsdnias, Babianas, &c. will in many of the species be showing flower. Keep all of them near the glass, to prevent them from being weak and unsightly.
Hyacinths, Tulips, Narcissus, &c. Those that have been kept in the Green-house during winter will be in great perfection. Have all the flower stems tied up
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neatly to small stakes, (which, if painted green, wifa look much better,) and keep them from the direct rays of the sun. In the front of the house perhaps will be the best situation. They must be freely watered«while in flpwer. Where there is convenience, it will be es- sential to keep the pots in saucers containing water; it will strengthen both steins and flowers, and likewise preserve them longer in perfection. Those that are blooming should be put aside, and watered sparingly, until the foliage begins to decay, when the pots may be laid on their side to ripen the bulbs.
REPOTTING.
If you have any of the. following plants that you are desirous of encouraging, they should be repot- ted this or next month at the latest. Large plants will not require it, if they were done in August. Pots one size larger than tho§e that they are. in, are sufficient, Acdcias and Mimdsas being now united into one genus, there are above two hundred species. About one hundred and thirty belong to the Green- house. Amongst such a beautiful family, both for ele- gance of flower and beauty of foliage, it will be difficult to specify the most handsome and desirable for this department. A. mollis, A. gfaucesctns, A. verticilcUa, A. floralrimda, A. diffusa, A. armata, A.vernieifliuu A. dccur- rtns, A. armaia - weeping variety, A. pubescens, A. leuco- Idbia, A. (fecipiens, A. fragrdns^ A. pulchella, A. lophantha, A. myrtifbUci) &c. These will afford a great variety of foliage, and are very desirable, flowering principally in
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winter, or early in spring. The flowers of those be- longing to the Green-house are of a yellow or straw colour; the most of those that are red or purple, with the celebmted 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.
Agap6ntkus, three species. They are all blue flowers. A. umbeUdtus is very, celebrated, and well known in. the collections of the country. There is a variegated va- riety of it highly desirable, the foliage being white striped, and frequently the flower stem and the flower are as good as the species. 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 brilliant blue blossoms, continuing to bloom successively.
Jlbnsbas, five species, all soft wooded, small, shrubby plants, with scarlet flowers. Jl. incisifdlia is known amongst us under the name of Hemimeris uriici/Sha^ and A. Unedris as H. Unedris. If well treated, they form very handsome plants, and flower freely.. They wiH not bear strong fumigation; and, when the house is
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under that operation, they must be put on the floor of the Green-house, where they will not be so much af- fected. They flower from May to August.
Aucubajaponica is the only species. The flowers are smalt 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 was such when planted out, it would grow more freely. The hot rays of the sun are very prejudicial to its growth. It is an evergreen shrub, and very desirable.
Anagyris, three species, evergreen, pea flowered shrubs, flowers yellow, nothing very attractive in either of the species, k.fatida is found in many collections, and we have no doubt but it may prove, in this coun- try, a hardy shrub.
Azdkas, seven of the China species, which are those we shall enumerate here. The one that has been longest known in the collections of this country is A. indica, a most splendid shrub, with scarlet cup flowers and dark spots. A. indica &lba, flowers of the purest white, and rather larger than the former. A. indica purpurea pleno, double purple. This variety is not so fine as any of the others. Properly it is not purple, or, if it may be termed so, the. colour is very light; the flower irregular. A. indica phamicea is magjiificenU The colour is darker, and the flower larger than A. in- dica, and a free grower. A. sinense, flowers large, yel- low. The wood is much stronger than any of those previously mentioned. It bears a very high character in Europe. It has not yet flowered in our collection,
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04 G1EEN-H0TOB - RHPOTTWG. [Mimck.
bat appears as if it would in the ensuing season (1832). All the above ought to have a situation in every Green- house. They flower from March until May. There are two other varieties which have not come under our observation. Do not shift or repot them, if they are in flower, until the flowering is over. The pots must be well drained ; and the plants require a shaded situation. If they are properly treated, they will be completely covered with their showy flowers every year.
Adtus, two species, both fine leguminose plants. A. viUbsa, is a native of Van Dieman's Land; and JJ.vir- gctta, is from New Holland. The former is preferable. Both have yellow flowers, and are small evergreen shrubs.
AndersSnia sprengelioides, is the only species, and closely allied to Epacris, flowers small, and of a pale yellow colour. Drain the pots well; flowers from March to August.
Arbutus, eight exotic species, and six varieties. They are generally hardy in England; but we question if they stand out in the middle states. A. unido rubra has the finest crimson flowers ; A. strratijblia, the largest panicles ; and A. Andrdchne, the finest foliage. They flower in nodding panicles; the flowers are principally white, tinged with green, and wax-like. 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 ac- quisition to our gardens.
Banksias. There are about thirty-two species, all
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curious In flower, and handsome find various in foliage; flowers in large heads and cone-shaped anthers, mostly green, and continue a considerable time in flower ; pro- duces a cone in shape of a pine, but not imbricate. The substance is as hard as bone, and contains many seeds. A cone of J?, grdndis in our possession weighs cine pound twelve ounces, and contains about 107 seeds. Those most admired for the foliage are B. dentata, B. amulet, B. serrdta, B. latifdlia, B. grdndis, which is the largest B. specidsa has the longest foliage. B. Cun- ningh&mii, B. spinulbsa, B. pattuddsa, and B. ripens, these will afford a good variety. B. verticilldta is entirely dif- ferent in appearance from the others.
They should 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 promo- ter of the study of natural history.
Bigndnias. Those of this genus belonging to the Green-house have been divided to Tecdma, and there are only three for this department. T. austrdlis known as B. Panddm ; T. grandiftbra, known as B. grandifibra, and has large and magnificent clusters of orange-coloured flowers, flowering from May to October.
Tecdma capinsis is a very pretty climbing shrub, a free grower, and flowers abundantly; fl6wers in dense pan- icles, colour orange and red, continues for several weeks in succession from April to August, greatly esteemed in Europe where it is known ; being now in a few of our collections, will soon be generally admired. 9
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B&tia hyacinthina is the only species belongirig to the Green -house, once known as Cymbidium hyaeirithimm. It is herbaceous, and when it begins to grow divide the root, putting the best into five inch pots. The spike of flowers are hyacinth-like, und of a beautiful purple, flowering from April to July.
Bordnia is a beautiful genus of New Holland plants, contains about nine species ; most of them have been universally admired ; the flowers are star-like, and rose- coloured, and some of them sweet-scented. B*pmndta grows and flowers freely. B. serrvldta, foliage serrated and very crowded* bearing the flowers on the extremity of the shoot B. aldta has a fine appearance, and grows handsomely. The foliage is winged and pinnate, of a hardy nature, and easy culture, flowers freely. They are in flower, about April and May, and continue a considerable time ; are subject to milddw if not fre- quently syringed; drain the pots well.
Bouv&rdias, two species. 2?. triphyUa is well known amongst us, has brilliant scarlet flowers, and when well grown, will flower beautifully from May till Sep* tember. To keep the plants, they should be frequent- ly renewed ; otherwise they are liable to grow strag- gling, and become subject to the small white scaly in- sect. B. Jacguhm we suspect has got confounded with the former, being very little different, except the foli- age, which is more pointed. They flower from the young wood, and often throw their foliage in winter.
Bracht/i&ma*, two species, both evergreen, climbers. B. latiftUvm has the best foliage, and large purple le- guminose flowers. B. urn/nldium* flowers yellow, and
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more plentiful thftn the former, continuing in loflg suc- cessions- The pots require to be well drained; very few plants of either in the country.
BurcMUias, two species. B. capensis is a beautiful dwarf evergreen shrub, with tubular scarlet flowers, in large terminale clusters ; when well treated, grows and flowers freely, and highly deserving of attention. B. parvifi&ra differs from the above in the flowers being smaller and paler, and the foliage more pointed.
Beauforiias, only two species. B. decussata is splen- did; the flowers come out of the wood with stamens in fine parcels, colour bright scarlet, foliage decussate, oval, and many-nerved, bloom persistent, and much esteemed. B* sp&rsa, in flower similar to the other, colour light pink, foliage scattered, both easy of cul- ture, and flower abundantly.
BrumaSi about ten species, have heath-like foliage, very fine, generally, on close observation, found to be three cornered. The flowers are white and globular, the plants when young are very handsome; the finest are B. nodiflbra, B. lanuginosa, B. comdsa, B. abrotanoides, and B. formdwu They require an airy situation, and in summer to be protected from the powerful rays of the sun. Drain the pots well.
B6sea yervamtira, Golden rod tree, leaves large, alter- nate, ovate, acute, with purple veins and nerves, flowers brown, in axillary dense panicles, grows strong and freely.
Bceckias, above twelve species, of heath-like appear- ance, and except for variety, are not otherwise desir- able. B. cawphordta is camphor-scented; 1?. puichtUa
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is very neat; a&d B. virgdta flowers freely. Pots should be well drained. The flowers of all the genus are white.
BillardiSras, about five species, are desirable as climbers, being of rapid growth, and abundant m flower. B. longiflbra, fruits freely, and has fine blue berries which look handsome. B. tmtabihs is change- able from purple to scarlet The fruit of B. scdndens is covered with down, flowers straw coloured. B. /wt- fdrmis differs in colour from the others, the flowers being blue. They require to be well dapifted.
Calceolarias, about fourteen species, besides many hybrid varieties. * C. angustifblia^ and C. integrifblia are the best of the shrubby species. C. plantaginea, C. co- rymbSsa, C. purpurea, and C. hopidnu, and of the hybrid varieties, C. micdns and C. hybrlda are very fine; but we understand they are numerous, and some of them very splendid.
To grow any of these properly, they should be di- vided a few weeks after they begin to grow; put them in small pots at first, and enlarge them gradually. Where there is a hot-house, after dividing them, it will greatly projnote their growth to keep them in it a few weeks near the glass, until the weather gets mild, when they may be removed to the Green-house. The flowers are principally yellow. C FothergiUii, purpurea, and archnoidea are purple ; the hybrids are spotted with red and brown, and some of them streaked many co- lours. They continue a long time in flower.
Cabth6mnu8 9 four species. This genus is named in allusion to the splendid appearance of the branches,
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covered with scarlet flowers of curious construction, whiqh come out of the old wood. All the species are of easy culture, and very like dwarf pines. C. quadrtf- fiia has the largest flowers ; C. clavdta the most abund- ant. They are all evergreens, and flower from AprjJ to November.
Camtltias. There are about nine species, celebrated %ver the known world as furnishing the domestic drug cfriledtea, in universal use, besides many flowering trees and shrubs as universally admired. Oil may be expressed from the seeds of all the species, and used as that of hemp and poppy in cookery. C. viridis and C. boMa are said to be the species which supply the tea. Some have asserted that there is only one shrub used, but by examination it may be easily perceived that there are leaves of various shape and texture, some of them similar to C. susanqua. . Dr. Abel gives an ex- plicit 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- seventh to the thirty-first degree of north latitude. It seems to succeed best on the sides of mountain*. The soils from which I collected the best specimens consist- ed chiefly of saod-stone, schistus, or granite. The plants are raised from seeds sown where they are to remain. Three or more are dropped into a hole four or five inches deep; these come up without further trouble, and require little culture, except that of remov- ing weeds, till the plants are three years old. The
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70 - GRBEN-HOTOE^BiffOTrnCO.
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 February, April and June, and so on until the bushes become stunted or slow in their growth, which general* ly 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 unexpended and tender Are taken; at the second those that am full grown; and at the third the coarsest The first forms what is called in Europe imperial tea; but as to the other names by which tea is known, the Chinese know no* thing; and the compounds and names are supposed 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. viridis ; but that is now doubtful, though it is certain that there is what is called the green tea dis- trict 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, bat that the broad thin-leaved plant (C. viridis) is pre- ferred 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 fiat iron pan.
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There is alio a long low {able 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 de- gree by a little fire made in the furnace underneath, a few pounds of the fresh-gatherpd leaves 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 them as quickly as possible, with his bare hands, till they cannot tap 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 rotters, wjho, taking small quantities 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. Oh every repetition the pan is less heated, and the operation performed more closely and cauti- ously. The tea is then separated 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 winnowing .the tea, the leaves are taken up in succession as they fall; those nearest the machine being the heaviest, are the gunpowder tea; the light dost the worst, being chiefly used by the lower classes. That which is brought down to Canton, then under-
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72 GRttitKXJBB-^KrorrniG. [;
goes a second routing, winnowing, packing, kc ind many hundred women are employed for these purposes," Kaempfer asserts that -a species of CamSUia a* well as Okafrdgransia used to give it a high flavour.
C. okiferia is cultivated principally in China for the oil which is expressed from its seeds, which is much used in the domestic cdokery of the country ; flower .single white.
C. Ses&nqua, Lady Banks's. The foliage of this species is very small, and paler, and the green not so fins as any of the others. It seeds freely, and is often used as the female parent in producing new varieties ; flowers small white and single, with many anthers. There are a Semi-double, and Double variety of itof the same colour.
C. malifidra is figured in the Botanical Register, under the name of C. Sesdnqua ffoea. The foliage is about the same shape as C. Sesdnqua, but the appearance and habit of the plant are completely different, growing very freely and quite erect ; flowers very abundant A large plant of it will continue in bloom for the space of three months. The flowers are of about six weeks 9 dura- tion, colour and shape of Rose de meaux ; has been highly esteemed. One plant of it has been sold for one hundred and eighty dollars.
C. Kissii. We believe it is single white, has not come under our observation, the only species that is a na- tive of Ncpaul.
C. reticuidta was brought from China by Capt Rawes. The foliage is very characteristic, being rougher than
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any of the other flowers, about five inches in diameter, brilliant scarlet* and semi-double. It was introduced into Europe in 1822, and is still veiy scarce. Twenty- five dolkrs are paid for a small twig of it. From pre- sent appearance, it will never t>e 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.
C.jap6nica, the original of many splendid varieties, probably to the amount of one hundred. The true one is in very few collections ; it is single striped.
C.japdntca rubra is the single red of our collections, and used as stocks to enarch, graft, or inoculate the other varieties upon, being easily struck by cuttings. It seeds very freely ,'when the stile is impregnated, and the seedlings make the strongest and best stocks.
Cjaponica alba, single white. It is mentioned in some of our catalogues, as being very sweet-scented, though not very perceptible to us. The foliage and wood are very strong, being a free seeding variety, consequently particularly desirable, as a stock to grow new varie- ties from. Its flowers are large and abundant. *
C. semiduplex. This is a flower with two rows of petals. Some good varieties might be got from it, if properly impregnated.
C rkbro-pfeno is a strong growing and free- flowering variety. The flowers are large, double red, petals irregular, with the anthers in bunches amongst them; flowers are of long duration and showy.
C. car/tea, frequently known as Middlemist's blush. 10
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74 GREEN-HOUSE - REPOTTING. [Maicm.
Colour pink, one of the original varieties, and frequent- ly produces seeds ; grows fredly.
C. myrtifdha, known in some collections as involute. There are two varieties of it, major and minor ; the former is certainly the best, and has a very handsome, large, and .regular red flower; the centre frequently is pink and purple ; it is much the shape of Double white, only the petals are more cupped. The flower is of considerable duration. It is not properly named. The foliage, though the smallest of the variety, 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.
C. hexanguldris. The flower is six angled, very com- pact, and dark red* It is an esteemed variety, and there has unfortunately been another inferior, substi- tuted for it, in some of our collections. The foliage is similar in shape to anemoni/ldra, with the nerves more sunk ; the flowers are of an ordinary size.
C. atro-riibensi Loddiges' red, is a very fine variety ; colour dark red outside, petals large inside, small and irregular, forming a very distinct character ; foliage stiff; grows freely and flowers well; and of long dura- tion. We have seen a flower stand fresh on the plant two months ; however, that cannot be a rule, as it de- pends on the situation.
C. anemcmifldra, or Waratah (from the central petals, having the appearance of the Waratah plant, Telopia speciosissima.) This variety is very characteristic, both in flower and foliage. The flower is dark crimson,
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Maml] GREEN-HOUSE - REPOTTING. 75
with five or six regular large outside petals ; those of the centre are very small, and neatly plaited, with the stile (female organ) prominent; the foliage is large and ob- long, 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 invaluable. It seeds freely, and the.pollen of any of the others appli- ed 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 flower is expanded, for the flower is only of a few days 9 duration. Those that are not acquainted with the buds of this CamilUa, will take tljem to be dead, because, before expansion, they are very dark browb.
C.dianthifldra, or Knight's carnation Waratah,'\Q, when well grown, a very beautiful flower ; shape and size same as anemoniflbra (and a seedling from it by Mr. Knight, King's Road, Chelsea, London,) seemingly the stamens are crowned with small petals, red and white striped, appearing like a fine large carnation. The style appears fertile, and there is no doubt but some splendid varieties may be obtained from it.
C. bl&nda, or blush Waratah, flower in shape similar to anemonifldra, rather larger, and of considerable dura- tion.
Cpomp6nia, or Kew blush, flowers very large, white, with a tinge of blush at the bottom of the petals, which
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76 GREEN-HOUSE - REPOTTING. (March.
has a good effect in setting off the flower. They fre- quently bloom all blush, which appears rather curious on the same plant ; shape one or two rows of guard or outside petals ; those of the inside are short, stubby, and generally irregular, continues long in flower, yellow anthers among the short petals, and seeds when the female organ is perfect; foliage narrower than any of the others, a very fast grower, and flowers freely.
C. pcebniftora. The foliage, shape, and size of the flower of this, is similar to the last mentioned, colour a rich pink ; we have never seen any of them vary from this; and have seen it seed very double.
C. Walbankii) has a very large white irregular flower, by some called poppy-flowered. It is not so pure as the common double white ; the anthers show amongst the petals, and the buds before expansion are very round, inclining to flatness ; the foliage long and shining. The flowers are of considerable duration. We ques- tion with lutea-alba.
C. albarplkna, common double white, is admired by the most casual observer, and is generally considered a very superior flower, from the purity of its whiteness, and the abundance of its large flowers, which are thickly and regularly 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, amongst the first of the varieties, about eighty years ago.
C.flavescens, Lady Hume's blush, and by some called buff. It is a very double flower, and frequently hexan- gular; the bottom of the petals are most delicately
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,Mamb.] GREBN-HOUSE-RETgrTINO. 77
tinged with Mush; on looking into it, it shows more like a blush vapour than qature, and is a great favour- ite, and deservedly so, with the ladies : flowers and grows freely, foliage rhomboid, elongate, nerves very visible/surface smooth and pale green, distantly -serrate.
C.fimbridta. The size, shape, and set of the flower same as alba-plena, and the white as pure, with the edges of the petals deeply serrated, or rather fringed ; is equally as free in flowering and growing. It is uni- versally admired, and in great demand. Its character is unique, foliage very like alba-plena. [See Frontispiece.]
C. imbriccUa, said to be a very double red, with imbri- cated petals, and very handsome. We have not seen it in flower.
C. wriagcUa, is one of the old standard varieties, and very much esteemed. It is striped with red apd white ; -sometimes the ground is red, with white streaks or blotches, and vice versa. The flower when well grown is large, and very abundant; foliage very fine dark green, similar to single white. We have had seed from it The petals are regular, with the anthers showing amongst them ; the flower double* though not so much so as many of the others.
C. crassinervis. We have not the smallest doubt but this is the same as hexangularis, and in confirmation of our opinion, we have lately had the best authority in Europe to that effect.
C. conchiflbra^ shell flowered, double, a very hand- some shape, petals round, stiff set, and in the centre quite erect, red with occasional splashes of white.
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78 eKEEN-HOUSE^REftnriNG. [Mams.
C. rubric&uUs, Lady Campbell's, very double, colour very rich dark red, with stripes of pure white, beauti- fully contrasted. The richness of this flower is very striking, and much esteemed; flowers freely*
* C. longifdlia is a single red, the foliage is large, and longer than the generality of them.
C. chandlrerii) or versicolor, colour vivid scarlet with occasional splashes of pure white; the flowers vary, and are of long duration, from six to eight weeks; foliage large and dark glossy green.
C. aitdnia. This variety is a beautiful specimen of a single flower affording a developement of the organ of fructification; the petals are delicately penciled, and the anthers very bold, colour* pink, and the flower very large; grows freely, and, in our opinion, is sur- passed by none of the single sorts, for raising fine new varieties, if impregnated with the pollen from double flowers.
C altheeiflbra, hollyhock-flowered, is a great beauty, with large double dark red flowers, the veins are very prominent, petals frequently irregular; foliage large, and approaches to the foliage of single red; 'and is mpch esteemed.
C. coraBna, coral-flowered, a very deep scarlet dou- ble flower, and bears a high character.
C. insignis, a most splendid double flower, large dull red colour; a very free grower, and highly estimated.
C. anemone/fora alba. Those that have seen the common anemone/fora will be disappointed in the ap- pearance of this, not being pure white, neither properly anemone-flowered, though a very good flower, and
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Mams.] GREEIf-HOUSBUEBPOTTDCa 79
very distinct from any other; the petals are irregular, anthers abundant, shape resembling pompone; flower not so large.
C. heierophyUa. The foliage of this varies very much, a character that none of the others possess; flower double red ; and merits a place in collections*
C. WoSdsii, flower fine double, rose colour; and much has been said in its favour.
C bicolor, a single flower, with a rose ground and white streaks, very pretty, but not so large as many of the single ones.
C. speciosa is a most splendid variety, has been called China striped Waraiah. The guard petals are large, round, and bold; colour red with stripes of white;, the centre is full of small petals, (like ancmonefidra,) and spotted; the foliage large and more heart-shaped than any of the others; grows freely, flower persistent, highly esteemed, and considered one of the finest of the coloured CamSWas.
C. fulgms, flower large, and very bright double red, approaching to C. atro-rubens, but more brilliant; foliage a lucid green, very smooth, young wood and wood buds have a red appearance. We have no doubt but it will seed; if so, it will be a first rate breeder.
C. grandtftfoa, a very large single rich red flower, fo- liage very large; a most splendid single variety, and grows freely. It is recommended to all who wish to improve their collections by raising new varieties.
C r6sa sinensis f a very large double flower, colour bright pink, petals long and full, a very distinct variety,
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80 eltfife^HOTOB^RiyuiTlfk?. [Ma*c*.-
with a beentifoi dark green shining foliage, grows ahd flowers freely, and is highly esteemed.
C. intermedial a very large flower, shape of C. pom- pfaia, outside petals streaked to the extremity with a rich 4>ktsh, ground colour pure white, and is in high estimation; grows and flowers freely. It is in very few collections in Europe, and Only in three in the United States.
C. row WafatSh. The description of this flower is the same as anemone/lira, but differs in colour, and being of longer duration, the foliage is uncommonly large.
C. Presrii's invincible. It has been asserted that it is the same as that known by C. punctata and C. Pressii. We have not seen.it flower, but have seen a drawing of it, the flower equally as large as double white, and same shape, with the petals as regular; the ground colour brilliant red, and spotted with pure white. It is one of the newest varieties, and much valued for its unique beauty; hence called Invincible; foliage large.
C. Rose MuncUi, is like the garden rose of that name; a large flower, ground colour pink streaked with white.
C. comp&cta is a new double white, petals and flower not so large as the common, but more compact, and is considered a very fine variety.
C. gloridsa, is said to be a fine dark double red.
C. Rossii, is said to be a fine rich double scarlet
CalMcdma serratifolia, the 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 lanceolate, deeply serrated, and opposite.
Digitized by Vl
Mams.) GREEN-HOUBE^-REPOTTIXG. (H
' Carmichcdia austrdlis, the only species, has very cari- ous foliage, which the lilac leguminose flowers com£ out off, and continue from April to June.
Cundnia capensis, the only species, and a handsome shrub, with large pinnated shining leaves, beautifully contrasted by numerous dense elongated branches of small white flowers, and twigs of a red colour, having the habit of a tropical more than a Cape of Good Hope plant
Clethra arborea, and C. arbbrea variagdta, are both fine shrubs ; the latter is preferable ; leaves are oblong, ac- cumulate, and serrated with a gold edge; flowers white, downy, in large branching racemose spikes, and sweet- scented; grows freely.
Cotonedsters. Two of this genus are deserving a si- tuation in the Green-house, C. denticuldta, and C. mi- crophylla; the last is a native of the mountainous dis- tricts of Nepaul, and may prove hardy; the flowers are white, small, and solitary, but in the fall it is covered with pretty red berries, and then looks beautiful ; cul- ture very easy ; will grow in any situation.
Crdwea soligna, is amongst one of the finest and easiest cultivated 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.
Choriz&nas, about six species, foliage very like some varieties of the Holly; flowers small and papiliona- 11
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32 GREEN-HOUSE-REPOTTING. [Mabcm.
ceous; colour red and yellow; though small, they are very neat. C. ndna and C. ilicifblia are amongst the best; if grown from seed, they will flower freely the second year ; drain the pots well.
Cmerdrias, Cape aster, about twelve belong to the Green-house. They are herbaceous, or half shrubby, soft wooded plants. C. specidsa, C. ameUoidts, (now called Jlgathcea caUstus,) C. 'purpurea, and C. kmctta, are among the finest ; flowers blue or yellow ; the latter is considered the handsomest of the genus. The exte- rior 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 mentioned for that kind of plants.
Cistus, or Rock rose. There are above thirty spe- cies, 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 cul- tivation. C. ladaniferus, C. monspeliensis, C. saUgnus, C. popolifblius, and C. uudulatus, are perhaps the best; the flowers are of short duration, frequently only for one day; but the quantity makes up this deficiency, being constantly in flower in May and June, and sometimes flower again in autumn. C. criticus is most productive of the. Gum laudanum, which is secreted about its leaves and branches. The flowers are generally five-
Digitized by
Mabcb.] green-house - repotting. S3
petaled, and sonte of them large ; centre full of sta- mens; the foundation of the natural order Cistinea.
Clematis,, Virgin's Bower. There are only. six. of these belonging to this, all climbing plants. C. arist&ta and C. brachiata are the best; flowers in racemose clusters, pure white; foliage small; and natives of the Cape of Good Hope. The foliage of C. aristata is cordate and blotched.
Cobcea sctindens, 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 palg green colour, and change to dark purple; will grow in the garden during summer, bearing a con- tinual profusion of flowers, but will not stand frost Wh^n 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 off the superabundant sap, for the old wood will not push, which will soon cause a mortification.
The befit method to adopt in such case is to turn back a 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 satisfac- tion as to flowering in a pot It will flower as an an- nual if sown in pots this month, and placed in a warm room or hot-bed, and planted into the garden about the end of May.
Coronillas, a very few are fine species in the Green- house. C. glauca is a celebrated plant amongst us, as
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84 GREENHOUSE - REPOTTING. [Mabch.
a free and early flowering shrub. . C. vafentiana and C. vimindHs are equally so, flower from April 'to June, co- lour yellow ; papilionaceous flowers in clusters ; agree best with shade. In summer they ought to be kept behind a fence, or under a tree, m the sun would de- stroy them in a few weeks. Drain the pots well
Correas, five species, all very pretty dwarf shrubs, and flpwer profusely; foHage ovate, cordate, and either ru#ty or downy beneath. C. alba and C. tufa have both white flowers a little tubular. C.pulchella is a very handsome erect growing plant, flowers large and tubular, of a deep pink colour, and grows freely: it is thought the finest of the genus. C. $pectosa a has been long admired as a splendid free flowering plant; flowers same shape as C. pulchella, but not so large ; colour red and yellowish green. C. virins is a veiy free grower, flowers same shape as the two last, colour en- tirely green. These three last mentioned are abundant flowerers, having a continued succession from No- vember to June, possessing the valuable requisite of flowering through the winttfr, and ought to tie in every collection. They inquire an airy situation, and the pots to be well drained. The plants in summer must not be fully exposed to the sun.
Craidgus. There are none of these belonging to the Green-house ; but there is a plant in the collections, known as C. glabra, which is Photinia serrulcUa, a native of China, and is a very handsome plant, has long foliage, deeply serrated, very shining. P. arbutifdlia, a native of California, and is the finest of the genus; flowers in large dense panicles, foliage larger than the former, and
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flbutL GREIW4fOTOR^REPOTTlNa 35
not so deeply serrated; they art both comparatively hardy, and We soon expect to see them acclimated. . CnprSssus may be desired in* collections, as erect apd handsome growing evergreen shrubs. &. liisit&nicQ, the faned cedar of Goa# C^pendula and C.juniperoides are themost desirable ; fl&wers are insignificant, and yel- lowish ; we have no doiflrt they majf prove hardy. C. iusitdnica is the handsomest tree of (he genus. Its abundant, very long dichotomous branchlets, distin- guish it from all the evergreens of the conoferious tribe.
CaldmpeUs sea/bra, once Eccremocdrpus scaber, is a very fine climber, where there is a convenience to plant it in the ground. It will flower profusely from March to No- vember ; foliage pinnate, with tendrils; flowers from the axils on young shoots in a kind of racemose, and of a golden colour; grows freely.
Celastris, staff-tree, about twenty-five species ,- of no particular beauty. Some of them haye numerous small white flowers, in cymes and panicles; foliage generally ovate, aciite, and serrate^ # C. pyracdntha, C.cymdsa, C. muliifldrus, and C. lucidus, are tbe most conspicuous, and all the geMra are of easy culture.
Codkia 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, accuminate ; when rubbed, have a strong odour ; flower small white in racemose spikes, of slow growth.
C. aUistachys. There are two of them very handsome
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gg GREEN .HOUSE - REPOTTING. [Hunk.
large growing shrubs. C. laneeoUUa and C. ovdta, foliage silky-like, and light coloured; flowers yellow, papilioqaceous, and very abundant
Davi&ias, above ten species, principally natives of New South Wales, all yellow, papilionaceous flowers. D. uUdna, D. latifblia, D. aciciddrisj and D. inricssata, are very fine species, flower and grow freely, and require to be well draihed ; bloom from April to August
Diosmas. This genus is now very much divided, and only contains about thirteen species : the generas that they have been given to, are Adendndra, Barosma, Ac- madhiia, and AgathSsma. We will enumerate a few of the finest species of each* D. capitdta, D. oppositifotia, D. longifblia, D. HAra, and D. teretifbtia, are the most conspicuous, all small white flowers except D. rubra ; foliage small, and all handsome growing evergreens.
Aden&ndras, eight species. This genus is the most select of those that have been subdivided. A. specidsa, A. tmbeUdta, A. 6lba, A. fragrdns, and A. unifibra, are all splendid flowers : and all white except A. fragrdns, which is red. Pots must 'be well drained.
Bardsmasj above » ten species. B. serratifiKa, B. pulchMa, purple, B.fcetidissima, blush, B.odordta, white, and B. dioica, pink, are the finest
Acmadhxias, five species. A. lavig&ta, A. pungent, and A. tetragdnia, blush, are good species.
AgathSsmas, above twenty-five species, many of them very celebrated free flowering shrubby plants. A. ac- cumin&la, A. hybrida, A. Thunbergidna, A. imbricdta, A. prolifera, A. p6tula, and A. pvlchtlla, which is the finest of the genus, the dried leaves of which the Hottentots
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Kamb.] GREEN-HOUSE - REPOTTING, * 37
use 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 some- times could not bear the smell of those who were their guides. In fact the foliage of all the five last mention- ed goneras, if rubbed by the hand while on the plant, has a very strong smell, some of them very agreeable, others disagreeable. They are all heath-like and evergreen small neat growing shrubs. They require 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.
Drydndras. This genus is closely allied in character and habits to Bdnksia, and contains above sixteen species. D. nivea, has a most beautiful foliage, very long and deeply indented. H.formdsa^ has a scent like the fruit of an Apricot D. nervdsa, D. ftoribunda, D. armcUa, D.plumdsa, D. Baxtkri, D. nervdsa, and D. fair cdta, are the most conspicuous, and all highly desirable plants in collections. They are very delicate of importa- tion ; flowers are straw and orange coloured and thistle- like. Seeds in small cones. Treat them the same as directed for Banfaias.
DiUicynias, above twelve species, and plants very little known. D.floribtmda^ D. teretifblia, and D. phylicoides^ are desirable plants; flowers small, papilionaceous, and colour yellow. They are very liable to suffer from too much wet; while dormant, therefore, the pots must be effectually drained.
Dampi&ras, four species. The genus is named in ho-
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*gg * ORCEN-HOtjSR-RByOTTlNG. [i
nour of Captain W. Dampier, a famous voyager, has Lobelia-like flowers, either blue or purple. C. purpurea, C. tfndutiUa, and C. stricta, are the finest; the two former are shrubby ; the lattef is herbaceous ; they all flower freely.
Edwardsias, about four species, very beautiful foliaged plants,. and have very curious yellow flowers, but do not flower until the plmit becomes large. 22. grandi- fiora, E. chrys&phylla, and E. meirophylla, are the best, v and are tolerably hardy, though doubtful of* ever toeing acclupated. The flowers are leguminose, foliage ovate, pinnate, from eight to forty on one footstalk, and * appears to be covered with gold dust, the hardier they are grown, the more visible Jt will appear.
Elichrysums. This genus is now extinct, and two splen- did species of it given to others*. E.proliferum is now Phcmdcomaprolijfera, and has beautiful purple everlasting rayed flowers, and highly esteemed : the foliage round, ovate, smooth, and closely imbricated. E. spectabik is now Jiphelexis humiUs, has pine-like foliage, and large light purple flowers and everlasting; care must be taken that they are not over watered ; drain the pots well.
-Enkiantkus, only two species, both very fine. E. ywin- quejldrus has large ovate accuminate 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 sparing in water while in that state.
Epacris, above twelve species, and all very ornament- al. E. grandiflora has been celebrated ever since it was known; the foliage is small, flat, and accuminate;
Digitized by
-
flowers tubular and pendulous, bright crimson v with a tinge of white, and very abundant? in flower from Janu- ary to June. E.jwkhSUa m likewise a mpst beautiful plant; foliage very small and closely set,41owers pure white, and in long spikes, sweet-scented. E. impressa, foliage im- pressed, and flowers rose-coloured. E. paluddsa, flowers white, and grows very handsomely. E.purpurdsmas rubra is a good variety, with bright re4 flowerfe. They are most- ly erect growing plants ; flower from Marcfe till Jtine, and a rough, turfy, sandy soil 'is found most congenial.^ They are natives of the mountainous districts of Nevr South Wales. The* pots must be well drained; the roots will Ani with avidity amongst the potshreds.
Ericas, heath. There are in cultivation in Europe above five hundred and fifty species and varieties of. this magnificent geftug. ^bouft sixty, years ago itacon- sisted only of a few humble ^British slants, with the heath of Spain, E. Mediterrdma, which is ^present most common in our collections, though in a few years we may expect to see' it supplanted* by others more splendid.
In their native countries," they are adapted to- a great many useful purposes. / In the north of Britain, the poorer inhabitants cover their cabins or huts \Vith 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 a hot spirit from the tender shoots ; and it has been known to be used in dyeing, tanning, and many other useful domestic purposes. Encomium on their beauty is not requisite; 12 -
Btgitiz
90 GREENHOUSE - REPOTTING. [Hams.
they are almost as diversified in colour as colour it- self. Many are graceful, and roost elegant; hundreds are pretty; a few noble and splendid; others grotesque, curious, and odoriferous. To cultivate and propagate them is one of the most delicate branches of horticul- ture. Nevertheless, it has been said by a scientific writer, that " those who complain of the difficulty of growing the heath are ignorant people who have never had a heath to grow." The most splendid 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 whole year a continued profusion of bloom is kept up. Some of the plants are six feet in diameter, and twelve feet high. The soil used is a coarse sandy peat Pots draiped with potshreds, and pieces of free- stone, are put down the sides of the large pots and tubs: where these cah be had they are essential to the cul- ture of mountainous' plants, preventing them from being saturated with moisture* or from becoming^ dry, they being retentive of moisture, thus keeping the roots ill * medium state; for if once the roots are allowed to get thoroughly dried, no. art of the gardener can reco- ver 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 sun, for in a few hours the pot would become heat- ed, dry the roots, and cause death, or a brownness of foliage which would never again become natural. Too much fire heat will hurt them. They only re- quire to be kept free from frost, need a great deal of
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Naml] GRE©i.HOU8R-RBPOTTINa g|
air and plenty of light; consequently, should be placed near the glass, that they may haro the benefit of all the air that is admitted. Their flowers are as varied in shape as variety or colour, but they all partake of a wax-like nature, and are very persistent. For the finest and most select varieties, see the catalogue at the end of this work.
Erddiums, 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, herba- ceous, and annual plants. Only a few of them belong to the Green-house, of which E. incarndtum, E. crassifdlium, and E. lacinidtum, are the finest; culture similar to Gerd- nium. The flowers of these are scarlet, pentapetalous, and veiny.
Eucalyptus, above fifty species of them, and the tallest growing trees of New Holland; foliage very diversified, generally of a hard glaucous texture. From their rapid growth, they soon grow higher than the loftiest house. The most conspicuous are E. corddia, E. roslrdta, E. radi&ta, E. puhigera, E. globi/era, 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 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 proceed- ing from a hard nut-like capsule.
Evpat&riunu There is only one species deserving of
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92 GREfiN.HOTBB^iffiPOTraiG. [M*Bfl%
- . *
cultivation in the Green-house; flowers syngenesioue, white, and in large flattened panicles; very sweet-scent- ed. The plant, when growing freely, in the beginning of summer, should be topped, which would make it more bushy; if not, it is apt togrofr straggling. Known as E. elegans, in our collections.
Euldxia's, two species. E. myrtifdlia is a most beau- tiful 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 topped, 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.
Euchilus obcord&tus is the only species: Flowers simi- lar to Eutaxia; foliage almost unique, being inverse, cordate ; time of flowering from March to June.
Fuchsias, Ladies' ear drop. About twelve species. Several of them elegant and handsome shrubs. F. vir- gata and F. cdnica are the most splendid of deciduous Green-house shrubs; the nerves of the leaves and young wood of the former are tinged with purplish red; the large pendant flowers which are produced from the axils of the leaves of the young wood continue during the growing season. F. cdnica grows strong, foliage green, flowers pendant, corolla more spreading than the other, and when in flower is a complete mass of scarlet blossoms. It flowers all summer. F. coccinea is a common and celebrated plant, and deservedly so. F.
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: '* *. mierophylla is a neat growing,' femaff flowering species.
F. arborea, has very large foliage,* and rose "coloured flowers ; a scarce species, but very desirabje- F. grd- cijis and F. thymif6ka y are both fine ; most of the powers are a bright scarlet, the stamens are encircled with a petal of bright purple, and are of very curious construc- tion ; they bear a dark purple berry, and are of the easiest cultivation, bat during summer they must be carefully kept in the shade.
Geh&mum nxtidum, Carolina jessamine, a most beau- tiful climbing evergreen, flowering shrub. In the mpnths of April and May, it produces many large yellow trum- pet-like blossoms of delicious fragrance. If much fostered in growth, it will not flower so freely.
GnaphMum, everlasting. This genus has got all the beautiful Cape species taken out of it, and given to AstSbna and HeUchrysum. Of AstSlma there are above ten species, most of them very splendid, everlasting flowers. A. eximia has brilliant red flowers. A. spird- Us) A. speciosissima, A.fritficans, and A. imbricdtum, are all very fine; pots must be well drained.
Helychrysums, above forty species, chiefly belonging to the Green-house, all everlasting flowers. H. gran- difldrum, H. arbdreum, H. orientdle, H. frdgrans, H. ado- ralhsimum, H.fruticans, and H. fu^idum^ are all very esteemed species, mostly soft white 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
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94 GREEN-HOUSE - REPOTTING. [Kamv.
allowed to decay on the plant, they will soon become musty, and all their colour fade.
Gompholbbiums, a genus of very pretty delicate plants, all papilionaceous; flowers generally yellow with a little red; foliage ver^ variable. G. barbigerum, G.poti- m6rfum, G. latifdlium, G. grandi/ldrum, and G. vcnustum, are fine, the pots must be well drained, and care taken that they are not over watered ; they grow freely.
Genistas: a few of these are very pretty free flowering shrubs. G. canariensis, G. tricuspiddta, G. cuspidbsa, and G. umbett&ta, are the finest Green-house species. All of them have yellow leguminose flowers in great abun- dance ; leaves small, lanceolate.
Gnidiasj about ten species of pretty Green-house shrubs. G. simplex, G. sericea, G. imberbis, and G. pint- ftlia, flower the most freely; flowers straw colour, tubu- lar, 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.
Good&nia, a genus of about twelve species, with cor- date, serate, alternate foliage. G. stelKgera, and G. sudveo- lens are sweet-scented; G. ovdta and G. grandifldra are the best. They are principally small shrubs, with terminale or axillary flowers, and flower during summer.
Gortiria persondta is the only species that belongs to this genus, and is an annual. There are several plants in our collections known as Gortirias, but which pro- perly are Gazdnia, of which there are five species. G. ringens, when the flowers are fully expanded, (which
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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. pavSnia has handsome foliage ; flower similar to G. riqgens^ except the centre of the flower being spotted, and is thought to be the finest, but does not flower so freely. G. Arte- ropkylla is of the same character, except the foliage, which is variable, the colour orange and vermilion. They are half shrubby 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 drain- ed, and the plants kfpt partially in the shade. Their flowers are syngenesious, and about two inches in diameter.
Grevilleas, about thirty species. A few of them vfery handsome in flower and foliage, among which are G. punicea; G. acanthifblia, (beautiful foliage); G. concinna, very pretty straw and rose-coloured flowers; G. juni- perina, green and straw-coloured; G. line&ris, white flowers. The flowers of the whole are curious, though not very attractive. Some carry their flowers in race- mose spikes, others on flowering 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.
Hdkeas, about forty species, not generally so in- teresting or attractive as the last genus; flowers all white ; construction similar to Grevillea, but the foliage more varied. H. gibbdsa, H. nUtda, H. saKgna, H. sua-
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vioknsj sweet-scented, H. concul&ta, and B. lambirii, are the best, and afford a curious* variety of foliage; flower in June. Dram the potB well -„ Hemerocallis, Day Lily. Only H.' specidsa of this genus belongs to the Green-house ; the fl6wer is spa- cious, and of copper dolour. A native of Jamaica. It has not found its way into our collections. It is herba- ceous, and while growing requires much water, The plant known with us as H. japdnica is npw Funkia dlba, (and justly, 4br the most superficial observer could have distinguished it as not belonging to HemerocalUs.) It requires to be much fostered to flower well, anil "plenty ofovater. If properly treated, it is a magnificent flower, and continues flowering from July to Septem- ber. We doubt not it mfcy prove a hardy herbaceous plant, (the same as F.c&ruUal) if protected during the first winter. *
Hermamias, a genus of about forty species, all na- tives of the Cape of Good Hope, arid not worth culti- vating. They have yellow cup-like flowers, and are of the easiest cultivation. Several species are in our col- lections.
Hibbertias, about ten species. Three of them are very fine climbing evergreen shrubs, viz. H. glossularim- folia; H. deniata; H. volubiHs, if closely approached has a disagreeable smell; H. fasciculdta, H. saligna, and H. pedunculdta^ are evergreen shrubs ; they have pure yellow flowers of five petals, blooming from May to September.
Habranthus, about ten species of small South Ameri- can bulbs, nearly allied to dman/Ws. H. Jlndersdmi,
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H. versicolor, and H. robteta are the finest; tiey are in colour yellow, blue, and Hlac. We have very little doubt but these Iftilbs will do to plant out in the gar- den in April, and be lifted in October. Keep them from frost Thus treated, they are very desirable bulbs.
Htoeas, about eight species, pretty plants of New South Wales, blue pea-ifowerftig evergreen shtuhs; the finest are H. Unedris, H. rosmxrimflka, H. longjflUa^ and H. CehH, which is the most superb^ and flowers ia abundance. They grow and flower freely; tjie pots should be drained. # .
Hydr6ngea horiSnsis is a well known plant, and much esteemed for its great profusion of very elegant, though monstrous, flowers. They are naturally of a rose do- lour,' but under certain circumstances of culture they become blue. If grown in broWn loam with a little sand, they will preserve their original colour r but if grown in swamp earth with a little mould of decayed leaves, they will become blue* The swamp earth qfld vegetable mould being more combined with aluminous salt than brown loam, ifc the cause of the change; and, fehen first found out, (which was merely by chance,) was thought a great wonder. It must have a very plentifbl supply of water when in flower, which is pro- duced on the shoots of the previous year* They will neither grow nor flower well if they are not kept con- stantly in the shade. When kept in the sun,* the foli- age is very brown; and by being neglected in Watering, we have seen the flowers completely scourged. Being tolerably hardy, when' the winters are mild, by a little
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protection in the open air, they will flower profbsely; the fltwero will be very targe, and in bloom from June to Octobec They are deciduous, 00ft wooded shraba.
Hypericums, St. John's wort, about twenty species. A few of them are very showy, and with few excep- tions have yellow flowers. H. monSgynvm, H.baleari- cum, H. Jl(frib6ndwni H. canariense, H. cegyptiaeumy and H. cochinchinense, which has scarlet flowers; are amongst the best, and all of them flower freely ; five petals, fila- ments many in three or five parcels. They are all of very easy cultivation, and bloom generally from April to September. -
Ikx s Holly, of L aqutfdlium. There are above one hundred species of them in cultivation in Europe, dif- fering in Vhriegation, margin, shape, and size of the leaves ; some are only prickly on the margin of the 6>» liage, others prickly over all the surface. In Europe they are all hardy, but with us few or none of the vari- eties are so. If they become acclimated, they will be a gre^t ornament to our gardens, being alt low evergreen shrubs. The most common and conspicuous varieties are the hedgehog, striped hedgehog, white edgedi gold edged, and painted; the flowers are white and small, berries yellow or red ; they do not agree with exposure to the sun. J. Casnne and /. vomitbria have very bitter leaves, and, though natives of Carolina, we hfeve to give them the protection 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 vomiting for a few days, they consider themselves sufficiently purified.
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lBtmwm f Aniseed-tree, three species. /. floriddnum^ has very sweet-scented, double purple flotfers, and the plant grows freely and systematically if properly treated, and deserves Jhe attention bf the admirers of flowers. /- parvijidrum has small yellow flowers ; /. amsdtum is so very like I. parvijidrum in every respect, as to make m conclude they are the same, were /. anis&tum not a na- tive 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.
Indigofera ; Indigo-tree, about twenty species, belong to the Green-house, and are chiefly pretty free flower- ing shrubs. /. denudata, J. amcena, L <m$trdti$, L anguldta, L cdndicans, and /. filifbUa, are very fiqe ; flowers papi- lionaceous, in long panicles ; colour various, red, blue, yellow, and pink,
hopogons, about ten species of . /VAfea-like plants, all natives of New Holland. They are very stiff shrubs, with leaves very much divided, and cotie-like flowers at the extremity of the shoots. Lformdsus^ I. anemxm- fbtiu**, I. attenudtis, and I. polycSphaUs, are the finest; flowers are straw, lilac, white, and yellow coloured; the pots must be well drained, and the plants not over- crowded.
Juslicias. Only a few of these belong to the Green- house, and are very simple looking flowers. The most beautiful of them belong to th6 Hot-house,. J. nigricans* small striped flower, J. orchioides and J. Adhtitoda, Mate- nut, are the only ones that are worth observation, and are very easily cultivated. /. Adhdtoda has good
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looking foliagfe, but does not flower until the plant be- comes large; colour white and light purple.
Jacksdnias. A genus cpnsisting of five species. The foliage is varied, and all natives of New South Wales. /. scopdria is similar to a plant in our collec- tions, called Vimendriadentidata.'J. horrida, and /. re/ict*- fcifa, are the finest ; the small flowers come out of the young shoots, are yellow and papilionaceous; the pots should be well drained.
Kenn&dias, about nine species, all evergreen climbers, of the easiest culture, and flower abundantly. K. mono- phylla, blue flowered, and K. rubicundq, crimson flower- ed, are common in our collections. K.pro$trdta, (once Glycine coccinea) one~flowered scarlet, and K. coccinecL, many flowered scarlet, are very pretty. XL Comptonidna has splendid purple flowers, and K. inophylla is thought the most superb. It is very rare, and, we have not seen it flower. They are large purple. The pots should be well drained ; and if the plants are much fostered, they will not flower. so well ; flowers are either in racemose spikes* or solitary, which is rather too much distinction for the same genus.
LambSrtiaS) four species of very fine plants, natives of New Holland. I+formdsa 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 flower- ed in cultivation. L. uniflera has single red flowers, and L. inSrmis 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.
Lasiop&cJums, only two species. There were a few
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more, but they are now Tkomdsias, plants of no merit whatever, in regard to flower; foliage three iobed, small, rough, and rusty-like. Thomdsia solandcect and T. querei- /&&*, are the best species ; foliage of the former is large, cordate, and deep indented ; they are qjl 4>f ihe easiest culture.- ' A " * :: v -
Zawift </v&r*, 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.formdsa and L.jtn'n»d/aare desirable; blue flowers on a long spike; should be kept near the glass; they are of the easiest culture.
Laurus. A few species are Green-house plants. This genus has been divided to Cinnamdmum; still there are a few celebrated plants in the original. L. ndbtlis, sweet bay, though hardy, is kept under protec- tion. It will bear the winter with a little straw cover- ing, 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. I*, indica, royal bay, Lu /ceteris, L. aggregdta> and L. gJuaca, are favourites. There is a species known in our collections as L. sc6~ bra. The Camphire tree, known as L. camphbra, is 'Cinnamdmum camphdra; the wood, leaves, and roots of this tree have a very strong odour of camphire. It is obtained by distillation from the roots and small branches* which are cut into chips, and put into a net suspended within an iron pot, the bottom of which is covered with water, having aij earthen head fitted in it;
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heat is then applied, and the steam of the boiling water acting upon the contents of the net, elevates the cam- phire into the capital, where it concretes on the straws, with which this part of the apparatus is lined. They are aft fine evergreens, (which the name denotes,) and easily cultivated,
"£lwmi,/Flax, two or three species are very fine, and flower freely. L. trigynum has Idrge yellow flowers in clusters, and L. ascyrifdlium, whose flowers are large, blue, and white, and in long spikes. The shape of them is very Kke the flower vulgarly called Morning-glory.
LobiUas. Several of them, when well treated, form most magnificent flowering plants ; they are principally herbaceous. L% Titpa has the largest foliage, and fine scarlet flowers. L. specio$a> flowers light purple ; L. fidgens, crimson flowers; L. spMndens, scarlet flowers. The three last are of the same habit; the colours bril- liant; and to grow them well, they should be divided, (if there are several shoots arising,) when they begin to grow, putting them first into four inch pots, and shifting them frequently, having them to flower in those of nine or ten inches, which will be about the end of June, or first of July, and they will continue until October. The pots must be always kept in pans or saucers filled with water; likewise give - plenty to the surface of the earth, which is to be done during their time of growth and flowering. If this is attended to, they will produce flower stalks from four to six feet in height, and covered with branches and spikes of flowers from bottom to top. The corolla is pentape-
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talous, three down and two up; they require a little shade. The genus consists of about eighty species ; seventy of them are exotics; many of them natives of the Qape of Good Hope* with little flowers of brilliant colours. L» tor&fea, I* ThmbirgU, L. corytnboea, L. pyramided**, and L. itiafdUa, af e very fine species, of weak growth, but flower freely.
LotndtiaS) about six species; flowers are white or straw colour, and similar to Greviliea, but the foliage more handsome.
Lophotpirmum sedndens. This is a magnificent new climbing soft wooded shrub, with purple, campanulate flowers, 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.
Ladmmui about five species, remarkable for their downy heads of white flowers; leaves small* ovate, Ian* ceolate. L.gkwca, L. conglomerate, and L. eriocephala* are the best species. The pots must be well drained, and in summer the plants protected from the sun.
Lecmdtis, Lion's-ear, four species. They have very fi^e scarlet tubular flowers, orifice-toothed. They come* out in large whorls, and look elegant; but nei- ther plant nor foliage has an agreeable appearance. They are of the easiest culture. L. intermedia^ and L. Leoniirus, are the best flowering species. .
LeucospermumSi about eighteen species, of Proteaci- ous plants, chiefly low growing, and are mostly downy or hairy ; flowers yellow, in terminate heads. L. for- mosum, L. grandifldmm, I* tomentosum^ and L. candi-
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]04 GBBte^BOWflB^REPOTTPiC. [J
tans, rose-scented. These are fine species. For treat- ment, see Prdteas.
Lipdricu, about five species, touch esteemed for their beauty of foliage ; leaves ovate, lanceolate, dgwny or woolly; flowers yellow, leguminose, and capitate. L. sphctrica, L. tomentim $ L. villosa, and L. sericea, are the finest L. visttia and L. viUosa are the' same, al- though put in many catalogues as different 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.
Lyrin&mas, four species, ^losely allied to Epdcris. In every respect treatment the same. L. pmtopik&m, . L. conspicum, and L. ntaeum, are the best ; the* flowers of the two former are white. L.silcrifbUa has leaves bipinnatifid and smooth, segments wedge-shaped and cut L. dentata and *L. ilicifdha are the finest ; the pots should be drained. *
Lonicerajap6nic(u There is a plant in our collec- tions known by that name, which is now JSxntooa longi- fldra; flowers 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.
Lychnis coroata, is an esteemed Chinese plant ; flowers in abundance, pentapetalous, large, and a tittle indented at the edges; colour red-like orange; flowers" terminate and axillary. The roots must be divided every spring, or they will dwindle away to nothing. Perhaps a good method of treatment would be to divide ' the roots, and plant them in the garden; theywotild
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dower well, and could be lifted in the fall, and pot under protection. We have no doubt that it may become acclimated. * If not done bo, 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 colour.
LeptospSrrmanS) about thirty species, all pretty New Holland evergreen dwarf shrubs, with small white flowers. L. baccdtum, Ii.penduhm,h.jun(perinumj L. ova- htm, L, 9teUctfum, L. grandiflorum, and L. scopdrium, are the best of the species. The latter was used as tea by Capt Cook's ship's crew. It is an agreeable bitter, with tf pleasant flavour, when fresh. When young, plants are growing, they ought to be frequently topped to make them bushy, and kept in an airy situation, or they will be drawn and unsightly. They are of very ^asy culture, v
Lwcadendrons, Silver tree, above forty species, all na- fivesofCape of Good Hope. They are evergreens with handsome, silvery-like foliage. L. argenteum (once ' Pridea argeniSaJ 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. squarrdsum, L. stelld- tum, (once Pridea steUaris) L. tortum, L. serviceum, L. fnargindtum^^LiiA L.phtmd$um (once P.parviftird) are all fine species. The pots must be well drained, and the plants never over-watered. They are very desirable iB collections for their beauty of foliage; flowers similar to <Prdtea.
'MagnbUas. There are four species that require the
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]06 GREEN-HOUSB-REPOTIWO. (Mams.
protection of our Green-houses ; all the others are hardy. M.fuscdta, and M. annon&fdUa, are very similar in foliage and flower : the young branches and leaves of M.fuscdta is covered with a brown, rusty-like down; the other by some is * considered merely a variety; flowers small, brown, and very sweet-scented. M. pumila is very dwarf growing; leaves large and netted; flowers semi-double, white, pendant, and fragrant They are natives of China. We have several others from the east, but being deciduous are perfectly hardy. M» odoradssima, now TaMvma Candolii, a native of the Island of Java, and said to be very odoriferous, bat is very rare even in Europe ; said to have a straw colour- ed flower. M. conspicua is desirable to have in the Green-house, if enarched on a stock of M. purpurea, which will always keep it dwarf, and it will flower mag- nificently in February and March.
Melaleucas, above thirty species, and a beautiful genus of New Holland plants, of easy culture; flowers come out of the wood like fringes. M. e&ptica, M. fid- gens, scarlet, M. decussata, M. hypericifika, M. squar- rdsa, M. UnarifoHa, M. incana, M. tetragbnia*, M. thymx- folia, are all very fine species, and flower freely if they have been grown from cuttings; the singularity of flower and diversity of foliage make them generally thought of.
Maurandias, three species, of very pretty climb- ing Green-house plants, flowering from March to October. M. Barclayana has splendid flowers, large* light blue, campanulate, and very abundant. M. $em~ perflbrens has rose coloured flowers, of the same char- acter. They will flower best if planted in the ground.
Myrsines, Cape Myrtle, dwarf cape evergreen shrubs
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covered with small flowers from March to May. M. rc- tusa has g{een and purple flowers; M. rotundiJhUa, flowers white and purple. They will grow in any si- tuation, and are of easy culture.
MSspilus japSnica. The plant, known under that name, is now Eriabterya japSnica, Loquat, is a fine 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 delicious flavour. If it flowers in the fall, it will require the heat of a Hot-house to ripen the fruit. It is of very easy culture, and its noble aspect is never passed unobserved.
Metrosuteros, about five species. Many have been added to Callisthnon. M. flbrida, M. umbelldta, and M. angustifdlia, are the best species. C. sa&gnum, C. Iccnr ceoldium, variety semperiflbrens, C. glaucutn, once M. spe- oidsa, has splendid scarlet flowers and C.formdsum; these are all beautiful plants, with scarlet flowers. Other two beautiful species with white flowers have been given to Ang&phww. A. cordifdlia, once M. hispida, and A. lanceoldta, once M. eostata ; these genera are very easily distinguished from any other Australasian shrubs, by the peculiar 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 eone crowned with a small twig ; 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.
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108 «B«ra.H0WE-JtHPOTnNO. [HiicE.
Jnt/rtus, Myrtle, is a well known and popular ehrub, especially the common varieties'; and waa a. great fa- vourite, (even fo adoration,) among the ancients. * It was the mark of authority for Athenian rulers, and is amongst the moderns an emblem of pre-eminence. They are elegant jevergreen shrubs, with an agr6eaUe odour. M. communis multiplex, double flowering, is a very neat shrub, and flowers abundantly, M. com- munis kueocarpa, White-fruited Myrtle* is quite unujhe, when the berries are on it M- itaKca variagdta, striped leaved ; M. italicamaculhia, blotch leaved, are very fine shrubs ; and ML tomentdsa, Chinese Myrtle, is a magnifi- cent erect growing #hrub, with a white down over the foliage ; the flowers are the largest of (he genus. When they first expand, they are white, and afterwards change to purple, so that there are beautiful flowers of several shades of colour on (he plant. We havp not the smalt est doubt but this Species will become in many in- stances as plentiful as the common myrtle. It is more easily grown, but cannot stand much exposure to the sun in summer. M. tenuifolia 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 mildew and red spider.
JYanc&na domestical the only species, and a popular shrub in the gardens of Japan, where it is called JVan- din. It has supra-decompound leaves, with entire lan- ceolate 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.
JVbrium, (Oleander,) is a genus of beautiful erect
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growing evergreen shrubs; of the easiest culture/ and abundant iu flower. M ole&nder is the common rose coloured single flowering species, from v^ich six varie- ties have originated. At present the most popular is JY. oleander spUndens, which has a double rose coloured flower. There is one that has got in our collections as double white which is only semi-double. We have seen a white, variety as double as N. o. sptendens, and 'bate no doubt but in a few years it will be plentiful. JW okdnder eleganiissimum, a most beautiful plant, with deep silver-edged foliage; and the young wood is strip- ed white and green. We are not positive in respect to the beauty of its flowers, but it hap a high character. We have heard of a double- yellow variety, but the re- ports are not properly authenticated ; and we doubt it very much. There are likewise single yellow, single white, and single blotched varieties of JV. oleander. They are subject to the small white scaly insect, and should be frequently washed, as has been directed, to keep it off.
OUas, Olive, about twelve species and varieties. O. Europcea bngifdlia, is the species that is cultivated to such an extent in the south of France, and Italy. O. Europcea tatifoUaia chiefly cultivated in Spain. The fruit is larger than that of Italy, but the oil is not so pleasant, which is obtained 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
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longevity. Some plantations at Turin in Italy are sup- posed to have existed from the time of Pliny. It fre- quently flower? in our collections, but seldom carries fruit ; flowers white, in small racemose axillary spikes. O. eupSnsis has a thick large oblong foliage ; flowers white, in large terminate panicles. O. verrucdsa, foliage flat, lanceolate, and white beneath, branches curiously warted. 0. fragrdns^ 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, lanceolate, and a little ser- rated ; flowers white in lateral bunches. It is subject to the small, white scaly insect, and ought to be care- fully kept from them by washing. O. paniculate is a fine species. They are all very easily cultivated.
Oxylbbiums, seven species, plants very similar to CalUstackys, with ovate, cordate, light coloured, pu- bescent foliage, with papilionaceous flowers. O. obtusi- fdlium has scarlet flowers ; O. retiisum, orange flowers ; and O. eWpticum, yellow flowers. They grow freely, and should be well drained ; flower from May to Au- gust
Pelargoniums, Stork's Bill. This genus, so universal- ly known amongst us as Geranium, from which it was separated many years ago, is a family of great extent and variety, for which we are principally indebted to the Cape of Good Hope. By cultivation from seed many hundred beautiful species and well marked varie- ties have been obtained. There are about five hun- dred species, with upwards of two hundred varieties. They are of every character, colour and shade, of the
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most vivid description. The easy cultivation of the Pelargdnium tribe, or Gerdniums, as they are commonly called, has rendered them very popular; also the agreeableness of scent and fragrance of which many of them are possessed, makes them favourites. If their flowering season was of longer duration, the varieties and species would be quite indispensable in collections) but there is every appearance that in a few years the aspect of them will be changed. The present prevail- ing colour of the flower, (which has five petals, three hanging and two erect, the erect petals being always of the darkest shade,) is a white or pink ground, with lilac, purple, or pink stripes, flakes, or spots, and blooms from April to June; though they bloom pro- fusely in large bunches, the time is limited The spe- cies and varieties that hare a red ground, with black or dark crimson stripes or spots, generally bloom dur- ing the whole summer These, though scarce in the collections of the country, will in a few years root out those whose flowers are of such short duration, and by their blooms charm us half of the year.
The tuberous and fleshy stemmed species are far more interesting to the discriminating inquirer than the common kinds. Their habit and constitution are so peculiar, that we have frequently wondered 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. When 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.
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If some of the colours of these could be compounded with the large flowering kinds, those hybridised would be magnificent > .
' The best method to adopt in impregnating these, is to choose the female, one that has large flowers, of easy cultivation, and as nearly allied in character and other habits as possible. When a flower of the intend- ed female is newly expanded, take a pair of very fine pointed scissons, and cut off the anthers before the pollen expands ; then as soon as the 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 vti 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 distinctly marked until they flower, which will be in the second year from the time of sowing.
PhSrmium tdnax, New Zealand flax lily, the only spe- cies; foliage resembling an Iris, and very thready. In New Zealand and Norfolk Island, the natives manufac- ture from this plant a kind of stuff like coarse linen, cordage, &c; the plant is very hardy, and we would be no way surprised to see it stand the severity of our winters. It bears exposure to the open air in Europe in the 56th degree of north latitude. The flowers are said to be yellow and lily-like; of the easiest culture.
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ttuuM.] ^GREBNJfOU8fi.-«JEPOTT^G. ^ ]]3
Phyticas, qbove twenty-five species. Several of them are very pretty growing evergreen shrubs, and of easy culture. P. horizyntdlis r P. jquarrosa, P. imbricata, P. myrtifdUa, P. mltosa, 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 species is downy.
PimMeaS) about fourteen species. Most of them are highly esteemed, and are not often seen in our collec- tions. P. decussdia is the finest of the genus, both in foliage and flowers, which are red, and in large termi- nate clusters; P/rdsea; P. hnifolia, white, P. spirit*, and P. drvpdcta, are all fine species. The latter has the largest foliage, which is ovate and accumulate; berry-bearing. They should be well drained. They are very small* evergreen shrubs, with white or red flowers.
Pittisporums, about nine species, with handsome foliage, and small white flowers in clusters, which are fragrant. P. Tobira is a native of China, and nearly hardy ; leaves lucid, obbvate, obtuse, and smooth. P. unduldtum, P. coridceum, P. revolutum, P. fuhum 9 and P. ftrrugineum, are very ornamental evergreens, and will grow with the most simple treatment
Platyldbiums, Flat Pea, four species of fine free flowering plants; flowers leguminose; colour yellow. P. formdswn, P. ovdttrn^ and P. triangulares are the best; the foliage of the two former is cordate, ovate; the latter hastate, with spiny angles.
Pistaciasi seven species of trees, principally of the south of Europe. There is nothing particular in their
15
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1|4 GREBN-HOOTB - REPOTTING. [Kim.
appearance, except their productions in their native country. P. terebinthus is deciduous, and produces the Cyprus turpentine. P. letUisew is the true mas- tich tree, which is obtained by cutting transverse inci- sions in the bark. P. vira and P. reticulata are good species; leaves pinnated; leaflets ovate, lanceolate; easily cultivated.
P&cmbctgos, Lead-wort. There are only two species of any consequence belonging to the Green-house, P. tristis and P. capSnsis. The former is a shy flower er, 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.
Psordleas, above forty species. A few of them are worthy of cultivation, P. odoratissima, P. spicata, P. aculedta, P. argentea^ and P. tomentdsa. They have all blue flowers, and leguminose. They are chiefly low shrubs; and will flower and grow freely; the pots re- quire draining.
Podalyriasi about fourteen species of pretty Cape Bhrubs; foliage oblong, obovate, and silky-like; the flowers leguminose; colour blue or pink. P. jerfcto, P. styracifblia^ P. corbscans, P. argintea, P. Uparioidm^ and P. subbijldra, are the finest and most distinct species, and flower abundantly.
Perso6nias, about sixteen species of dwarf evergreen shrubs; leaves oblong, or lanceolate, hairy, or downy; flowers axillary and solitary; the pots should be well drained, and the plants in summer protected from the sun. P. hirsuta, P. m6Uis, P. teretifoUa, and P. focida, are the most distinct, and grow freely.
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Mam.] GRiaa^HOTOE^REPOTTING. ]15
Prbteas, about forty-four species.* The foliage of this genus is very diversified; flowers very large, termi- nate; stamens protected by an involucrum; mahy-leav- ed and irabrieated; which is. very ^persistent- P. cynaroides has the largest flower, which is purple, green, and red. P. specifrsa, P. umbondhs, once P. ' longifolia, P. tnekdeucay P. grandifibra, P. coccinea, P. cenocdrpa, P. p6Uens, P. formosa, P. magnifica, P. $pe- cidsa rubra, and P. meMfera, will afford a very good variety. It is almost impossible to describe their true colour," it being so various; red, white, straw, brown, green, and purple, are most predominant, and fre- quently to be seen in the same flower; the plants must be well drained; and during warm weather be careful that they are not neglected in water, for if they are suffered to droop, they seldom recover. For this rea- son the pots ought not to stand in the strong sun; the plants can bear it, but to the roots it is injurious.
Pxdienceas, about forty species, pretty Jjttle dwarf growing shrubs of New South Wales ; flowers small, legummose, all yellow, with a little red outside of the pfetals. P. villosa, P. obcordala, P. argentea, P. plumfoa, P. flexitii, shining leaved, fragrant; P. Candida, and P. strietdy are all fine species, and esteemed in collections. The leaves are all small ; they require an airy exposure, and the pots drained.
Rhododendron* (Rose tree), a magnificent genus, and contains some of the most superb and gigantic plants that adorn the Green-house. All the Azaleas (except. A. procumbent) both Chinese and American, have been
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]]6 . GRBEN-HO«K*BBPOTTlifG;
arranged'under this, geftus. At ffreseot the most ad- mired is R. arbbfeurn, with vltrietiesr R. arbareum has deep scarlet flowers, wkh'dark spots and* flakes cam-
,pantlated, an* in Ivge clusters; leaves lanceolate, acute, rough, and silvery beneath. R. arboreum aUmm is very' rare. R. arbdreum supSrbum, flowers same shape as arbdreum, colour bright scarlet ; foliage ame third larger, but not silvery beneath f grows freely, and generally thought the finest variety. R. arbdrea &be- Cldrance is also very superb. There are several other varieties of minor note. A Greenhouse without some of the scarlet varieties of that plant, is deficient of a flower whose beauty and grandeur are beyond -the highest imagination. It is a native of Nepaul in India, and when found by Dr. Wallach awakened the ambition of every cultivator and connoisseur in Europe. There are several other species brought from tnat country lately, but none of them has yet flowered. They are highly valued fro§a the productions of the above; the species are R. campanuldlum^ R* anthopdgon, and JR. cinnamo- meum. This is named from the colour of the leaves, which are very peculiar and very handsome ; the flowers are said to be rose-coloured. These three last cannot be purchased under an immense price; the others have been rarely seen in our collections, but an- other year or two 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 potshreds around the side, for the fine fibres delight to twine about such, being moun- tainous plants.
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* 117
RoiUas, pretty ledfy shrubs, "with bke terminals fiin*- nel-shaped flowei*, lip-spreadjng;. R. ciBjpta> R.9pi> cafa, and R. peduneutila, arb thfc finest of the genus. The pots must be well drained, and t&re taken that, they are not over*watered.
S&hria (Sage), is an exte^ive genus of soft-Wooded, *
'jftrabby, or herbaceous plants ; Very few of them do
' well in the Greenhouse, and many of U*em are very trifling, baring no other attraction than the flower, and those of the tender species, when compared with S. -
m iltgans, S. spUndens, S. c&rulea, and S. coccinea, (which in artificial climates constitute the standard of the genus,) are not -frorth cultivation. These last men- tioned, if kept in the Green-house, will merely keep in life, but a situation -m the Hot-house would cause them to flower frequently. The best method to adopt with the summer flowering kinds, is to plant them in the garden in May ; they will grow stfong and flower abundantly, and in the fall they can be lifted, and pre-
m served during winter in pots. They neither grow nor flower so well as when planted out, and even a slip plant- ed in the ground in moist weather will root in a few days, grow, and flower in a few weeks* S. splendent is the best to select for the purpose. S. aurea, 8. panictf- lata, and S. indica, are fine species. The latter is white and blue, with large leaves; flowers monopetalbus, and
' irregular ; colour generally red or blue in spiked whorls. All will grow easily with encouragement
Sendcios. Some species of this genus are pestiferous weeds all over the world. They are found near the limits of perpetual snow, where neither tree nor shrub
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118 fltEBI-Wl»»^WrOTI1»0. {M*mm.
10 able to rear its head* Yet there are three species that are neat little plants, and are worthy of a situation, viz. S. grandifidrys, S. venfotus, and & cinerasce**, with the double white and red variety of & eUgans. The two last varieties are free flowering, but if allowed to grow several years, they become unsightly. Being very easily propagated, 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 mentioned species should be frequently done the same way. Do not keep them damp during winter, or they will rot off Keep them in an airy exposure.
Schotias, a beautiful genus of six species, which will require the warmest part of the Green-house to keep them. The foliage is handsome ; leaves compound : leaflets oval-lanceolate, and in pairs froin six to ten; & speciosa, crimson, flowers nearly papilionaceous, and in bunches, the most superb of the genus. 8. akUa, & la- Hfblia, once Omphaldbium SchStia, and S. tamarimUf&Ua, are the finest; the flowers of the others are red. The pots require to be drained, and the plants protected from the hot sun.
Swainsdnas, four species of free flowering, soft wood- ed shrubs, natives of New South Wales. S. galigifoiia, S. corontlksftlia, and S. astragali/oba, are red, purple, and white; leguminose flowers in spikes from the axils, are of easy culture, and deserving of a situation; the foliage ifi pinnate ; leaflets ovate, acute.
Scdttias, three species of valuable plants; & dentate,
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GfiEBff.H0C!SE--4UE2POTTING. *219
with scarlet leguminose blossoms; leaves opposite, ovate, accuminate, serrate ; S. angustiftka has brown flowers; &.trapezifbrfm$i 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 warm* est part of the Green-house, and near the light
Sparrmdnnias, are strong growing Green-house shrubs. S. africdna, is a plant very common in our collections, with large three lobed cordate leaves, hairs on both sides ; flowers from March to July. S. n** g6sa. The leaves are rugged ; flowers of both are white, in a kind of corymb, supported by a long foot- stalk ; bods drooping* flowers erect There is a plant known in our collections, as the free-flowering Span- m&nnia, (which is EntHia arborescens,) and is easily dis- tinguished from Sparrmdnnia by the leaves being cor- date, accuminate, and otherwise, by all its filaments being fertile, and the flowers more branching, and blooming from November to June, profusely; very easily cultivated, and desirable.
Spkceroldbiums, only two species of leafless plants, with yellow and red leguminose flowers, which proceed from the young shoots. S. vimineum and S. mSdium. They flower freely, and are easily cultivated. The old wood should be frequently cut out where it is practica- ble. Drain the pots.
Sprengeiia incarnata, the only species, a very pretty plant, allied to Epdcris; small foliage, long, accuminate; flowers small, pink, bearded, and in close spikes; grows freely, delighting in shade. The pots must be well drained, and the plants, when dormant, watered spa*
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120
* -
ringijr , for if they get sodden abort the roots, they Yery seldom recover-
Stylidkuu, six species of pretty Htte plants, with email linear leaves, and remarkable for the singular elasticity of the style or column, which, when the flower is newly expanded, lays to one side, and on being touched with a pin starts with violence to the opposite side. S. gramim/^kwn^./ruticdeuTiUf SL laricifdUttm, and S. afitdtest, are all free flowering; flowers hi- spikes, very small; colour light and dark pink; blooms from April to July. SL adndtum is half herbaceous, and should, when growing, be kept nigh the glass, or it wiU be drawn, and the flowers become of a pale coJoot, They are all of easy cultivation.
Styph&kas, seven species of very showy flowers, with mucronate leaves ; corolla in a long tubular form, hav- ing several bundles of hairs in it ; segments reflex and bearded. & tubifldra, crimson, & trifldra, crimson and green; S. adscSndens, and S. longi/dtia, ate beautiful species. They grow freely, and should be well drained, as too much water is very hurtful to them. In summer they ought not to be much exposed to the hot sun, or the foliage will become brown.
Sdpigl6s$i8 % fout species of fine herbaceous Green- house plants, natives of Chili. The flowers are tabular and campanulate. S. picta, flowers white and blue painted ; 8. <aroputphr^ flowers dark purple, and S. isnttata, flowers crimson, are superb, and if planted in the garden during summer will flower profusely. They must be lifted in October, and* taken under protection.
Tagiitshcida is found in many of our collections.
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Majkul} G&EEN-HOUSE - KEFOTTING. 1 2 1
%
The leaves are simple, oblong, and finely serrated. When rubbed by the hand, they have an agreeable fra- grance; the flowers are syngenesious, small, and in ter- minate bunches. It is herbaceous ; and when about an inch grown should be divided and potted into five inch pots. Repot it again about the first of June. It keeps in flower from July to November.
Testudin&ria, 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 computed to be 150 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 inac- tive it is in danger of suffering from moisture, and ought not to get any water. T. Elephdntiphes and T. mont&na are the species, natives of the Cape of Good Hope, and require the warmest part of the house.
Tdxus nucifera, is the only species that requires pro- tection, and bears a small acorn; flowers are trifling; an evergreen, with ovate, lanceolate foliage, thickly set on the wood ; will grow in any situation. There is a plant in our collections known as T. chinensis or T. ehn- gala, which is Podocdrpus elongatus. It has lanceolate leaves, erect growing, and very hardy ; flowers moeona* cious, and of no estimation except to the curious.
Telop&a speciosissimus, is the only species, and was once called Embdthrium speciosissimus* It is now called Tdopha in allusion to the brilliant crimson flowers, which from their great size are seen at a large distance, and
16
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J 22 GREEN-HOUSE - REPOTTING. [March.
9
which render it one of the most conspicuous produc- tions of New South Wales. The leaves are oblong, deeply toothed, veiny, and Smooth; wood strong; flower ovate, connate, and terminate, and of consider- able 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.
Templetbnia, a very pretty genus, containing only two species. T. retusa is an erect growing shrub, with wedge-shaped green leaves. T. glauca, leaves glacuous, blunt, and a little apiculate ; flowers of both scarlet They are leguminose plants of free growth, and should be well drained ; blooming from April to June.
Tristdnias, seven species of evergreen shrubs. Several of them require to be very large before they flower. T. neriifblia is a very neat little plant, and flowers abun- dantly; colour yellow ; shape star-like, and in clusters; leaves lanceolate and opposite. T. conferta, white flowers in spikes, leaves alternate: T. suavdolens, sweet- scented; flowers yellow. They are all of very easy culture.
Verbenas. A few of these are showy, herbaceous, Green- house plants. V. chamcedryfolia, lately known as V. Me&n- dres, is a beautiful plant of a procumbent habit ; flowers ' brilliant scarlet, in glomerated heads from the axils of the young shoots ; blooming from April to October. A large plant will appear as a solid mass of scarlet V. lambertii and V.pulchella are also very pretty; colour, rose and lilac. A very good method of treating these plants, is, to plant them in the garden in April; and give them copious
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Maech.] GREEN-HOUSE - REPOTTING. ]23
waterings in dry weather, and they will flower profuse- ly, lifting some of the plants before frost, to preserve them during winter. They ought to be allotted to run according to their nature; for if tied up, they will not do so well, being in that way too much exposed. There is a plant known in our collections as Verbena iriphylla, which is Moysia citrioddra. The flowers are in long spikes, very small, and pale purple. The celeb- rity of the plant is in the foliage, which is linear, lan- ceolate, terqate, and it has the most agreeable fragrance in the vegetable world. It is of very easy culture, and has been known to survive the winter, in open air, in Philadelphia. It is deciduous, and would do to plant in the garden during summer, lifting it again before frost, and putting it under protection through winter. When large before it begins to grow, in spring cut it into a neat shape or form.
Viburnums. A few of these are very ornamental ever- green shrubs, and almost hardy. V. tlnus is the well known Laurestine, (or what is commonly called Lau- restinus,) is of the easiest culture ; flowers small white, and in large flattened panicles ; blooming from Feb- ruary 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 except by the buds, which sometimes form early in summer. V luctdum 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 va-
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]24 GRE^N-HOOTE - REPOTTING. [Mutes.
riety. V. odoraiisstmum has smooth evergreen, oblong, elliptic, distantly toothed, leaves, and frequently a stripe in them, is sweet-scented, and a free flawerer. V. Jur- sitium has flowers similar to the above ; foliage ovate, with rough brown tiairt on both sides, and very charac- teristic; V. strictum variagdtum is a very fine variety, and upright growing. These plants are all very desir- able, blooming early in spring, and continuing for seve- ral months ; all easily cultivated.
Vimin&ria denuddia, the only species. This plant is re- markable for its tfriggy appearance, but it has no foliage, except when growing from seed. It has at the extremity of the twigs or shoots, an ovate, lanceolate, leaf, disap- pearing when the plant grows old; the flowers are small, yellow, coming out of the young shoots, to the astonish- ment of the beholder. It grows freely.
VirgiUa cap&nsis is a beautiful cape shrub, with a compound leaf of twenty-five leaflets, ovate, lanceolate, edges hairy; flowers in spikes at the axils; colour blue and leguminose. The pots require to be well drained, and the plants protected from the sun.
Volkam&ria japonica. There is a plant known in our collections under that name, which is Clerodendron frd- grans multiplex. It keeps in a .good 'Green-house, and flowers well, frequently blooming during winter,* and if planted in the garden during summer, will flower su- perbly. The flowers have a delicious fragrance ; but if the foliage is rubbed with the hand, the smell is not sq pleasant. The leaves are large, round, ovate, and tomentose; flowers corymbose, compact, and terminale. There are several fine plants in Clerodendron belonging
Digits
zed by G00gle
Mai*.] GRrart.HOUSEr^fltTOTtnrG. % 125
to the Hot-house. This plant will not^ear much fu- migation. ' :
Wils&nias, foir species. W. corymbdsa is a plant that has stood in high estimation ever since it was known, but unfortunately there is a refy inferior plant, Aristka cydnea, got into our collections under that name. The panicles of W. corymbdsa is quite smooth ; those of Aris* tia are hairy, which is itself sufficient to detect them ; but otherwise the appearance of TV. corymbdsa is much stronger, and more erect growing, not inclining to push at the roots so much as Aristte. The foliage is lanceolate and amplexicaule, the leaves having much the nature and appearance of Iris. The plant is of easy culture, aqd blooms from November to April ; co- lour fine blue. The true one has come into the country lately. TV. ramdsa is a very fine species, simi- lar to the above; flowers yellow and blue; plant branching.
Westringias, a genus of four species, very like the- common Rosemary. TV. rosmariniformis, leaves lanceo- late, and silvery beneath; TV. longtfdUa is similar; both have small white silvery flowers, and are easily culti- vated. .
Zdmias, 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. It bears heads of flowers of a brown colour in the centre of the plant, very like large pine cones. Z. hSrrida, the finest, Z. pungent, Z. spiralis, and Z. latifdUa, are the most conspicuous. They must be kept in the warmest part of the Green-
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]26 GREENHOUSE-REPOTTING. [JUml
house'; and give them large well drained pots. They are imported from the Cape of Good Hope. All the plants herein named requiring to be drained. In pre- paring the pots, place first a piece of broken pot, 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 gravel, about the size of garden pease. Those that we have mentioned in this Repotting, as to be done in this, or beginning of next month, is not in- tended to apply to plants in general, large and small, but to those that are young, and require encourage* ment, or to those that were not shifted last autumn. The roots must not be disturbed, but the ball turned out entire; and put as much earth as will raise the ball within about an inch of the rim of the pot. Press the earth down around it with a thin- narrow piece of wood, 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 the repotting be done afterwards. Plants are, at certain stages of growth, if in good health, in such a state that no one can err in shifting 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.
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Makoh.] GREEN-HOUSE-OF ENARCHING, &e. \2?
m
Never saturate with water fresh potted plants. There are many kinds that, without injury, could be repotted when growing; but it requires an experienced operator to decide. It would be of no material servidfe to enu- * merate them here. When done potting, tie all up neatly with stakes rather higher than the plant, that the new shoots may be tied thereto during their stage of growth, 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 top-dressing. This should be done by probing off all the surface earth down to the roots, replacing it with fresh com- post, suitable to the nature of the plant.
When the above is done, arrange all the plants in pro-; per order, and syringe them clean ; but if there are any of the Green-fly, they must be fumigated previous to syringing. Take an opportunity, on the first fine day, to wash out all the pavement of the house, which should be made dry before the evening if the nights are cold. Thus every part of the house will be in order before the hurry of the garden commences.
OF EN ARCHING OR GRAFTING BY APPROACH, aleo termed ABLACTATION.
Ix this method of grafting, the scion is not separated from the parent plant until it is firmly united with the stock ; consequently, 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
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|29 Gfciafej-HOUSE-OF ENAECHING, fce. [Kuch.
operation is, just as the plants begin to grow* either in spring or mid-suotmer. Place the stock contiguous to the plant where the graft or enarch is to be taken f«om. If the benches, where the intended union is to take place, do not grow at equal heights, a slight stage may be erected to elevate the pot that holds the lower. Take the branch that is to be enarched, (the wood of last or previous 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 stock which is to receive the graft, do the same, that the inside 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 matting, and protect the joint from the air by a coat of close com- position ; clay of the consistency of thick paint, tur- pentine, or wax, will equally answer. Finish by fast- ening the grafted branch to the head of the stock or a rod. Many practitioners make a slit or tongue into the enarch and stock, but we find it unnecessary, more tedious, and likewise more danger in breaking. Ca- mtilias are also grafted, and budded, but these two ope- rations require great experience and continued atten- tion, and seldom prove so successful as enarching. When they have perfectly taken, which will be after the first growth is over, begin to separate them by cut- ting the scion a little at three different periods, about a week apart, separating it at the third time. If the
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Mimr.] fUfWJOL CJJtDBN. ]2f
fcepd is intended to be token off the st6ck, do it in like manner after the second grojvth is ovtr. By the above metfcod, many kinds can be growd on the same stock. The same plan applies to all evergreens.
jFW&ttefc&m.
MARCH.
i
It is expected that all the pruning is finished. If not, get all expeditiously done, according to directions given in the preceding months, likewise all digging, and that which was dug in the autumn, point over, or half dig, that all may have a neat appearance. This must not be done when the ground is too much imbibed with moisture, as that would harden the soil. Break it well with the spade, leaving it one or two days before the surface is raked smooth, that all may be ready to re- ceive the seeds or plants that are intended to be sown or planted. As soon as the frost is entirely gone, un- cover all plants or shrubs that have been protected; preserving carefully such articles as will answer the same purpose next year. The frost disappears generally from the middle to the end of this month. Cut off all decayed shoots, or such as have been hurt by the frost. The Lagerstrcemias will flower in greater
17
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130 FLOWER GARDEN- BOX EDGINGS. [Mino.
perfection if they are cut closely; that is, where the wood of last year is cut to within a few eyes of the wood of the previous year, at the same time having regard ft> the shape that the plant is required to take. Cut off the injured part of any of the evergreens that have had their foliage much injured by the severity of winter, leaving the part that is green, which is es- sential to the support of these kinds of plants.
Such work as can be done in this month, should not be delayed, such as hoeing, digging, raking, and clear- ing away all decayed leaves, and litter of Qvery descrip- tion that have been brought or blown in the garden, during autumn or winter.
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, viz. about one inch higher than the side of the walk; but the taste of the operator will best decide 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 desired height. If the edging is to be in a direct line, either on a level or inclined plane, .you may be correctly and simply regulated by making the desired level at each end of the line. Take three rods about
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IfuoB.] FLOWER GARDEN - TENDER ANNUALS. 13J,
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 centre, going along the line, and about every twenty feet, level a spot to the exact height, which will be seen by look* ing over the top of- the rods from one end. Having found the level, drive in a peg to it, so that no mistake nay 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 perpen- dicularly 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 forward, 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 box will be the better of a few waterings. Sometimes boxwood is planted without roots, but it seldom gives satisfaction ; not growing equally.
TENDER ANNUALS.
When it is wished to have any of these flower early, if they were not sown as directed last month, on a hot- bed, let it be done early in this. , Those that were
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«1 32 FLOWER GAR0EN-HARDY ANNUALS. [Ma&bv.
sown and now growing freely, must have plenty of air. In fine days the sashes may be taken off a few hours about mid-day; and where the plants are too thick, thin them out a few*nches apart, that the air may circulate amongst them. Have another bed ready to transplant them into about the end of this 'or beginning of next month. When transplanted, sprinkle them with water, and shade them With mats from the sun, one or two days; By this treatment they will be much stronger for planting into the borders, about the first of May. For the different kinds, see list
HARDY ANNUALS
May be sown in the borders about the end of the month, when the ground is prepared, and the weather fine, but avoid it at all times if the earth will not pulve- rise 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 end draw a circle, of nine inches diameter, from one inch to one eighth of 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 in with the back of the rake, placing a small twig, or a tally with the name, in the centre of the circle, to prevent mistakes, either in sowing, planting, or hoeing. When they come above ground, the first moist day should be taken to pull up such as are too crowded. Annuals are generally too delicate to bear transplanting, there- fore they ought always to be sown where they are in-
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Mam*.] FLOWER GARDEN-BEENWIAJUB, Ac. n $
tended to remain. A few kinds do best with restoring, such as Balsam, Mary-gold, China Aster* Stockgilly, and several others of a free growing,- strong-wooded nature. Annuals are such plants as grtw from seed, flower, and perfect their productions, and then die, within one year. For hardy sorts, see list. Sow in rows or fancy spots the varieties of sweet pea.
3 .
t
BIENNIALS
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 or beginning of next month, either in the spot where they are intended to remain, or in a compartment by themselves, regularly marked, and transplanted when convenient. 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 put where they are to stand, leave only three plants.
PERENNIAL&
In every Flower-garden there ought to be a good selection of these plants. They are lasting ornaments, and when judiciously selected, will give yearly gratifi- cation. In making a choice, a view should be had to have those that flower abundantly, are of free growth, beauty, and continuation of flower. It would go beyond our limits, to give an extensive description of any, but
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134 FLOWERS ARDEN - PiaffilfNIAL^ [Mabch.
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, bloom in April and May.
Anemone, Wind-flower. Several fine species, with flowers from one to three inches in diameter. A. HaU fin, blue; A. pulsatilla, blue pasque flower; A. alpina, large white. These are fine plants, and are now given to a genus called Pulsatilla. A. pahn&taftore-p&no, yellow; A. stelldia versicolor, various coloured; A. pavomna fibre- pfeno, scarlet; A. narcissijlbra, white. Any of these are very desirable.
- Antirrhinums, Snap-dragon. All the varieties of A. mhjus are esteemed in the flower borders ; the pure white and bright red are very showy. A few of the species, A. m6Ue and A. siculum, where there is variety required, deserve a situation. The flowers are all large, and similar to the snout of an animal.
Asclepias. The finest of this genus are native plants, and are highly esteemed in Europe, but frequently re- jected with us, because "they are wild plants." A. tu- berosa has beautiful orange flowers, and delight in dry situations. A. rubra^ A. nivea, A. purpurdscens ; and A. incarndta, are the finest of the family. It is best to plant A. tuberbsa in October.
AconitumS) WolfsMmne, one hundred and twenty- eight distinct species, with several varieties. Many of them are of consequence and beauty; the flower stems
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rise from one and a half to six feet upright, and strong, furnished with many palmate and digitate leaves, ter- minated 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. specidsum, A. anthbra, A. neiirbergensis, A. amcenum, A. nap6ttus 9 A. ven&stxan, A. zotictonum, A. pyramiddle, A. lycdctonum, A. album, and A. versicolor. They flower from May to September, and will grow in any common gar- den soil. The roots of A. napelks are like small turnips, and are said to be poisonous.
Cdbha palustris flbre-plkio is a good border plant, de- lights in moist situations, has large cordate, crenated leaves ; flowers double yellow ; blooming from April till June; and is a desirable plant
- BiUis perSnnis hortSnsis, Daisy. We might almost say with another, " every one knows the Daisy." It is named from being pretty, and is perfectly hardy, though generally kept under cover. They delight to have a shaded situation during summer, to protect them from the sun, which, as it were, scorches the roots. There are many double varieties in the gar- dens, which flower early. The one called Croiwi, or Carnation Daisy, is twice the size of the common varie- ties, and has white and red petals alternately, and very double. Loamy soil, inclined to moisture, is best adapted to their growth.
Campanulas. This genus affords many very orna-
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136 ruonmmwmi^mgmfikUL pura.
mental plants for the Flower-garden and Shrubbery, and they flower superbly* during the summer, agreeing "better with our climate than with 'that of Europe. Se- veral have two successions of flowers, C. pmkifdUa 6Jba plena; C. persiafblia cwrulea pteno; Q. urtici/oka^ white. Of this last there is also a double variety. G speciom ; C. glorrurdia; C. versicolor; with several others, are worthy of a situation in every garden. Their roots are strong, fleshy, and fibrous, Thfey are easy of cul- ture, and will retain their situation in the severest of our winters. Cgrcmdifldra is now WahlenbSrgia grand*- fldra. It has fine blue large flowers;. the flower stems are slender, and should be supported as soon as they grow.
Chcirdnthus Cheiri vulgdris 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 win- ters- The most esteemed variety is Ham&ithusj Dou- ble bloody. They should all be protected by a frame. C. muidbilis is a beautiful 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.
Chtldnes. This genus belongs entirely to this conti-* nent, and possesses many fine species. It is a matter of astonishment that they are not more cultivated and sought for in our collections. C. gldbra; C. obSqua; C.barbclta; C. atropurpurea; C. pukhSHa; C. venfata;
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Ma*ch.1 ftOWJER GAWEN-tFERENNIALS. 137
and C. speciom; 'are all handsome, and flower from May to September; corolla darge, ringent; ventricose flbwers in spikes or panicles. -*
Chrysdnthcmums. There are few of this genus of any consequence as herbaceous plants, except the varieties of C. sininse, of ^feich there, are about fifty, all desirable ; but in small gardens, where there is a deficiency in room, the following are select in colour and quality: TxxMdsum dlbum, quilled white; supirbum, superb white; discolor, large HlaC; fulvum, Spanish brown ; airopurpureum, early crimson ;» tovolidum, curled lilac; fasciculdtum, superb cluster yellow; serotinum, late pale purple; papyrdceum* paper white; Waraidk, yellow Waratah; vtrsicobr, two-coloured red; steUcUum, starry purple; verecundum, early blush; and mutabile, changeable pale buff. To grow these, in perfection, they require rich light soil j and about the end 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 throe stems together are quite sufficient. The flowers, by the above treatment, 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 attraction. If the season is dry, to water them with
18
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]38 FIXWER GARDEN - PERENNIALS. [Mian.
liquid manure 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.
Clematis, Virgin's-bower. A few species are good her- baceous plants, of upright growth, and blue flowers, C. integrifdUa; C. angustifoUa; and C. erScta; they grow best in light soil.
Coreopsis, chiefly native plants, and free-flowering; colour principally yellow; flowers rayed. C. tenui/oUa,
C. verticilldta, 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 di- vided ; the flowers in terminate spikes ; colour blue, purple, red, white and yellow, with various shades. D. grandiflbrum, with its varieties, are the best of the genus.
D. intermedium, and its varieties,!), e/a/wm, Bee Lark- spur, from the ringent part of the flower being very like a bee, and D. montdnum, 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.
Didnihus. 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 pecu- liarly grateful, especially in the well known and cele- brated 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
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femes.] FL0W1HUGARDEN - PERENNULa 139
and crowns for pleasure. 9 ' The finest species are ZX barbdtus, and D. barbdtus pfeno, Sweet-william ; D. dis- mbr ; D. chin&nsis ; D. alpinus, D. superbus ; D. caryo* phyllus, from which have originated the Picotee and the Carnation ; D. plumarius, from which originated the Double Pink ; D.frdgrans and D. superbus. Several of these, although they will stand the severest cold, have to be protected in frames during winter, to have them in the perfection of beauty. For the character of a Pink and Carnation, see May.
Dict&mnus. Two species of this genus, D. fraxiniU la and D. albus, have been cultivated and esteemed up* wards of two hundred and forty years. A plant of the first of these species, when gently rubbed, emits an odour like that of lemon-peel ; and when bruised emits a balsamic scent, which is strongest in the pedi- cles of the flowers. They have glands of a rusty colour, that exude a viscid juice, or resin, which ex- hales in vapour, and in a dark pl^ce may be seen to take fire. Its flowers are red, tho^e of the other white, in loose terminate spikes; the flower has five petals, clawed and unequal, with glandular dots; in bloom from May to July ; delights in sandy loam.
Dodecdiheon. This is a native genus, and commonly called American cowslip. The generic term, a name of the Romans, 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. midia; the flowers are in umbels, on a pedicle, from six to
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* 140 . KLOWER-GA«DEN-i PERENNIALS.
- i
.twelve inches "high; the corolla is rotatp. reflexa, colour light purple, bottom of petals lake and yellow ; 'bloom- ing in May. The white variety is very much esteemed, and surpasses the preceding. The ground is pure white, the bottom of tfie 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 borders, and are very showy. These are D. leucophcea, D.ferruginea, D. ochroleuca, large yellow; and D.purpurdscens; and are good species. D.purp&rea and D. alba, are very conspicuous 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. De- lights in poor soil, with a little shade.
Eupatoriums. These generally are native plants, not worthy of notice here, except for two species. E. cakstinwn has syngenesious flowers in flattened panicles, colour fine light blue, blooming from September to November, desirable for its beauty at that season. E. aromdlicum may be cultivated for its spicy odour; flowers white, in loose terminate panicles ; blooming from August to October. Either of them will grow in common soil.
Gen(i6nas, a genus of very showy plants, and flower in great abundance. The flowers are tubular and inflat- ed ; colour generally blue. A few species are yellow,
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and some white ; flowers in whorls, terminate, or soli- - tary. They grow best in a light rich soil Gl KUta, G. purpurea, G. scptemfida. G. acaulis is a pretty dwajf growing species, and often use4 as edgings in flower compartments; the flower dark and light blue; interior of the corolfe spotted; has a succession 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 it in abun- v dance. G. imbricctta and G. con/erta. They are all fine exotics, but many of them may give place to our native species, such as G. Catesban; G. ochroleuca; G. incarndta; with several others, and G. crin&ta, which is a biennial, and finely fringed; colour light blue. *
Girnn. There are only two species that are worth cultivation, viz. G. quellyon, once G. cocdneum; and G. hybridum. G. urbdnum is sometimes cultivated for its roots, which, when chewed, sweeten the breath. They are all of easy culture. G. quellyon flowers from May to October, aud is a very desirable small plant for the borders, and much esteemed in Europe.
Hemerocdllis, Day Lily ; two species, H.fulva and H. graminea, flower well, and are remarkable among the border flowers for their large yellow or copper colour- ed corollas, 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. carulea, which is Funkia ccerulea, and has a campanu* late corolla, with a cylindrical tube; flowers in spikes; leaves ovate, accuminate.
Hibiscus. There are several herbaceous species
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142 FLOWER GARDEN-PERENNIALS. [Maacv.
very showy and handsome, H. palustris; H. roseus; H. militaris; H. epecidsus; H. grandtflorus ; and H. pun- gens. They grow beet 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, flower- ing up the stem, either solitary or in small bunches. H. specidsus is the most splendid, and deserves a situa- tion in every garden. The roots in winter ought to be covered by litter, tan, or saw dust; but a better me- thod 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.
/m, Flower-de-luce, has many fine species of various shades and colours, /. eubijldra, L nepalensis, L Palldsii, J. pdllida, L cristdta, L aren&ria, L furcata, I. germanica, I. florentlna, L virna, and /. susiana. The last is the finest of the herbaceous species; the flowers are striped, blue, brown, and spotted ; but we are not certain if it will stand the severity of our winters. The roots of/. florentxna is the orrice root of the druggists. They are all of easy culture in any loamy soil inclining to mois- ture. The bulbous species will be treated of in Sep- tember or October. Corolla six-petaled, three erect, and three reclined alternately; proceeding from spathes or sheaths with flowers in succession.
Llatris is a genus of native plants, containing seve- ral fine species, L. squarrdsa, large purple heads of beautiful flowers; L. elegans ; L.panicuIcUa. L. macrfo tackya, now L. spiedta, is a fine large growing species.
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Maiol] FL0JVER GARDEN - PERENNIALS. 143
They have syngenesious purple flowers in long close spikes, differing from other 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 double white variety, L. fulgens and L. fl6s~jdvis. 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 flSs-cuciila, which is now Jgrosiema fl6s-cuciila ; it is a fine and showy border plant with double red flowers. They de- light in a light sandy rich soil.
Lythrurns. A few species flower well, and have small pink blossoms in great profusion, L. alatum, L. virgdUum, L. (Uffiisum, and L. lanctolatum* They will grow in any common garden soil if not too much shaded ; and flower from June to September.
MimMus 9 Monkey-flower. A few species may be cultivated. They will grow in any soil or situation. M. liiteus and M. rivuldrts are the best. M. moschdtos has a .very strong musk scent, to many agreeable. We think it will prove hardy. The two former have large gaping flowers, of a gold yellow, and beautifully spot- ted with purple in the interior.
Mon&rdas, a fine native genus and showy. The foli- age of several of the species is aromatic, and resem- bles mint M. cUdyma has long scarlet ringent flowers, in headed whorls; M. kalmiana, flowers very long,
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144 FLOWER GARDEN - PERENNI^ttL (Muds.
and & beatiful crimson, with fragrant leaves. M. Ru9- $etti<ma has red and white flowers ; curious and hand- some. M. punctata has yellow and red flowers ; they grow in any common soil.
9 Mathiola, is the generic of the Stock-gilly. None of them will survive severe winters ; yet many of them are indispensable in the Flower-garden. M.simpli- cicdulist Brompton-stock and its varieties ; with M. inca- fio* Qaeen~stock, and its varieties, require the protec- tion of a 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. an- nua has about sixteen varieties, 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 two former. There are about eight varieties of this, all various in colour. In plant- ing 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, keeping each kind separate. GZnothbras. The most of them are indigenous, and in Europe they afford a continual ornament to the
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Flower-garden from April to November, but in our gardens they are entirely neglected. By rejecting these and many others, our Flower-gardens are de- prived both of much beauty and interest they might easily possess. These plants delight in light rich soil. CE. odorctia, sweet scented ; CE. macrocarpa ; CE. media ; (E. latiflora; (E. Frazeri; CE. specibsa ; and (E. pallida; are all fine native herbaceous plants, mostly with large yellow four-petaled corollas; in bloom from April to September. There are several of them beautiful an- nual and biennial plants. For the finest, see list.
Phlox, another American genus, and one of the most handsome in cultivation. It consists of elegant border flowers, valuable for flowering early, and more so for blossoming late in autumn. While the majority of plants blooming late in the season are generally syngenesious, with yellow flowers, these delight us with their lively colours of purple, red, 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 select varieties : P. paniculdta ; P. acumi- nata ; P. intermedia ; P. odordta ; P. pyramiddlis ; with pyramidalis alba, which is splendid ; P. suavdokns ; P. rejlexa ; P. stobnifera ; P. pildsa ; P. divaricata ; P. niva- lis ; and P. subuldta. In the spring of 1831, an emi- nent British collector* exclaimed, on seeing a patch of P. subuldta in one of the pine barrens of New Jer- sey, "The beauty of that alone is worth coming to America to see, it is so splendid." Most of the spe-
* Mr. Drummond. ]9
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146 nx>wBRj0AEi)iaf-piaurauu. pu*m.
cies 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 cele-
'hrated Cowslip* Oxlip, Primrose, and the esteemed Auricula. The double varieties of Primrose have ori- ginated from P. vulgaris. These are such as carry their fkwers on separate pedicles, rising from the root on a small stem. The double varieties are desirable far their beauty, but require.the protection of a frame during winter. They are in colour red, white, yellow, lilac, purple, and crimson. P. elatior is the Oxlip, from which all the Potydnthuses have been grown. They are in variety innumerable, and are those whose flowers are in umbels, on a scape or flower-stalk, rising from three to nine inches. The 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 distinct, not running into one another; the tube small; the eye round, and a little prominent. Being surrounded with white, and the ground purple, is a fine character. P. auricula. From this the highly esteemed varieties have originat-
„ ecL The cultivated auricula has many .admirers, both for its exquisite beauty and fragrance. For the cri- terion of a fine flower see May. There are several other species worthy of a situation, such as P. cortu- soideSj P. dentifiora, P. suaviolens, P. decdra, with P. sc6- tica and P. farin&sa, both small neat species. A shady
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"situation agrees best with them; ailtl they require loamy soil, free from any kind of manure, except it be fully decomposed. The leaves of P. v&ris are recom- mended for feeding silk worms.
Poteniillas. We mention this genus here as afford- ing several free flowering dwarf plant*; not as being certain that any of the most desired species will with- stand our winters, being natives of Nepaul; but, from the character of the plant, we think that they are adapted to bear severe cold. They are similar to the strawberry in habit and appearance. P. nepalSnm, or .formdsa, has rose-coloured flowers; P. atropurpureaj P. Russelliana, scarlet; P. Hopwoodiana, rose and scar- let ; and P. spltndens, yellow, with superb leaves. These are the finest of the genus, and flower from May to September. It will be well to protect them in a frame with the Carnations ; they delight in light soil.
Sapondria officinalis^ and S. O. ptena, are fine free- flowering dwarf plants; the colour is pink in both dou- ble and single varieties. The roots run under ground, and care should bfe" taken to keep them within bounds: they flower from June till October. S. caspiidsa is a neat growing species of a rose colour. They will grow in any soil.
Sifene. Several of this genus are popular annuals, but the herbaceous species are very indifferent. 8. viscSsa and S. viscSsa fldre pUna, are frequently cultivated for their beauty; they will grow well if not too much shaded.
Saxifraga, above one hundred species. Many of them are beautiful plants for rock-work. They are re*
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148 . FU>WER GARDEN - PERENNIALS. [Masch.
ggrdless of coW* but will not generally withstand mucH moisture. A few of them are highly deserving a situa- tion in any garden. * S. hirsutism, and & crassifblia, are used in some countries for tanning. S. granuldta mul- tiplex has fine double-white flowers, and is desirable. S. umbrosa, Ldndon-pride, makes a beautiful edging for a flower border ; the flowers are small, buUon close examination its colours are unrivalled. It is vulgarly called, "none so pretty. 9 ' S. sarmeniosa is kept in tfle Green-house, but is perfectly hardy, and makes a fine plant in a shaded situation. We have no doubt but it would make a good fancy edging. S.pukhtlla, straw, coloured, and S. pyramid&lis ; these are all easily culti- vated ; and flower in spikes from May to July.
Spiraas. A few species are showy plants, and con- tinue flowering from May to September. & utmdria multiplex, Meadow-sweet, has sweet scented white flowers, in long dense spikes. S. FiUpindula multiplex, Drop-wfcrt, double white. S. lobata is a native, and has fine rose coloured flowers, in June and July; these are the finest of the herbaceous species, and will grow in any common garden soil.
St&tice, Thrift. A genus containing many fine herba- ceous plants, only a few of them are common in collec- tions. The finest of them are scarce, and said to be 44 bad to cultivate." S. vulgdrts, once Armaria vulgaris, is the most valuable plant for an edging, next to box, that the Flower-garden is possessed of, and does ex- tremely well in our climate, flowering in great profusion from May to July. When done flowering, the stems should be cut off. The foliage is an agreeable
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evergreen; the. plant increases rapidly, tod in a few years may be planted to a great extent S. spccidsa has red flowers, crowded in spreading panicles. & tdtdrica has also very showy flower?, and is now given to the genus Taxdnthema. S. latifbtia and 8. mariArm are the finest T. latifbUa (and T. consvicua deserve attention. They should be lifted every alternate year, and sunk deeper into the soil, because they incline to grow out, and are sometimes during summer killed by the drought Hence they are said to be « bad to cultivate."
Trollius europ&as, 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 appearance. They are easily grown in any loamy soil, and flower from May to July. Few flowers have the curious globular character which these have.
Vertinka, Speed-welL This genus consists of about one hundred and twenty species of herbaceous plants, besides several varieties. The flowers are in long close spikes; either white, flesh coloured, or blue ; they are generally of the hitter colour. Above sixty species are equally fine, and being generally of the saiqe cha- racter, the Catalogue at the end of this work will con- tain the best selection that we can make. Very few of them are in the collections of the country, although they are very showy, and flower from June to August. They will grow in any soil, but will not flourish where they are much shaded. V.'officindUs has been used in Germany and Sweden as a substitute for tea. Some prefer V. chamzdrys for the same purpose.
Valeriana*. Several species are showy border plants,
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|50 FLOWKE-CAXDEIf-reMlIfmAUi. pUmc*.
With small flbwers in large close flattened panicles. V. dioica is remarkable for having the stamens and pistils in separate flowevs, situated on different plants ; the flowers are of a blusji colour, and the roots when planted must be protected from the cats, for they are delighted with them, and scrape them up. V. phb, a large growing species with white flowers; and V. rubra, with its varieties, are the finest of the genus. They are now given to Ccntrdnthus. 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 spe- cies, 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 grow in moist situations. The most esteemed varie- ties for fragrance are, V. odordta purpurea pttna, double purple, with V. odordta dlbapfena, double white. They flower very early, and make good edgings where they are kept in order ; flowering prdfiisely from April to June, and flowering again in autumn.
Yucca, Adam's-needle. This is a very showy and or- namental genus ; their character forming a picturesque contrast in the Flower-garden ; foliage long, narrow, lanceolate, and stiff; with white companulate flowers, about two inches in diameter, in conical spikes from two to four feet long, arisitag 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.supirka; Y. aloi/dha; Y.
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IfcMt] - FLOWER OARDEN-^ERENNULa 151
angueiifbUa, Y. acumindtay Y* serrulcUa, and Y.jilamentdsa, are all fine species, and will grow in any common soil. When in flower, if protected from the sun by an awn- ing, they will be of considerable duration. There are variegated varieties of StHeta, JJloifblia, and Serrulate which look very handsome in foliage, Igut are at present vary rare, and it will be a number of years be- . fore they are plentiful There ought at least to be one specimen of some of the free-flowering species in every garden. .
Having given the names and characters of a few herbaceous plants, all or most of them easily obtained, many of them extremely handsome, and such as agree best with transplanting at this season of the year; &r several others, such as Pcednias, or any other strong fibrous or bulbous sorts, see September and Octo- ber. Where they are in pots, they can be planted at any time, the weather permitting, provided the ball of earth id not broken. But where they are only to be removed, the best time is just as vegetation commences. That herbaceous plants may look to the best advan- tage, and flower well, they must not be allowed to get into large stools ; but as soon as they 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 allowed to stand long. If
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152 FUWER-GABDEN-rfiULBOUS BOOTS- * [Maim.
the weather becomes dry shortly after transplanting, give them a few waterings, until they have taken fresh roots, which will be within two weeks. Colour should be diversified through the garden as much as practica- ble, and the highest growing sorts planted farthest from the walk, #o as all may appear in yiew. At all times avoid crowding the plants together. ' " '- .
BULBOUS ROOTS.
About the middle of this inonth, let the covering of tan, saw-dust, or decayed leaves, be cleared from the beds of such as were directed to be covered in Novem- ber; afterwards carefully stirring the surface among them with a kind of wooden spatula, or wedge, break- ing the surface fine; then dress all the alleys smootfi and neat with the hoe and rake, clearing away every particle of litter. When the leaves of Tulips are ex- panding, 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 then roots will be far advanced, and perhapsone night. of frost unex- pectedly 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 drench- ing 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 directions
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Maech.]. FLOWER-GARDEN^CARNATIONS, &c. |53
>
equally apply to Narcissus, Jonquils, Iris, and all Hol- land bulbs.
CARNATIONS, PINKS, PRIMROSES, &c.
Which have been protected by frames through the winter, must have at all favourable opportunities plenty of air admitted to them by lifting the sashes, and in fine mild days and nights, the sashes may be taken entirely off. Divest them of all decayed leaves, and stir up the earth on the surface 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, otherwise they will be weak in growth.
Primroses require only a little fresh earth on the top of the pots. Daisies may be planted out in shady situations; the sun destroys them during summer if exposed.
20
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J 54 FLOWER GARDEN - AURICULA& jMabcb-
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 attention, 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 out 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 cast, 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 flower- ing, as water injures that fine mealy-like substance found on many 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 allowed 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, lest it should rain before morning.
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March. J FLOWER GARDEft - RANUNCULUS, &c. 155
RANUNCULU& AND ANEMONE.
.The frames must have plenty of air, and give fre- quent sprinklings of water. The sashes or boards should be taken entirely off every, mild day, and in fine nights leave them exposed to the dew ; stir up the earth amongst them, breaking it fine, making all neat. 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 must be done as soon as the weather opens, and the ground in a proper state. The earlier in the month they flower the more perfect they will be. Never delay planting when there is an opportunity; for if delayed until the leaves are expand- ing, the bloom will be much weakened, and the proba- bility 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 delightful shrubs continue for a much longer period. 9 ' One moment's reflection will convince us, that nature, while in her own element, will not be retarded, sup- pose there was no danger of instantaneous death to the plants. The artificial means that might be judi- ciously adopted, with which we are acquainted, to keep back the blooming of hardy plants, is to lift them as
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156 FLOWEfUURlJEN - ROBES. [Mabcb.
soon in spring as is practicable, put them in bows of earth, and then place them in the driest part of an ice- house until the desired lime of planting, which may.be delayed as long as the required time of flowering. This will he 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 Catalogue, but perhaps it may be proper to mention here a few of the most particular sorts. The finest unquestionably when in bloom, is the Moss .aftd its Va- rieties, but the flowering is of so limited duration, that it is in a great degree surpassed by others. There is said to be a striped variety of the Moss Rose, but we do not credit it. The Blush Moss, Clinton White Moss* and Mottled Moss, at present certainly are the most su- perb of that kind. Lee's Crimson Perpetual is a magnifi- cent rose, and flowers in profusion from June to Octo- ber. This is considered, and justly too, the finest of all the garden roses ; its fragrance is exquisite, and the plant highly valued. There is a striped Unique Rose, and a Rosa tricolor, which are much thought of. We have mentioned these as the finest we have seen, but amongst two thousand cultivated varieties of the gar- den rose, there must be many of equal beauty. Of Rosa spinosissima there .are above three hundred varie- ties ; R. gdllica; two hundred ; R. centifoUa, one hundred and fifty ; R. damascene, above one hundred ; R. alba, fifty ; R. rubigindsa, thirty ; and of various sorts above eleven hundred. In several individual collections of
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Europe, there ave cultivated above fifteen hundred species* sub-species, and varieties.
When planted, they are to* frequently crowded in- discriminately amongst other shrubs, which prevents them having the effect ihey would have if planted singly or gr6uped. They vary in size in different sorts from one to ten feet. When planted in, the latter method, they should be assimilated in size of leaves aqd manner of growth, with the greatest variation of flower ; or if planted in many small patches, giving each a distinct colour, -which has a picturesque effect. An other desi- rable and' fanciful method, is to plant them in figures, givftig them edgings of wire, willow, or any other sub- stitute, in imitation of basket work, which is called * baskets of roses;" the ground enclosed in the basket margin to be made coqvex, which will present a greater surface to the eye ; the strong shoots to be layered, or kept down by pegs into the ground, having the potets 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 bas- ket 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 Provins, they may be trained so as to cover a surface of several square yards. One of these covered with Lee's Crimson Perpetual Rose, would be one of the greatest ornaments of the Flower-garden.
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,
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158 FLOWER GARDEN - ROSES, [Mabcb.
according to taste, and the purposes intended. 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 desirable amongst low shrubs. When planted, they should be well supported by strong rods, to prevent the wind from destroying 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. This has been an esteemed shrub among all civilized na- tions. 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 cultivated in every garden, from the humblest cottager to the loftiest prince, and by commercial gardeners in Eu- rope extensively, for distilling rose water, and making the essential oil of roses. They delight in a vich loamy soil, and require plenty of moisture while in a growing state. Those sorts which throw up numerous suckers should be lifted every three or four years, re- duced, and then transplanted. When thus removing them, avoid as much as possible exposing their roots; and when newly planted, mulching is of considerable advantage; that is, putting half rotten stable-manure on the surface of the ground round their roots, which prevents evaporation, and keeps up a constant mois- ture. If this was done in general to our roses in dry seasons, it would greatly improve their flowering. For China roses sec next month.
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Mum.] FLOWER-GARDEN - CLIMBING R08E8, &c 159.
CLIMBING ROSEa
This is the best time to prune ever-blooming climb- ing roses, such as Champney, Scarlet Cluster, Duchesse de Dinoj Notsetttj Burgenville, &c. Many of these, when allowed to grow year after year without pruning, be- come 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 en- couraging 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 ad- vantage.
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 expand. (For kinds recommended see List, end of the volume.) They should never be planted too thick, but leave space for them to grow as they respectively re- quire, 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
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j 60 - FLOWER GARDEN - GRASS PLATS, &c. [Mulch.
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, b and loosen the bottom well, put- ting new and fresh soil under their rpots, breaking and pulverizing it during the operation, and frequent- ly 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 re- quire 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 the beauty of the whole. 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 time 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 firt season, every
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FLOWEft «AR»J3f-GRAflS PLATO, **. J 6]
three weeks, white growing, nor must it be, walked upon. Wjfcite clpver and true perennial Tye-grass are the seeds most proper for sowing. The ground must ia tfee first place be all equally made up, and levelled with the spade^and jake * not " cart loads of soil laid dowii and. leveled," which would finally become very uqeven, and would need tft be lifted and relaid next yean The best turf is that of a close growing pasture Or common, free fronvall kinds of weeds or strong roots, and the grass short To cut it expeditiously, be pro-* vided with a turfing-iron; but if that cannot be conve- niently had, a spacje may do very well. Strain a line tight, cutting the turf lengthways, at equal distances, 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 laying* join them close and alternately ; when done, beat them firm with a level wooden beater, and roll with a heayy roller.
Grass walks, in the last century, were very popular ; but time 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 inteaded. 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 enliven- ing. Where they are desired, prepare the ground as above directed ; making the walk a little higher than the adjoining borders, to prevent the earth from being washed on it by the rain. Allowing the walks to be 21
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162 FLOWER GARDEN - GRAVEL WALK& [Mima.
six feet wide, make the centre five inches higher than the sides, or about seven-eighths of an inch to the foot what- ever the breadth may be, which will form a gentle decli- vity 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 allowed 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.
GRAVEL WALKS.
A practice once existed of turning* these into heaps or ridges during winter to destroy weeds, &c. But this has almost been given up as unnecessary, unsightly, inconvenient, and not doing any material service.
Where the surface of these has become foul, irregu- lar, or mossy, they had better be turned over four or five inches deep where the gravel will admit of it; bat if not, hoe and rake them perfectly clean, give a new coat of gravel, and pick up any stones that you think 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 die season; but if neglected, they take more labour, and are never in such good condition.
Fancy edgings of Thyme, Thrift, Gentian*, Lavender, and Violets - {Daisies may be used if the situation is
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Maeck,] FLOWEfUGARDEN-OT GRAFTING. 153
shaded.) The whole of these may be planted by the line with the dibber except Thyme, which lay as direct- e&Jor 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 be- fore they begin to grow after planting, they must have frequent waterings until they 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. The one we will describe is whip or tongue grafting, which is the preferable and most expeditious plan with all deciduous shrubs or trees. The stock upon which it it performed must be slender, from two-thirds of an inch taany di- ameter suitable to the thickness of the graft. Having headed the stock at a clear smooth 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 down- wards", 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.
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164 E00MS. , , 9 [Mam*
Take strands of Russian mat, and bind them in a neat manner several times round the stock and graft lightly* cover the joint with \\ell worked clay, ooat from h§lf an inch below the bottom of the graft to an inch above the top of the stock, and to the thickness of half %n inch all round, finish it in an oblong globufct form, taking care to work it close, that no air mayipenetrate. If (he clay is covered with moss, it will partially prevent it from cracking.
The grafts will have taken when tlfy begpnt<vgrow freely ; then the clay may be taken off, and the J>aAdage loosened, and put on again, but not a* tight ; give the grafts a stake for support, tying them thereto to pre- vent accidents from the wind. Allow no shoots to arise from the stock.
Any of the rare deciduous trees may, by the above method, be grafted on one of its own family, that is more common, and in that respect is the finest species of propagation that is resorted to.
ttOMIUf*
MARCH.
If the plants in these situations have been properly attended to by admitting air at all favourable times, and
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*
. ROOMS, 184
when the apartment was below 36° a little fire heat ap- pliorf^o counteract the cold, keeping the heat above th§t degree; your attention wiQ be rewarded by the healthy appearance of your plants. The weather by f thiB time has generally become milder, so that air may be more freely admitted, especially from ten to three o'clock. Where the leaves are grown to one side, turn the plant with the dark side to the light They will require a more liberal supply of water, but always avoiAtee|»ng tJ^tn wet Pick off all decayed leaves, and tib up any straggling styxrts; stir up the earth on the top of the pots, breaking it fine where it is harden- ed by the frequent waterings. This will allow the fresh air to act upon the roots, which is one of the principal assistants in vegetation. For those that require shift-* ing 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 weeks earlier than the Green-house. After the end of this month, where there is a conveni- ence, plants will do better in windows that look to the east, in which the direct rays of a hot sun are prevent- ed from faffing upon them, and the morning sun is more congenial filr plants in this country than the afternoon sun. Where there is any dust on the leaves of any of them,, take 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
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166 ROOltft-FLOWERING PLANTS. {Mam,'
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. «
FLOWERING PLANTS.
Hyacinths, Tulips, Narcissus, Jonquils, and Crocus*, will be generally in flower. The former requires plenty of water, and the saucers under the pots should be constantly full until they are done " glooming. . The others need only be liberally supplied at the surface of the pot Give them neat green-painted rods to sup- port their flower stems, and keep them all near the light The spring flowering Oxahs will not open ex- cept it is exposed to the full rays of the sun. The La- chendUa is greatly improved in colour with exposure to the sun, though when in flower its beauties are pre- served by keeping it a little in the shade.
Primulas, or Primrose, both Chinese and European, delight in an airy exposure; but the sun destroys the beauty of their flowers by making the colours fade.
Camellias. . Many of them will be in perfection See Green-house this month for a description of the finest varieties. Do not let the sun shine upon the blooms. Those that are done flowering, will, in small pots, re- quire to be repotted. The CdUaot iEthopian water-lily, when in flower, ought to stand in saucers with water.
The Hyacinths that are in glasses must be regularly supplied with water. The roots will be very much re- duced by this method; therefore, when the bloom is over, if possible plant them in the garden, or bury them
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in pots of earth, to ripen and strengthen the bulbs. They will take two years with good encouragement, before they can satisfactorily, be again flowered in glasses, and properly they ought not be allowed to bloom next year. Those that are done flowering in pots, can be set aside, and the usual waterings gradu- ally withdrawn. Treat all other .Dutch bulbs in a simi- lar manner.
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motz&oum
APRIL.
Where the Hot-house has been properly ttxftdMJted, the plants generally will have a vigorous and healthful aspect An error frequently arutes in the conducting of these departments, by inexperienced operators being ambitious of outstripping their competitors. They keep the house in a very high temperature, and admit little or no air. Where such mode hafe been pursued, the plants will have got over their first growth, and the foliage look yellow and decaying, thus throwing the plants into a state of inactivity^when nature herself commences her most active movements. The tempe- rature should not be under 60° nor much above 75°, 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 \vould be hurt- ful The sun is not so powerful but the heat can be kept down by the air given from above. In very cold cutting winds, though the effects of sun heat be great, admitting of much air may be injurious. Whatever errdr may arise, let it be on the side of caution. How- ever, when high winds prevail, there is little danger of the house becoming overheated by the effect of the sun. Hot-house or tropical plants will not be hurt with 110°, if they are not touching the glass. And if the
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ft -
Awl.} HQIJ-HOUSE. ]$g
plantdare near the glass generally, the glass ghoul* have a coot of *ery^thm white-wash (not lime), where the glass is thin and ligfrt in colour; but if it is thick and green, there need be no white-washing.
The plants will need & liberal supply of water every day. We hfiye so constantly cautioned the operator on administering this element, thai * repetition here is un- necessary. Sprinkle theiy well with the syringe or en- gine ig the evenings about sundown, four or five times a week, and strictly observe that none of them are omitted; for where there are such, it is probable they are attacked by the red spider. If any of these are detected, syringe them powerfully morning and evening. Water is most effectual in their destruction, and most congenial to the plants. Give regular fumigations to destroy the green-fly. Wherever there is dust or foul- ness contracted on the foliage, wash all clean with sponge and water; for on these insects are harboured in such quantities that they, in a short time, would overrun all the plants in the house. Keeping the house constantly clean, the plants clear of decayed leaves and every thing of a corroding nature, and duly syring- ing them, is the surest method of not being much troubled with insects.
For repotting plants, see next month; except those that you are fostering to a great extent, such as Aktram&rias, Calceol&rias, or any herbaceous plants that require great encouragement to make them flower well. These should always be repotted, as soon as the roots come to be round the outside of the ball. 22
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tiRBtn^wse*
APRIL.
Regarding the shifting or repotting of plants, the di- rections given last month may be followed. If the plants are not shifted that require it, get them done as soon as possible, for they will soon get into a luxuriant state of growth; and then it would not be advisable to shift them. Those that were repotted last month will have taken fresh root in the new soil, and the advan- tage will soon be perceptible. In order to strengthen the plants, and keep them from becoming drawn and spindly, admit large portions of air every mild day. In- deed there will be very few days in this month, that a little air may not be given, always observing to divide the quantity regularly over the house, in cool nights closing in time. About the end of the month an abun- dance 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 waterings 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 are of a soft shrubby nature, and in a free-growing
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state, will require a larger portion 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 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, add give them a good dashing with water through the syringe. Where there is mildew, after syringing the plant, dust it on the af- fected parts with flowers 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 suc- culent 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
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from falliijg off whan entirely exposed. The reason that we see so much fine blossom falling to the ground where the trees are brbughtout of the house in May, is from the confinement they have had Where there is a convenience of giving air from the back of the Green-house, it* shohld 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 ventilated. 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 re- quired to give the tree a handsome form, taking care not to cut below die 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 mortifying the shoot Turpentine is preferable to clay, not being subject to crack or fall off by the weather.
If there are any Lagerstrcemdas, Pomegranate, or Hy- drangeas in the cellar, they should be brought out about the first of the month, and planted in their respective situations. Give the Hydrdngea a very shady spot It does not require one ray of the sun, providing 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. LagerstrctrrUas will flower abundantly with-
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out pruning, but ta 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 oflly require a little of the superfluous wood cut out Perhaps sofne of them may be desired to flower in pots 6r tubs during sum- mer : 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 headed down or otherwise pruned, as directed last month, they should now be done. Oleanders are very subject to the white scaly insect, and before the heat of slimmer 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 mildew on these shrubs, which makes the foliage brown and unsightly. If it is detected in time, syringing is an effectual remedy.
GERANIUMS.
< Some of the earliest blooming kinds of these will now begin to flower, and the sun will greatly deteriorate their rich colours where they are near the glass with a south aspect The glass should be white-washed, which will cast a thin shade over them, and prolong the duration of the bloom, but if they are above five feet
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from the glaps, white-washing is not requisite. The strong kinds will be growing very luxuriantly, and re- quire 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 baye been properly attended to in that respect, it may be dispensed with after they have generally come in flower, which will not be until about the first of May.
HERBACEOUS PLANTS AND BULBOUS ROOTS.
If any of the herbaceous plants were neglected to be divided last month, do not omit it now. They will not flower so well if potted entire, and their growth by this time will be much hurt, if not carefully shaded from the sun. After dividing, sprinkle gently with water three times a day, until they have taken fresh root, when they can be put amongst the other plants.
Ccp* Bulbs. Those that flowered late in autumn, as soon as the foliage begins to decay, may be set aside, and the water withheld by degrees. When the foli- age is entirely gone, and the roots dry, clear them from the earth, and after laying exposed in the shade for a few days to dry, pack them up in dry moss, with their 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 winter, will now be done flowering; the water should be with-
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drawn gradually from them ; and then the pots turned on their sides to ripen the bulbs. Or, a superior me- thod is, where there is the convenience 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 nd error may take place. They can be lifted with the Other garden bulbs.
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 from the sun. The Chinese Azaleas and Rhododendrons re- quire, 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 substitute. See that there are no insect upon them; for they make a miserable contrast with flowers. The C6Ua athiopiea should stand in water when in flower, and even before flowering they will be much strengthened by it
INSECTS.
Insects will on some plants be very perplexing. The weather maj admit of those that are infected to be taken out of doors, and put into a frame in any way
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176 QltfEN-HOUBE-FLOWKRING STOCKS. [Ann.
that is most convenient Fumigating them about half an hour, if the day is calm, will be sufficient; but if windy, they will take an hour. When done, syringe them well, and put them in their respective situations. By the above method, the house will not be made disa- greeable with the fumes of tobacco.
Tie up neatly a]l the climbing plants. Keep those that are running up the rafters of the house close to the longitudinal wires. As previously observed, running plants should not be taken across the bouse, except in some instances where it can be done over the path- way, otherwise it shades the house too much.* Clear off all decayed leaves, and all contracted foulness, that the house and plants may in this month have an enliven- ing aspect, as it is undoubtedly one of the most inter- esting seasons of the year in the Green-house.
FLOWERING STOCKS.
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Those that have been kept in the Green-house, or in frames, should be planted into beds or the borders, where they will seed better 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 re- spective single varieties that are to be kept for seed. Whenever any of the colours sport, that is, become spotted or striped with other colours, pull. these up, and destroy them, for they will soon degenerate the whole, and ought never to be seen in collections that have any
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pretensions to ptirity. Many Jmve been the plans re- commended as the best for saving, and growing from seed the double varieties of German stock. In every method we have tried we have been successful and un- successful ; -although we generally practise planting the double kinds beside the single, where they are intended for seed. We have no scientific reaaon for it,; not see- ing what influence these monsters of flowers cap 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 them both abortive and fruitful in the desired results.
JFtotoer H&xxHttu
APRIL.
The ambition of every attentive gardener, during this month, is to be at the head of every department, and over every spot The operator's activity in this month regulates the whole season. Every weed ought to be cut down as soon as it appears, and the prover- bial saying will be realized, "a garden that is well kept is easily kept." A wet day need cause no loss of time. Prepare rods, bands, and tallies, to be in readi- ness when required. Damp weather should always be
23
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taken to prick out or transplant annuals, or stocks, but by no means go on the borders while they are wet If it cannot be done by keeping on the walks, defer it un- til they are in a proper state. One day of laborious attention just now will save two in the heat of summer. 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, pruning, hoeing, rajring, &c. be done as expeditiously as strength will allow; that the time may be devoted for a few weeks to the beautifying of the garden by sowing and planting.
ANNUALS.
Those that are tender and were sown last month, according to directions, will be ready to prick out into another light hot-bed, about two feet high, prepared as directed in February. 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 I until they have taken fresh root ; then give them plenty | of air, and by the first of next month expose them night i and day to harden the plants for the open ground. A few of the annual sqpds of every description, and of | every country and climate, may be sown any time after the middle of the month. If the season prove favoura- ble they will do well ; but reserving a part to sow about the 15th of May, will guard against every extreme.
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Those that have come above ground should be thinned out, the dwarf-growing kinds to two or three inches, and the large sorts to four or five inches apart; or they may be only separated about an inch, going over them again in a few weeks ; when a few might be taken of those that will bear removing, and plant them in vacant spaces that require filling up. All the varie- ties of French and African Marygold answer best when transplanted, likewise the species of Coredpsis that were sown in autumn. The varieties of Ten^oeek Stocky Balsams^ Coxcombs, and other strong growing sorts, generally flower stronger when replanted.
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 possi- ble a cloudy day should be chosen for the operation. Give copious waterings in the evenings until they begin to grow* When the sun is strong, they must be shaded by a piece of board, shingle, or any similar substitute, for some days. When the seeds of these are sown, they should be distinctly marked. The initial B. is the most appropriate.
Perennials. For a limited description of several genera and species, see last month. Those that have not been divided and replanted, where large, they should be done directly, if the weather is dry. They must be carefully watered, and shaded as above directed for Biennials.
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/I '" DAHLIAS.
Dfflia supSrfluoi or what is now called Georguma va- riabilis, is one of the most fashionable and popular hardy herbaceous plants of the present day. The va- rieties of the present species are almost endless. The double kinds only are cultivated, the single varieties haying been thrown aside. Several collections in Eu- rope contain upwards of three hundred double varieties, of every colour and taste, occupying more than two acres of ground. It will be difficult to specify the finest; but in this country the dwarf-growing sorts are preferred. To make them flower freely, they should be planted in poor heavy soil. From the end of this month to the middle of May, take the roots from their winter quar- ters to the garden, and with a spade make a hole suffi- ciently wide and deep to receive the crowns of the roots one inch deeper than the surface of the ground, cutting off with a sharp knife the old stumps close to the eyes. They have the finest effect in rows ; plant them four feet apart in the row, and the rows six feet asunder. Individual plants of a dwarf nature look ex- tremely well. The best one for this is the Dwarf Globe Crimson, and is perhaps the finest that is known, being prolific, compact, beautiful, and very dwarf, never ex- ceeding three feet: if properly grown, Pulla eticta, Far man, and Zend, are also fine dwarf sorts; as tall growing kinds Etna ; Imperidsa ; Cicerd ; Cocdde ; Gam- bridge Surprise; Dutchess of Wellington; Countess of Li- verpool; Barrets William Fourth} True Mountain of Snow;
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Didna; Crimson Bonnet; and Eximia, are all superb, and at present the highest in estimation. For the names of mpre of the finest varieties, with their colour, see Catalogue at the end of the work.
-When the roots beeopae very large, they ought to be divided, and in dry seasons they require to be liberally supplied with water to keep them growing. If their growth is obstructed, the flowering will be imperfect Where they are grown to any extent, it would be advisable to put up a large hot-bed. about the end of March, and plant them close together therein, about the beginning of April, which would immediately cause them to grow. Give plenty of air, and about the middle of May plant them in the borders, beds, or rows, which will in cool seasons cause them to flower earlier.
The flowers are from three to eight inches in diame- ter. There ought to be a few of the most distinct and superb varieties, in every garden. Some individuals consider the AnemonS-flowered varieties the finest ; but those who never saw a Dahlia flower of any charac- ter, would, in our opinion, chose the large petaled flowers. The Anemone-flowered sorts likewise are not so large in flower as the other varieties.
The foliage has no particular attraction about it; the stems look strong, but are soft in substance. If seeds are sown on a hot-bed in March, most of them will flower the same year, by transplanting in the garden about the end of May; but the fine double kinds seldom produce seeds.
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182 FL0wrauuuuyEV~-GmiiA roses. [**«
CHINA ROSES.
From the first to the middle of this month is the best time to plant the varieties of Chinese roses. If they are to be removed out of the ground, the earlier in the month the better; but where they are in pots, the pre- cise time is not so material There are about seventy varieties, including the species of these in cultivation ; all of them do extremely well in this country, growing freely, and flowering abundantly in the open air* A few of them require protection during winter. The List at the end of the work will contain all the finest varieties ; but as they are not generally known* and the greater part of them highly deserving a situation in every garden, a few limited specific observations is ob- viously desirable to those who are not acquainted with their beauty and fragrance.
No. 1. Rdsa indica, common China or daily. From the last name an error has taken place, that it blooms every day. In one sense of the word it does. Plants that are young, and in good ground, will grow and flower constantly from the end of April until the buds are killed with frost; but they will never flower when not growing; the bloom being produced on the young wood. The flower is about three inches in diameter, of a dark blush or rose colour, petals large, and loose, between a semi-double and double, and perfectly hardy.
No. 2. *Rose Animated, daily, is a very fine rose, and its
* Thow marked thai * we have grown from teed.
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merits are appreciated by those who have it in their collections. It is more double, and better formed than No. 1, and partakes of the fragrance of No. 8, is per- fectly Wdy, colour a fine blush, grows freely, and flowers abundantly ; and is coming into great repute.
No. 3. Rosa Indlca minor, is the smallest of the China roses That we are familiar with; about the end of April or beginning of May it is completely covered with pretty little flowers, and much admired for its diminutivenesju colour same as No. 1. .
No. 4. Rosa Bengal ebngdta, named from the foliage being more elongate than the other common roses. It grows and flowers freely, petals large, colour light red, very distinguishable from any of the other sorts*
No. 5. Rosa belle Chinese, is a beautiful French rose, and blooms in great abundance; flowers large and dou- ble, colour when first expanded pink, and changes to crimson, making a striking appearance, and greatly admired.
No. 6. Rosa la tenders japonica, an erect growing rose, of a handsome purple colour, with large petals; much like the garden velvet rose.
No. 7. Rosa belle titfarf, does. not produce so large flower? as the three last mentioned ; but they are very double, blooming abundantly in thfe latter part of sum- mer ; colour very dark, and by some called the Black China Rose.
No. 8. Rosa odorata, or Tea-rose, celebrated in this country for its^ragrance being similar to fine Hyson tea. It juBtly deserves the preference of all the China roses, for the delicacy of its flavour. The flowers are a
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cream coloured blush, tile petals roqpd and fall, form- ing a very large rose:; when full blown, it is pendulous. It wilt withstand the winter of the middle states with a little protection, such as sttaw, bbx, or barrel j r&quires very rich light soil - * .1 « -
No. 9. Rosa Florence, or Scarlet-tea^ This rose par- takes of the fragrance of No. 8, is perfectly hardy, grows freely, and flowers profusely. The flower is well form- ed, very double, and a distinct variety from any that we know. The flower is lightest when fi&t expanded. - No. 10. Rose, Purple-tea. We have not found how this name has originated: but when the plant known in our collections under that name is compared* there is no difference between it and No. 9.
No. 11. RosaodoriUa alba, or'jWhite-tea, is not s<j odo- rous as No. 8, but blooms more profusely, and grows more freely. . The beautiftl and neat appearance of the buds, when half expanded, is not surpassed; and when full blown, they are a fine delicate white. The bush .in that state is showy, much admired, and scarce; we are not positive of its being hardy.
No. 12. Rosa Bengal, or Yellow-tea, is a very free flowerer, the shape of the flower is more like No. 8. than any of the others ; the petals are large and grace- fully set, having a peculiar scent or flavour, and is of a sulphur colour. We cannot say as to its being hardy, but suppose it as much so as No. 8.
No. 13. Rosa Venella, or Venella Scented-tea, is un- doubtedly a handsome rose, and has many admirers ; colour a bloody velvet ; flowers large and very double, rising in the centre more than any of the others; bloom-
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' ing freely, and qf pleasant flavour ; rendering it alto- gether a dosirgfole rose.
No, 14. Rosa belle de monza. The flower of this rose i£ flatter than any of the other sorts; the petals are regularly laid otar each other, making it very compact; it is about four inches in diameter when well grown; the plant is of quick growth, free in flowering, darker in colour than No. 1, equally as hardy, and ought to have a situation in every garden where roses are grown.
No. 15. -Rosa amaranthe, is a showy brilliant scarlet rose, flower compact, and of a moderate size.
No. 16. *Rosa Clintdnia, is a good rose, and in a favour* able situation will produce abundantly large, round, and cqpppct flowers, differing in shape from any of the others ; colour similar to the provins rose.
No. 17! Rosa semperflbrens plbno, or sanguinea, is a cele- brated rose, the foliage small, and of a reddish appear* ance. The flower is well shaped, and of a blood co- lour; wood of a slender growth, requires some protec- tion in winter, or it will die to the surface of the ground; delights in sandy soil. This rose is frequently called anemone-flowered, though in no respects similar to the character of an anemone-flower. The Otaheitt rose is of the sstme colour, but very inferior.
No. 18. *Rosa purple sanguinea, is of a purple colour, same in shape as No. 17, but in size larger; is a good flowerer, making a fine variety. We do not know any similar to it
No. 1 9. RosagrandvdL, is a magnificent rose; flower full and large, petals closely set, colour dark crimiKWU The
24
t
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wood and leaves are like the Hamilton rose^ but it grows and flowers more freely. It is scarce.
No. 20. Rosa lndica albapteno, or white China, is a rose of free growth, abundant in flower, and pure white, which renders it very desirable; is larger than No. 1, is greatly admired, and rare ; requires rich light soil.
No. 21. Rosa Magnifier, magnificent, or magnifica. It is known under all these names. The general appearance of the plant resembles No. 19, but the flowers in shape and colour are similar to the garden Provins rose, and nearly as large.
No. 22. *Ro$a florabicnda multiplex. This rose is very correctly named, although the plant is of a moderate stature. The whole is covered with immense clusters of various coloured flowers, changing from pink to d%rk crimson ; the flowers very double, and greatly admired.
No. 23. *RosaJlam&a, has a very striking appearance, is of a flame colour, and distinct from any other of the China roses; blooms freely, and is a little fragrant, which makes it desirable.
No. 24. *Rosa Hibb&rtia, is a superb rose of a light red colour; flower of a common size, double and compact, very fragrant, and abundant in .bloom. The buds are of a particular shape, being flat at the extremity where others are pointed. It is highly deserving of a situa- tion, and universally admired.
No. 25. *Rosa Jacksonia, is deep red, large, and very double, of luxuriant growth; is more spiny and elastic than any of the China roses that have come under our observation. The plant altogether is unique in its character, and flowers profusely.
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No. 26. R. 'Jidamsonia, is dwarf growing; has flowers * oPa beautiful purple velvet colour, inclining to blacjf ; and is much admired. When well grown, it will bloom freely.
No. 27. *Rosa Webestiria.'\ Nonaof the China roses ap- proaches this, except Hortensia, and it is much inferior. The rose is very doifble, and particularly well formed ? colour similar to No. 8, With a* beautiful rich blush in . the centre, flowing to the extremity of. the petals. It blooms profusely, and grows freely in light rich soil.
No. 28. Rosa gigantea. Without exception, this is the handsomest shaped China rose that has come under our observation, the colour dark crimson, with a few shades through it The centre is full set; petals regu- lar and large, the flower very double, plant strong, growing and free blooming - it is scarce.
No. 27. Rosa Washington^ is a very good and dis-' tinct variety ; the foliage'is pale green with red nerves; flower full and compact, the extremity of the petals dark red, the bottom white ; showing, when the flower is full expanded, a white centre, and is frequently a little striped; grows well, and blooms freely, in light sandy soil.
No. 30. *Rosa calyxifiUa. The calyx of this rose has large leaflets attached to it. It blooms very early, and is of a deep crimson colour, with recurved petals, which give it a singular and beautiful appearance. The young
t Named in honour of D. Webf ter, JEaq. whose production* deserve a place in -very library ; and this plant a ipot in every garden.
t Originated on the inbftantial establishment of D. & C. Landreth, and ealled by them " Scarlet and White."
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s shoqM and leaves are of a purple hue* - It grows and flowers freely, and is quite characteristic, tuutaurpaatee any we know for flowering early in the Green-house or Rooms. '
N<* 31. Rosa Montezuma (IVfexican-rose.) This is an esteemed variety, with large double flowers of a red ;colour, and when theflowers begi* to fade they become
% darker; it is of a stroig growing and hardy nature, much admired, and scarce.
No. 32. Rosa horXnsia. .The buds of this rose are very beautiful before expansibn, and when fully ex- panded, are of a fine colour, assimilated to No. 8; flowers large in proportion to the growth .of the plant
These roses are all of a shrubby nature, and the finest flowering varieties that have come under our ob- servation and culture. The China roses generally are not completely double, though going under the nanje ' of double flowers, and having the appearance of such. Those that are mentioned above as double and wry dou- ble are those that are more double than No. 1, which is a rose that is generally known. The whole of them are much admired, and being now of great variety in colour, shade and aspect, constitute a valuable addition to the Flower-garden. A bed of varieties planted therein in good light rich soil, and well dressed by hoe- ing deep, raking, &c. during the early stage of their growth every season, will form an ornament varied in colour, unrivalled, and as yet not found in our Flower- gardens. Their nature agrees so well with our summer seasons, that it will not surprise us to see, in a few
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years, selections *>f them planted in rows Or hedges, djvWing the compartments 1& xAr gardens.
They are atf hardy, bat of tbbse that are notperfect- ly sfe we hare fcentiouedthe requited protection* .Any of then that have not been proved hardy in your collections, it wootd be extremely injudicious to leave them exposed the first winter after planting out # Cau* tion is necessaiy on everymnkatwfi point; therefore/ - we would recommend to give them slight jurotection, by a covering of straw* mats, fcoxqp, &c. and if they ap- pear to withstand the winter ftt perfect safety, they will not need again to hp covered.
The best season of the year for pruning them is about the first of this month. In doing so it is not ad- yisable to shorten any of the young shoots, except jn cutting off the injured parts, that being the wood mpst 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. If the plants have been long established, dig in amongst their roots a little well decomposed manure, and stir and hoQ them frequently during the summer.
CLIMBING ROSES.
Nq, 1. Rosa Champneydna. This celebrated rose has a situation in plmost every garden in our city, and forms a great ornament, flowering very profusely in immense clusters from May to November. Many of these hav-
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ing more than thirty buds upon them of a light pink colour, it is sometimes called « Pink Cluster." It is of rapid growth, and does well for covering arbours, fences, or any unsightly object The * foliage is of a lucid green, and the wood very strong in growth. This rose is at present one of the most abundant in flower, the easiest of cultivation, (growing in any exposure,) and in every respect is highly deservipg of attention.
No. 2. Rosa blush Noisettid is very similar to No. 1. in habit'; the flowers are lighter in colour, and a little larger; but the plant dote not flower so profusely dur- ing the heat of the season. There is a variety of JVbi- settia in our gardens, known from this by the bud being more rounded, and another under the name of Char- les lOih, which has fine large flowers of a dark blush colour.
No. 3. Rosa red Noisettid, or what we consider more properly Scarlet cluster. It is very distinct from any other of the Noisettias in habit It is ail excellent variety, and blooms abundantly; of a scarlet colour; forming a fine contrast with the two last, which are light in co- lour, and though not generally known is very desirable.
No. 4. Rosa moschata, musk-scented, or white. cluster, is an esteemed rose both for profusion of flower and agreeableness in fragrance. It is not of so rapid growth as the three previous, and may be kept as a bush; though it will grow to a considerable height if protect- ed by a wall or close fence, being tacked thereto. Where kept as a bush, in very severe winters, it is the better of a slight covering, and is the latest flowering
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rose in the garden. The flowers axe frequently on the same bush single, semi-double, and double, but mostly semi-double.
No. 5. Rosa moschdta superb*, or superb' white cluster. This in habit and appearance is the* same as No. 4, only the roses are double, and never vary ; which makes it a very superior jose. It is highly esteemed and scarce/
No. 6. Rosa AraMe Noisettid. This has been called by some Purple Noisettia, (which is a very different rose, and not generally known.) In growth it is similar to Np.
4, and could be kept in the same manner. The flowers
- - -
a^e of a dark pink colour, very prolific, but hot so l^rge as No. 2. \ *
These are all what are termed with \is ever-bloom- ing roses; being in flower from May until the buds are destroyed by frost. They should be pruned aboutthe first of this month. The young wood is most produc- tive of bloom; where the branches are too crowded, cut out the oldest wood as close to the ground as is practicable, and any of the dead branches. The shoots when tied to the trellis, arbour, wall, or fence, should be about six inches clear. The branches when made fast to* their support ought to bq in direct lines, which must at all times be strictly observed. It is very -un- sightly to see shoots trained crooked, or over each other, and, unsightly or unscientifical as it may be, it is too prevalent in every garden. -
No. 7. R. Bourbdn is a double rose of brilliant red colour, petals large, stiff, and neatly set ; the flower
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192 " ^WERrGARDm-CLIMBING ROSES. (Ann*
abottthe size of a common Proviflp r6s*, and finely scented ; grows freely. The Wood is strong, and on- doubtedly it is the finest climbing rodte that has come under our observation, and 4s highly admired.
No. S. R. Bmrtault. This rose -is. much thought of in Europe. It is of af purple colour (and once called # Purpurea)^ has a little fragrance, flower nearly the size of No. 7 7 wood more slender, and of yevg rapid growth, and c&pab|e of covering a large 'space. When in flower it is very showy. The 'old wood & of a purple colour. There is a white variety of it
No. 91 R. Lisle, is of a light pink colour, about the dhape and size of No. 8, grows freely, and flowers abundantly. This and No. 8. are the hardiest climb- ing roses that We know.
No. 10. It microphylla. ^his rose is unique in every character, resembling No. 21. more than any other. The foliage is Very, small and neat, and the calyx 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 towards the exterior; the* spines are'in pairs on each side of ike compound leaves. It is perfectly hardy, and greatly esteemed, and D#t so subject to be attacked by insects as other roses.
No. 11. R. FmnkUma, or Cluster-tea, generally flowers well in May and June, but during the remainder of the season the heat appears to be f too strong for it, the
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buds drqpplng o$* before, expansion. The flower bud is larger Jhan that of thfe Ted-rose; the petals large but lodge, colour light blush. „ "
% No. 12.^* Bdnksia;, or Lady Banks 9 ryse a is a free gr^vmg kind, and has a lucid green" foliage ; flowers small white clusters with pink c'enfre,. very double, »nd sweet scented; iufcioom duringlVfay. . From what we » have*seen of it, the spring month^ appear too change- able for perfecting all its bloofH, many falling off frojn the. chilliness of the nights. The plant naturally is an evergreen, but iij our city is deciduous; grows best in sandy soil, and should be* prptected by mftts during winter. *
No. 13. R. Bdnksice luteapleno. The habit and fo- liage of this are the same as No. 12, ancL whether ^ardy or not we have not proved In Europe it is considered more hardy than the preceding variety. The flowers are larger, of a fine gold yellow, very double, and neat- ly set. It is considered very pretty.
No. 14. R. multiflbra, was amongst the first climbing roses that was planted in this city, and was so highly admired, that twenty dollars were given for one plant. It bears its flowers in. close clusters on the wood of last yefer; the colour is a deep blush; petals tfiickly set, making it a close and cempact small rose; blooming in June* It is losing its celebrity, and giving place to ' Champnly, Nois&ttia, GrevilUi, &c.
No. 15. R. white muliijldra. In all respects same as No. 14, except in flower, which is much lighter, but not a pure white. f
25
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]94 FLOWER.GAKJ>EN - CUMBIKG BOSE& [Ann.
m N6.46. R. scarlet muUifldra, is darker in colour than No. 14, but is not properly a scarlet flower.
No. 17. R. purple twUiflora. We suspect that there is some confqsion in this plant being confounded either with Scarlet multiflbra or with GreviMii. Plants import- ed as such hare proved to be the latter.
No. 18. R. Grevi/Btt, is a very curieus rose, flowered the first time with us jn June 1830. It is of the variety of No. 14, and of China torigin; growth free and luxu- riant; leaves large and deeply nerved ; flowers in large clusters, almost every eye of the wood, of last year pro- ducing one cluster, having on it from eight to twenty rbses, according to the state of the plant, each rose expanding differently in colour or shade. Many suppose that tjiey expand all of the same colour, and change afterwards. 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 ob- served twenty-two 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, forming, in every garden where it is planted, a wonder of the vegetable world. It is very Wdy ; an eastern aspect will answer it best, preserving the flowers from the direct rays of the sun, which will kqep the colours purer. We readily recom- mend it to every lover of Flora.
No. 19. R. arvSrms seandens multiplex, or double Ayr- shire. We imported this rose last year, as being a very double blush, sweet-scented .variety. It is highly
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valued, and said to be more rapid in growth than any other variety, and likewise a profuse flowerer. As far as we know it remains to be proved how it will agree with our climate, and have its high characters sub- stantiated ; although we have no reason to doubt the authority we received it from.
No. 20. R sempervirensplend. This is a most hand- some double white rose. The strong shoots of last year will produce a large cluster of flowers from almost every eye, abd as a profuse flowering double white climbing rose we have seen none to surpass it It grows freely, the foliage and wood pure green, leaves much nerved.
TTo. 21. R. bracteata plend, double Macartney, is a very fine large double white variety, with strongly mark- ed red edged petals ; blooming from May to July. It is very scarce, and grows best in sandy soil.
The best time for pruning those roses which otoly bloom once in the season, and are of a climbing habit, is immediately after flowering, cutting out all the old wood that has produced flowers, thereby invigorating the young wood that is to bear the flowers the ensuing year; and the stronger the wood of this year can be made to grow, the finer and more profuse will be the flowers. The plants of Nos. 12, 14, 18, and the inter- mediate varieties, have been pruned on a wrong system. In place of giving them a general dressing in spring, they ought to have it immediately after flowering ; the old wood cut out, leaving only the young and such as is of a healthy nature. Avoid crowding them together, and tie them all straight and regular. Never top the
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j 96 FLOWER-GARBEN - CLIMBING PLANTS. lArtii.
shoots except where there is»a supply of wood wanted. In spring the only dressing requisite is to (Alt off the injured shoots or branches, maklbg good the tyings that hav* given way. .
Trellises for these rotifes are generally made too wide ; the shoots cannot be neatly kept to them. They ought never to exceed nine inches between each spar or rod. .
There are several species and varieties of climbing roses of high standing in character, but not being per- fectly known to us in regard to hardiness, &c. we for- bear making any remarks upon them, knowing that much exaggeration exists.
CLIMBING PLANTS.
As shade is much required in this country, and plants suitable for covering arbours, &c. eagerly sought for, we will make a few remarks on those which are prefer- red for their beauty, growth, hardiness, &c.
Atrag&ne alpha, is a free growing deciduous shrub, with large blush-coloured flowers, which continue blooming from May to July ; has small pinnated foliage-
Clematis viticella pulcheUa, or double purple 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 likewise a double red.
C. Jldmmula, sweet scented virgin's bower, is of very rapid growth. Established plants will grow from twenty
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to forty feet in one season, producing at the axils of the young shoots large panicles of small white flowers of exquisite fragrance f the leaves arq compound pinnate; in bloom from June to November, but in Jute, July, September, and October, the 'flowers are in great pro- fusion, perfuming the whole garden. This is tme of the best climbing harty plants that we know f and it ought to have a situation in every garden.
C Virgidna, is of rapid growth, and well adapted for arbours; flowers small white in axillary panicles, dioe- cious, leaves ternate, segments cordate, acute, coarsely toothed and lobed, in bloom from June to August. A native, and a little fragrant.
C. fibridaplenb, is a fine free flowering plant, though generally 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 frutSscens. It has large pendulous branches of blue (leguminose) flowers, blooming from May to Au- gust; pinnated leaves with nine ovate downy leaflets; grows freely.
Glycine chinensis, is given to Wistaria, and is the finest climbing shrub of the phaseolious tribe. The flowers are light blue, in long nodding many-flowered racemose spikes, blooming from May to August profusely; leaves pinnated, with eleven ovate lanceolate silky leaflets, and is of a very rapid growth. We are not certain if it will withstand our winters without protection.
Bigndnia crucigera, is an evergreen which is very de-
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198 FLOWntOARDEN-CLIMBDIO PLANTa [Airnu.
sirable in many situations, being likewise of luxuriant growth. It will coyer in a few years an area of fifty feet; flowers of an orange scarlet colour, blooming from May to August
B. grctadiflora, now given to Tecoma, has large orange coloured flowers, blooming from June to August, and grows very fast We are not positive that it will stand our winters without protection.
B. radicans, is likewise given to Tecdma, and is a na- tive plant When in flower it is highly ornamental, but it requires great attention to keep it in regular order, being of a strong rough nature; in bloom from June to August
Periplaca graca, 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 brown- ish yellow colour, and hairy inside ; leaves smooth, ovate, lanceolate, wood 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 angled. There are several varieties of it, all valua- ble for growing in confined shady situations where no other plant will thrive.
AmpelSpsis hederdcea. This plant is commonly em- ployed for covering walls, for which the rapidity of its growth, and the largeness of the leaves, render it ex- tremely appropriate. There are several species of the genus, all resembling the Vine in habit and in flower.
It is called by some Cissus hederdcea, which is certainly
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improper, this belonging to Tetandria, and the former to Pentandricu
There are several other plants of a climbing habit, both curious and ornamental ; but our limits will not admit of a detail.
. DECIDUOUS SHRUBS.
Finish planting ail deciduous shrubs in the early part of the month. These plants are generally delayed too long, the leaves in many instances are beginning to ex- pand, 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 concerned is blamed.
These shrubs, if properly removed and planted at the exact starting of vegetation, pressing the earth close to their roots when planting, (previously takiag care that the small fibres have not become dry by ex- posure,) will not, by these simple attentions, one out of fifty fail. Those that are late planted should have fre- quent 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 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
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200 FLOWER GARDEN - EVERGREEN SHRUBS. * (Amuu
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 criterion for transplanting any plant. The bud$ begin to swell, the roots to push, and if they can be quickly lifted and re- planted, 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 ever- greens in general succeed the better the smaller they are, although we have seen plants, trees, and evergreens, successfully lifted upwards of thirteen feet high and fifteen in diameter, and carried several miles. By the second year there was no appearance that such opera- tion had tak£n place, in preparing a hole for the re- ception of these plants, make it larger than the roots, breaking the bottom thereof fine, and putting in some fresh soil. Place the plant upright in the centre, put- ting 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 pail full of water, allowing it to subside, then cover all the roots, give a second or third pail full, 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 requiring mulching, which has an unsightly appearance. All that the wind will have
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Amul.] FLOWER-GARDEN - CARE OF CHOICE BULBS. 201
any hurtful effect upon, must be firmly supported, espe- cially large plants. If the weather sets in dry and hot, they should be watered as often as necessity shall direct.
Those that are established, it will be necessary to go over them (if not already done) to cut off all wood killed in winter, and also to thin them if too thick and crowded.
When the above is done, let every part of the shrub- bery be dressed off as directed fn March. Shrubs of all kinds will now begin to look gay and lively, which may be very much heightened or depreciated, accord- ing to the state in which the grouud 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 Europe ; 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 exposed to drench- ing 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 re- quisite 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 26
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202 FLOWER-GAKDEN--CARE OF CHOICE BULBS. [Ann;
of matting, or any other substitute, repeat the tying as they advance, avoid tying amongst the florets, because they grow by extension, and are liable to be broken off by so doing. The sun deteriorates the colours very much, especially the red, blue, and yellow sorts ; where- as if they were simply protected from the sun by an awning of thin canvass, the colours 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 laths or hoops from the side to the centre, formed similar to the roof of a house, so that people may walk or sit under it, the canvass or awning being thin to admit 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 re- quires to be kept on only from nine to three o'clock in sunshine days, and during nights or time of rain, al- lowing the awning on the most northern side to come close to the ground when necessary, to shelter them from cold cutting winds.
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 properties of a good Hyacinth are, viz - 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 pyra- mid. Each floret well filled with petals rising towards
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Ami.] FLOWEfc-GAKDEN - ANEMONES, Ac. 203
the centre, that it may appear to the eye a little convex. Regarding colour, fancy does not agree, and the most scrupulous cultivators differ 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
Those of a good TuUp are - the stem strong, elastic, and erect, about two feet high, the flower large and composed of six petals, proceeding a little horizontally at first, and then turning upwards, forming a flat-bot- tomed cup, rather 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 en- tire, 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 mar- gin, and terminate in fine points elegantly pencilled. The centre of each petal should have one bold stripe, or blotch of rich colouring. The ground colours that are most esteemed are white, the purer the finer ; or, on the othqr band, the dark grounds, and of course the darker the better; but these vary in estimation, accord- ing to the prevailing taste of amateurs.
, ANEMONES AND RANUNCULUS.
Moist weather and frequent showers are highly es- sential to the perfecting of these flowers, and if these should fail at this season of the year, artificial means
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204 FLOWER-GARDEN - AURICULAS, &e. [Avbil.
must be used to supply the deficiency. Take a water- ing-pot without the rose, and run the water (river or rain water is best) gently between the rows, taking care not to make holes in the ground. When they have got a good watering at root, take the syringe and give them a gentle sprinkling in fine evenings, observ- ing 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 roots when taken up 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.
AURICULAS.
Having under this head last month given ample di- rections for the treatment of these plants previous to flowering, we refer to that head to avoid repetition.
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
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Antn.) * FLOWER GARDEN - POL1ANTHUS, &c ' 20A
with frames, give them plenty of air, keeping the sash£s entirely off during, the day, keep the pots perfectly free from weeds, and give the foliage frequent sprinklings with water. '
Polyanthus and primroses will be exhibiting their beautiful flowers. They require the same treatment, and delight in moisture and a shaded situation. Do not sprinkle 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 des- tined 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 immediately, and give regular supplies of water.
POLIANTHDS TUBEROSA FLORE PLENO.
This very popular bulb, generally known as Tuberose, has been cultivated in England upwards of two centu- ries, whence we no doubt have received it, and now can return those of our production to supply their de- mand. 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 per- fection, they should be planted in a lively hot-bed,
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206 FLOWER OARDHN - POLIAirraUS, fcd [Afin.
about the first of this month in six inch pots filled with light rich earth, giving very littlfe 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 planting the roots, all the off-sets should be taken off and planted sepa- rately ; keep the crown of the bulb level with the surface 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, they will succeed very well if planted about the end of this month or first of next in the garden, in a bed of earth prepared for their reception. Let it tye dug deep, and make the soil light and rich, by giving it a k good supply of manure two years old, well broken and incorporated with the earth, adding 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 two and a half inches deep, and eight- een 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 off-sets in closer rows to produce flowering roots for next year, because they seldom flower the second time.
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AMARYLLIS PORMOSISSIMA, OR JAOOBEA LILY.
About the end of this or beginning of next month, is the most proper time f<?r 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 tho 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 petals, 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 direct- ed 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 SpreikMa formdsisstma, and we think properly too, for its 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 America generally will yearly exhibit to us the beauty of their colours and the beautiful construc- tion of their flowers and foliage, of which we are now generally deprived, perhaps because we have not the conveniency of a proper hot-house for 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
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208 FLOWER43ARDEN - TIGER FLOWER. [Aril
flowers, and many species will ripen their setids. The bulb that is known as Amaryllis Belladonna, now called BeUaddnna purpurdscens, is hardy.
TIGER FLOWER.
Tigrutiay a genus of Mexican bijlbs belonging to Monaddphia Tridndrta, and produce the most beautiful flowers of the natural order of Iridea. T. paodma is of the brightest scarlet, tinged and spotted with pure yellow. T. concfuijidra, colour rich yellow, tinged and spotted with bright crimson. 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 of the largest, 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 collected, they will bloom in profusion from July to September. They like a light rich free soil. Lift the bulbs in October, and preserve them as directed in that month for Tu- beroses. 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. 9 ' Plant them about the end of this or first of next month ; if in beds keep them one foot apart each way.
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WALKS.
The walks in general should be put in the neatest order during this month. Little requires to be added to the observations of last month, but if these have not been executed, fail not to have it done the first opportu- nity, choosing dry weather for the operation of turning the old or adding new gravel to them, levelling, raking, and rolling neatly as you proceed. Always 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 pretensions to keeping these in order, they ought to be picked of weeds and Ktter once a week, and gone over with the roller at least once every two" weeks during the season.
Sweep and divest the grass walks of all worm casts, litter, &c. cutting the edgings neatly. Mow the grass every two weeks from this time to October, sweeping oflf the grass clean each time, and give frequent roll- ings to keep the surface smooth. If any require to be laid with turf, delay it no longer. For directions see last month. The above observations on walks in general, will apply through the season ; therefore we will not repeat this subject until October.
27
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210 FI/)WERjGARDEN - EVERGREEN HEDGES. [Ann. EVERGREEN HEDGES.
We have previously observed, under the head of Ever- greens, that this is the best season for their replanting. We cannot pass over the observations of this month, without having reference to evergreen hedges, .so much neglected amongst us, and yet so important to the di- versity of aspect, and especially 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 occidentalism American arbor- vitae ; and Juniperis virgini&na, Red cedar. These are natives, and the two former are admirably adapted for the purpose. 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 possi- ble. Dig a trench from one and a half to two feet wide, and from one to one foot and a half deep. This will admit the soil about the roots to be well broken, 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 ever- greens 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
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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, especially to narrow walks.
The use of edgings is to keep the soil from the gravel, and the larger they are allowed to grow the more ineffectual they become ; growing more open be- low 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
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line at top. Edgings, cut in this manner, every spring will always look well, and tbe trouble, comparatively, is a mere trifle.
GRASS FLATS, &c
If these have not been laid down where wanted, de- lay it no longer, for which see directions in JMarch; and where these are desired to be kept in order, they should be mown every two or three weeks at farthest ; from this month to October when cut, the grass should be clean swept off, and the edgings, if out of order, ad- justed. To mention this subject again will be only a repetition, therefore we will let this suffice.
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 ptems, and are tender, and in danger of being hurt or broken by the wind, proper sticks or rods for their support In doing this, endea- vour 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 heighth 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 propor- tionate.
Examine all the beds and patches of seedling flowers now coming up, and let them be refreshed with water
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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 aikUnext 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 above one day in sight
Jftooma*
APRIL.
We remarked last month, that about this season, where it is convenient, an eastern window is more con- genial 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 sooth. Some keep their 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 al- together, according to the mildness of the day. And as plants are more liable to get covered with dust in
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214 ROOM&-DIRECTIONB FOR PLANTS, fte. [Ann,
rooms than in any other department, and not so conve- nient to be syringed or otherwise cleaned, take the first opportunity of a mild day to carry them to a shady si- tuation, and syringe such as are not in flower well with water; 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 situa- tions.
DIRECTIONS FOR PLANTS BROUGHT FROM THE GREEN-HOUSE.
Any plants that are brought from the Green-house during the 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 ob- served 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 these too just come from the temperate and damp atmosphere 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 transition being so sudden, that, however great their beauties may have appeared, they in a few days become brown, the flowers tarnished or decayed, and the failure 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
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Aiwdu] ROOMS-FLOWERING PLANTS. 215
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 eight kinds of Camellias in their collections, whieh afford a continual beauty through the winter, with many other desirable and equally valuable plants. Exposure to the sun, and want of water, are the general cause of failures at this period. We have spoken so minutely and so frequent- ly on these two subjects, that we think more repetition unnecessary. The plants generally are growing pretty freely by this time, and are not so liable to suffer from liberal supplies of water, observing never to give it un- til the soil in the pot is inclining to become dry 2 and
administering it always in the evenings.
i
FLOWERING PLANTS.
Our directions last month under this head will equal- ly apply now. The China roses that are now coming plentifully in flower should be kept near the light, and in airy exposures, to brighten their colours, otherwise they will be very pale and sickly. Geraniums too ought to have the like treatment
BRINGING PLANTS OUT OF THE CELLAR, Ac.
All or most of the plants that have been in the cel- lar during winter, such as Pomegranates, Lagerstrcemias,
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216 ROOMS - PLANTS FROM THE CELLAR, &c [Ann-
Hydrdngeas, Oleanders, Sweet-bay, &rc. may be brought out to the open air any time 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 them in others a little larger; or where convenient they may be planted in the ground, except Oleanders, which do best to be a little confined; Be sure to keep the Hydrdngeas in shady situations. It will not be advisa- ble 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 be- fore the heat increases the one, and to get clear of the disagreeable appearance of the other.
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217
mot-mmm.
MAY.
Very few directions for this department remain to be given ; except for shifting plants, and a few observa- tions 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 nights will be very mild by this time, and the sashes in every favourable day should be open- ed 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 amongst Hot-house plants is as great during this month as in any period of the year.
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
2§
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always adopted around Philadelphia for that operation (and then they are done indiscriminately,) we will as- sign a few reasons for our practice.
Firsts 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 sufficiency of heat naturally to quicken them to an active state when they are encouraged ; and thirdly, being thus in new soil while dormant, they have a yellow and sickly aspect until they begin to grow ; and the foliage thus deprived of its natural vigour will not ap- pear 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 increasing heat of the summer, make new growths, are perfectly ripened before the approach of winter, and never lose that verdureal appearance they have attained. These are our reasons acquired from a close practice and ob- servation, and are not influenced by the doings of others which are so much aside. No practical opera- tor especially, nor in fact any individual, 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, before they order them, and likewise which are the fipest flowerers and their general character, especially those who are at a great distance, and seldom have the privilege of seeing what is most desirable, our de-
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scriptions will be limited, and simply such as are given for the Green-house in March.
-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. Honstoni, now Annesleia Houston^ is one of the most magnificent of the Mimdsa tribe, bloom- ing from August to November in large terminale spikes, of a crimson colour, stamens very lojig, and beautiful ; leaves bipinnated in pairs. A. grandififrra, likewise gi- ven to Annesl&a, and similar to the former in colour ; has very large compound bipinnate leaves, with from twenty to forty pairs. A. Catkhu, flowers yellow, wood spiny, leaves bipinnated, about ten pairs. The inner wood of this tree is of a brown colour, from which the Caticku used in medicine is prepared It is disputed whether A. VSra, or A% Ardbica produces the gum Ara- bic. We are inclined 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 flowers have the appearance of yellow balls of down, and are hermaphrodite. The pots should all be well drained.
Abe. These grotesque looking succulent plants 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 frequent* ly get a situation in the Hot-house. It is not requisite,
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220 HOT-HOU6E-OF REPOTTING, &c. [Mat-
except for A. vulgdris, known as A. barbadensis ; which has orange yellow flowers ; A. obliqua, now called Gas- tiria obliqua ; A. dichotoma ; and A. tinedta, which is per- haps the finest of the genus. The leaves are beauti- fully striped, with red spines, flowers scarlet and green. These are the only ones that actually need. heat during winter. 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 suspended in the house, without earth or any substitute abont 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.
Ardisias, about eighteen species. Plants highly es- teemed for the beauty of their foliage, flowers, and berries. The most popular in our collections is A. crenuldia. It has rose coloured star-like flowers, in ter- minate panicles, and produces beautiful small red ber- ries, which continue until other berries 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, his vulgarly called the Dwarf ever-bearing cherry. It will keep in a good Green-house, but not grow freely. A. so- lanacea has large oblong leaves, narrowed at each end, and bears purple berries ; A. elegans has entire, oblong, shining leaves ; A. umbelldta, once A. Uttordlis, is the finest of the genus for abundance of flower and beauty of foliage. The flowers are pink, in large decompound panicles, the leaves the largest of all the species, oblong,
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wedge shaped, nearly sessile, entire, smooth, and re- flexed. They are all evergreens, and the pots should be well drained. They are natives of the East Indies, and delight in a high temperature.
Aristolochias, Birth-wort. There are several of these belonging to the Hot-house, but none of them deserv- ing particular observation, except A. labiosa. The leaves are reniform, roundish, cordate, and amplexi- caule ; the flower or corolla is of a curious construc- tion, being incurved, and at the base swelled or saccate with a large lip, and all beautifully spotted ; colour greenish brown. It is a climbing plant, and requires a strong heat. *
Astrapceas, three species. A. WalHchdi is a celebrated plant in Europe, and a few specimens of it are in this country. It has scarlet unbellated 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.
Arced, Cabbage-tree, ten species. They are a kind of palms, with large pinnated leaves, or properly ironds. 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 extensively in the West Indies, and the ten- der part of the top is eaten by the natives. A. montana is most frequent in collections. There is no particular beauty in the flowers. They are all easily grown, if plenty of heat be given.
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Brunsvtgias 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 dormant it must be wholly withheld, and they should have large pots to make them grow and flower in perfection. B. mulii- florai flowers scarlet and green ; the leaves lay on the surface of the pot. B. laticoma^ flowers pale purple. B. Josephines has splendid rose coloured flowers, and is the most admired species of the genus : the foliage spreading, half erect, and glacous ; flowers numerous, and in large umbels, on a stem two feet high, bloom- - ing successively ; there is a variety that has striped flowers.
Several other species have been given to different genera. B.falcata is now Ammocharis fakata ; B. mar- ginata, now Imhofia; and B. cillians, is now Buphone cilliaris. They all flower in umbels, on stems from six inches to two feet ; flowers lily-like with six petals.
Bambusa, 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, &£. It is frequent- ly used as pipes to convey water. The species thus useful, is B. arundinacea, which grows to a great height We do not mention it as interesting in beauty, but as a
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valuable plant, for the many useful purposes to which it is applied. It requires to be kept wet.
BanisleriaS) a genus of about fourteen climbing ever- green plants. Three of them are esteemed. B.fulgens, yellow flowers in racemose spikes, leaves subovate, and downy beneath. B. Chrisophylla has beautiful foliage, as if covered with a shining gold coloured dust ; leaves large, oblong, acute. B. spfenderis, flowers in spikes of a yellow colour ; foliage large and silvery like ; the pott should be well drained.
Barringtdnias, two species. B. specidsa has produced a great excitement amongst cultivators, and is one of the handsomest 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.
Browneas, five species of splendid plants, but scarce in collections. B. cocctnea has scarlet flowers in pen- dulous bunches, corolla semi-double, foliage bipinnate, in three pairs. B. rdsa, mountain rose of Trinidad. B. grandiceps is the finest of the genus, leaves bipinnat- ed; leaflets cordate, accuminate. downy and pendu- lous, flowers rose colour, in large close heads. Drain the pots well
Calathda zebrxna, frequently known as Mardnta zebrina, and now Phrynum zebAnum^ is a plant unique in its ap- pearance. The large elongated ovate leaves are beau- tifully striped with green and dark purple, and called
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224 HOT-HOUSE-OF REPOTTING, &c. [May.
Zebra plant It has light blue flowers in ovate spikes, about the size of large pine cones. It is a herbaceous plant ; but in the warmest part of the Hot-house re- tains its splendid foliage ; requires a very liberal supply of water, and ought to be in every collection.
Carinas, about thirty species, several of them deserv- ing 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 flowers; C. Umbata, flowers scarlet and yellow ; C. discolor, has large cordate, accuminate leaves of a crimson colour, the flowers are scarlet ; C. iridifldra, has large crimson nodding flowers, very different 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 watering ought to be given up about the first of November, and renewed about the first of January, thus giving them a cessation which they require to flower freely ; but when water is constantly given, which is the general plan in our col- lections, they continue to push weak shoots and few flowers. .<
Cactus, This extensive genus is curious, grotesque, interesting, and varied in character and habit ; is now divided into six distinct genera according to their na- tural appearance and habit. We will describe a few of each genus, none of which going under the name of Cactus, we will give them the six following.
Mamilldrias, above twenty species, and are those which are covered with roundish bearded tubercles, and with small red and white flowers. M. coccinea ; M.
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May.] HOT-HOUSE-OF REPOTTING. 225
simplex; M. pusifla, and M. cdpica, ,are good species, and will do well with water five or six times during summer.
Mebcactus? seven spedies, 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. macrdnthus, has large spines; M. pyramiddtis, is a conical growing species. These require the same treatment as the last
EcfUnocdctus, about twenty species; are those that have many deep angles, and have a remarkable swell* ing, with each parcel of spines ; E. gibbdsus ; E. crispd- tus; E. recurvus ; are curious in appearance, with small white and purple flowers. These three genera in most collections are not well known specifically, but it is easy to discriminate which genus they are connected with.
Cdreus. This is the most magnificent genus with regard to the magnitude and beauty of the flowers, but not so closely allied. It takes in all those of a trailing or erect growing habit, having spines in clusters, soli- tary, or spineless. C. peruvidnus and C. heptagdnus, grow very erect, and to the height of thirty or forty feet in Peru and Mexico, where they plant them close to- gether as fences, and they are in a few years impene- trable. C. flage&formus is a well known creeping free flowering species, has ten angles ; will keep in a good Green-house, and produce in May and June a great number of blooms. The petals are of a fine pink and
29
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226 HOT-HOUSE - OF REPOTTING. [Mat.
red colour ; the tube oC 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. grandiprus is the celebrated " Night-blooming Cereus." The flowers are very large, beautiful, and sweet-scent- ed. 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. By sunrise they fade, and hang down quite decayed, and never open again.* One of these ought to be in every collection, and if trained up a naked wall will not occupy much room, and grow and flower profusely. They need very little water. C. speciosissimus has most beautiful large flowers, about six inches diameter ; the outside petals are a bright scar- let, 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 our collections, and is highly esteemed. C. triangularis has the largest
- They may be preferred if cat off when in perfection, and pat in spirit* of wine, In a chryrtal vase, made air tight A plant flowered in oar collection in May 1830, at It o'clock at noon - the only instance of the kind we ever heard of.
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flower of the Cacteee family ; the bloom is of a cream colour, and about one foot in diameter. In its indige- nous 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, plea- sant, and cooling. It seldom flowers. C. phyllnthoides, once Cdctus speciosus, is one of the most profuse in flowering ; the branches are ensate, compressed, and obovate, without spines; flowers of a pink colour, about four inches in diameter; the stamens as long as the corolla, with white anthers. It will keep well in a Green-house or Room. If in either of the two latter, give water only a few times dtfring winter. This is becoming a very popular plant. C. Jenkinsdm is a magnificent hybrid from C. speciosissimus. The flowers are equally as large, and of a brilliant scarlet colour, with a profusion of pure white anthers ; is greatly ad- mired, and is only in a few collections. C. Jckermdnni is very similar to C. phyllarUhoides, flowering equally as profusely, the colour a bright scarlet, and the scar- cest species of the genus that is worthy of notice. C. truncatus, branches truncated, flowers deep scarlet and tubular, from two to three inches in diameter; the sta- mens protrude from the corolla; the plant is of a dwarf growth and branched; when in flower it is quite a pic- ture. It is said that there are free and shy flowering varieties of this species, but we doubt it; perhaps it is owing to the cultivation and soil.
Opuntias, about forty species, and are those whose branches are in joints flatly oblong, or ovate, spines solitary, or in clusters. The plants are not so desirable
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fbr beauty of flower as the species of the former genus, but many of them are remarkable for their string gro- tesque and spiny appearance; besides several of the spe- cies are extensively cultivated for the Cochineal insect The one most valued for that purpose, is O. cochiniilifera, which has only small clusters of bristles upon the ob- long ovate joints, and produces small red flowers ; C. fteus indica, is also used, but is very spiny.
PerSskias. About four species, and those that are of a shrubby nature producing leaves ; P. aculedia bears a fruit called " Barbadoes-gooseberry." The flowers are very small and simple, spines about half an inch long, leaves fleshy and elliptical.
The whole of the plants in the family of Cactem re- quire very little water, and delight in a dry warm situa- tion. They do not agree with frequent repotting; once in two or three years to young plants, and in five or six to those that are established,, with the exception of the large, free flowering species, which should be repotted once in two years.
Coffia drdbica. It produces the celebrated coffee, and is a plant universally known in our collections, and of easy culture. The leaves are opposite, oblong, wavy and shining, the flowers white, of a grateful odour, but of short duration. There is a plant known as C. om- dentaUs, which is now Tetramirwm odorafissimurru It requires a great heat to grow well, therefore should be kept in the warmest part of the Hot-house. The flowers are white, in panicles, and larger than the com- mon jasmine, and is very sweet-scented; leaves oblong, lanceolate, accumulate.
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Ma*] * * H0T-H0USE-0F KNOTTING. 229
CalUcarpas. About twelve species, and are generally admitted into collections, though of no particular inte- rest or beauty, except in the bright purple berries they produce, which is rarely. The foliage is of a rugose, hoary appearance.
CaroKneas. About six species of tender plants, with large digitate leaves, and of handsome growth. The flowers have numerous filaments, and are large and singular. C. insignis has the largest knd compactest blossoms; C. dlba is the only; one of the genus that has white flowers, all the others being red ; C. princeps and C. robusta&te noble looking species, and are much es- teemed They require a good heat, with which they will grow freely.
Caryotas. A genus of palms. C. urens is an admired species, produces flowers in long pendulous spikes, which 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.
Coccoldbas, Sea-side grape. This genus is admired for its beautiful large foliage, which is oblong ovate, and cordate ovate ; C. pubSscens and C. laiifbtia are the finest species. They bear berries in clusters like the grape, but never come to perfection in artificial cultivation.
Cuphea MehiUa, is the only species of the genus that is particularly deserving of a situation, has lanceolate scabrous leaves, narrowed at each end, flowers tubular in a terminale whorl, colour scarlet and green. The plant must be well drained. It will flower from May to September.
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Crdtons. About twenty-eight species, few of them deserving cultivation; but the genus is celebrated for its beautiful C.pictus, leaves oblong-lanceolate, variegated with yellow, and stained with red, flowers small green, on axillary spikes. C. varidgatus, variety latijbha, is finer than the original variagdlus, the nerves in the leaves are yellow, and the leaves lanceolate, entire and smooth. To make them grow freely, give the warmest part of the Hot-house, and drain the pots well.
CSrberas. About twelve species of strong growing trees, foil of poisonous juice. C. theviiia is an elegant plant, with accuminate leaves, and large, nodding, yel- low, solitary, fragrant flowers, proceeding from the axil; C. ahoucd produces a nut which is deadly poison. C. odallam, once C. m&nghas, has large star-like flowers, white, shaded with red. They are principally East India plants, and require great heat-
Cycas, four species, generally called Sago palm, as an English name. The plant that Sago is extracted from, belongs to another genus, (see Sdgus.) C. revo- tiUa is a well known palm, and will keep perfectly well in the Green-house. We have seen a beautiful spe- cimen 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. circindlis is a large growing species ; the fronds are much longer, but not so close and thick. C. gkt&ca is a fine species; the foliage is slightly glaucous. They require plenty of pot room, are much infested with the small white scaly insect, and ought to be fire-
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quently examined and carefully washed as prescribed in January.
Combr&tums. Nine species of beautiful flowering climbing 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 form/town, red and yellow ; C.pukkeBum, scarlet; C. comdsum has crimson flowers in tufts ; C. purp&reum 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 in- troduced, 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 scarlet, in large branches, blooming profusely from April to September, 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.
Crdssula. This genus has no plants in it attractive in beauty. Several beautiful plants in our collections belong to Rdchea and Kalosdnthus. There is a strong growing succulent plant, known in our collections as C. falccUa, which is R. falcdta. It seldom flowers; the minor variety blooms profusely every year from May to August, and has showy scarlet flowers in terminate panicles. The plants known as C. coccinea and C. ver- sicolor are now given to the genus Kalosdnthus. The flowers of the former are like scarlet wax, terminate and sessile; *K. odoratissima has yellow terminate sweet-
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scented flowers. They require very little water, only a few times in winter, and about twice a week in sum- mer ; they are all desirable plants.
Goryphas, (Large fan Palm,) five species of the most noble and magnificent of palms. C. ambracuUfera^ 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 b* easily carried about, and serve to protect them from the scorching sun. C. taUera, now Ta&era bengalensis, being stronger, sb of great utility for covering houses. They do not grow to such immense extent in artificial cultivation, but require large houses to grow them.
Crinums, about one hundred species, chiefly stove bulbs, many of them beautiful. Those that are of great celebrity are C. cruSntum, colour red; G» scabnmi> crimson and white ; C. amdbilc, purple and white ; the neck of the bulb of the latter is long and easily distin- guished from its purplish colour, and is considered the finest of the genus. Several specimens of it are in our collections. Their flowers are in umbels, on a stalk from one to three feet high; corolla funnel shaped ; petals recurved. They require large pots to make them flower well, and when growing to be liberally supplied with water.
Cyrtdntfms, 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 ad- vantage. They are closely allied to Crimnu The
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-
tubes of the flowejs are long and round, with various shades of orange, yellow, red; and green. C. odbrus,
C. stridtw, C. obliquus, and C. vittatus, are the finest When the bulbs are dormant, Which will be from Oc- tober to January, they should hot get any water; be- fore they begin to grow, turn the bulb 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 flower stronger.
Caryqphyttus arvnwticus, is the only species, and the tree that produces cloves. The whple. plant is aro- matic, and closely allied to Myrtus ; the flowers are in loose panicles, the leaves oblong, accumulate, entire. It is a fine evergreen. Pots must be well drained.
DiMnias, three species of fine plants, with beautiful foliage. D. speciosa has produced considerable ex- citement in our collections. The leaves are elliptic, oblong, simply serrated, nerves deep; the flower is white, with five bold petals, centre filled with barren anthers; i{ has not been known to flower in America.
D. scdudens has ovate, simply serrated leaves, but is not known as to flower ; it is a fine climber.
Drac&nas, Dragon-tree, about twelve species of Asia- tic plants, varied in character. D. fSrrtea is plentiful in our collections, and will keep in the Gregn-ho&se; but the foliage is not so well retained as when kept in the Hot-house; the leaves are lanceolate, acute, of a dark purple colour. D.frdgrans, 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
30
y
Digitized by
234 HOT-HOUeB-OFEEPOTTINGtAe. [May.
a few of our collections. D. sttidajB now CharhtdotBci* stricta^ flowers blush and in loose panicles. £>. Draco is admired, and the most conspicuous of the genus.
Er&nthemums* about ten species. E. pnlcheUtan and E. bicolor are the finest of the genus ; the former is in our collections, but miserably treated. The soil in which it is grown is too stiff and loamy, and it seldom gets enough of heat. The latter 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 January to Septem- ber. The flowers of the latter are white and dark pur- ple, 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.
Eugenias, about thirty species, esteemed for their handsome evergreen foliage. This genus once con- tained a few celebrated species, which have been divid- ed. (See Jambdsa.) The Allspice tree, known as Myrtus Pimento, is now E. Pimento ; 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 col- lections. E.frdgrans is sweet scented ; the flowers are on axillary peduncles; leaves ovate, obtuse.
Euphorbia (spurg), a genus of plants disseminated over every quarter of the globe ; a few are beautiful, many grotesque, and several the most worthless weeds
* In honour of Mr. Gharlwood, an extensiye seedsman of London, who hae made amral botanical excursion! on this oontinent.
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Mat.} HOT-HOtJSE-OF REPOTTTOG,A«. 235
oil the earth. There are about two hundred species, and from all of them, when probed, *a thick milky fluid ex* udes. Those of the tropics are the most curious, and very similar in appearance to Cactus, but easily detect- ed by the above perforation. There is a magnificent species in our collections, which was lately introduced from Mexico.* It goes under the n^me of E. hetero- phylla. The flowers of the whole genus are apetalous, add the beauty is fa the bracte© ; of the species alluded to the bracte© is bright crimson, very persistent, and above six inches in diameter, when well grown. ' The plant requires a strong heat, or the foliage will become yellow and fall off. We question whether this species is nondescript or as above. It is a brilliant ornament to the Hot-house three fourths of the year, and always during winter, and should have a situation in every tropical collection.
Etythrinas (Coral tree), a genus containing about thirty species of leguminose, scarlet-flowering plants. Several species are greatly esteemed for their beauty and profusion of flowers, which in well established plants are produced in- long spikes at the end of the stems and branches. E. CoraUodendrum blooms magni- ficently in the West Indies, but in our collections has never flowered. Perhaps, if it was kept dry during its dormant season, which is from November to January, and when growing greatly encouraged, it might pro- duce flowers. jE. spetibsa is a splendid flowerer, leaves large, ternated, and prickly beneath ; stem prickly. E. pubescms ie valued for its large peculiar brown pubes- cent leaves.
* By Pbintttt the American Conrol for Mexico in 189a
Digitized by
236 HOTHOUSE - OF REPOTTWO, 4bc. * [Mat.
In regard to E. herbdcea, Which is a native of the Caio- linas, and frequently treated as a Hothouse plant, it is our opinion that it would be more perfectly grown if planted about the first of this month in thejgarden; and when growing,' if well supplied with water, it woul4 flower from July to September. About the. first erf No- vember lift die ropts and preserve them in half dry earth, in the same place with the DdhRas. E. iaurifbUa and E. ctista-galii are likewise often treated as Hot- house plants, and in such situations they cast prematurely their first flowefs, by the confined state of the air. They will keep in perfect preservation during winter in a dry cellar, half covered