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ings. Two spotted forms of O. crispum; a plant of the dwarf Oncidium macranthum nanum, which never produces a long trailing spike; a very fine Miltonia Schröderiana, several of the pretty Anaectochilus Thompsoni var. Gentilii, LælioCattleya Berthe Fournier, several good L.-C. callistoglossa, L.-C. Issy, Cattleya Vulcan, C. Gaskelliana alba, C. calummata nobilior, C. Lord Rothschild, and various hybrid Cypripediums, &c., were also included.

R. I. MEASURES, Esq., Cambridge Lodge, Camberwell (gr. Mr. Smith), staged a group in which were varieties of Cattleya Warscewiczii, Lælio-Cattleya Remula, and various hybrid Cypripediums, of which C. Wottoni was the best. Species and varieties were represented by Saccolabium ampullaceum, Masdevallia Carderi, and other Masdevallias, Scaphosepalum pulvinare, Pleurothallis scapha, and other Pleurothallis, Brassia Keiliana, Cælogyne Massangeana, &c. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. HUGH Low & Co., Enfield, staged a neat group in which were several good Cattleya Gaskelliana, C. bicolor Grossii, C. granulosa, Catasetum macrocarpum, Mormodes pardinum unicolor of a clean yellow tint; the rare and pretty reddish-yellow Epidendrum pristes, Dendrobium Dearei, Oncidium carthaginense, &c. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. STANLEY & Co., Southgate, arranged an effective group, in the centre of which was a batch of Oncidium varicosum, having in front a number of good plants of Cypripedium A. de Lairesse and at each side good examples of Lælia crispa. The group was completed with Cattleya Harrisoniana, Odontoglossum crispum, O. Harryanum, O. Hunnewellianum, Dendrobium Phalanopsis, Lælio-Cattleya elegans, and various hybrid Orchids. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Sir TREVOR LAWRENCE, Bart., Burford (gr. Mr. W. H. White), sent an interesting collection of rare Orchids, including a grand specimen of Platyclinis filiformis, Cycnoches Egertonianum viride, C. maculatum, Catasetum fimbriatum and its variety platypterum, two pretty specimens of the Horiferous Odontoglossum aspidorhinum, Dendrob.um glomeratum, and the rare Oncidium panduratum.

J. GURNEY FOWLER, Esq., Glebelands, South Woodford (gr. Mr. J. Davis), sent the very fine rose-purple tinted Cattleya Warriniana, "Fowler's variety," with a strong spike of six large flowers; two forms of Lælio-Cattleya elegans; the dark coloured Cypripedium Bingleyense var. Æneas, and C. Penelope (Morganiæ x superbiens).

JEREMIAH COLMAN, Esq., Gatton Park, showed fine varieties of Lælio-Cattleya bletchleyensis, L.-C. Nyssa, L.-C. Phryne. L.-C. Atalanta, and L.-C. elegans Schröderiana.

C. J. LUCAS, Esq., Warnham Court, Horsham (gr. Mr. Duncan), staged a small group of his Lælio-Cattleya Geoffrey (L. Lucasiana x C. Warscewiczii). The flowers are formed like those of a small L. Jongheana, with an elongated crimped lip. Sepals and petals pale lilac, base of the lip white to yellow, front and margin purple. Mr. LUCAS also showed L.-C. Lucasi (L. Iona x C. Warscewiczii), a pretty flower somewhat resembling L.-C. Ingrami, and various hybrid Cypripediums,

F. DUCANE GODMAN, Esq, Horsham (gr. Mr. Moody), sent a specimen of Satyrium carneum.

M. JULES HYE de Crom, Ghent, sent a small plant of Miltonia Hyeana (M. Bleuana x M. vexillaria Leopoldi). Flower white with faint rose mark in centre and yellowish mark at base of lip.

AWARDS.

AWARD OF MERIT

To Cypripedium Harri-Leeanum, Park Lodge variety (Harrisianum superbum x Leeanum), from E. ROBERTS, Esq., Park Lodge, Eltham (gr. Mr. W. Carr). A very fine massive and dark-coloured hybrid. Dorsal sepal large and bearing many feathered blackish lines and a bright rose tint extending to the clear white margin. Petals and lip broad and heavily tinged with reddish-purple. BOTANICAL CERTIFICATE.

Cycnoches Egertonianum viride, from Sir TREVOR LAWRENCE, Bart. (gr. Mr. W. H. White). A singular species bearing a long raceme of pale green flowers.

CULTURAL COMMENDATIONS.

To Mr. H. G. Alexander (Orchid grower o Major G. L. HOLFORD, C.I.E., C.V.O.) for the inflorescence of a noble plant of Odontoglossum crispo-Harryanum. The two spikes, coming from

one bulb, were 5 feet 6 inches long, one bearing 24, and the other, with 11 branches, 49 flowers. To Mr. W. H. White (Orchid grower to Sir TREVOR LAWRENCE, Bart.) for a noble specimen. of Platyclinis filiformis with about 100 spikes.

DIPLOMA AWARDS.

LÆLIO-CATTLEYA ELEGANS AND HYBRIDS.-1st Diploma.-L.-C. Berthe Fournier, from Messrs. CHARLESWORTH & Co. 2nd Diploma.-L.-C. elegans Turneri, from J. GURNEY FOWLER, Esq. (gr. Mr. J. Davis).

CATTLEYA WARSCEWICZII AND HYBRIDS.-1st Diploma.-L.-C. Nysa gloriosa; 2nd Diploma.L.-C. bletchleyensis, both from JEREMIAH COLMAN, Esq. (gr. Mr. W. P. Bound).

Fruit and Vegetable Committee. Present: Geo. Bunyard, Esq. (chairman), and Messrs. Jos. Cheal, Henry Parr, S. Mortimer, Wm. Pope, R. Lye, Edwin Beckett, H. Markham, Horace J. Wright, Geo. Kelf, Joseph W. Davis, F. L. Lane, C. Foster, J. Jaques, and Owen Thomas.

Miss ADAMSON, South Villa, Regent's Park, London, exhibited a number of pot fruit trees, and dishes of various indoor fruits. Apple, Pear and Plum trees were in pots, most of which were bearing freely, and there were also bunches of Black Hambro, Muscat of Alexandria and Foster's Seedling Grapes cut from pot vines, with dishes of Plums, Kirke's Seedling, Jefferson (a good dish), Reine Claude du Comte Atthems, and others, Early Rivers' Nectarine, Brown Turkey Figs, Gooseberries in variety, Clapp's Favourite Pears, and other fruits. (Hogg Memorial Medal.)

Messrs. S. SPOONER & SONS, Hounslow Nurseries, Hounslow, Middlesex, showed a dozen varieties of early culinary and dessert Apples. A finely-coloured sample of Lady Sudeley was included, also Goodenough's Nonsuch-a shapely fruit, of medium size, and with a pleasing eye. It had the appearance of a solid fleshed variety. Beauty of Bath, Pott's Seedling, Lord Grosvenor and Red Quarrenden are others that were prominent. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Mr. S. LAWSON, garden superintendent, Horticultural College, Swanley, showed bunches of Muscat of Alexandria and Canon Hall Muscat Grapes and dishes of Peaches, Sea Eagle, Mr. Gladstone and Princess of Wales, all of first-class quality. (Silver-Gilt Banksian Medal.)

LEOPOLD DE ROTHSCHILD, ESQ., Gunnersbury Park, Acton, W. (gr. Mr. G. Reynolds), showed eight varieties of Peaches, all of magnificent quality-Sea Eagle, Albatross, Princess of Wales, Gladstone, Warburton Admirable, Barrington, and others. (Silver-Gilt Knightian Medal.)

Mrs. F. A. BRACE, Doveridge Hall, near Derby (gr. Mr. G. Wadeson), showed a collection of hothouse fruits, Grapes, Melons, Nectarines, Cherries, Peaches, Figs, &c. The half-dozen bunches of Madresfield Court Grapes had nicely finished berries. (Silver-Gilt Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. HUGH Low & Co., Bush Hill Park, Enfield, London, N., showed well-fruited trees of Brown Turkey and Brunswick Figs.

AWARDS.

Culinary Pea "Quite Content."-This variety had previously received an Award of Merit, and is described and figured on p. 56. The Committee raised the award to a First Class Certificate. Shown by Mr. EDWIN BECKETT, Aldenham House Gardens.

The

NEWBURY HORTICULTURAL. AUGUST 6-For close on sixty years this Society has held an annual flower show, and the 58th, held on this date, was equal, and in some respects superior, to the previous ones. weather was delightful, and the attendance a record one. The show was held in the grounds of Goldwell Park, kindly lent by F. R. Wilson, Esq. The park, being situated on rising ground and bordered by grand old trees, is an ideal spot for the display. Superior quality obtained in many of the exhibits. the groups were more numerous than on previous occasions, there being six, and all were good.

Plants. The leading position in the group classes was taken by Mr. J. Lye (gr. to J. LIDDELL, Esq., Sydmonton Court), and although he had fewer plants than his competitors, they. were more beautifully arranged. Mr. J. HOWARD was a good second, and the veteran Mr. C. Ross, Welford Park Gardens, was third.

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In the class for greenhouse plants Mr. T. Surman (gr. to M. H. BEST, Esq., Donnington Grove) had the only collection, the class being one of the weakest in the show, but large plants are now not much grown. For foliage plants Mr. J. Howard (gr, to Lady SUTTON, Benham Park) was well to the front, Mr. Ross being awarded 2nd place. For Exotic Ferns, Messrs. HOWARD and F. Lock (gr. to G. F. PLEVINS, Esq., Tile Barn) won in the order named. Coleus were well shown, Messrs. SURMAN and JOHNSON taking the 1st and 2nd prizes respectively. Fuchsias were superb; indeed, they are always a feature at Newbury, for, though somewhat small, they were otherwise perfect specimens. Mr. T. SURMAN had the best plants, Mr. P. Mara (gr. to Sir A. ARBUTHNOT, Newtown House) being 2nd.. Messrs. SURMAN and HOWARD had the best specimen plants in bloom, and Messrs. W. R. Cox and C. Ross the best foliage plants.

Table decorations, though less extensive here than at some shows, formed an attractive feature. Miss F. HARROLD took the 1st prize, her table being furnished with Carnation Raby Castle; 2nd, Miss L. HARROLD, with an arrangement of yellow and white Iceland Poppies. Mrs. T. MERCER had the best bouquet; Mrs. H. W. PARKER and Miss KNIGHT showed the best flower sprays and buttonholes.

Cut flowers in the open classes occupied much table space. Strong competition was seen in the class for a collection of 24 bunches. The 1st prize went to W. ST. J. LENG, Esq., Welford Park (gr. Mr. Randall), whose flowers were beautifully arranged; 2nd, Mr. D. BOSLEY. Displays of Roses were excellent. Messrs. JEFFERIES & SON, Cirencester, were easily 1st; 2nd, Messrs. COOLING & SON, Bath. In the amateurs' class Mr. A. Galt (gr. to C. E. KEYSER, Esq., Aldermaston Court) won the 1st prize; Messrs. Cox and SMITH taking the 2nd and 3rd prizes in the order named. Messrs. Cox, GALT, and SMITH had the best Sweet Peas; and Miss B. FROST the best bridal bouquet. Mr. J. R. TRANTER, Henley, won in the class for Dahlias; while Mr. NEWMAN had the best Carnations. The classes for amateurs, mechanics and artizans were well contested. Indeed, in many cases the hardy fruits and vegetables were equal to those in the open classes.

Fruit occupied much space. There was a lack of collections, but a splendid lot came from Mr. J. HOWARD, Benham Park, he having beautifully-finished Grapes, Peaches, Nectarines, Melons, and Apricots. The same exhibitor had the best Pineapple. Mr. T. SURMAN showed the premier black Grapes; Mr. A. Ross the best Muscat of Alexandria; while Mr. T. SURMAN WON for any other variety of Grapes. Mr. GALT was 1st for Melons, and Mr. Lock led in the class for Peaches; while for Nectarines, Dessert Apples, Culinary Apples, and Pears the winners were Messrs. HOWARD, ROSS, RANDALL, and SURMAN respectively. Cherries, Figs, and Plums were also shown.

Vegetables were staged in the open owing to the very large number of other exhibits staged in the tents. The quality of the vegetables shown was splendid. Potatos were remarkable for their clear skin, shape, and good table quality. In both the classes for collection of vegetables Mr. LYE, of Sydmonton Court, was a good 1st.

BASINGSTOKE HORTICULTURAL.. AUGUST 6.-The 30th annual summer exhibition of this Society was held in Golding's Park, the seat of Mr. W. C. Lefroy, and was in every way a success.

Plants.-Displays of plants were more numerous than usual. In the class for nine specimen plants Mr. J. Wasley (gr. to J. B. TAYLOR, Esq.,. Sherfield Manor, Basingstoke) was 1st, staging, amongst other things, a specimen of Crinum Mooreii, with 24 flower spikes, and a freelyflowered example, 4 feet high, of. Thunbergia; 2nd, Mr. Neal (gr. to JOHN MARES, Esq., Manor House, Basingstoke). Exotic Ferns of good quality were freely contributed. Mr. J. Keen (gr. to H. WELCH-THORNTON, Esq., Beaurepaire Park) won the 1st prize. He showed a remarkably fine plant of Adiantum Farleyense. Mr. KEEN was successful for a specimen foliage Mr. WASLEY had plant with Cycas revoluta. the best flowering plant in Clerodendron Balfourii. The best group of miscellaneous plants arranged for effect was shown by Mr. Best (gL

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to F. LEYLAND, Esq., The Vyne, Basingstoke). Soft-wooded plants were numerous and good. Cut flowers made an interesting feature. Neville (gr. to F. W. FLIGHT, Esq., Cornstiles, Twyford, Winchester) secured the premier awards for 24 and 12 blooms, and for 12 Tea Roses. Carnations were shown well. Mr. Childs (gr to the Hon. Mrs. F. BARING BROWN, Candover won in the class for 36 blooms in 12 varieties. Mr. WASLEY had the best stove and greenhouse flowers in 12 varieties and the best hardy flowers.

Fruit of good quality was seen. Mr. WASLEY took the 1st prize for a collection of six varieties; also for two bunches of Muscat Grapes, and for two bunches of any black Grapes. Peaches, Nectarines, and Plums in all classes were shown well. Mr. BEST won the 2nd prize in several classes, and he secured the 1st place. for any white Grape other than Muscat of Alexandria with Foster's Seedling, in good condition.

Vegetables at Basingstoke are always numerous and good. Mr. BEST won the premier award in Messrs. Sutton's, Toogood's, and Carter's lasses respectively with first-class produce.

BISHOP'S WALTHAM HORTICUL-
TURAL.

JULY 21.-The thirty-second annual exhibition of this society, held on this date, was in every way a success. This association was started as a cottagegarden society, and it has done much to encourage horticulture in the neighbourhood. From the cottage element it has progressed, and it is now quite a flourishing society, holding annually an excellent show. Mr. E. Molyneux has been the hon. secretary for the past 20 years.

In the class for six specimen plants Mr. G. Ellwood (gr. to W. H. MYERS, Esq., Swanmore Park, Bishop's Waltham) was an easy winner; 2nd, Mr. G. Simmons (gr. to E. A. PONTIFEX, Esq., Hill Crest, Bishop's Waltham).

Tuberous-rooting Begonias were well shown by Mr. Barnes (gr. to Mrs. AUSTIN, The Thickets, Bishop's Waltham), who won the first place with high-class blooms; 2nd, Mrs. HUMPAGE, Dell Cottage, Swanmore. The best Table plants were contributed by Mr. ELLWOOD.

For

Cut flowers were numerous and good. twelve varieties distinct Mr. ELLWOOD staged indoor varieties of a choice character, and won easily. Mr. G. Sherwood (gr. to T. H. GILLSON, Esq., Swanmore Cottage) secured the 2nd place.

Sweet Peas were a strong class. For a collection of these flowers Mr. C. H. Holloway (gr. to Lord ABERDARE, Longwood House, Winchester) was 1st, Mr. Cooper (gr. to Miss GLADSTONE, Harrington Hill, Swanmore) being 2nd.

For the prizes offered by Mr. H. Eckford, Wem, for 12 varieties there was a keen competition. Mr. H. WRIGHT ANDERSON, The Firs, The Chase, Bishop's Waltham, was successful, winning with high-class blooms that were well arranged.

Mr. BARNES won in the class for six bunches, the prize being given by Messrs. J. Carter & Co., and Mr. HOLLOWAY secured Mr. Breadmore's prize also for six varieties.

The best six bunches of Roses were shown by Mr. ELLWOOD, but he was closely followed by Mr. H. Childs (gr. to Mrs. MACRAE, Mearstoke House, Bishop's Waltham).

For a similar number of Rambling Roses the prizes were again awarded in the same order. Carnations made an interesting display. Mr. COOPER Won in the class for six bunches, Mr. ELLWOOD taking 2nd place.

The last named exhibitor put up an imposing exhibit in the class for 18 varieties grown out of loors which won for him the premier award. Mr. BARNES occupied a similar position for 12 kinds, Mr. CHILDS following.

Table decorations are always a great feature at this exhibition, and on this occasion no fewer than 12 tables were seen. In the open class Mr. CHILDS was awarded the premier position with an arrangement of Carnations, Gypsophila, Ferns, &c, all lightly disposed; 2nd, Miss L. PAYNE, Frogmore, Bishop's Waltham.

In a class for floral decorations devoted to ladies only there was sharp competition. Miss G. MEDLICOTT, Swanmore Vicarage, won with Shirley Poppies pleasingly blended. The best arranged wase contamed Dorothy Perkins Rose in masses, with Gypsophila nicely intermixed.

Frait, although not numerous, was good in quality. In a class for six dishes of fruits Mr.

ELLWOOD Won, showing Madresfield Court and Muscat of Alexandria Grapes, Peaches, Nectarines, Melons, and Cherries, and the same grower won in the smaller class for four dishes, Grapes being excluded.

In the class for four dishes of outdoor fruits Mr. BARNES took the 1st prize with excellent produce. Especially fine in this exhibit was a dish of Red Astrachan Apples.

The best two bunches of black Grapes were shown by Mr. HOLLOWAY, he having the variety Black Hamburgh. Exhibits of small fruits were numerous and good.

Vegetables were abundant and of high quality. Messrs. Toogood & Sons, Southampton, offered prizes for eight dishes, that brought brisk competition. Mr. BARNES won with a high-class exhibit. Mr. Sherwood (gr. to T. H. GILLSON, Esq., Swanmore) followed closely.

Mr. ELLWOOD won Messrs. Sutton's and Messrs. J. Carter and Co.'s first prizes for six varieties of vegetables.

Mr. SHERWOOD staged the premier collection of Potatos in six varieties.

UNITED HORTICULTURAL BENEFIT AND PROVIDENT SOCIETY.-The monthly committee meeting of this society was held at the Royal Horticultural Hall, Vincent Square, Westminster, on the 13th inst., Mr. THOS. WINTER in the chair. Four new members were elected and one nominated. The death certificate of the late Mr. W. C. MARCHANT, of Haywards Heath, was produced, and the sum standing to his credit in the books of the society was granted to his nominee. was decided to hold the annual dinner in the second week in October; the date and other particulars will be duly announced.

ENQUIRIES AND REPLIES.

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APPLES BURIED FOR KEEPING.-In reply to "Taylor," Somerset, re burying or clamping Apples similar to Potatos, I have found they keep well until February and March. They will not keep long when taken out of the ground, especially if they are not very carefully handled. They taste a little earthy, but this flavour is lost in cooking, and if they are stored in tins or in boxes, I imagine they would not gain this flavour, as I had only straw between mine, which were buried more in the nature of experiment. Northern Greening was the variety I experimented with. G. Fulford, Merstham.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

AMPELOPSIS VEITCHII, &c.: J. C. Cuttings inserted in sand under a hand-light in September in the open border will be ready for planting out the following spring. Ivy cuttings can be propagated in the same manner, or thickly in pots in a close frame, the present being a suitable season for the work. The best plan of raising Grape vines is from Eyes or single buds. They should be plunged in a bottom heat of 709 to 80° at the end of January and be kept close and moist, when they will readily form roots. They can also be raised from cuttings of wood in the rest state, but bottom heat is almost essential to promote the formation of roots.

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APPLES CRACKING: A. S. The cracking is caused by a fungus, Fusicladium dendriticum. See Gardeners' Chronicle, July 14, p. 22.

BIRCH A. B. The leaves are swarming with aphides. Try spraying the tree with quassia water or even soapy water.

BOOK: Miss A. R. A. Johnson's Gardeners' Dictionary will be found useful for your purpose. It can be obtained from our publishing department, price 9s. 6d., post free.

CELERY AND LEEKS: Constant Reader. The system is frequently adopted to keep the stems clean and to further expel the light to prevent the formation of the green chlorophyll. We have not heard it recommended in the case of Leeks. You should earth the plants at intervals, beginning now if they are large enough. If the land has wireworm it should receive a dressing of gas lime in the autumn and be allowed to lie fallow for some weeks after. Sow the plants you mention now, and for further information see the Calendar of Garden Operations, to be obtained from our publishing department, price 74d. post free.

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LILY: F. S. What you send is a distorted form of L. auratum, more curious than beautiful. The perianth-segments are all greenish, and the stamens are replaced by carpels which form a ring around the true carpels in the centre, a very interesting case but one which we fear you will not appreciate.

MELONS Annoyed. Your plants are affected with Melon-spot caused by a fungus Cercospora melonis. Remove all the affected plants at once and burn them. Spray the healthy plants with weak Bordeaux mixture, trying it first in order to ascertain what strength to apply it, for if you use it too strong it will injure the foliage. -W. H. D. We do not think the risk would be great, but as it is much better to be or the safe side we should certainly recommend you not to eat the fruit.

NAMES OF PLANTS: T. O. No. 3 (from last week), Napaa dioica.-A. P. N. Probaby Allium multiflorum. You should have sent foliage.— R. S. Centaurea suaveolens, one of the many varieties.-IV. Y. S. 1, Leycesteria formosa; 2, Verbascum sp.; 3, Aconitum Napellus, poison; 4, Lythrum Salicaria; 5, Aconitum Lycoctonum, poison.-F. C. L. Indigofera decora.-R. S. Alonsoa incisa. It does very well as a summer bedding plant.-A. M. 1, Phragmites communis; 2, Eupatorium cannabinum; 3, Agrimonia Eupatorium; 4, Inula dysenterica; 5, Hypericum perforatum; 6, Epilobium hirsutum. -J. M. 1, Angelica silvestris; 2, Sison Amonium; 3, Dipsacus pilosus; 4, Calamintha clinopodium; 5, Galeopsis Tetrahit.-F. E. A. 1, Spergularia rubra; 2, Pernettya mucronata; 3, Centaurea Jacea; 4, Lycium sinense; 5, Solidago virga aurea; 6, Syringa Josikæa.— Miss L. Hedychium Gardnerianum, one of the Ginger family.-Interested. Rhus Cotinus. The true flowers are not formed, or only very sparsely -while the flower-stalks are very numerous and slender-forming an intricate mass, whence the plant is called the Wig Plant -F. S. Hibiscus syriacus, frequently but erroneously called Althæa frutex.-Batum, Russia. 1, 2, 5, we do not know these plants, and they are not included in the Index Kewensis; 3, New Zealand; 4, Chile. NECTARINES: W. & T. S. The stones are split and decay starts from the centre and extends outwards, which indicates a too liberal supply of water. There is no fungus disease present. PEONY FAILING: G. W. Without seeing a portion of the plant we cannot be certain, but we suspect the Pæony disease, Sclerotinia pæoniæ is the cause of the trouble. See Gard. Chron., August 13, 1898, with figure.

TOMATO: A. G. H. A dessert variety of fair size. We can't tell the name from the berries only.

TO MAKE LAVENDER WATER: Inquirer. To one pint of highly rectified spirit of wine add essential oil of lavender 1 ounce, essence of ambergris 2 drachms; put all into a quart bottle and shake it extremely well. You would not be able to make it from the flowers satisfactorily without a course of instruction and expensive apparatus.

WILLOW: A. B. The galls are produced by a fly. a species of Cecidomyia. You can do nothing but burn as many of the affected leaves as you

can.

COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED.-C. T. D.-A. W., Redruth, photo with thanks-Annoyed-W. B.-H. N. R., Singapore -G. W.-Dr. Franceshi -H. W. W.-A. B.-W. H. D.L. H. de B. C.-A. S.-T. F., photo (with thanks) under consideration-F. M.-R. H. B., Stockholm-A. B. next week-G. W. K.-O. T., with thanks-E. H.-J. H., Rochester, U.S.-T. E. W.-O. S., Munster-F. F. Buxted, many thanks, we shall probably use the illustration later on-W. B.-E. H.-W. H. B.-W. G. S.-L. SuttonF. J. M.-S. W. F.-H. W. W.-W. C. B.-H. J. C W. G. S.-J. O'B.-H. J.-B. Sc.-Quality -A. Y.

For Market and Weather Reports see page vist.

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BALMAE, KIRKCUDBRIGHT. HERE are few gardens which do not yield some pleasure, although it may be that this is mingled with regret at so many unsatisfactory features. Old-world gardens, however, possess a special charm, wherever they retain their ancient features, mingled though these may be with the modern in the shape of improved varieties of old plants or others unknown when the garden was first made. This charm is all the greater when, as in the subject of this notice, the garden is the pleasure of an owner of taste, and with a love for its adornment.

Balmae, Kirkcudbright, the residence of the Countess of Selkirk, is one of these old places which one still meets with here and there, which have as their accessor es quaint old gardens embodying the features of bygone days, and bearing about them marks of their antiquity. It seems to have been designed and laid out with a view to enclose within its walls a variety of features, so that, sheltered from the storms which at times

sweep swiftly and wildly up the Solway, the dwellers in the mansion near by might enjoy the shady and the sunny walks, the little lawns, the miniature lake, which lies in a corner of the garden, and the view of the flowers, the fruit, and the vegetables, which then, as now, occupied its area.

Balmae is also out of the beaten track of garden pilgrims, and these seldom find their way to this sequestered spot, which lies some five miles from Kirkcudbright, and in a beautiful position, close to the sea-coast of that portion of the Solway between the Dee and the Urr.

The mansion itself is of considerable age, and possesses a singular architectural feature in the shape of a massive portico and pillars, which seem to have been designed for a much larger house, and which set one wondering whether they were part of the original plan or were added at a later period. Although not of a size proportionate to the portico, the mansion is of good size and of the good old Scottish type, where no space is wasted by a redundance of architectural features, and eminently suited for an exposed position in a rainy district such as this. The small formal flower garden lies to the back, or garden front, and consists mainly of bedding plants arranged on the lawn. This is surrounded with trees of considerable age and size, and there is consequently some deficiency of sun for the plants, which, however, are looking well despite the difficulties of their position. Some good Asters were among them. The garden front of the house is largely covered with creeping plants.

A short distance from the mansion we come to the garden proper, which is of large extent, and is one which has evidently retained many of the old features which have characterised it for years. It is difficult to describe such a garden, but an attempt must be made. The walls are about eleven feet high, and are mainly covered with fruittrees, from which good crops are generally obtained. This year fruit is much more plentiful than is general in this part of Scotland, and on the walls a plentiful supply of Apples, Pears, Peaches, Nectarines, Plums, and other fruits has been secured. A notable feature of the fruit walls is one facing almost north, and covered with Morello Cherries, from which splendid crops are derived. Hardy fruits are those most cultivated here, and the walls are thus utilised to the best advantage. Some of the other fruit trees are old, but good crops are the rule.

As with fruits, so with flowers. Outdoor flowers are the special favourites of Lady Selkirk, who has also a preference for the taller and bolder hardy flowers. A number of these have been at Balmae for some time, and some of the older plants are hardly ever met with now in gardens. One cannot detail the flowers at iength, but reference may be made to some. There is a fine plant of Eremurus robustus, ten feet high this season, a handsome Romneya Coulteri, a number of good Delphiniums, many Phloxes, Sida Napæa, the old Salvia glutinosa, Phlomises, a great mass of Geranium striatum, covering the side of a bank near the conservatory, and very beautiful indeed; Celmatis recta and C. integrifolia, great clumps of Eryngiums, including the fine E. alpinum; Statice latifolia, an extensive collection of Asters, including

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such as Edna Marcia, Perry's Pink, Perry's Favourite, and a number of other modern varieties, as well as the best of the older. Then there are the species of Asclepias, such Coreopsis as Eldorado and others, Rudbeckias, Inulas, Cimicifugas, Verbascums, a great number of plants of Veratrum viride, giving fine spikes; Monardas, Campanulas, and, in short, a good representation of the best of the border plants; while spring flowers are also in great numbers, including Irises, Narcissi, Snowdrops, &c.

The Shrubs in the garden are both numerous and interesting. The hardy Fuchsias naturally attract attention, as there are enormous plants, such as one of F. gracilis, some eleven feet high in a border and by the wall; and another not so tall, but of huge circumference, and in the open. There are Deutzias, large Berberises, Roses, both old and new, bush and climbing; large old Tree Pæonies, and enormous bushes of Rhododendrons.

Among the trees in the garden, I noted a large Araucaria imbricata, which looks as if it had been among the first of these trees to be grown in this country, and, with a couple of great Yews, is growing by the side of the little lake which occupies a corner of the garden.

A most unusual feature of such a garden is a long walk covered by old Sycamores, planted on either side, and kept pollarded. It goes by the name of the pollard walk, and is a pleasant path in the height of summer, and looks pleasing even in winter. Here we come upon a little grassy glade-like corner with an Arundo and groups of large Rhododendrons, and other shrubs; and anon we wander into another of somewhat similar character, the whole being more attractive because of the undulating character of the ground, which is of a varied contour.

It will not be possible to omit the Sweet Peas, of which there are numbers in lines and in pyramids. These include the best of the newer varieties, and among them a group of a fine-coloured sport from Countess Spencer, which seems to have been fixed by Mr. M'Guffog, the gardener at Balmae. Carnations and early Chrysanthemums are also largely cultivated, with other annuals besides the Sweet Peas.

The glass department is not extensive, but is commensurate with the requirements of the household. The conservatory is well supplied with flowers of the various seasons, and some excellent Begonias, Zonal, and other Pelargoniums, Celosias, and seasonable flowers of various kinds were in bloom. The vineries are well cropped and other indoor fruits and plants well grown.

The vegetables form an important part of the work of Mr. W. M'Guffog, and he has for a long time made a special feature of Onions, which have been looking well this year, as in former ones, when they have taken a high place in competition. Other vegetables are as well done in proportion, and the whole garden presents a number of interesting features. One not seldom seen really lies outside the garden proper, as it is on the outside of the wall occupied by the Cherries. It is ornamented with thousands of plants of the charming Erinus alpinus, which grow admirably in the joints and crevices of the wall. S. Arnott.

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FIG. 56.-ROSE DR. WM. GORDON: A NEW H.P. WITH SATINY PINK COLOURED FLOWERS (HORT. W. PAUL AND SON).

unknown even in Bulgaria, the home of the Attar of Rose industry.

I was fortunate, on the occasion of a recent visit to Waltham Cross, to find Mr. Arthur W. Paul at home, and having introduced myself, and stated the object of my visit, he courteously conducted me through the home nursery, and furnished enough particulars about the various "new creations" and varieties of

The soil of the home nursery is an ideal one, it being a cool, tenacious loam; as Mr. Paul tells his readers in a preface to his catalogue of hardy ornamental trees and shrubs: "The stock is consequently never forced into excessive growth, nor injuriously affected by the most varying seasons. The earth adheres to the roots during removal, thereby almost ensuring success after careful transplantation."

and the Roses. Few nurseries possess a grassy avenue, 20 feet in width, bordered with Conifers and other ornamental trees and shrubs running through from one end to another a quarter of a mile in length. Yet this is the case here, and exceedingly thrifty every plant looked, nothing overgrown as to size, but just as the landscape gardener likes to have his plants.

Roses still flowering in some abundance, with

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FIG. 57.-ROSE DAVID R. WILLIAMSON: A CRIMSON AND RICHLY FRAGRANT II.P. VARIETY (HORT. W. PAUL AND SON).

mark on many of the new climbing varietiesRamblers, as it is now the fashion to name them. The first of Hybrids from Rosa Wichuraiana noted was the very floriferous Dorothy Perkins, Madame Gabrielle Luizette being in this case the other parent. The Farquhar, the result of a cross between R. Wichuraiana and Crimson Rambler. A 10 feet high pyramidal plant of Jersey Beauty, an American cross be

high. Of other climbers may be mentioned climbing Cecile Brunner, an Australian variety of a light pink tint, pretty, more especially when in the bud stage, and flowering with the utmost freedom. Madame Hector Leuilliot (new), a climbing Tea, and very distinct; Madame Moreau, a strong grower, with flowers resembling those of Sunrise-a coppery tint of apricot; Gruss an Teplitz, a brilliant scarlet Hybrid

o'd. The varieties Gustave Piganneau, La France, and General Baron Berge, its flowers not unlike those of Géant de Batailles, and a good grower, with a much-branched habit of growth; Jubilee, a grand crimson-coloured Rose, like Prince Camille de Rohan, but flowering with greater freedom. It comes from America. Madame Frau Karl Druschki, the Schnee Königin of German Rosarians, has been,

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