tion, a fine robust kind, and C. giganteum album, an equally good flower; showing also C. Mont Blanc and C. H. B. Smith in good form, two kinds certificated in former years. A Silver Banksian Medal was awarded for the collection. A Bronze Banksian Medal was awarded to Mr. J. Wiggins, gr. to W. Clay, Esq., Kingston-on-Thames, for a collection of Cyclamen (160 plants), in which the flowers of a pure white took the lead, the best of the named kinds being C. giganteum, Ingomar, a pale flesh, with purple eye; C. of Day, rose, persicum, Dawn with a similar eye; and C. p. Ariel, a white, with rose eye. Mr. M. Crowe, of The Nursery, Upton, Essex, showed Begonia semperflorens gigantea rosea, a useful winter variety. Mr. J. Potts, gr. to R. Phillips, Esq,, Welcombe, Stratford-on-Avon, showed seedlings of double Primulas; and Mr. King, Rousham, Aylesbury, some handsome Chinese Primulas, the best being The King, a symmetrically formed crimson of good substance. FIRST-CLASS CERTIFICATES. To W. Lee, Esq., for Odontoglossum Hrubyanum and Saccolabium belinum. To Mr. W. Bull, for Vriesia janeirense. To Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, for Nepenthes cincta and Rhododendron militare. To Sir Trevor Lawrence, for Acineta chrysantha, Dendrobium heterocarpum album, Cattleya Massangeana, and Lælia anceps Hilli. To Mr. B. S. Williams, for Odontoglossum hystrix magnifica. To Mr. J. King, for Primula The King. To Mr. H. B. Smith, for Cyclamen giga teum album. To Messrs. Cannell & Sons, for Primula White Perfection. VOTES OF THANKS. To Mr. N. Wyatt, for Odontoglossum ramosis. simum. To Mr. Heims, for Odontoglossum blandum. To Messrs. Todman & Son, for seedling Azalea indica. To Sir Trevor Lawrence, for Anthurium Ferrierense. To Baron Schröder, for Odontoglossum Chestertoni. To Messrs. Veitch & Sons, for Linum trigynum. To Mr. G. W. Cummins, for Odontoglossum membranaceum. To Mr. James, for Cineraria blooms. Fruit Committee, Present: F. D. Godman, Esq., in the chair; and Messrs. J. Lee. A. Sutton, H. J. Veitch, J. Woodbridge, G. T. Miles, W. Paul, A. Howcroft, C. Ross, G. Goldsmith, J. Willard, Harrison Weir, F. Rivers, F. Rutland, G. Paul, W. Denning, G. Bunyard, and R. D. Blackmore. Early Cabbages were shown by Mr. Gilbert, gr., Burghley, Stamford, the sorts being his Selected Imperial and Ellam's Dwarf. Mr. Inglis, gr. to Earl Grey, Howick, Northumberland, showed four varieties of early kinds, all of them being superior to the Burghley varieties. the best being the Reading All Heart, and the next Cooke's Early, these two having really firm hearts-the Early Rainham and Heartwell Marrow standing in that order as regards merit. Mr. Bibby, nurseryman, Colchester, showed some solid sticks of white Celery named Bibby's Defiance. In fruit, Messrs. G. Bunyard & Co., and Messrs. H. Lane & Sons, came out strongly, each putting up fifty dishes of Apples, consisting of the leading kinds; many early kinds appearing, that ordinarily are long since over-ripe. Messrs. Bunyard showed a new Pear, Duchess de Bordeaux, a sort resembling the Eyewood somewhat in form and markings. Messrs. Rivers & Son, Sawbridgeworth, exhibited a collection of fifteen varieties of the Orange, of home growth, two of Lemons, a Lime, and a Shaddock. These fruits were handsome to look on, and not wanting in juiciness, but they had no flavour. Only one, named O. Sustane, was considered to be worthy of notice. Mr. J. Day, gr,, Galloway House, Garliestown, N.B., showed the Galloway Pippin, which will keep in usuable condition from November to May. FIRST-CLASS CERTIFICATES. To Messrs. Rivers & Son, for Orange Sustane. To Messrs. G. Bunyard & Co., for Pear Duchess de Bordeaux. VOTE OF THANKS. To Mr. D. Inglis, for an assortment of Cabbages. AUSTRALIAN TIMBER. Of the 10,000 forest trees which probably represent the timber-producing capabilities of the globe 7000 or 8000 would flourish in New South Wales. Already there is an export trade in cut and sawn timber of considerable value. The export in 1881 was valued at £23,816, in 1882 at £42,040, and in 1883 at £67,150. It was well observed by the jurors on wood at the Victoria Exhibition of 1872 that the disfavour which attaches to Australian timber is in a large measure owing to the fact that the timber is so frequently felled at improper seasons, whilst the sap-vessels are full; and it is a matter for regret that this is never considered by the Government in calling for tenders, the completion of the work being often stipulated for at a time which leaves the contractor no alternative but to fell his timber after the sap has risen. Another cause of the disfavour is owing to the fact that due care is not exercised in sending the best sorts, besides which there is a general want of care in withdrawing faulty pieces from shipment. P. L. Simmonds, in "Journal of the Society of Arts." LONDON: Atmospheric Pressure. During the week ending February 7, the reading of the barometer at the level of the sea increased from 29.07 inches at the beginning of the week to 29.31 inches by 5 P.M. on the 1st, decreased to 29.05 inches by I P.M. on the 2d, increased to 29.41 inches by 9 A.M., decreased to 29.31 inches by 5 P.M. on the 4th, increased to 29.37 inches by 9 A.M. on the 5th, decreased to 29.34 inches by I P. M. on the same day, increased to 29.82 inches by 9 A.M. on the 6th, decreased to 29.64 inches by 9 A. M. on the 7th, and was 29.74 inches by the end of the week. The mean reading of the barometer for the week was 29.43 inches, being 0.25 inch lower than last week, and 0.51 inch below the average of the week. Temperature. The highest temperature in the shade in the week was 53°, on the 2d; the highest on the Ist was 46°.3. The mean of the seven high day temperatures was 49°.3. The lowest temperature was 31°, on 5th; on the 7th the lowest temperature was 40°. The mean of the seven low night temperatures was 36°.5. The greatest range of temperature in, one day was 17o, on the 2d and 5th; the smallest was 6°.8, on the Ist. The mean of the seven daily ranges was 12°.8. The mean temperatures were-on the 1st, 42°.7; on the 2d, 45°.9; on the 3d, 44°; on the 4th, 40°.9 ; on the 5th, 39°.5; on the 6th, 42°.3; on the 7th, 45°.9; and these were all above their averages by 4°.1, 7°.2, 5°.2, 2°, 0°.5, 3°.2, and 6°.8 respectively. The mean temperature of the week was 43°, being 1°.1 higher than last week, and 4°.1 above the average of the week. The highest reading of a thermometer with blackened bulb in vacuo placed in the full rays of the sun was 93°.5, on the 7th. The mean of the seven readings was 83°.7. The lowest reading of a minimum thermometer with its bulb placed on grass was 23°.5, on the 5th. The mean of the seven readings was 29°.2. Rain.-Rain fell on every day in the week, to the amount of 0.59 inch, of which 0.28 inch fell on the 4th. ENGLAND: Temperature.-During the week ending February 7, the highest temperatures were 56°.1, at Cambridge, 53°.6 at Nottingham and Bradford; the highest at Sunderland was 49°, at Bolton 49°.1, at Wolverhampton and Newcastle 50°. The general mean was 51°.8. The lowest temperatures were 28°.8, at Bolton, 29°.1 at Wolverhampton, 30° at Cambridge and Sunderland; the lowest at Plymouth, 33°.5, at Brighton and Liverpool 33°.4. The general mean was 31°.4. The greatest ranges were 26°.1, at Cambridge, 22°.6 at Bradford, 22° at Blackheath and Hull; the smallest ranges were 16°.8, at Brighton, 17°.4 at Liverpool, 18° at Newcastle. The general mean was 20°.4. The mean of the seven high day temperatures was highest at Truro, 50°.9, at Plymouth 49°.9, at Cambridge 49°.6; and was lowest at Bolton, 44°. 3, at Newcastle 45°, at Sunderland 45°.1. The general mean was 47°.4. The mean of the seven low night temperatures was highest at Plymouth, 41°, at Truro 39°.3, at Bristol 39°.1; and was lowest at Wolverhampton, 33°.1, at Bolton and Hull 34°.1. The general mean was 36°.5. The mean daily range was greatest at Cambridge, 15.1, at Blackheath and Wolverhampton 12°.8; and was least at Plymouth, 8°.9, at Bristol 9°.2, at Liverpool 9o°.5. The general mean was 10°.9. The mean temperature was highest at Plymouth, 45.2, at Truro 44°.7, at Bristol 43°.4; and was lowest at Bolton, 38°.9, at Wolverhampton 39°.2, at Sunderland 39°.6. The general mean was 41°.6. Rain. The largest falls were 2.11 inches at Truro, 1.51 inch at Bolton, 1.26 inch at Plymouth; the smallest falls were 0.12 inch at Sunderland, 0.14 inch at Newcastle, 0.46 inch at Cambridge. The general mean fall was 0.85 inch. SCOTLAND: Temperature.-During the week ending February 7, the highest temperature was 50°, at Glasgow; at Dundee the highest was 44°.2. The general mean was 47°.4. The lowest temperature in the week was 30°.2, at Perth; at Edinburgh, Greenock, and Paisley, 34°. The general mean was 32°.7. The mean temperature was highest at Leith, 40°.7 ; and lowest at Dundee, 38°. The general mean was 39°.7. Rain. The largest fall was 2.05 inches, at Greenock, and 0.31 inch, at Aberdeen. The general mean was 0.86 inch. JAMES GLAISHER, F.R.S. Answers to Correspondents. Notice,-Owing to want of space this week, many communications are unavoidably held over. ADDRESS: Chev. d. M., Botanic Garden, Hamburgh. ADDRESS OF INTRODUCER OF JAPAN PLUM: A Constant Reader. The address you inquire for is Messrs. Hammon & Co., Oakland, Michigan, U.S.A. Apply. also to Mr. W. Bull, King's Road, Chelsea. FARADAYA PAPUANA: W. M. It is a tropical Australian climbing shrub, the treatment of which might accord with that given to the warm-house Ipomæas. GROS COLMAR: Barr & Son. A bunch of from 4 lb. to 5 lb., well finished, is considered a very "fine" bunch. HYACINTH SPIKE ROTTING: W. & S. The malady is common, but the reason is unknown, and there is no remedy that we know of. INSECT IN LEAVES OF MARGUERITES: G. R. Gude. The Celery leaf miner (Tephritis onopordinis). Carefully pick off all affected leaves and burn them; do not throw them away, as the maggots go into the soil and change into the pupa state, and so are reproduced. MOSSY TENNIS-COURT: R. G. D. The best remedy for you to adopt will be to thoroughly drain the court, and give it a good top-dressing of sifted wood-ashes and good soil. This generally succeeds in eradicating the moss. MUSHROOMS FOR THE MARKET: Fungus. Mushrooms for the Million, by J. Wright, published at 171, Fleet Street, E.C. (Journal of Horticulture Office). NAMES OF PLANTS: J. Forsyth Johnson. Schinus Molle.-F. N. B. Coelogyne flaccida. -F. D. Peristrophe speciosa, Nees.-W. M. Excoecaria bicolor ; a tropical plant.-A. Goulding. Garrya eliptica. ODONTOGLOSSUM CRISPUM: 7. Earl. A pale variety of no great merit. ROSE OF JERICHO 7. C. The plant you allude to is Anastacica hierochuntina. We believe the phenomenon is purely physical, though it has not yet been explained why this plant, Selaginella involvens, and a few others, should have greater absorbent properties than others. Doubtless there is some structural or molecular reason, but it has not been proved. Of course, the appearance is quite independent of vitality. STATUS OF UNDER GARDENERS, APPRENTICES, AND GARDEN LABOURERS: W. R. G. Garden labourers are not under-gardeners. Apprentices, improvers, and under-gardeners all come under the Act, and have to be paid for. All communications intended for publication should be addressed to the "Editor," and not to the Publisher, or to any member of the staff personally. The Editor CATALOGUES RECEIVED. SAMUEL SHEPPERSON, Belper-Florists' Flowers, &c. JOHN A. BRUCE & Co., Hamilton, Canada-Seed Catalogue. WM. RENNIE, Toronto, Ontario, Canada-Seed Cata- W. THOMPSON, Ipswich-Descriptive List of Flower T. WARE, Hale Farm, Tottenham-Select Hardy Perennials and Hardy Florists' Flowers, Greenhouse Seeds, Grasses, &c. R. & J. FARQUHAR & CO., Boston, Mass., U.S.A.Seed Catalogue. JAMES MORGAN, Paisley-General Catalogue. G. & W. YATES, Manchester-Vegetable and Flower Seeds. W. P. LAIRD & SINCLAIR, Dundee-Vegetable and Flower Seeds. VOOTE & RICHARD, Zeist, Holland - Vegetable and Flower Seeds. - COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED: -F. D.-C. P.-G. McK Ed. Pynaert.-H. H. R.-M. Godefroy.-C. V. Riley, Washington.-J. R. J.-H. A.-W. R.—Á. F. B.—A, R. W. W.-R. T. C.-M. D.-B. S. W.-H. B. R.-W. H. B' —G. H....—T. C.-W. Gosling (next week).-R. G.-C. W.S. -W. H.-Skinner & Board.-N. F. Fuller.-W. E.-W. Culverwell.-W. I. M.-J. F.-T. O'B.-J. R. J. DIED, on the 5th inst., at Denham Road Nursery, Uxbridge, the residence of his son-in-law, ANDREW DICK, aged seventy-six, after many years of patient suffering. Deeply regretted by his family and friends. Markets. COVENT GARDEN, February 12. THE subjoined reports are furnished to us regularly every Thursday, by the kindness of several of the principal salesmen, who revise the list weekly, and are responsible for the quotations. It must be remembered that these quotations are averages for the week preceding the date of our report. The prices fluctuate, not only from day to day, but often several times in one day, and therefore the prices quoted as averages for the past week must not be taken as indicating the price at any particular date, still less can they be taken as guides to the price in the coming week. ED.] MARKET very quiet; supplies falling off. Prices remain the same. James Webber, Wholesale Apple Market. FRUIT.-AVERage Wholesale Prices. s. d. s. d. Apples, -sieve I 6-4 0 Nova Scotia and Canadian, barrel 12 0-21 0 Cobs, per 100 lb. 500-550 Grapes, per lb. Artichokes, Globe, per doz. Asparagus, English, per bundle 30-60 I 0 .. VEGETABLES.-Average RETAIL PRICES. s. d. s. d. 40-60 3 6-10 o French, bundle 15 0-20 0 Beans, Eng., per 10 3 0-.. Beet, per doz. Cabbages, per doz... 1 6- 2 0 Carrots, per bun. 06Cauliflowers, English, dozen.. 20-40 Celeriac, per root.. 0 4-.. Celery, per bundle.. 1 6- 2 6 Cucumbers, each 10-26 Endive, Eng., dozen 1 o- .. Garlic, per lb. .. 0 6- .. Herbs, per bunch ..02-04 Horse Radish, bun. 3 0 40 s. d. s. d. Lettuces, Cab., doz. 1 6Mint, green, bunch.. 1 6Mushrooms, p. baskt. 1 o- 2 0 Onions, per bushel.. 4 0 s. d. s. d. s. d. s. d. Aralia Sieboldi, doz. 6 0-24 0 Ficus elastica, each 1 6-70 Arbor-vitæ (golden), Foliage Plants, variper dozen 6 0-18 0 ous, each (common), dozen 6 0-12 o Genista, 12 pots Arum Lilies, dozen 9 c-15 0 Heaths, in variety, Azaleas, per dozen..18 0-42 0 12 pots ..12 0-30 O Begonias, per doz... 6 0-12 o Hyacinths, per doz. 6 o- 90 Bouvardia, dozen 9 0-18 0 Lily-of-the-Valley, 12 Cinerarias, per doz.. 9 0-12 0 pots ..15 0-24 0 Cyclamens, per doz. 9 0-24 0 Marguerite Daisy, Cyperus, per dozen 4 0-12 0 per dozen 8 0-15 0 Dracæna terminalis. Myrtles, per doz. 6 0-12 0 per dozen ..30 0-60 o Narcissus, 12 pots ..12 0-18 0 viridis, per doz..12 0-24 0 Palms in variety, Epiphyllum, doz...18 0-24 o each Erica, various, doz. 9 0-18 o Pelargoniums, scarEuonymus, various, let, per dozen per dozen.. Primula sinensis, per Evergreens, in var., dozen per dozen .6 0-24 o Solanums, dozen Ferns, in variety, per Tulips, dozen pots.. 8 0-10 o dozen .4 0-18 0 CUT FLOWERs.—Average Wholesale PRICES. s. d. s. d. Abutilon, 12 bunches 2 0 4 0 Arum Lilies, 12 blms. 3 0- 6 o Azalea, 12 sprays 09-10 Bouvardias, per bun. I o- 16 Camellias, per doz 2 0 4 0 Carnations, 12 blms. 1 o- 30 Cinerarias, per bun. I o I 6 Cyclamen, 12 blooms o 3-0 9 Epiphyllum, 12 blms. 0 4-0 6 Eucharis, per doz. 4 0-6 0 Euphorbia jacquiniflora, 12 sprays 30-60 Gardenias, 12 blms..18 0-30 o Heliotropes, 12 sp... o 6-1 o Hyacinths, Roman, 12 sprays.. Lapageria, white, 12 blooms sinensis, 12 bun. 4 - 6 o Roses (indoor), doz. z o- 6 o -French, per doz. 1 0- 3 0 Tropaeolum, 12 bun. 2 0 4 0 Tuberoses, per doz.. 2 0-4 o Tulips, 12 blooms Violets, za bun. 10- 16 I 0-16 - French, bunch.. 13-16 Parme, French, per bunch.. 30-50 Wallflower, 12 bun.. 4 - 6 o White Jasmine, bun. o 6-1 O SEEDS. LONDON: Feb. 11.-Messrs. John Shaw & Sons, of 37. Mark Lane, E.C., report that no new feature of interest or importance in connection with the trade for farm seeds was exhibited on the market to-day. Speaking generally, values remain without alteration; the demand for all varieties, for the time of year, continues small. There is a ready sale for spring Tares at the late advance; good parcels of winter Vetches also quickly find buyers. Blue boiling Peas and Haricot Beans are, for the present, neglected. Canary and Hemp seed sell slowly on former terms; there is, however, rather a better feeling for the former. Feeding Linseed keeps firm. CORN. At Mark Lane on Monday English Wheat sold slowly at the rates of Monday week; foreign also remained without quotable change, but there was hardly sufficient doing to test quotations. The prices of flour had a drooping tendency. Barley, Beans, and Peas met only a retail demand, and remained at late rates. American mixed Maize was 6d. lower on the week at 22s. 6d., the little improvement noticed on Friday last being lost. Russian Oats were rather firmer than on last market, and ruled up to Monday last.-On Wednesday transac tions in Wheat were upon an extremely limited scale, but sales were not pressed at any tangible decline. Flour was a weak market. No change occurred in the value of Barley, Beans, or Peas. American mixed Maize was easier. Oats were held for steady value, but were very dull of sale.-Average prices of corn for the week ending February 7:-Wheat, 33s. 9d.; Barley. 325. 5d.; Oats, 20s. 11d. For the corresponding period last year :-Wheat, 375. 3d.; Barley, 32s. 4d.; Oats, 19s. 6d. CATTLE. At Copenhagen Fields on Monday finer weather, lighter supplies, and rather better markets for dead meat gave help to the trade, and 2d. per 8 lb. advance was obtained on all but undesirable qualities of cattle and sheep. Quotations:-Beasts, 45. to 55., and 5s. 2d. to 6s. 4d.; calves, 3s. 8d. to 5s. 8d.; sheep, 45. 2d. to 5s., and 5s. 4d. to 5s. 8d.; pigs, 4s. to 4s. 6d.—On Thursday there was a very quiet business doing. Supplies were quite equal to the demand. Beasts changed hands quietly at late rates, and a clearance was not effected. Sheep were dull and drooping. Calves and pigs were in demand at late prices. HAY. Tuesday's Whitechapel Market report states that trade was very quiet, at the following quotations:-Clover, prime, 855. to 102s. 6d. ; prime second cut, 85s. to 102s. 6d. ; inferior, 46s. to 735. ; hay, prime, 76s. to 90s.; inferior, 30s. to 65s.; and straw, 225. to 38s. per load.— On Thursday there was a fair supply offered, and the trade was steady at previous prices.-Cumberland Market quotations:-Clover, best, 90s. to 1055.; interior, 60s, to 845.; meadow hay, best, 80s. to 88s.; inferior, 60s. to 75s. ; and straw, 29s. to 345. per load. POTATOS. The Borough Market report states that the demand was only very moderate, and supplies fully adequate. Quotations:-Scotch Regents, 90s. to roos.; Kent, 70s. to 80s.; Champions, 50s. to 60s.; Magnum Bonums, 60s. to 80s.; Victorias, 70s. to 90s. per ton.-The imports into London last week consisted of 80 bags from Boulogne, and 18 from Hamburgh. COALS. The following are the prices current at market during the week-Broomhill West Hartley, 145. 9d.; East Wylam, 155. 6d. ; Ravensworth West Hartley, 145. 9d.; Walls End-Harton, 15s.; Tyne (unscreened), 11s. 3d. ; Hetton, 175.; Hetton Lyons, 15s.; Lambton, 16s. 6d. ; Wear, 155.; Hulam, 15s. 3d. ; East Hartlepool, 16s. 3d. ; South Hartlepool, 15s. 3d. Government Stock.-On Monday and Tuesday Consols closed at 991 to 99 for delivery, and 991 to 991 for the account. Wednesday's prices were as on the preceding days for delivery, and 99% to 991 for the account. Thursday's final quotations were 991 to 99 for delivery, and 99 to 99% for the account, GARDEN REQUISITES. COCOA-NUT FIBRE REFUSE, 4d. per bushel; 100 for 25s.; truck (loose, about 2 tons), 40s.; 4-bushel bags, 4d each. LIGHT BROWN FIBROUS PEAT, 5s. 6d. per sack; 5 sacks, 255.; sacks, 4d each. BLACK FIBROUS PEAT, 5s. per sack, 5 sacks 225.; sacks, 4d. each. COARSE SILVER SAND, 1s. 9d. per bushel; 15s. per half SPHAGNUM MOSS, 8s. 6d. per sack. MANURES, GARDEN STICKS, VIRGIN CORK, TOBACCO CLOTH, RUSSIA MATS, &c. Write for Fice Price LIST.-H. G. SMYTH, 21, Goldsmith's Street, Drury Lane (lately called 17A, Coal Yard), W.C. STANDEN'S MANURE. ESTABLISHED 20 YEARS. This old-established Manure is acknowledged by most of the leading practical Gardeners in the United Kingdom and the Colonies to exceed all others in general fertilising properties and staying powers. It promotes a rapid, healthy, and robust growth to plants generally. For Vines it cannot be too highly recommended, and this fact is fully sustained from the result obtained by its use in the hands of some of the most successful Grape growers. It is a clean and dry powder, with very little smell, which renders it particularly adaptable for ladies interested in plant culture. The highly fertilising properties of this Manure render its money value, in comparison with other manures, at least double, and users will find that very small quantities will produce favourable results. COCOA-NUT FIBRE REFUSE. Reduced price The same as supplied to the Royal Horticultural Society of England. Truck-load, loose, of 2 tons, 2cs; 4 tons, 355. Larger quantity contracted for. In sacks :-Ten, 8s.; twenty, 155.; forty, 255., bags included. All free on to the following Railways:-Great Western, Great Northern, London and North-Western, Great Eestern, Midland: other lines, 55. extra per truck. Cash with all orders. Established 1872. J. STEVENS AND CO., Cocoa-nut Fibre Merchants," Grey. hound Yard," and 153, High Street, Battersea, S.W. SILVER SAND, coarse, 1s. 3d. per bush., 125. half-ton, 22s.ton RAFFIA FIBRE, best only.. 8d. per TOBACCO CLOTH, finest imported 8d. lb., 28 lb. 18s. TOBACCO PAPER (Spécialité) 8d. lb., 28 lb. 18s. MUSHROOM SPAWN, finest Milltrack.. 55. per bushel. SPHAGNUM MOSS, all selected 25. per bush., 6s. per sack. COCOA-NUT FIBRE REFUSE (by Chubb's special process), sacks, 1s. each; 10 sacks, 9s. ; 15 sacks, 135.; 20 sacks, 175.; 30 sacks, 255.; 40 sacks, 30s. Truck-load, loose, free on rail, 30s. Limited quantities of G., special quality, granulated, in sacks only, 25. each. Terms, strictly Cash with order. CHUBB, ROUND & CO., WEST FERRY ROAD, MILWALL, LONDON, E. NICOTINE SOAP. An effectual and speedy Eradicator of Scale, Thrip, Green. flv, Mealy-buy, Red-spider, American Blight, and all Parasites affecting Plants, without injury to Foliage. The basis of this valuable preparation is NICOTINE, or the Oil of Tobacco, with which is blended other essential ingredients to render it available as a general INSECTICIDE that may be used as a Wash or Dip for out or indoor plants. A large number of Testimonials have been received from the most practical men in the country. Horticultural Sundriesmen and Manufacturers, 18, FINSBURY STREET, E.C., and SHAD THAMES, LONDON, S.E. LEMON OIL INSECTICIDE (Registered). -Soluble in water. The cheapest safest, and most effectual Insecticide extant. Harmless to flower and foliage, Instant death to Mealy Bug, Scale, Thrips, Red Spider, Green and Black Fly, American Blight, Mildew, Ants, &c. As a winter dressing unequalled. See circulars, with testimonials, from many of the leading gardeners on its behalf. Sold by most of the leading Nurserymen, Seedsmen, and Garden Manure Manufacturers, in tins-per pint, 1s. 6d. ; quart, as. 9d.; half gallon, 5s.: gallon, os. Directions for use with each tin. Wholesale, J. W. COOKE, Market Place. Winsford; and A. LAING, Rawcliffe, Selby, Yorks; also Messrs. OSMAN AND CO., 15, Windsor Street, Bishopsgate, London; and W. FRASER, 12, High Street, Perth. BEESON'S MANURE Is the best for all Horticultural Purposes. W.H.Beeson, Carbrook Bone Mills, Sheffield. Testimonials from the Rev. Canon Hole, and most of the leading Gardeners, free on application. Pure Crushed Unboiled BONES, any size, for Vine Borders, &c. WHOLESALE AGENTS IN LONDON, EPPS'S SELECTED PEAT.-Forty sacks, 25. 6d. per sack; 30 ditto, 25. 9d.; 20 ditto, 35. 6d. ; VINE and PLANT MANURE. The LIVERPOOL HORTICULTURAL COMPANY (JOHN COWAN), Limited, will in future sell their celebrated MANURE under the name of " COWAN'S VINE and PLANT MANURE," in place of "THOMSON'S VINE and PLANT MANURE." The composition will be the same, and the high quality in every way be maintained. Bags containing I cwt., 185.; cwt., 9s. 6d. ; cwt., 5s.; cwt., 35. Circulars, with full particulars, on application to THE LIVERPOOL HORTICULTURAL CO. The "LONDON " TOBACCO JUICE (Free of Duty).-Manufactured from strong American Leaf Tobacco and highly concentrated. Sold in bottles, 15., pints; 15. 9d., quarts; 2s. 6d., half-galls.; and 4s., galls. Or in casks of 10 galls. and upwards at 2s. 6d. per gall. And their highly esteemed TOBACCO-PAPER, CLOTH, and CORD for Fumigating Greenhouses. SOLE MANUFACTURERS, 10 ditto, 45. 6d. ; sacks, 6d. each. In trucks of 14 cubic yards; CORRY, SOPER, FOWLER & CO. 115. per yard. For Rhododendrons and common purposes, 145. per ton, not less than four tons; sample sack, 2s. 6d. LOAM, SAND, LEAF-MOULD, SPHAGNUM, &c. See Special List, also for the Trade. Ringwood, Hants. GENUINE GARDEN REQUISITES, as supplied to the Royal Gardens.-Fresh Cocoa-Nut Fibre Refuse, 4 bushel bags, Is. each; 30 for 25s.-bags included. Two Ton Truck, free on Rail, 255. Best Brown Fibrous Kent Peat, 55. per sack; 5 for 22s. 6d.; 10 for 355.; 20 for 60s. Best Black Fibrous Peat, 45. 6d. per sack; 5 for 20s.; 10 for 30s. Coarse Bedford Sand, 1s. 6d. per bushel; 145. per 2-ton; 255. per ton. SPECIALITE TOBACCO PAPER, 10d. per lb.; 28 lb., 215.; cwt., 70s. Second quality, 7d, per lb.; 28 lb. 16s. Finest Tobacco Cloth, 8d. per lb.; 28 lb. for 18s. Leaf-Mould, 55. per sack. Peat-Mould, 4s. per sack. Yellow Fibrous Loam, 35. per sack. Charcoal, 2s. 6d. per bushel. Bones, Guano, Sphagnum, &c. LIST free. Special prices to the Trade for W. HERBERT AND CO., cash. HOP EXCHANGE WAREHOUSES, SOUTHWARK STREET, S.E. (near London Bridge). FIBE 12-oz. Sample Packets, free by post, 12 stamps. IBROUS PEAT for ORCHIDS, &C.BROWN FIBROUS PEAT, best quality for Orchids Stove Plants, &c., £66s. per Truck. BLACK FIBROUS PEAT, for Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Heaths, American Plant Beds, 155. per ton per Truck. Sample Bag, 5s.; 5 Bags, 22s. 6d. ; 10 Bags, 455. Bags included. Fresh SPHAGNUM, 10s. 6d. per Bag. SILVER SAND, Coarse or Fine, 525. per Truck of 4 tons. WALKER AND CO., Farnborough Station, Hants. FIR TREE OIL INSECTICIDE (Soluble in Water) Effectually clears all Insects and Parasites from the Roots or Foliage of Trees and Plants. Kills all Vegetable Grubs, Turnip Fly, &c. Cures Mildew and Blight. Clears Grapes from Mealy Bug, &c., and makes a good Winter Dressing. Of all Seedsmen and Chemists, 1/6, 2/6, 4/6 a bottle. Per gallon 12/6, or less in larger quantities. A Treatise on "Fir Tree Oil," and its application, sent free on receipt of address, by the Manufacturer, E. GRIFFITHS HUGHES, MANCHESTER. Wholesale from HOOPER & Co.; CORRY, SOPER, FOWLER and Co., C. E. OSMAN & Co., and from all the London Seed Merchants and Wholesale Patent Medicine Houses. VINE BORDERS, FRUIT TREES, STRAWBERRIES, ROSES, FLOWER BEDS, POTTING PURPOSES, AND GENERAL HORTICULTURAL PURPOSES. HIRST, BROOKE, AND HIRST, Manufacturers, Leeds, TOBA J. DENYN, Manufacturer, 73, Rendlesham Road, Clapton, E. GEORGE'S GENUINE ROLL TOBACCO PAPER, also TOBACCO CLOTH, acknowledged to be the best in the market, and supplied to most of the leading Nurserymen and Seedsmen in England. Trade Price very low. Samples sent on application. J. GEORGE, 10, Victoria Road, Putney, S.W. FERN BASKETS, Conservatory and Garden Wirework. SUSPENDING BASKETS, FLOWER STANDS, WIRE TBELLIS, VINE TRELLIS, PEACH TRELLIS, WALL WIRING, COVERED WAYS, GARDEN ARCHES, WIRE SUMMER HOUSES, ROSE SCREENS, BALLOON TRAINERS WIRE NETTING, See Catalogue. R. HOLLIDAY, HORTICULTURAL IRON AND WIRE WORKS, The "Pheasantry," Beaufort Street, CHELSEA, S.W. BUY ONLY ENGLISH THREE-QUARTER PLATE WATCHES. BENSON'S NEW PATENT (No. 4658) £5.5s. "LUDGATE" WATCH, £12 12s. Is a Special Strength" Silver English Lever, my best London make, with Three-quarter Plate Movement. Jewelled throughout. Chronometer balance. with damp and dust-proof Massive sterling silver dome cases With crystal glass front. Winds, set hands and opens at back. The superioity in value, accuracy, and durability of the "Ludgate" Watch over the Swiss and American Keyless and Non-Keyless Watches, made in imitation of and sold as English work, and the ordinary Full-plate English Watch is enormous. The "Ludgate" Watch is compact, strong, handsome, and durable. Being Three-Quarter Plate, it is superior in value and appearance to any 10 Watch sold, and, being compensated, it keeps perfect time; fitted with crystal front, it combines the strength of the Hunter, and convenience of the open face. Of my best London make, it will last a lifetime, stand rough usage of all and every kind without damage, and, being made in three sizes, it is for the above reasons suited for Home, Indian, and Colonial use by Gardeners, Workmen, and Gentlemen. SPECIALLY NOTE that J. W. BENSON is the only Maker Watchmaker to Her Majesty the Queen. The Steam Factory, Gardeners Chronicle. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 1885. N his discourse at the Royal Institution last Friday night Sir John Lubbock (to whom we are indebted for the following summary) said that, greatly as we all appreciated the exquisite loveliness of flowers, it must be admitted that the beauty of our woods and fields was even more due to the marvellous grace and infinite variety of foliage. How is this inexhaustible richness of forms to be accounted for? Does it result from an innate tendency of the leaves in each species to assume some particular shape? Has it been intentionally designed to delight the eyes of man? Or has it reference to the structure and organisation-the wants and requirements of the plant itself? Now, if we consider firstly the size of the leaf we shall find that it is regulated mainly with reference to the thickness of the stem, and that when strict proportion is departed from the difference can generally be accounted for. This was shown, for instance, by a table giving the leaf area and the diameter of stem of the Hornbeam, Beech, Elm, Lime, Spanish Chestnut, Ash, Walnut, and Horse Chestnut. The size, once determined, exercises much influence on the form. For instance, in the Beech the leaf has an area of about 3 square inches. The distance between the buds is about 1 inch, and the leaves lie in the general plane of the branch, which bends slightly at each internode. The basal half of the leaf fits the swell of the twig, while the upper half follows the edge of the leaf above; and the form of the inner edge, being thus determined, decides that of the outer one also. In the Lime the internodes are longer, and the leaf consequently broader. In the Spanish Chestnut the stem is nearly three times as stout as that of the Beech, and consequently can carry a larger leaf-surface. But the distances between the buds are often little greater than those in the Beech. This determines, then, the width, and, by compelling the leaf to lengthen itself, leads to the peculiar form which it assumes. Moreover, not only do the leaves on a single twig admirably fit one another, but they are also adapted to the ramification of the twigs themselves, and thus avail themselves of the light and air, as we can see by the shade they cast without large interspaces or much overlapping. In the Sycamores, Maples, and Horse Chestnuts, the arrangement is altogether different. The shoots are stiff and upright, with leaves placed at right angles to the plane of the branch, instead of being parallel to it. The leaves are in pairs, and decussate with one another, while the lower ones have long petioles, which bring them almost to the level of the upper pairs, the whole thus forming a beautiful dome. For leaves arranged as in the Beech, the * gentle swell at the base is admirably suited, but in a crown of leaves, such as those of the Sycamore, space would be thereby wasted, and it is better that they should expand at once, as soon as their stalks have carried them free from the upper and inner leaves; hence we see how beautifully the whole form of these leaves is adapted to the mode of growth and arrangement of the buds in the plants themselves. In the Black Poplar the arrangement of the leaves is again quite different. The leaf-stalk is flattened from side to side, so that the leaves hang vertically. In connection with this it will be observed that while in most leaves the upper and under surfaces are quite unlike, in the Black Poplar, on the contrary, they are very similar. The stomata, or breathing holes, moreover, which in the leaves of most trees are confined to the under-surface, are in this species nearly equally numerous on both. The "Compass Plant" of the American prairies, a yellow Composite not unlike a small Sunflower, is another plant with upright leaves, which, growing in the wide open prairies, tend to point north and south, thus exposing both surfaces equally to the light and heat. It was shown by diagrams that this position also affected the internal structure of the leaf. In the Yew the leaves are inserted close to one another, and are long and linear; while in the Box they are further apart and broader. In the Scotch Fir the leaves are linear, and 1 inch long, while in other Pines, as, for instance, the Weymouth, the stem is thicker and the leaves longer. In the plants hitherto mentioned, one main consideration appears to be the securing of as much light as possible; but in tropical countries the sun is often too powerful, and the leaves, far from courting, avoid the light. The typical Acacias have pinnate leaves, but in most Australian species the true leaves are replaced by a vertically flattened leaf-stalk. It will be found, however, that the seedlings have leaves of the form typical in the genus. Gradually, however, the leaf becomes smaller and smaller, until nothing is left but the flattened leaf-stalk or phyllode. In one species the plant throughout life produces both leaves and phyllodes, which give it a very curious and interesting appearance. In Eucalyptus, again, the young plant has horizontal leaves, which in older ones are replaced by scimitar-shaped phyllodes. Hence the different appearance of the young and old trees which must have struck every visitor to Algiers or the Riviera. EVERGREENS. We have hitherto been considering mainly deciduous trees. In evergreens the conditions are in many respects different. It is generally said that leaves drop off in the autumn because they die. This, however, is not strictly correct. The fall of the leaf is a vital process, connected with a change in the cellular tissue at the base of the leaf-stalk. If the leaves are killed too soon they do not drop off. Sir John illustrated this by some twigs which he had purposely broken in the summer; below the fracture the leaves had been thrown off, above they still adhered, and so tightly that they could support a considerable weight. In evergreen trees the conditions are in many respects very different. It is generally supposed that the leaves last one complete year. Many of them, however, attain a much greater age; for instance, in the Scotch Fir, three or four years; in the Spruce and Silver, six or seven; in the Yew even longer. It appears from this that they require a tougher and more leathery texture. When we have an early fall of snow our deciduous trees are often much broken down; glossy trees have a tendency to throw it off, and thus escape; hence evergreen leaves are very generally smooth and glossy. Again, evergreen leaves often have special protection, either in an astringent or aromatic taste, which renders them more or less inedible; or by thorns and spines. Of this the Holly is a familiar illustration; and it was pointed out that in old plants, above the range of browsing quadrupeds, the leaves tend to lose their spines, and become unarmed. The hairs on leaves are another form of protection; on herbs the presence of hairs is often associated with that of honey, as they protect the plants from the visits of creeping insects; hence perhaps the tendency of water species to become glabrous, Polygonum amphibium being a very interesting case, since it is hairy when growing on land, and smooth when in water. Sir John then dealt with cases in which one species mimics another, and exhibited a striking photograph of a group of Stinging Nettles and Dead Nettles, which were so much alike as to be hardly distinguishable. No one can doubt that the Stinging Nettle is protected by its poisonous hairs, and it is equally clear that the innocuous Dead Nettle must profit by its similarity to its dangerous neighbour. Other similar cases were cited. He had already suggested one consideration which in certain cases determined the width of leaves, but there were others in which it was due to other causes, one being the attitude of the leaf itself. In many genera with broad and narrow leaved species, Drosera and Plantago, for instance, the broad leaves formed a horizontal rosette, while the narrow ones were raised upwards. Fleshy leaves were principally found in hot and dry countries, where this peculiarity had the advantage of offering a smaller surface, and therefore exposing the plant less to the loss of water by evaporation. WATER PLANTS. Sir John then passed to aquatic plants, many of which have two kinds of leaves-one more or less rounded, which floats on the surface, and others cut up into narrow filaments, which remain below; the latter thus present a greater extent of surface. In air, however, such leaves would be unable to support even their own weight, much less to resist any force such as that of the wind. In perfectly still air, however, for the same reason, finely divided leaves may be an advantage, while in comparatively exposed situations more compact leaves may be more suitable. It was pointed out that finely cut leaves are common among low herbs, and that some families which among the low and herblike species have such leaves, in shrubby or ligneous ones have leaves more or less like those of the Laurel or Beech. Poplar, climbing species like the Tamus and Bryony. In fact, the list is a very long one, and showed that there is no definite type of leaf, but that the form in the various species depends on the condition of the species. From these and other considerations he concluded that the form of leaves did not depend on any inherent tendency, but on the structure and organisation, the habits and requirements of the plant. Of course it might be that the present form had reference to former and not to present conditions. This rendered the problem all the more complex and difficult. The lecture was illustrated by numerous diagrams and specimens, and Sir John concluded by saying, the subject presented a very wide and interesting field of study, for if he were correct in his contention every one of the almost infinite forms of leaves must have some cause and explanation. No. 1 is the early vinery, for which purpose Black Hamburghs and Foster's Seedling are the only kinds grown. No. 2 is a late house, where were growing fine well-shaped and coloured bunches of Gros Colmar, also splendid examples of Alicante and Barbarossa, well coloured. A Vine of Pearson's Golden Queen was carrying a good crop, and perfectly ripened; these appeared as if they would surpass the Muscat of Alexandria for keeping qualities, the skin being thick and the berries plump. Some Vines also of Madresfield Court, though the fruit had all been cut, showed evident signs of good culture. The back wall of this house was covered half with that fine old Pelargonium, Rollisson's Unique ; the other with Heliotrope, which produces abundance of cut bloom during the winter months. No. 3 contained Vines of Lady Downe's, carrying some remarkably fine bunches for this variety, well coloured and monstrous berries. Black Prince, Muscat Hamburgh, and Madresfield Court also are grown in this house, and from the latter variety in this house were grown those handsome bunches with which Mr. Baker carried off the first prizes at the western shows. An interesting part of the subject is connected with the light thrown by the leaves of seedlings. Thus the Furze has at first trifoliate leaves, which gradually pass into spines. This shows that the Furze is descended from ancestors which had trifoliate leaves, as so many of its congeners have now. Similarly in some species, which when mature have palmate leaves, those of the seedling are heart-shaped. He thought that perhaps in all cases the palmate form was derived from the heartshaped, and that when in any genus we find heart-shaped and lobed leaves, the former may represent the earlier or ancestral condition. He then pointed out that if there was some definite form told off for each species then surely a similar rule ought to hold good for each genus. The species of a genus might well differ more from one another than the varieties of any particular species; the generic type might be, so to say, less closely limited; but still there ought to be some type characteristic of the genus. He took then one genus, that of Senecio (the Groundsel). Now, in addition to Senecios more or less resem- my visit. bling the common Groundsel, there were species with leaves like the Daisy, bushy species with leaves like the Privet and the Box, small trees with leaves like the Laurel and the No. 4. Principally Muscat of Alexandria are here grown. A few Vines of Frontignan are being inarched with rods carried from the Muscats, in order to fill the house entirely with the latter variety. The back wall was covered with double Pelargoniums and Abutilon Boule de Neige. A fine batch of Chrysanthemums, for cut flowers, occupied the centre at the time of No. 5, a Peach-house; back walls 16 feet, the border 6 feet wide, with upright sashes in front, 12 feet wide, 65 feet long. It may here be remarked that this kind of fruit cannot be |