SB 
 
 1O3 
 
 
 UC-NRLF 
 
 70 160 
 
 BRIEF ESSAYS 
 
 3STEAAT IF 1 IR, TJ I T S, 
 
 ORNAMENTAL TREES AND PLANTS. 
 
 WILLIAM C. BARRY, 
 
 X. Y 
 
Professor Wickson 
 
 DEIT 
 
 
 
BRIEF ESSAYS 
 
 
 1ST IE W IF IR, TJ I T S , 
 
 ORNAMENTAL TREES AND PLANTS. 
 
 WILLIAM C.iBARRY. 
 Mo TNT HOPE NURSERIES, ROCHESTER, N. Y. 
 
 ROCHESTER, N. Y. : 
 
 XPRESH PRINTING COMPANY 0, IL* AND 14 MILL STREET. 
 
 1880. 
 
SB/ 03 
 
 DCPT 
 
NEW FRUITS IN 1879. 
 
 A PAPER READ BEFORE THE WESTERN N. Y. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY AT 
 ROCHESTER, JANUARY 2QTH, l88o. 
 
 Referring to my report* of last year on New Seedling Peaches, I suppose 
 the question will now be asked whether any of the many varieties then 
 enumerated and described have proved to be acquisitions. You are, of 
 course, aware that in so brief a period it is not possible to obtain much re- 
 liable information on matters of this character; but it gives me great 
 pleasure to furnish such facts as have been communicated to me, and I 
 hope that the list may serve in some degree to avert the confusion which 
 must necessarily arise from the introduction of so many new varieties at 
 one time. 
 
 New Peaches. 
 
 Relative to Beck with' S Early, which heads the list, we have nothing 
 new to report, as the tree did not produce any fruit the past season. 
 
 Wyandotte Chief failed also to bear any fruit. Its history and descrip- 
 tion, as given in my last report, was incorrect. Mr. Kroh informs me that 
 it originated on the farm of Mr. Matthew Mudeater, near Wyandotte, Kan- 
 sas, and he describes it as a dark red free-stone, rich, juicy, and fine flavored. 
 Average specimens have measured eight and a half inches in circumference, 
 and in 1878 it ripened ten days in advance of Amsden. 
 
 Bledsoe's Eariy Cling The severe winter of '78 injured the fruit buds. 
 Mr. Wood has changed its name to "Advance," and he describes it as a 
 delicious peach ; superior to Alexander or Amsden, and five to eight days 
 earlier. 
 
 Respecting the Seedlings Nos. i and 2, raised by Jas. A. Storm, of Mis- 
 souri, I have not been able to obtain any new facts. 
 
 Brice's Early June, according to reliable authority is remarkably early, 
 but Prof. Vandeman, of Geneva, Kansas, says that " Vandeman's Early " 
 is destined to excel it in many particulars. As this Seedling has not been 
 before described, I give the following description as sent to me by the 
 Professor : 
 
 Vandeman's Early Originated by H. E. Vandeman, Geneva, Kansas, 
 and named Vandeman's Early by the Kansas State Horticultural Society, 
 bore its first crop in 1878, and ripened June i3th, the fruit measuring seven 
 to eight inches in circumference ; color bright purple and crimson on white 
 ground ; flesh white, adheres slightly to the stone ; in flavor equal to Male's. 
 Prof. Vandeman says that he has twenty other promising seedlings. In 
 that vicinity there are also the following seedlings, for the description of 
 which I am indebted to Mr, Vandeman ; 
 
 646293 
 
NEW FRUITS IN 18T9. 
 
 Nugent' S June Originated by E. J. Nugent, Ottawa, Kansas, very 
 promising. 
 
 Towns' Early Originated by Mrs. Towns, of Garnett, Kansas, and 
 perhaps the largest of these very early peaches. 
 
 Emporia Originated by Mrs. L. Burns, near Emporia; resembles the 
 other very early kinds. 
 
 Rev. S. M. Irwin, of Geneva, Kansas, has twelve seedlings, all very early. 
 
 Ashby's Early, which in my report was described as having originated 
 in Texas, was raised by G. W. Ashby, at Charrute, Kansas, and is said to 
 be ten days earlier than Amsden, and of better quality. 
 
 Simon Bucher, of Emporia, Kansas, is reported to have twenty kinds 
 earlier than Amsden; and Mr. C. C. Kelsey, of Humboldt, Kansas, has 
 some five or six seedlings that ripened ten days in advance of Amsden. 
 
 Of Hynes' Surprise, the Hon. E. F. Hynes writes me that the late cold 
 weather in spring injured the buds so much that there were but few peaches. 
 He describes his several seedlings as follows : 
 
 Hynes' Surprise has fruited four years. In size it is medium to large, 
 very highly colored, flesh white and red, fine flavored, and a free stone when 
 fully ripe. It is an excellent keeper. 
 
 Hyne's Nectar My latest new peach is a freestone, and delicious. In 
 1878 ripened five days in advance of Surprise. 
 
 Early Lydia ripens with Hale's Early. Skin rose-colored, and a free 
 stone. None of these have shown any indications of rot, while the Hale's 
 Early and Early York on the same ground rot badly. 
 
 Early Rose, a freestone ; Gov. Phelps, a large yellow clingstone ; How- 
 ard, Gen. Custer and La Belle are all seedlings raised by him. 
 
 Hape's Early Raised in Atlanta, Ga., and of the same season as Alex- 
 ander and Amsden, is said by Mr. Berckmans to be superior to either 
 in quality, and preferable because it is more of a freestone. 
 
 Baker's Early May Raised by G. W. Mosteller, Girard, Ks., did not 
 produce any fruit in 1879. 
 
 Bowers' Early The original tree did not bear in 1879, but a few spe- 
 cimens were produced on young trees ; these ripened two to three days 
 earlier than Amsden and were larger than that variety, and of finer quality. 
 The disseminators, Messrs. Morris & Miller say that it is so much superior 
 to Amsden in flavor, that it would be valuable even if it did not prove any 
 earlier. 
 
 The Rochester Seedlings may be regarded as still on trial, although one 
 of them ripens with Crawford's Late, and resembles it so closely as not to 
 be worthy of a distinct name. The other is quite promising. 
 
 The Very Large Seedling Peach raised in New York City, ripens too 
 late to be of value at the North, but would undoubtedly prove desirable at 
 the South. 
 
 Gov. Garland is described as a large clingstone peach, resembling Ams- 
 den in appearance, but larger, earlier and superior in flavor. The original 
 tree is growing six miles from Bentonville, Arkansas, but the fruit buds 
 
NEW FRUITS IN 1879. 
 
 being injured by severe weather last winter, no fruit was obtained this sea- 
 son. Prof. Wm. Hudson of Tehuacana, Texas, who is experimenting with 
 the new peaches, had a young tree which bore a single specimen that 
 ripened five days before the Alexander. 
 
 Harper's Early, originated in Wilson Co., Ks., is, according to reliable 
 authority resident in Kansas, not so large nor so early as Amsden. 
 
 Kinnaman's Early Regarding this variety I have not been able to 
 learn anything new. 
 
 Burns' Peach I have not received any new facts relative to this variety. 
 
 The Sallie Worrell, raised in Wilson Co., N. C., is described as very 
 large, sometimes measuring 14 inches in circumference ; color creamy white 
 shaded with pale red ; flesh juicy, vinous and very good ; one of the finest 
 peaches ; ripens with Stump the World. 
 
 Bustion's October, Harris' Winter and Albright's Peach are late vari- 
 eties of value at the South, but too late for cultivation at the North. 
 
 Callie Seaff is said to be a seedling of the Early York, one-third larger 
 than Amsden, and adheres slightly to the stone, same as Hale's. In the 
 same orchard with Amsden and Alexander it ripened in 1878 eight to ten 
 days earlier. In '79 the fruit buds were injured by frost, hence no fruit. 
 
 The Davidson Seedlings raised in Painsville, Ohio, were carefully com- 
 pared with other very early sorts by Mr. M. B. Bateham, the well-known 
 horticulturist ; and he has reported the following results : 
 
 Seedling No. 1, ripened in 1879 two weeks later than it did in 1878. 
 Mr. Bateham, however, believes it to be a few days earlier than Alexander 
 or Amsden. 
 
 Seedling No. 2, which last year ('78) ripened a week later than No. i, 
 was not more than three days later this year ('79). Both are of fair size, 
 brilliant color, and equal in quality to an/ of this class of peaches. No. 2 
 ripened with Amsden and Alexander. 
 
 Mr. Bateham says that The Allen Peach, which ripened very early in 
 1878, matured ten days later this season('79), and the fruit was smaller than 
 usual. This variety was raised by A. T. Allen, of *Willoughby, Ohio, and 
 in 1 8 78 the first ripe peach was taken from the tree on the 6th of July. 
 
 Honeywell, which was supposed to be considerably earlier than Alex- 
 ander or Amsden, ripened in 1879 at the same time as these varieties, but 
 was inferior to both in size and quality. 
 
 Brigg's Early May, which was regarded as very early, ripens with Alex- 
 ander and Amsden, and is not so large nor of such good quality. 
 
 Waterloo. In 1878 the Waterloo ripened a week before the Alexander 
 or Amsden. In '79 the difference in time of ripening was slight, owing in 
 a considerable measure to the overloaded condition of the tree and its un- 
 favorable location. By actual weight and measurement we found the 
 Waterloo to exceed in size all the very early peaches which we tested. 
 
 Wheatland is a seedling raised by D. E. Rogers, of Wheatland, N. Y. 
 Fruit large, flesh yellow, juicy and of excellent flavor ; ripens between Early 
 and Late Crawford. Mr. Rogers, who is looked upon as one of our best 
 peach growers, esteems this variety highly. 
 
NEW FRUITS IN 1879. 
 
 Wager was originated by Mr. Wager, of Millers Corners, Ontario Co., N. 
 Y. It is a bright yellow peach shaded with red on the sunny side ; flesh juicy 
 and sprightly, and of fair quality. Tree very hardy and productive ; ripens 
 about the same time as the Crawford. 
 
 Conkling, which is undoubtedly one of the handsomest peaches known 
 at the north did not produce any fruit the past season. 
 
 Alpha is a seedling raised by T. V. Munson, of Dennison, Texas, and is 
 thought to be a cross between Early Rivers and Foster. Mr. Munson says 
 it has ripened twelve days before Alexander, and is higher colored and 
 firmer than Eaily Rivers. Among the many very early sorts this seems to 
 be the first representative of a new type, and we sincerely hope it may prove 
 worthy cf dissemination. We have now, far too many seedlings of the 
 Male's and our efforts should be directed towards originating peaches like 
 the Alpha. 
 
 Mr. Munson says that the following seem to be real acquisitions for the 
 south. 
 
 Family Favorite, originated by W. H. Locke, Bonham, Texas; a seed- 
 ling of the Chinese Cling, but ripening two weeks earlier. 
 
 Bogy's Leviathan Raised by Mr. Bogy, of Bonham, Texas, very large ; 
 of fine quality, and ripening three weeks later than Crawford's Late. 
 
 Miss May, originated by Mr. Carroll, of Dresden, Texas, of large size, 
 first quality and very late. 
 
 Infant Wonder Raised by Capt. Daniel Webster, of Denison, Texas ; 
 very large and fine; late. 
 
 Mr. Munson, who is making a specialty of peach culture says, that ac- 
 cording to his observations, those varieties with reniform and notched 
 glands are the most robust and healthy. Those with globose glands rank 
 next in vigor while such sorts as have serrate or glandless leaves are unre- 
 liable as to time of ripening and are disposed to rot and mildew. He has 
 classified the following : 
 
 To the first section belong Early Beatrice, Early Louise, Early 
 Rivers, Brice's Early, Waterloo and Alpha. 
 
 To the next that is those with globose glands Wilder, Musser, Early 
 Canada, Alexander, Amsden, Baker's Early May, Hynes' Surprise, Hynes' 
 Nectar, Bowers Early. 
 
 To the last belong Downing, Climax, Cumberland, Saunders, Honey- 
 well, Brigg's Early May and Early Lydia. 
 
 I am indebted to Mr. Munson for the following list of new peaches, the 
 names 'of which are now given for the first time. 
 
 Williams Discovered in Delaware some years ago by Lewis Williams, 
 of Hillsboro, Md., said to be earlier and finer than Alexander. 
 
 Larkins' Early Raised by I). F. Larkin, Hunt's Station, Term., is 
 represented to be as fine as Large Early York, and ten days earlier than 
 Alexander. 
 
 Eureka Disseminated by M. W. Samuels, Clinton, Ky., is said to be 
 as good as Alexander and earlier. 
 
NEW FRUITS IN 1879. 
 
 Kelley's Early Raised by H. M. Kelley, Irving, 111., is said to be very 
 large and to have ripened twenty one days before the Amsden. 
 
 Ramsey's Early Cling Originated by A. M. Ramsey, Mahomet, Tex., 
 is described as an improved Alexander. 
 
 Seedlings No. 1, 2 & 3 Raised by Mr. Sharp, of Wooster, Ohio, are 
 all said to excel the Alexander. 
 
 Sherfey's Early Raised by Raphael Sherfey, Gettysburg, Pa., who 
 thinks it will eclipse all others. 
 
 Brown's Early Originated by W. L. Brown, Ashley, 111., is said to be 
 very early. 
 
 Sleeper's Dwarf is the name of a dwarf variety originated by W. M. 
 Sleeper of Oxford, Indiana. It is described as of remarkable dwarf com- 
 pact growth ; the original tree having grown only three feet in eight years. 
 Fruit of medium to large size, greenish white tinged with crimson ; flesh 
 juicy, sweet, rich ; season, October. In our nursery the tree of this variety 
 has not grown more than two inches in two years, and we have therefore re- 
 jected it from the list, as unprofitable to cultivate. It is, however, a curios- 
 it}-, and will be considered desirable by some as an ornamental tree. 
 
 Schlimaker is a seedling originated by Michael Shumaker of Fairview 
 Township, Erie Co., Pa. Borne for the first time in '77. Described as 
 large, round, bright yellow splashed with crimson, and is said to ripen three 
 to four weeks earlier than Alexander or Amsden. 
 
 Graves' Semi-ding Originated by Mr. Wm. Graves, Hazelhurst, Miss. ; 
 is believed to be a hybrid of the apricot and peach. It is described as one 
 of the largest and finest of the very early peaches, and five to six days earlier 
 than Alexander. 
 
 Thus you see how extended has become the list of New Peaches. It is to 
 be regretted that so many sorts ripening almost at the same time, and so 
 closely resembling each other should have been named and offered for sale. 
 We trust that in the future no one will attempt to introduce a new peach 
 until they are perfectly satisfied that it has superior qualities not common 
 to any other variety. At the North, generally, and in Western New York, 
 in particular, the past season was remarkably favorable for the peach. We 
 had ripe specimens of the Waterloo sent to us August 2d, and on the ist 
 of November we gathered from our own orchard, ripe fruit of Comet, one 
 of Mr. Rivers' Seedlings. At the West, however, the severe winter of 
 '78-79, and late spring frosts at the south ruined the peach crop in many 
 localities ; otherwise I should have been able to submit a much more com- 
 plete and interesting report. Another favorable season will, I hope, enable 
 us to fix definitely the value of many of these novelties, and then the list 
 will undoubtedly be greatly reduced. I will add that the following vari- 
 eties of Mr. Rivers' seedlings ripen at the same time with Mountain Rose 
 and Crawford's early, and being only of medium size and fair quality are hardly 
 worth retaining. They are Dagmar, Dr. Hogg, Early Albert, Early Alfred. 
 Karly Beatrice is superseded by Alexander. 
 
 New Apples. 
 
 Novelties in this class of fruits are remarkably scarce. 
 Highland Beauty, a seedling apple of medium size, good quality and a 
 long keeper has been brought to notice by Mr. K. P. Roe. 
 
NEW FRUITS IN 1879. 
 
 Kirkland is the name of another handsome seedling apple, resembling 
 the Yellow Bellflower ; of large size, good quality and a late keeper. Both 
 have been described in our horticultural journals, and it is not necessary to 
 refer to them here. 
 
 New Pears. 
 
 The "Hoosic" Some nine or ten years ago, we received from the Hon. A. 
 Foote, of Williamstown, Mass., several varieties of seedling pears. Among 
 them were seedlings of Hacori's Incomparable, Seckel, Marie Louise, 
 Washington, etc. They all possessed a cer ain degree of merit, but up to 
 this time only one of them developed sufficient character and quality to be 
 worthy of dissemination. This is a seedling of Hacon's Incomparable, 
 which Mr. Foote first sent us as " Hacon's No. 3," and subsequently named 
 " Hoosic." This variety we have fruited several years, and we believe that 
 its many good qualities fully justify us in calling particular attention to it. 
 Fruit large, obovate, having considerable exterior resemblance to Beurre 
 Diel. Stalk i inches in length, moderately stout, and set obliquely in a 
 slight depression ; ralyx large, open, in a shallow basin ; skin, greenish 
 yellow, dotted and marbled with russet ; flesh fine grained, melting with a 
 rich almond flavor like that of the Edmunds ; in quality ranking as best ; 
 season October. Tree an erect, free grower, very hardy, and remarkably 
 prolific. 
 
 Herr's Late Winter is the name of a new seedling pear raised by A. G. 
 Herr, of Louisville, Ky., and brought to public attention by Messrs. Nanz 
 & Neuner. It is described as of medium to large size, good quality and a 
 long keeper ; specimens having been kept in perfect condition until May 
 and June of the following year. 
 
 New Cherries. 
 
 Mr. D. B. Wier, of Lacon, 111., who has been experimenting with seedling 
 cherries for several years, offered for the first time last autumn 45 new 
 varieties of the Early Richmond type. We have several of them on trial. 
 We have also in our collection a fine seedling resembling the Elkhorn or 
 Tradescant's Black Heart. It equals that variety in flavor and firmness of 
 flesh, ripens a week later, and shows no disposition to decay. For home 
 use and market it must prove valuable on account of its good quality and 
 lateness. I cannot permit the occasion to pass without referring to the 
 choice sorts of Montmorency, now in cultivation ; one of them in particular 
 deserves special mention. This variety came to us under the name of 
 " Montmorency Longue Queue," but did not prove true. We have called 
 it " Montmorency Large Fruited," as the fruit is of large size and for one of 
 that class of very fine quality ; preferred by many to the sweet cherries. 
 
 Dyehouse Cherry Figured and described some years ago in the Amer- 
 ican Agriculturist, has proved to be a valuable addition to the list of hardy 
 cherries. It was found some thirty years ago growing wild among some 
 Morello cherries, by a Mr. Dyehouse, in Lincoln Co., Ky. The fruit 
 is of medium size, bright scarlet, with a very small stone and is produced 
 in great abundance at the strawberry season. The tree is of dwarf com- 
 pact growth, and very hardy surpassing in this respect the Early Richmond. 
 
NEW FRUITS IN 1879. 
 
 New Plums. 
 
 I can only recall one variety which seems deserving of special notice. 
 This is a foreign sort, not new, but quite rare, and called Decaisne. It is 
 in form, size and appearance exactly like Coe's Golden Drop, but it ripens 
 in August and promises to be very valuable. 
 
 New Grapes. 
 
 The new white Grapes, Niagara, Prentiss, Duchess and Pocklington 
 have been so frequently noticed and described that I will not occupy your time 
 with any reference to them.' We are now testing Miner's and Pringle's 
 seedlings, which are quite numerous, and we hope to find among the num- 
 ber some varieties worth keeping. I have received a circular in which the 
 Cortland grape is described and recommended as a remarkably early black 
 variety. I will be obliged for any information regarding it. 
 
 New Raspberries. 
 
 Within the last few years many seedlings of the Philadelphia type have 
 been raised. They are all hardy but of indifferent quality, not fit to eat, 
 but being of coarse, xlry texture they can be handled successfully and are 
 therefore valuable for market. Let us hope that the new ones that are 
 to come may prove more palatable. 
 
 The Montelair raised by the Messrs. Williams, of Montclair, N. J., is 
 said to be a promising new sort ; hardy, productive, and of good quality. 
 
 Norwalk Seedling disseminated by Mallory and Downs, of South Nor- 
 walk, is also said to be valuable. 
 
 Belmont is the name of a new Black Cap Raspberry raised by Mr. John 
 Scobs, of Barnesville, Ohio. It is described as larger 'than the Mammoth 
 Cluster, more productive, and is said to ripen its main crop five to seven 
 days later. 
 
 New Blackberries. 
 
 Warren Said to be very early, ripening six to eight days before the 
 Kittatinny. 
 
 Duncan Falls Said to be very hardy, productive, and free from rust. 
 Berries of a large size, good flavor, and ripens before the Kittanny. 
 
 New Strawberries. 
 
 Crystal City, raised by E. Williams, of Crystal City, Mo., is said to be 
 one of the earliest varieties. It is of fair size, color bright scarlet, and of 
 good quality. Plant vigorous, running almost as freely as the Crescent 
 Seedling. 
 
10 NEW FRUITS IN 1879. 
 
 Marvin's Seedling was originated by H. Marvin, of Ovid, Michigan, in 
 1874. Berries large, roundish, conical, bright red, juicy, sub-acid. The 
 plant is said to be very prolific, and the fruit of such a texture as to fit it for 
 shipping ; very late. 
 
 Huddleston's Favorite, a Seedling of the Wilson, raised by D. Huddle- 
 ton, Dunreith, Indiana, is described as larger than the Wilson, and of better 
 quality ; in short, it is said to possess all the good qualities, and none of the 
 bad, of that berry of world-wide fame. 
 
 Success A Seedling of Jucunda, raised by N. B. White, of Norwood, 
 Mass., is said to be large, firm, of excellent flavor, and very late ; plant, vig- 
 orous, hardy and very prolific. 
 
 Longfellow & Warren, raised by A. D. Webb, of Bowling Green, Ky., 
 were produced from a mixed lot of seed from Seth Boyden, Black Defiance, 
 Champion and Monarch. 
 
 Longfellow is described as very large, long ; color dark red ; flesh firm, 
 sweet, rich and of first quality ; ripens early and ships well. Plant vigorous 
 and very productive. 
 
 Warren, large and of fine flavor ; color dark red ; flesh firm and of good 
 quality. Plant vigorous, and as productive as Cumberland Triumph. 
 
 Mr. Durand sends out a new sort called Black Giant, said to be very 
 large, and of good quality. 
 
 Glendale was found growing wild in Akron, Glendale county, Ohio ; fruit 
 is of large size; color bright red, and is said to be of excellent quality when 
 fully ripe ; it ripens very late and is said to ship well. I saw a sample of 
 the fruit last season, at Cleveland, but it seemed only to be of medium 
 quality. 
 
 The Garden, raised by P. H. Foster of Babylon, N. Y. is said to be a 
 seedling of Monarch of the West. It is described as large, of fine flavor 
 and very handsome. 
 
 Shirts is the name of a new variety raised at Shelby, Michigan, and 
 is said to be promising. 
 
 Cetywayo Raised by A. J. Cay wood & Son, Marlboro, N. Y., is de- 
 scribed as large, irregular, firm, sometimes measuring six inches in circum- 
 ference. It ranks with Chas. Downing in flavor ; fruit stems eight to ten 
 inches long, foliage a foot high ; quite prolific. 
 
 Mammoth Bush of same origin described as making remarkably large 
 plants, having twenty to thirty fruit stools, foliage standing fifteen inches high, 
 more productive than the Wilson ; fruit a third larger than Wilson, uniform, 
 and equal to Triomphe de Gand in flavor. 
 
 *fi^"The report referred to is one entitled " New and Rare Fruits in 
 1878," copies of which can be had on application to author. 
 
MIDSUMMER AND AUTUMN 
 Flowering Shrubs and Plants for the Decoration of Gardens, 
 
 Many, if not the majority of gardens, which in spring and early summer 
 charm the eye and gladden the heart with a profusion of flowers become all 
 at once, as autumn approaches, almost destitute of bloom. This is not 
 surprising, when we consider that the greater number of shrubs and plants 
 flower in May and June, and that the late flowering species and varieties are 
 not, comparatively speaking, numerous nor sufficiently well-known to be 
 duly appreciated, or properly employed. Some persons are accustomed to 
 regard this annual change as a natural consequence, and make no attempt 
 to extend the flowering season, while others more observant, having noticed 
 that there are gardens which, even during the autumn months, exhibit a 
 wealth of flowers, are prompted to inquire, and questions are often put to 
 us in this way : 
 
 What can I plant to render my garden beautiful and attractive in Autumn ? 
 
 It is gratifying to note that during the past few years considerable interest 
 has been manifested in this subject, and in response to many inquiries I 
 have prepared a brief list of choice fall flowering shrubs and plants which, if 
 judiciously used, will render the surroundings of our houses exceedingly 
 attractive during the autumn months. 
 
 I would direct attention first to the 
 
 Althaea or Hibiscus Syriacus, 
 
 commonly called the Rose of Sharon, a most remarkable and valuable shrub 
 which, as it were, holds its blooms in reserve until there is a notable scarcity 
 of flowers. Whether in the mixed border among other shrubs or isolated upon 
 the lawn, the Althaea when in flower produces a charming effect, relieving the 
 monotonous aspect which prevails in most gardens at this season, and enliven- 
 ing the landscape with its bright flowers. It must be admitted that the blooms 
 of this shrub lack delicacy of texture, brilliancy and purity of color, but 
 when there is a dearth of flowers we must not be too critical. Seen from the 
 bush, its coarseness cannot be detected, and that which to some eyes 
 appears to be a defect or blemish, serves on the contrary only to enhance 
 its value for out of door decoration. We must recollect that coarse flowers 
 have their offices to fulfill as well as the delicate ones. Besides considerable 
 pi ogress has been made in improving the Althaea, and amateurs will be 
 pleased to learn that the new varieties are quite in advance of the older 
 sorts. Among recent introductions Boule de Feu, which produces large 
 double flowers of a violet red color, can justly command admiration. Due 
 
12 MIDSUMMER AND AUTUMN FLOWERING SHRUBS. 
 
 de Brabant with very full flowers of reddish lilac color may also be 
 regarded as an acquisition, while Leopold!! flore pleno with large, double 
 flesh-colored blooms, together with Totus albus, having single snowy white 
 flowers, are, I think, all destined to become favorites so soon as known. A 
 few of the older varieties like the Double Variegated or Painted Lady, 
 PSBOniflora, and the Double Red, cannot yet be dispensed with. They 
 flower from the first of August till the first of October. In this latitude an 
 objection is sometimes raised to the Althaea, because it is said to winter- 
 kill in severe seasons. This occurs, however, only with young plants or 
 with specimens- recently transplanted, which are not yet fully established. 
 Young plants should be protected with straw or evergreen boughs the first 
 and second winter after being set out, and as soon as they are well rooted 
 they become perfectly hardy. 
 
 Another real treasure which all plant lovers esteem highly, on account of its 
 many good qualities, is the 
 
 Hydrangea panieulata grandiflora, or Plum- 
 ed Hydrangea, 
 
 Planted singly or assembled in groups or masses, it becomes in August 
 and September, when in full bloom, a real curiosity to many, while 
 to others fully impressed with its magnificence, it is a noble object deserving 
 the highest praise it is possible to bestow on any hardy plant. A circular 
 bed of this shrub occupying a prominent position on our lawn, has been 
 the object of so much attention every year that I furnished a brief descrip- 
 tion, of it for the London Garden. The plants composing the bed were in 
 full flower on my return from Europe two years ago, and I wrote the Editor, 
 Mr. Robinson, that notwithstanding the many remarkable and effective 
 beds of flowering and fine foliage plants which I had seen abroad, I thought 
 nothing equaled this. " The mass consists of thirty-five plants, with a broad 
 edging of the Coleus ' Shah ' around it. The contrast between the green 
 grass, the crimson and yellow foliage of the Coleus, and the immense white 
 and pink panicles of the Hydrangea, was novel and beautiful. I have often 
 seen and admired large single specimens of this Hydrangea, but masses like 
 this are uncommon, and I call attention to this manner of planting as it 
 tends greatly to heighten the effect and increase the attractiveness of this 
 noble shrub." A few hints relative to its culture and management may not 
 be amiss. Being a robust, rank grower, and a very free bloomer, it requires 
 to be well fed. The more food the larger will be the panicles, the greater 
 their number, and the longer they will remain in perfection. I think that I do 
 not exaggerate when I say that most cultivators actually starve this plant, 
 and this fact explains why fine specimens are not oftener seen. A top 
 dressing of the very best manure should be given the plants every fall, and 
 in spring as early as possible, it should be incorporated with the earth by 
 means of the spading fork. During the dry summer weather, when the 
 earth around the plants is apt to become hard, it should be loosened and 
 made mellow. If drouth should prevail at the flowering period, which is 
 generally the case, then apply water liberally every evening. Another im- 
 portant operation connected with its management, is the pruning of the 
 plant every spring. This should be performed early, say in March before 
 the sap begins to move, and the stem should be cut back within two or 
 
MIDSUMMER AND AUTUMN FLOWERING SHRUBS. 13 
 
 three buds of the old wood. These will then push forth vigorously at the 
 growing season, and every shoot will produce a panicle of flowers. If these 
 directions are observed the result will be surprising. 
 Next in inportance are the 
 
 Tall Phlox, or Phlox Deeussata. 
 
 These, when properly grown, are unquestionably the finest of autumn flowers, 
 and in the hands of a tasteful cultivator can be made to furnish very satisfac- 
 tory results in garden ornamentation. Latterly, for some unknown reason, 
 they have not been so popular as they formerly were. On the continent of 
 Europe they are at present held in the highest estimation, and new varieties 
 are being constantly raised from seed, many of which I am pleased to say 
 show great progress. The Phlox has many qualities which commend it for 
 the garden. It is of vigorous habit, easy culture and produces in great 
 profusion, during a long season, flowers of fine form and substance and of 
 bright and varied colors. Just as the Roses are fading, the Phlox puts 
 forth her first flowers, producing a fine succession of bloom and prolonging 
 an interesting season at least six weeks. As regards their culture it may be 
 briefly stated that they succeed in any good garden soil, but they are 
 greatly improved by being liberally manured, and an occasional supply of 
 liquid manure during the growing season will greatly increase the size of 
 their trusses. When in flower they should be watered freely every evening. 
 The Phlox usually flowers in July and August, and in order to render it 
 autumnal flowering it is necessary to pinch the shoots about the first of 
 June, and again in July. The plants will then flower in September. For 
 early flowers some of the plants may be left unpinched. When two years 
 old the finest trusses are produced. The third year the plants flower toler- 
 ably well, but they will not keep healthy and thrifty after that. The old 
 plants should then be lifted in the fall, divided and transplanted. But the 
 better plan is to keep up a succession of young plants from cuttings by 
 securing a fresh collection every spring. The following varieties have been 
 chosen from among a hundred, and the collection embraces the choicest of 
 recently introduced sorts : 
 
 Coccinea Deep fiery scarlet ; dark center. 
 
 Emperor of the Russians Bright rosy lilac. 
 
 Gambetta Rose ; vivid red eye. 
 
 Gloire de Puteaux Rose ; distinct white center. 
 
 Lothair Rich salmon color ; crimson eye. 
 
 Madame Alldry Crimson purple ; crimson center. 
 
 Norma Lilac with distinct scarlet eye. 
 
 Oberon Coppery red. 
 
 President Payen Vermilion shaded with lilac. 
 
 Phoceon Lilac rose, with carmine eye. 
 
 Princess Louise White, suffused with crimson ; carmine eye. 
 
 Queen Pure white. 
 
 Richard Wallace White, with violet center. 
 
 Rendatler White, distinct purple center. 
 
14 MIDSUMMER AND AUTUMN FLOWERING SHRUBS. 
 
 Reve d'Or Brilliant cerise salmon; cerise eye. 
 
 Selliere Dark purplish rose. 
 
 Vierge Marie Pure white, of waxy texture. 
 
 The following are the cream of the Novelties of 1879. The descriptions 
 are to be found in the Florists' Catalogues : 
 
 Andre Leroy, Francis Coppee, Frederick Lemaitre, La Fille de Hol- 
 land, Queen of Whites, York et Lancastre. 
 
 The Japan Anemone 
 
 admitted everywhere to be one of the finest hardy perennials, 
 stands in the foremost rank among plants for autumn decoration. 
 The species called Japonica grows about three feet high and bears 
 on long footstalks very pretty purple flowers measuring two inches 
 across. A fine variety of the Japonica named Honorine Jobert resembles 
 it in habit, but has snowy white flowers. These, when planted together, 
 as companions produce a fine effect by their striking contrast. The plant 
 is of such neat, compact habit, demands so little care, is so hardy and 
 beautiful ami bears such an abundance of flowers that it is sure to become 
 popular wherever known. On large lawns a grand circular bed may be 
 formed by planting the center with the white variety followed with a broad 
 ring of purple around it, then another circle of that fine fall flowering 
 Sedum spectabile. It is difficult to describe the beauty of beds of this 
 character. They must be seen in all their glory of an autumn day to be 
 fully appreciated. How much more sensible to expend time and money on 
 permanent beds like these, rather than to devote so much to soft-wooded 
 bedding plants which are of such short duration. With the great variety of 
 hardy plants at our disposal, pleasing combinations may be multiplied at 
 will, and beds once well made will be constant objects of pleasure. 
 For midsummer decoration the 
 
 Hollyhock 
 
 proves very effective. As it attains a height of from six to eight feet it is 
 useful to plant at the back of borders of shrubbery, and it may also be ar- 
 ranged in beds or planted alone. In July no flower is more attractive, and 
 their long spikes of large rosette-shaped blooms of beautiful and brilliant 
 shades of color present a charming appearance. No garden which lays claim 
 to completeness can afford to dispense with so great on attraction. Holly- 
 hocks are raised easily from seed planted in the open ground in July, so 
 that the young plants may become strong enough by autumn to survive 
 the winter, by being slightly protected. They can be lifted early in the 
 spring, transplanted, and they will flower in July and August. Propa- 
 gation by division is performed in autumn as soon as possible after the 
 plants have flowered The roots should be dug up and cut into as many 
 pieces as there are shoots, and these pieces can then be replanted. We 
 raise our plants entirely from seed, and as the varieties are constantly chang- 
 ing I will not endeavor to give any list. 
 
 Another invaluable class of summer-flowering plants are the 
 
MIDSUMMER AND AUTUMN FLOWERING SHRUBS. 15 
 
 Delphiniums, or Larkspurs, 
 
 which exhibit a wonderful variety of beautiful colors and shades from 
 pale blue to black. In the mixed border they are superb. Tall and 
 conspicuous when in flower, they never fail to arrest the attention of even 
 the most unobserving. Their culture is easy, and, like other perennials, 
 they can be increased by division in the fall. The following are choice 
 tall varieties : 
 
 Ivanhoe Bright blue, double, superb. 
 
 Louis Agassiz Blue, with purple center, double ; very striking. 
 Mrs. Goodell Dark blue, with purple centre. 
 Coelestinum Very light blue, beautiful, double. 
 
 Although generally of little value for out of door decoration on account 
 nf being destroyed frequently by early frosts, nevertheless, the 
 
 Chrysanthemum, 
 
 in mild autumns, often proves very desirable, producing an abundance 
 of flowers late in the fall, when all other flowers have passed away. If care 
 be taken to set out the plants very early in the spring, then give them the 
 necessary attention during the summer, so that their growth may be made 
 early, and in case of early frost afford them protection, one can secure 
 quantities of bloom nearly every year. If the weather should be extremely 
 severe, the plants can be lifted, put into pots or boxes and allowed to bloom 
 in the house. In the progress of floriculture the Chrysanthemum has not 
 been overlooked, and great improvements have been effected during the 
 past few years, both in color and form of the flower. The new varieties 
 produce perfectly shaped blossoms of- pleasing colors, vieing in brilliancy 
 with those of any other flower. The following are some of the finest kinds 
 now grown : 
 
 LARGE FLOWERING. 
 
 Mr. George Glenny Lemon yellow, changing to pearl white; beautifully 
 incurved flowers. Acknowledged to be the finest variety in cultivation. 
 
 Alfonso Large, fine, reflexed flowers, of a bright, glowing crimson color. 
 
 Mrs. George Rundle The finest white flowering Chrysanthemum ; flow- 
 ers large, globular, beautifully incurved. 
 
 Grand Turk A Japanese variety, with large purplish rose flowers. 
 
 Mrs. Wreford Major Large, deep rose colored, finely formed compact 
 flowers ; plant dwarf. 
 
 Countess of Derby Pale lilac incurved flowers, centre nearly white. 
 
 Fulgore A Japanese variety, with large, rosy lilac flowers, changing to 
 white: under part of petals striped with purple. This is a most distinct 
 and odd sort, and is well calculated to excite curiosity and admiration. 
 
 POMP) INK VA III I! 1 I I>. 
 
 Cendrillon Rosy lilac, small and compact. 
 
 Model of Perfection Rich lilac, edged with white ; well formed ; plant 
 a handsome grower. 
 
16 MIDSUMMER AND AUTUMN FLOWERING SHRUBS. 
 
 Gen, Canrobert Pure yellow. A fine full flower; early. 
 
 Criterion Bright yellow. 
 
 Aurore Boreale Orange and salmon. 
 
 Paftlo Rose tinged with purple, beautifully fringed. 
 
 Heda Bright amaranth, very showy. 
 
 Rosina A beautiful pink variety. 
 
 The Dahlia 
 
 is still recognized as a most valuable fall flowering plant, but it is not nearly 
 so popular now as it was some years ago. The culture is so easy and so well 
 understood that I do not deem it necessary to refer to it in this article. 
 Neither will I occupy your time in naming and describing the many select 
 kinds now grown the names of which are to be found in the Trade 
 Catalogues. 
 
 The Tritoma Uvaria, 
 
 sometimes called the Red Hot Poker or Flame Flower, blooms in Sep- 
 tember. Its flower stems are from three to five feet high, and are terminated 
 with spikes a foot long, of pendent red and orange scarlet tubular flowers, 
 resembling the plumes of a soldier's cap. In the mixed border these plants 
 are very showy and effective, and they are also very useful in the centre of 
 beds, of autumn flowering plants. 
 A late flowering 
 
 Spiraea, called Callosa Alba 
 
 must not be overlooked in a collection of midsummer flowering shrubs. The 
 plant is of dwarf, compact habit, almost round, always forms a pretty speci- 
 men, and produces white flowers. It commences to blossom in July when 
 all the other Spiraeas are out of flower, and continues in bloom nearly all sum- 
 mer. For the edges of borders, or employed as a single specimen, I know 
 of no shrub that is more elegant and useful in a garden. 
 
 Hardy Roses. 
 
 A few of the finest autumn flowering varieties may be named as follows : 
 Alfred Colomb, Marguerite de St. Amande, La France, Countess of Serenye, 
 Paul Neyron. 
 
VINES AND CREEPERS. 
 
 [ Written, for tlie Rochester Democrat and Chronicle.] 
 
 With the advent of spring our interest in indoor life decreases. The 
 bright, sunshiny days which occasionally vary the monotony of our dull 
 winter weather give us a foretaste of what we may expect in the future, 
 and we now begin to picture to ourselves the pleasures of life in the open 
 air, of rambles in our garden, among the fruits and flowers, and, with the 
 pleasantest recollections of the past summer yet fresh in our minds, the 
 question naturally suggests itself : What can we do to make our gardens 
 more beautiful and enjoyable than before? 
 
 The long winter evenings afford ample time to consider and discuss this 
 important question, and to arrange a programme for the spring work. In 
 these times, when so much study and thought are bestowed upon the 
 ornamentation of our dwellings, the grounds which surround them should 
 not be overlooked. An equal share of enthusiasm and interest should be 
 manifested in both. This would lead to a proper consideration arid appre- 
 ciation of home surroundings. We should remember that our garden may 
 be compared to a pictuie, of which we are the artists. Exposed as this 
 picture is to public view at all seasons of the year, it should be our en- 
 deavor to make it as attractive and beautiful as possible. In fact, we should 
 aim at being able to give intelligent direction to all garden operations, 
 thereby sparing ourselves the annoyance which those must surely experience 
 who, having no knowledge of the gardening art, depend entirely upon the 
 gardener. To accomplish this, we should profit of the knowledge and 
 experience of others, obtain and read thoroughly such treatises on fruits, 
 flowers, and gardening as " Barry's Fruit Garden," " Scott's Suburban 
 Home Grounds," and the catalogues of the various nurserymen and seeds- 
 men. The abundance and variety of valuable material which we find at 
 our disposal almost perplexes us ; but, having given the subject due con- 
 sideration, and with a correct idea of the requirements of our garden, we 
 can undoubtedly make a selection of such trees and plants as we fancy the 
 most, and which appear the best adapted to the purposes we have in view. 
 A perusal of these works will not only afford us much pleasure, but at the 
 same time supply a delightful subject for study. Those who desire to 
 pursue their inquiries still further should procure the handsomely illustrated 
 works entitled " The Parks, Promenades, and Gardens of Paris," " Robin- 
 son's Sub-Tropical Gardening," and Shirley Hibberd's " Amateur's Rose 
 Book," all of which will be found instructive and interesting. I would 
 like, if space permitted, to name several other valuable horticultural works 
 and periodicals which merit a place on the library table. But those who 
 read carefully the publications which I have suggested will not be satisfied 
 to limit their horticultural' reading to them. Their interest in horticulture 
 once awakened, they will, of their own accord, seek the best mediums for 
 more extended information. Then will we have the gratification of noting 
 
18 VINES AND CREEPERS. 
 
 
 
 rapid progress in the art of gardening. An honorable rivalry will spring 
 up, and there will be a lively competition as to who will have the finest 
 gardens and grow the choicest fruits and flowers. Having made these, 
 which I shall be obliged to call prefatory remarks I will take up the sub- 
 ject assigned to me and call your attention to 
 
 Vines and Creepers. 
 
 Of the various forms of growth peculiar to plants, the climbing or twining 
 habit is unquestionably the most remarkable and interesting. Dependent for 
 support upon their more robust neighbors, these creepers and trailers, simple 
 and lowly though they are, arrest our attention, elicit our sympathy, demand 
 our care and protection, and the intimacy which thus arises creates in us a 
 greater love and admiration for plants of this class than for those of any other. 
 Then, too, they are so appreciative and thankful, repaying an hundred fold 
 every attention which we bestow upon them, by lending additional charms and 
 attractions to their appearance. The American Ivy (Ampelopsis), climbing to 
 the tops of the tallest forest trees, clothing their trunks in summer with rich, 
 luxuriant foliage, which in autumn changes to glowirg crimson tints, presents, 
 at these seasons, a lovely picture for the eye to dwell upon. The English Ivy, 
 covering the walls of some ruined abbey or castle, clinging to an archway, 
 or encircling a tower, is a picturesque scene one does not easily forget and 
 which it is ever pleasant to recall. The Chinese Wistaria, with its long, 
 pendulous racemes of lilac flowers and wreaths of beautiful foliage, never 
 fails to rivet the attention of the most indifferent observer. The Prairie 
 Rose, with its showy blossoms ; the Honeysuckle, redolent with rich per- 
 fume ; and the Sweet-scented Clematis, so exquisitely fragrant what a 
 wealth of floral beauty ! what a profusion of plant drapery ! But I am 
 sure there is no necessity of reminding any one of the many beauties which 
 the plants of this class possess. We will now consider 
 
 The value of climbers for ornamental purposes, and how to use them. 
 
 Every one will admit that the interest and beauty of a garden are greatly 
 enhanced by the use of climbing plants. In city gardens especially they are 
 invaluable, as they require but little attention after being planted, and do 
 much to render beautiful and attractive plain wooden structures, or brighten 
 and relieve the barrenness of brick and stone buildings. Architectural 
 effects are wonderfully improved by a judicious employment of climbing 
 vines. What frescoing and paper hangings are to the interior of a dwelling 
 vines are to the exterior. In nearly every quarter of the city we will find 
 examples to prove the truth of this assertion. Call to mind a residence 
 embellished with a variety of climbers, and you will at once express your 
 admiration of its beautiful and home-like appearance. On the other hand, 
 recall, if you will, one which lacks these decorations, and you do not hesi- 
 tate to say : How cheerless and unfurnished ! This form of vegetation is 
 peculiarly adapted for embellishing pillars, arches, corridors, verandas, por- 
 ticoes, balconies, walls, trellises, and screens. For ornamental arbors they 
 are also particularly valuable. These are garden structures which in our 
 climate seem almost indispensable. On a hot July or August day we all 
 know how refreshing it is to get away from the direct rays of the glaring 
 sun. We seek the shade of a tree, house, hedge, or anything which affords 
 protection. This suggests the more frequent employment of arbors and 
 covered seats in our gardens. They are certainly very useful, and by plant- 
 
VINES AND CREEPERS. 10 
 
 
 
 ing climbers to cover them they can be made extremely ornamental. But 
 it must be said, regarding arbors, that they should never be made a 
 prominent feature of the garden. Their position is in some -nook or cor- 
 ner, partially concealed by trees or shrubs, and then, covered with vines, 
 they become a most interesting object ; or they may be made the dividing 
 line between the lawn and vegetable garden, and, with a dwarf evergreen 
 hedge on either side, serve as a screen, and at the same time a welcome re- 
 treat. An arbor tastefully designed and constructed of wire or wood, then 
 covered with Clematis, Climbing Roses, or Honeysuckles, is an ornament 
 which deserves a place in every garden. 
 
 Some of the climbers, especially those of more delicate habit, may also 
 be employed very advantageously for ornamenting the stems of trees. The 
 Honeysuckle and Clematis, when planted at the base of small trees and 
 allowed to twine around the stem and among the branches, present, when 
 in flower, a very ornamental appearance. Shrubs, too, decorated in a simi- 
 lar manner, are rendered exceedingly interesting. Evergreens, particularly 
 the Arbor Vitae, with Clematis and moonseed clambering over them, pro- 
 duce unique effects. The Wistaria, trained up the trunks of the larch, 
 Scotch pine, or other trees, and allowed to droop down among the branches 
 in elegant festoons, is very picturesque. In the rockery or rootery (the lat- 
 ter term being applied to grotesque arrangements of old stumps) they ap- 
 pear to much advantage, especially the Clematis. On a recent visit to Mr. 
 Jackman's, who resides near London, England, and who is the originator 
 of that famous variety called Jackmanni, I had -an opportunity of seeing 
 this mode of training done to perfection. In close proximity to the house 
 there were several masses of stumps or rooteries, artistically arranged, the 
 several mounds being separated by serpentine walks, like flower-beds in a 
 parterre. Each mound was covered with one variety of Clematis, and the 
 thousands of purple, lilac, and white flowers, in rich and striking contrast 
 with one another, presented a pictuie the beauty of which words cannot ex- 
 press. I will refer later to other modes for training this truly admirable 
 flower. Having suggested some of the ways to use climbers and trailers, I 
 will now present a list of the finest species and varieties for the garden. 
 Vines are known as creepers, twiners, climbers, and trailers. 
 
 Creepers are those plants which throw out little roots from their stems as 
 as they climb, like the Virginia Creeper and English Ivy. 
 
 Twiners wind round and round, like the Honeysuckle. 
 
 Trailers are those which creep upon the ground. 
 
 These I will now divide into two classes hardy and tender vines. 
 
 Class I. Embracing Hardy Vines. 
 
 The Virginia Creeper, or American Ivy I name this first because it 
 is, all things considered, one of the most valuable climbers known for this 
 climate. It is very hardy, grows rapidly, and the foliage is of a rich green 
 color in summer and changes in autumn to crimson scarlet. For verandas, 
 walls, or for covering tree-trunks, arbors, etc., it is by far the best vine we 
 have. Although I have not as yet seen any distinction made, I think that 
 we may very justly claim that there are two varieties of this populai shrub. 
 One of them is furnished with tendrils, which flatten out and cling to the 
 wall, like Ivy. The other is not supplied with these tendrils, and must, 
 therefore, be trained on a wire trellis. When planting this climber against 
 the house, care should be taken to obtain the true creeper. 
 
20 VINES AND CREEPERS. 
 
 Ampelopis Veitchii This is a comparatively new species and comes 
 from Japan. Its leaves are much smaller than those of the American, and 
 overlap one another, forming a dense sheet of pleasing green. While young, 
 this plant is a little tender, and requires protection the first winter after be- 
 ing planted. So soon, however, as it gets well established, there is no further 
 risk, and it becomes hardy as an oak. It grows rapidly, and, without any 
 fastening, clings to the wall or fence with the tenacity of the Ivy. The 
 foliage is very handsome in summer and changes to crimson scarlet in 
 autumn. For covering walls, stumps of trees, and rockwork, I know of no 
 plant so useful. For the ornamentation of brick and stone structures it can 
 be specially recommended as superior to the American. 
 
 AristolocMa Sipho (Pipe Vine) is one of the finest climbers to embel- 
 lish the pillars of a portico or veranda. It has large, heart-shaped, deep 
 green leaves, which remain fresh upon the plant until late in the autumn. 
 Its flowers are curiously shaped, resembling a pipe. Being a twiner, it will 
 require a wire support to run on. 
 
 Honeysuckle, or Woodbine In this family are included some of the 
 choicest twiners. Possessed of handsome foliage and bearing a profusion 
 of fragrant flowers, they may be employed to great advantage for the deco- 
 ration of both house and garden. For the veranda and porch they are 
 especially desirable, and when trained on a trellis in the garden or allowed 
 to twine around a tree they produce a fine effect. There are several varie- 
 ties, but I will name only a few of the best. 
 
 Honeysuckle Hall's Japan This variety, though not new, is compar- 
 atively rare. It is called an evergreen shrub, because its leaves are green 
 the entire year. We all know how delightful it is to get a glimpse of green 
 foliage in the midst of winter. A plant of this variety trained to our front 
 veianda will enable us to indulge in this luxury, at little trouble or expense. 
 Then its white-and-yellow fragrant flowers are produced in great abundance 
 from June to November. It is the best Honeysuckle we have, and, in my 
 opinion, one of the most valuable climbers in the entire collection. 
 
 The Monthly Fragrant, or Dutch Honeysuckle, has red-and-yellow 
 flowers, which are very fragrant. 
 
 Brown's Scarlet Trumpet Honeysuckle, with bright scarlet flowers, 
 should be included in a collection. 
 
 The Japan Golden-Leaved Honeysuckle has foliage beautifully netted 
 or variegated with yellow ; but, as it is not entirely hardy, it can be used to 
 better advantage in baskets, vases, or as an indoor climber. 
 
 Bignonia, or Trumpet Flower This well-known creeper has luxuriant 
 pinnate foliage, and produces large trumpet-shaped scarlet flowers in August. 
 For growing on stumps of trees, rooteries, and arbors it is valuable. A 
 variety called atrosanguinea has purplish crimson flowers. 
 
 Akebia quinata, a climber, still quite rare, although brought to notice 
 some years ago. Its foliage is delicate and pretty and its flowers bluish 
 violet and sweet-scented. It does well trained on a wall or trellis. For 
 those who desire something that is not common, this may be suggested. 
 
 Ivy, English When we think of the ivy-clad cottages, churches, and 
 towers in England, we sigh and wish that we too might be favored with a 
 similarly mild, moist climate, in order that the ivy might luxuriate here, as 
 it does there. 
 
VINES AND CREEPERS. 21 
 
 ( )n account of our severe winters, it cannot be recommended for general 
 cultivation in this latitude, except on the north and east sides of buildings, 
 and then it will require a little protection. Its special value for us is for 
 culture indoors. 
 
 Periploca Grseca, or Virginia Silk Vine, is a vigorous twining vine, 
 with large glossy foliage and small velvety brown axillary clusters of flowers. 
 It grows rapidly, and may be used with fine effect to cover trees. As the 
 odor of the flowers is not agreeable, it should never be planted near the 
 house. 
 
 Menispermum Canadense (Moonseed) A very pretty climber, of slen- 
 der growth and producing small yellow flowers. Used in connection with 
 the Arbor Vitae, as previously suggested, it becomes very valuable for deco- 
 rative purposes. 
 
 Clematis Within the last ten years the hardy Clematis has been won- 
 derfully improved, and the newer sorts now in cultivation are justly re- 
 garded as the most beautiful and striking ornaments known for garden dec- 
 oration. Contrary to the general impression, the severest winters do not 
 injure them, when slightly protected with straw or leaves. In order to in- 
 duce a long succession of bloom, liberal culture is absolutely necessary, and 
 a deep, well-drained soil consisting, of loam, rotten manure, and leaf-mould 
 is the most suitable to plant them in. Duiing the warm, dry weather in 
 summer, liquid manure may be given them advantageously, and every year 
 the surface of the ground around them should be mulched with manure, to 
 keep up their strength. The Clematis is a gross feeder and must be fed 
 well to flower freely. 
 
 It may be used in many ways, either trained on verandas, walls, or trel- 
 li>-work, or planted in rockwork and root cries ; or they make superb single 
 specimens on the lawn, trained to some ornamental support. They may 
 also be employed as permanent bedding plants, and pegged down, like the 
 verbena, or with a wire support of neat design, raised about a foot from the 
 ground, to run on, very pretty beds may be formed. On trees and arbors 
 their showy and handsome flowers are very effective. Some of the choicest 
 varieties are as follows : 
 
 Jackmannii, violet purple, is the best, all things considered ; Miss Bate- 
 man, pure white and somewhat fragrant ; Lady Londesboroilgh, of a sil- 
 very-gray color, with a paler bar on each sepal. 
 
 Velutina purpurea, blackish mulberry purple, the deepest colored 
 of all the varieties of this type. Viticella venosa, reddish pur- 
 ple, veined with crimson. Lady Stratford de Redcliffe, a new vari- 
 ety, of a delicate mauve color and the anthers chocolate red. Otto 
 Froebel, one of the largest and finest varieties yet obtained ; flowers grayish 
 white or French white, and of a thick, fleshy texture. 
 
 Marie Lefebvre Pale, silvery mauve, with a deep mauve-colored bar. 
 This list would be incomplete were we to omit that old favorite, which I re- 
 gret to say is too rarely met with, the European Sweet Clematis (flam- 
 mula), which has always been so highly esteemed for the fragrance of its 
 blossoms. It flowers freely in the summer and autumn months and does 
 well on pillars, trellises, etc. The American White Clematis (Virginiana) 
 is also an admirable climber. It produces a great profusion of flowers in 
 August, followed by very conspicuous seed-plumes. 
 
22 VINES AND CREEPERS. 
 
 The Chinese Wistaria is unquestionably the most elegant climber we 
 have. Its long, pendulous clusters of pale blue flowers render it a charming 
 object when in blossom. Trained to a wire trellis, it will climb the highest 
 wall in a short time. In the City of New York it is employed extensively 
 for decorating the fronts of dwellings. It appears most effective when 
 trained horizontally and grown like a grapevine ; also when allowed to climb 
 over evergreens, as above described. 
 
 The Chinese White Wistaria is a variety of the above and very desir- 
 able. Recently a new double purple variety has been brought to notice, 
 and it promises to be an acquisition. 
 
 Climbing Roses These are indispensable in every garden. The best 
 of them are Baltimore .Belle, Queen of the Prairies, and Bennett's 
 Seedling. The Climbing Hybrid Roses, an interesting class, promise to 
 be very valuable. Although they are less rampant in growth than the 
 Prairie Roses, their fine blooms make them more desirable in every respect. 
 There are several varieties which merit attention, for the names of which 
 the Rose catalogue may be rererred to. 
 
 Class II. Tender Climbing Plants. 
 
 The following annuals may be grown from seed, and are very useful for 
 the summer decoration of the garden : 
 
 Adlumia oirrhosa, 
 Balloon Vine. 
 Canary Bird Flower. 
 Convolvulus. 
 Cypress Vine. 
 Eccremocarpus. 
 Gourds, ornamental. 
 Ipomoea. 
 Loasa. 
 
 Lophospermum. 
 Sweet Peas. 
 Tropaeolum. 
 
 Greenhouse Climbers which may be planted out of doors in summer. 
 
 Coboea Scandens. 
 German Ivy. 
 Passion Flower. 
 Physianthus Albens. 
 
 Pilogyne suavls This is a superb plant for verandas, also for culture 
 in the window-garden. 
 
THE NEWER STRAWBERRIES 
 
 IN 1879. 
 
 the Country Gentleman July .'. 
 
 In this vicinity the season of 1879 has been a very favorable one for the 
 strawberry. A somewhat protracted drouth, in May, threatened serious in- 
 jury to the crop, but copious showers about the first of June, at the time 
 the berries were setting, secured a fair crop of finer fruit than is usually 
 seen. In the Rochester market, immense quantities of strawberries have 
 been handled. As an instance of this, I quote from the Union of recent 
 date, as follows: ''The sale of strawberries during the past few days hzs 
 been unprecedented, and a leading groceryman informed a reporter of 
 this paper, that the day before yesterday he sold 2,000 quarts ; yesterday he 
 disposed of 4,000, and this morning before eight o'clock he had sold 1,500 
 quarts." When we consider the large quantity many other grocerymen like 
 the above must have sold, together with what the dealers shipped out of 
 town, we will find that the daily sales of strawberries have been unusually 
 large. At Cleveland, where this fruit is cultivated on a more extensive 
 scale than at Rochester, the sales are said to have amounted to 2,000 buJ> 
 els a day. Besides an increasing demand, it is gratifying to note that the 
 larger and finer-flavored varieties are becoming better known and appreci- 
 ated. When Wilson's was selling at six cents a quart, Sharpless sold for 
 twelve, and Triomphe de Gand, Jucunda, Cumberland Triumph and Mon- 
 arch, for eight and ten cents. Of such varieties there has not been nearly 
 enough fruit to satisfy the demand, and growers will consult their interests 
 by giving more attention to the larger and better kinds. 
 
 The favorable season has afforded us a fine opportunity to test the many 
 new varieties now on trial. These novelties have revived the interest in 
 strawberry culture, and all over the country there are enthusiastic amateurs 
 and growers who are waiting anxiously for the result of this year's experience. 
 We propose to give ours as briefly as possible. 
 
 Arranging the sorts alphabetically, Cinderella first claims attention. It 
 is one of Mr. Felton's seedlings, and was sent out in 1876. The fruit is of 
 medium to large size, conical, regularly formed, and of a bright, glossy- 
 scarlet color ; flesh firm, solid, with a mild, rich, aromatic flavor ; plant 
 vigorous and prolific. It is a handsome strawberry, and in quality fully 
 equal to, if not better, than Triomphe de Gand. It will undoubtedly prove 
 very desirable for the amateur's garden. Continental, another of Mr. Fel- 
 ton's seedlings, and sent out with the above, is of medium to large size, 
 obtusely conical, regularly formed, and of a dark-red, almost black, color 
 when fully ripe ; flesh firm and of fair quality, but inferior to Cinderella ; 
 plant vigorous and very productive. Crescent Seedling, which appeared so 
 promising last year, has disappointed us greatly this season not in produc- 
 tiveness, but in quality. Nevertheless, it is an improvement o the Wilson, 
 and having proved to be wonderfully prolific, must, on that account, still 
 claim a good deal of attention as a market berry. Captain Jack is another 
 variety, the quality of which does not rank high, and it has the serious fault 
 
24 THE NEWER STRAWBERRIES IN 1879. 
 
 of overbearing. A large portion of its fruit does not mature sufficiently to 
 render it marketable. Grown in hills under high culture, it may be of great 
 value in some localities. In Ohio, several strawberry-growers esteem it very 
 highly, some going so far as to call it the best variety. Cumberland Tri- 
 umph is one of the newer varieties which, with us, has proved a real acquisi- 
 tion. The fruit is large, regular, very uniform, and of a beautiful bright-red 
 color ; unquestionably one of the handsomest berries known. In quality it 
 is good ; plant vigorous and productive. It is not firm enough to ship long 
 distances, but will be valuable for home market on account of its uniform 
 size and attractive appearance. Duncan, of medium size, has an exceed- 
 ingly agreeable flavor, and may be regarded as a valuable addition to the 
 list of good garden sorts. Duchess is early, and the fruit large and hand- 
 some. In quality, it can only be rated as good, but is worthy of culture on 
 account of its size and earliness. The plants are not productive enough to 
 render it a profitable market variety. Forest Rose is of large size and fine 
 quality. The plant is a strong grower and quite productive, but is often 
 injured by the sun. 
 
 Glendale, one of the latest introductions, has not fruited upon our grounds, 
 but a fine exhibition of the fruit was made at the Nurserymen's Convention 
 lately held in Cleveland, where I had the pleasure of seeing and testing it. 
 The fruit is large, conical, and of a bright red color ; flesh firm and of mod- 
 erate flavor. The size and appearance may render it valuable as a market 
 fruit, but I do not think it will ever become popular for the amateur's gar- 
 den. A trial of it at home may change our opinion. Golden Defiance, 
 raised by Mr. Miller, originator of the Cumberland Triumph, is a large 
 berry, roundish, regular and of a dark crimson color; flesh moderately 
 firm, solid, of delicate texture, and of f air quality. The fruit stalks are 
 remarkably short, which is a serious objection ; plant vigorous and moder- 
 ately productive. It ripens late, and may be valuable on that account. 
 Great American has not improved much in my estimation. It is quite pro- 
 ductive, but a large proportion of the berries do not attain full size. Proba- 
 bly if planted near a variety with abundance of pollen, it might do better. 
 A well-known strawberry-grower says : " Plant the Forest Rose near it, and 
 you are sure of a good crop." The berry is high flavored and may be 
 worthy of further trial. It should be grown in hills, and must have good 
 culture. Miner's Great Prolific is large to very large, roundish, and of a 
 bright crimson color, but the flesh is soft and deficient in flavor. On account 
 of its size and fine appearance I consider it worthy of further trial. Presi- 
 dent Lincoln averages large to very large, irregular, and of a bright glossy 
 red color ; flesh moderately firm, with a marked Hautbois flavor, rendering- 
 it very desirable for the garden. Sharpless is unquestionably the best new 
 strawberry. This was my opinion last year, and every report received thus 
 far proves that I was not mistaken. We planted largely of it this last spring 
 for market. Springdale, another of Mr. Miller's seedlings, did not do well 
 with us last year, but has borne a good crop of fine fruit this season. In 
 hot, dry weather the plants sometimes suffer. We think enough of it to give 
 it another trial. Star of the West is unproductive and therefore of no value. 
 Centennial Favorite, Pioneer, Beauty, Glossy Cone, all of them Durand's 
 seedlings, have not yet been sufficiently tested to give a fair opinion of them. 
 Champion, Crystal City, Windsor Chief and Damask Beauty, must fruit 
 again before their value can be determined. Longfellow, a new seedling 
 raised by A. D. Webb of Kentucky, was shown at Cleveland. The fruit 
 was, large and handsome, but the quality not of the highest character. 
 
RASPBERRIES-OLD AND NEW 
 VARIETIES. 
 
 in tin- Aiifi'inin Ai/i-u-nltnri.^ O'-to/x'.j; /A'?.'/.] 
 
 The varieties of the Raspberry are now very numerous, and as each one 
 is represented to possess some special merit, the amateur, as well as fruit- 
 u rower, is often puzzled to determine which are the best. For the purpose 
 of giving the many kinds a thorough trial, we planted a few years ago, in 
 our private garden, a complete collection, adding the novelties as they 
 appeared. The plants have borne an abundant crop this season, and 
 afforded an oportunity to judge of their merits. 
 
 Philad^lphi-a The parent of several varieties superior to it in size and 
 quality, is still esteemed in some localities as a market variety. ^ The fruit 
 is too poor to render it of any value for the garden. 
 
 Reliance A seedling from the Philadelphia, and of recent introduction, 
 is of stocky habit, with dark, heavy foliage, vigorous, productive, and appar- 
 ently perfectly hardy ; fruit large, roundish, dark red, firm, with a sprightly, 
 acid flavor, and remains in good condition sometime after it is ripe. Prom- 
 ising for either field or garden culture. 
 
 Early Prolific Another comparatively new variety of the same parent- 
 age, is also of stocky habit, vigorous, hardy, and very productive ; fruit 
 large, dark red, moderately firm, and of a brisk, vinous flavor, not rich. Its 
 productiveness will make it desirable for the garden and home market, but 
 the fruit is too soft for shipping. 
 
 Herstine Said to be a seedling from the Allen ; is a vigorous grower, 
 abundant bearer, and quite hardy ; fruit large, roundish, conical, moderately 
 firm, sxveet and rich, valuable for family use and home market. 
 
 Saunders Claimed also to be a seedling from the Allen, is a strong 
 grower and good bearer, but as the fruit is only of fair quality, it hardly 
 deserves a place in a collection. 
 
 Highland Hardy, which originated in Ulster County, X. V.. is vigorous, 
 hardy, and productive ; fruit of medium size and inferior quality. It is the 
 earliest of all the raspberries, and on that account may be included, to some 
 extent, in every collection, while its hardiness, productiveness, and good 
 shipping qualities render it profitable for market. 
 
 Turner A Western variety is said to excel all other kinds in hardiness. 
 It is a very strong grower ; quite productive; fruit moderately firm, juicy, 
 and sweet. It remains to be seen whether it will be valuable for market. 
 In our opinion, the fruit lacks the requisite firmness. Its entire hardiness 
 renders it valuable for cold climates, but for this locality we have better sorts. 
 
 Brandy wine, or Susqueeo Cultivated extensively in Delaware for 
 market is a good grower, hardy, and productive ; fruit large, firm, bright 
 scarlet, but lacks flavor ; bears transportation well, and is regarded as a 
 profitable market sort. 
 
26 RASPBERRIES OLD AND NEW VARIETIES. 
 
 Thwack, introduced recently, is said to be a cross between Brandywine 
 and Herstine, and resembles the former. It is hardy, productive, and the 
 fruit firm, but not of the first quality. 
 
 Delaware Comparatively new ; said to be a seedling from the Hornet ; 
 has not borne sufficiently to develop its qualities. We are inclined to think 
 it lacking in flavor ; probably profitable for market. 
 
 Burlington, or Prosser, an old variety, now rarely met with, succeeds 
 admirably with us. It is very hardy, robust, and prolific ; fruit large, firm, 
 and of fair quality. We would give it the preference to many new varieties 
 now grown for market, while it is also entitled to a place in the garden. 
 
 Henrietta, from Connecticut, is the latest novelty, and remarkable for the 
 great size of some of its berries. They are not high flavored, however, nor 
 are they uniformly of very large size. The plant is a robust grower, hardy, 
 and productive. Some assert that it is identical with Belle de Fontenay, 
 which it resembles in habit and foliage, but we have never seen so many nor 
 such large berries on that, as the Henrietta produced this season. In autumn 
 we will compare their later bearing qualities, and can then decide more 
 satisfactorily. 
 
 Caroline, claimed to be a cross between Brinckle's Orange and Cata- 
 wissa, has not borne with us yet. It is described as a large, luscious berry, 
 of orange color, and perfectly hardy. The only defect of the Orange is its 
 liability to injury in severe winters. If this variety is of good quality and 
 hardy, it is an important acquisition. 
 
 Cuthbert we have not yet fruited, but if it is as represented, a hardy, 
 firm, red raspberry, of excellent quality, it is just what is required now. 
 We shall watch it with interest. 
 
 Pride of the Hudson, and Queen of the Market have not yet been 
 tested. The former appears to be tender with us. 
 
 Among the older sorts, the Hudson River Red Antwerp, so well-known 
 and extensively grown on the Hudson River, is not sufficiently productive. 
 Belle de Palluau has not been a success either. Parnel], originated near 
 Cincinnati some years ago, is hardy and productive ; fruit large, conical, 
 dark red, moderately firm, juicy, quality fair. 
 
 Clarke Next to the Brinckle's Orange, is, without doubt, the best rasp- 
 berry for the amateur's garden. The plant is robust, very hardy, and pro- 
 ductive. On rich ground it suckers freely, and sometimes requires vigorous 
 thinning to keep it in good condition for bearing; fruit of large size, bright 
 red, and in quality is almost, if not fully, equal to the best foreign sorts. It 
 was raised from seed by E. E. Clarke, New Haven, Conn., in 1856. 
 
 Brinckle's Orange is the highest flavored of all the raspberries ; fruit 
 large, obtuse conical, orange color, soft, sweet, delicious ; the best of all 
 for the table. The plant, unfortunately, is a little tender, and must be well 
 protected in winter. 
 
 Col. Wilder is a fine-flavored, yellowish-white raspberry, and would be 
 desirable for the garden if hardier and more productive. 
 
 Knevett's Giant is a splendid fruit, certainly one of the finest for family 
 use, but the plants are not sufficiently prolific. Fastolff, another fine berry, 
 does not bear well, producing more wood than fruit. Franconia, like the 
 
RASPBERRIES-OLD AND NEW VARIETIES. 27 
 
 two last mentioned, fails to produce a satisfactory crop. The berries are of 
 tine quality. Where the winters are not so severe as with us, all three 
 would be of great value. 
 
 Belle de Fontenay is a very strong grower, and moderately productive. 
 It is valuable only for its autumnal crop, and in order to insure this, many 
 of the suckers must be removed. The fruit is then produced on canes of 
 the same season's growth, as well as on those of the previous year. Many 
 are tempted to discard this variety, but, when properly treated, it well repays 
 the trouble taken with it. 
 
 Naomi, regarded by some as the same as Franconia ; is a distinct variety 
 with us. It is a good red raspberry, but superseded by others. The same 
 may be said of Victoria. English Superb is not productive, and Imper- 
 ial Red is not worthy of cultivation. Gambon is a good variety, but its 
 place is already filled with good kinds. 
 
 Mrs. Wood, of the Philadelphia type, is equally productive, and a much 
 better fruit. It ripens late. 
 
 Vice-President French, raised by Dr. Brinckle from the Fastolff, crossed 
 with Yellow Antwerp is a first-class variety ; canes are robust, branching, 
 hardy, and do not sucker so freely as some kinds ; fruit large, firm, sweet, 
 and of fine quality. Antwerp Yellow produces a fair crop of fruit, which 
 is not of the highest flavor. Caesar Blanc, White Imperial, and Jaune 
 d'Anvers are moderate growers and bearers, and the Brinckle's Orange is 
 so much superior to them that they are not worthy of cultivation. Of the 
 
 Black Caps, the American and Seneca are superseded by the Gregg and 
 Mammoth Cluster. The Gregg is a variety of great promise. Ohio Ever- 
 bearing, Davison's Thornless, Catawissa, Ellisdale, Ganarqua, and one 
 of the new varieties. New Rochelle, are of such a dirty color and inferior 
 quality that they are not worthy of being included in any collection. The 
 Ohio Everbearing and Gatawissa may be valued in some places as fall- 
 .bearing sorts, but we consider the fruit too poor to be of much value at any 
 season. Of the 
 
 Yellow Cap Raspberries. Hawkins' Orange, which is said to have 
 originated recently in Western New York, is the most valuable. It is ex- 
 ceedingly productive, and the fruit is of fair quality. Minnesota Salmon 
 we have discarded. The Florence, a new sort, is said to be promising. In 
 conclusion, there does not appear to be any among the newer sorts which 
 are destined to supersede the old favorites for the garden. The new Rasp- 
 berries are nearly all for market, and as such, show some progress. 
 
 For a small collection for family use, we would name the following 
 choice varieties : 
 
 Brinckle's Orange. Vice-President French. 
 
 Clarke. Mammoth Cluster or Gregg. 
 
 For a greater' variety, add the following : 
 Highland Hardy, the earliest. Herstine. 
 
 Knevett's Giant. Reliance. 
 
 Belle de Fontenay, fall bearing. 
 
 For market : 
 
 Brandywine. Reliance. 
 
 Clarke. Turner. 
 
 Highland Hardy. Mammoth Cluster or Gregg, 
 
WEEPING TREES. 
 
 A PAPER READ BEFORE THE WESTERN N. Y. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY 
 AT ROCHESTER, JANUARY 24'1H, 1878. 
 
 In this class are embraced the most charming examples of ornamental 
 trees. Graceful in outline, elegant and novel in their mode of growth, im- 
 pressive and attractive in appearance, they possess all those characteristics 
 of growth and foliage which render them especially desirable and valuable 
 for the embellishment of landscapes and the ornamentation of grounds. The 
 beautiful cut-leaved Weeping Birch, sometimes called the Lady Birch, with 
 its bright bark glistening in the summer's sun and its graceful drooping 
 branches, swaying in the lightest breeze, is a worthy subject for the artist's 
 pencil and the poet's pen. In winter, too, covered with ice and illumined 
 with the brilliant rays of the setting sun, its trembling branches apparently 
 studded with innumerable brilliants, it presents a charming picture, attract- 
 ing the attention and winning the admiration of even the most careless and 
 indifferent observer. This elegant tree, which Mr. Scott very appropriately 
 calls ''the most exquisite of modern sylvan belles," was introduced and first 
 offered for sale in this country by Ellwanger & Barry about the year 1851. 
 Henry W. Sargent, Esq., writing to the Horticulturist from German) in 
 1848, and describing Booth's nursery at Holstein, stated that "among tiees 
 and shrubs new to me I noticed a Weeping Birch peculiar to Germany. It 
 had descending shoots 32 feet long. The branches hung as perpendicular 
 downward as those of the Sophora pendula or the common weeping willow 
 and are quite as pensile as the latter." From this description Messrs. E. & 
 B. at once concluded that this must be a very desirable and valuable tree, 
 and they immediately ordered a specimen to be forwarded to them. In due 
 time it came, was planted, and as soon as possible, a large stock of young 
 trees was obtained. No novelty was ever received with greater enthusiasm, 
 or gave more general satisfaction than this. The demand was so great that 
 for several years from 5,000 to 15,000 stocks were budded annually. Until 
 the month of November last the original imported tree stood in their nursery 
 grounds a living monument, full of beauty and grace, adorning the land- 
 scape, and gaining for itself hosts of admirers. Unfortunately, however, 
 being in the way of projected improvements, it had to be destroyed, much 
 to the regret of those who had seen it planted, and watched' its growth for 
 nearly twenty-five years. In view of the many interesting facts associated 
 with it, it had already become a historical tree, but fifty years hence, when 
 its offspring will be found in every city and hamlet of this great country, it 
 would have been, could it have been left standing, remarkably interesting 
 to the admirers of characteristic and note-worthy trees. Mr. Scott, who 
 evidently appreciates the value of this Birch for ornamental planting, says 
 that 
 
 " It stands the acknowledged queen of all the airy graces with which 
 lightsome trees coquette with the sky and summer air. It lacks no charm 
 essential to its rank. Erect, slender, tall, it gains height only to bend its 
 
WEEPING TREES. 29 
 
 silvery spray, with a caressing grace on every side. Like our magnificent 
 Weepin- Kim. but lighter, smaller and brighter in all its features, it rapidly 
 lifts its head amon- fts compeers till it overtops them, and then spreads its 
 branches, drooping and subdividing into the most delicate silvery branchlets, 
 whose | 'ensile ijrace is only equalled by those of the Weeping Willow." 
 
 Although extensively planted in all parts of this country, it is far from 
 enjoying 'that universal recognition to which its merits justly entitle it. 
 \Vhile [was surprised to note its absence in the finer European parks and 
 gardens. 1 am still more astonished to see so few fine examples in a city 
 where it has been propagated by the thousands for years. The managers of 
 our parks, too, have evinced great indifference toward this tree, if we may 
 judge from the small number of fine specimens to be found growing in them. 
 Strange as it may appear, it seems to have been reserved for the projector? 
 of one of the fine parks m the West to properly employ this truly noble tree, 
 by planting one of their leading avenues with it. All honor to the gentle- 
 men of Chicago, who, realizing the surpassing charms and beauties of this 
 Birch, have not only formed an avenue which will do credit to the park and 
 themselves for all times to come, but will teach, stimulate and encourage 
 similar efforts in other places. 
 
 The Out Leaved Birch is one of those trees which is complete in itself. 
 It has no defects of habit which require to be concealed, and should always 
 be planted by itself in the most prominent and conspicuous position on the 
 lawn. Although it is a rapid grower and attains to considerable size, it is 
 equally well adapted for large and small grounds, and wherever planted 
 always contributes towards rendering a landscape charming and effective. 
 For avenue planting it surpasses all other trees. I have in my mind an 
 avenue which has been planted lately in our city, and I trust the time is not 
 far distant when we shall have several. Were we limited to a single orna- 
 mental tree, we should have no hesitation in selecting this in preference to 
 any other, It is the most graceful of all trees, and deserves to be better 
 l^nown and more widely disseminated. 
 
 Young's Weeping Birch is a new and interesting variety, which is ad- 
 mirably adapted "for the lawn. It was discovered about twenty years ago 
 by Mr. W. Young, of Milford Nursery, England. Owing to the slenderness 
 of the branches, which, in the original plant were so weak, as to creep along 
 the surface, great difficulty was experienced in propagating it. It was first 
 offered in this country by Ellwanger & Barry, in 1873. To the graceful 
 elegance peculiar to the Birch family it adds the odd singular erratic habit 
 of "the Weeping Beech. It has long, slender, thread-like branchlets, which 
 fall from the main branches like spray. Grafted upon stems 6 to 7 feet high, 
 it can be grown into a rounded, regular head, like the Kilmarnock Willow, 
 or left to itself, it will send up a leading shoot, with side branches like the 
 cut-leaved, only more spreading. In this distinct type we have gracefulness 
 and pictiiresqueness combined. It is one of the very best of new trees, and 
 worthy of being introduced into every garden. 
 
 Betula alba pendula elegans is another charming variety, of quite re- 
 cent introduction, and. as yet. but little known. It originated with the 
 Messrs. Bonamy Bros., at Toulouse, France, in the year 1866, and was first 
 exhibited by them at the Paris Universal Exhibition in 1867, where it re- 
 
 ved a gold medal, the highest award for new trees. Ellwanger & Barry 
 first offered it in this country in 1873. Its habit of growth is unique and 
 beautiful. Grafted on stems 6 to 8 feet high, the branches grow directly 
 
30 WEEPING TREES. 
 
 downwards, parallel with the stem. Its decided pendulous habit, rich, 
 handsome foliage, delicate branches, render it particularly showy and at- 
 tractive on the lawn. Among ornamental trees of recent introduction this, 
 and Young's Weeping may be considered the most valuable acquisitions of 
 many years. 
 
 The Kilmarnock Weeping 1 Willow first offered in this country by Ell- 
 wanger & Barry in 1857, is now so well-known as to need no description. 
 Being one of the most popular and widely disseminated of weeping trees, 
 its history may not be uninteresting. It was discovered growing wild in a 
 sequestered corner of Monkwood estate, near Ayr, in Scotland, by an aged 
 botanist, named John Smith, an enthusiastic lover of plants, and a zealous 
 collector. From him, Mr. Lang, a nurseryman at Kilmarnock, purchased 
 one plant in the year 1844. 
 
 Sir W. J. Hooker, curator of Kew Gardens, received two plants in the 
 spring of 1852, and having observed how exceedingly ornamental it was, 
 gave Mr. Lang a decided opinion, stating that he thought very highly of it, 
 and that it was much admired in the Royal Garden at Kew. The name 
 Kilmarnock Weeping Willow was given to distinguish it from the common 
 weeping willow and the American weeping willow. Of all weeping trees, it 
 is the one best adapted for small lawns, garden plots or yards. Very hand- 
 some plants may now be obtained, grafted on stems six to eight feet high, 
 for training into umbrella heads. Grafted low, say three to four feet high, 
 with the head nicely kept and the branches trailing on the ground, it becomes 
 a novel and interesting object on the lawn. For rounding off or completing 
 the end of a belt or border of trees or shrubs, it is very appropriate. In 
 my tour through Scotland the past summer, I did not meet with a single 
 specimen of this tree, either in the parks, nurseries or gardens, and I am at 
 a loss to know why it is so little esteemed in its own home especially since 
 we in this country hardly think any ornamental tree equal to it. 
 
 The Weeping Beech is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable of 
 drooping trees. Its habit of growth is odd and eccentric, but at the same 
 time picturesque and beautiful. A strong grower, its branches shoot up- 
 ward, then outward, twist in various directions, and turn into a variety of 
 shapes, then droop and trail on the ground. Divested of its leaves, it is 
 quite ungainly ; but clothed with its rich, luxuriant foliage, it presents a 
 magnificent appearance. It is one of the largest and most curious of lawn 
 trees, and should be planted by itself, where it can have abundance of room 
 Large specimens often cover an area one hundred feet in diameter. Its 
 history is somewhat remarkable. Some sixty years ago Baron de Man's 
 gardener, at Beersal, Belgium, was planting an avenue of Beeches. The 
 Baron, while superintending the work, noticed among the trees selected for 
 the purpose, one poor and crooked specimen, and rejected it. The gardener 
 thinking, however, that it possessed some merit, planted it in a corner of 
 the garden, where it grew to be one of the most beautiful of trees.' One of 
 the noblest specimens I have seen was in Mr. Anthony Waterer's nurseries, 
 at Woking, England. 
 
 The New American or Fountain Willow is a well-known pendulous 
 variety, which forms a very handsome specimen when budded standard high. 
 While it can be trained in umbrella form like the Kilmarnock Willow, it is 
 a much stronger grower, and requires more space. On account of its vig- 
 orous growth, it is much more difficult to keep in shape than the Kilmarnock, 
 
WEEPING TREES. 81 
 
 and, all things considered, hardly equal to that variety for ornamental plant- 
 ing. It is a trailing species of American Willow, grafted standard high, 
 and was introduced from France about the year 1852. 
 
 The European Weeping Ash is a well-known weeping tree of vigorous 
 habit, its branches spreading at first horizontally, but gradually drooping 
 towards the ground. Its strong, stiff growth does not render it as graceful, 
 and ornamental as many of the trees of this class, but planted singly on a 
 large lawn, it forms an interesting object. It is one of the best trees for 
 forming an arbor. 
 
 The White Leaved Weeping Linden is a handsome drooping variety, 
 with large round leaves, of a grayish green color above, and silvery gray 
 beneath. Worked upon stocks standard high, the branches shoot out 
 almost horizontally, and as they increase in length bend gracefully towards 
 the ground, giving to the tree a decidedly pendulous character. Being a 
 strong grower it requires to be vigorously pruned to keep in shape. In this 
 way it can be trained into a round symmetrical head, and will always be 
 found a desirable addition to any collection, on account of its distinct 
 silvery foliage, which contrasts effectively with the deep green of other trees. 
 
 Of Weeping Elms there are several which deserve attention. Our 
 American Elm is one of the most noble an4 stately of weeping trees. It is 
 so well-known, that any notice of it here would be superfluous, but it may 
 be proper to remark that it is not admissible on small lawns. 
 
 The most popular of weeping Elms, is the Camperdown, a very picturesque 
 and elegant tree which can be employed with the most satisfactory results 
 in extensive grounds, as well as in small garden plots. It is of rank growth, 
 the shoots often making a zigzag growth outward and downward of several 
 feet in a single season. The leaves are large, dark green and glossy, and 
 cover the tree with a luxuriant mass of verdure. By a judicious use of the 
 knife, it can be kept very regular and symmetrical in form, and a handsome 
 specimen isolated on the lawn, will always arrest attention and elicit admi- 
 ration. 
 
 The Scotch Weeping Elm (montana pendula), is a drooping variety, 
 resembling the Camperdown, but not so good. 
 
 The Rough-leaved Weeping Elm (rugosa pendula), is a pendulous 
 variety with large rough leaves, and Elm viminalis, is a distinct slender 
 branched variety, very ornamental in habit and foliage. 
 
 The Weeping Mountain Ash has probably received as much attention 
 as any weeping tree, on account of its distinct and curious habit. A careful 
 examination of its mode of growth cannot fail to excite wonder. If worked 
 two or three feet from the ground and allowed to grow wild, it soon becomes 
 as odd a piece of framework as it is possible to imagine. I have an indis- 
 tinct recollection of one I saw growing in this manner, and at the time, I 
 considered it as great a curiosity as I had ever seen. Grafted six to eight 
 feet high, it becomes a very desirable lawn tree, and in the autumn, laden 
 with large clusters of bright red fruit, it produces a brilliant effect. 
 
 The Weeping Poplar (Populus grandidentata pendula), although not so 
 elegant and graceful as some of the drooping trees we have mentioned, has 
 many desirable qualities which commend it to the admirers of fine trees. 
 Its character is decidedly pendulous, and its branches spread and droop 
 gracefully towards the ground. But the knife must be used unsparingly 
 
32 WEEPING TREES. 
 
 to preserve the symmetry. It is the most rapid grower of any in this class, 
 and those who desire a weeper which will produce immediate effect, will find 
 their wants amply requited by planting this tree. 
 
 The Black Barked Weeping Poplar and the Parasol de St. Julien, two 
 
 varieties recently introduced from France, are almost similar to the above. 
 Probably the most remarkable and beautiful tree in this class, and one 
 which is very little known or mentioned, is Bujot's Weeping Honey Locust. 
 It. has every characteristic of habit and foliage to commend it, but in severe 
 winters it is liable to injury from frost. Its propagation is somewhat difficult, 
 which will always make it expensive and rare. Like the Weeping Japan 
 Sophora. it sometimes succeeds in sheltered positions. I know of only one 
 specimen in this vicinity, which has survived the severity of several winters, 
 unprotected. Those who love and admire fine trees, sufficiently to give 
 them the necessary protection, will feel themselves amply repaid for any 
 trouble or expense they may incur in securing a specimen, and giving it the 
 protection it requires. 
 
 The Weeping Japan Sophora, one of the most beautiful trees, is not 
 quite hardy here, and is not propagated in the nurseries. We have a fine 
 specimen tree, however, which thrives in a sheltered position, the same as 
 that occupied by the Sequoia, or big tree of California. The Golden Barked 
 Weeping Ash, a handsome weeper, is not hardy. 
 
 The Weeping Cherries Everflowering Weeping, avium pendula, Bigar- 
 reau pendula, are all pretty lawn trees, but not sufficiently known to be 
 properly appreciated. On some future occasion I hope to be able to call 
 attention to these more particularly. It should be borne in mind by those 
 intending to plant drooping trees, that their appropriate position is always 
 on the open lawn, single, never in groups or masses, nor mixed in with other 
 trees or shrubs in belts or borders. In the hands of the skillful planter they 
 are capable of producing the most charming results, and are more effective in 
 giving character and expression to a landscape than any other trees. I ap- 
 pend a list of select varieties for large and small grounds : 
 
 SELECT DROOPING TREES FOR SMALL GROUNDS. 
 
 Kilmarnock Weeping Willow. Weeping Larch. 
 
 Young's Weeping Birch. American Weeping Willow. 
 
 Cut-leaved Weeping Birch, Camperdown Weeping Elm. 
 
 Dwarf Weeping Cherry. Birch elegans pendula. 
 
 To the above may be added 
 
 FOR EXTENSIVE GROUNDS. 
 
 Ash, European Weeping. Elm, Scotch Weeping. 
 
 Beech, Weeping. Linden, Weeping. 
 
 Birch, European Weeping. Weeping Poplar. 
 
 Birch, tristis. Weeping Cherry. 
 
 Elm, Cork-barked Weeping. Mo.untain Ash, Weeping. 
 
HERBACEOUS PEONIES. 
 
 [Published in Rural Life, June, 1879.'] 
 
 For nearly a month our garden borders have been enlivened with the 
 beautiful and showy blooms of the Herbaceous Paeony. Planted among 
 conifers, flowering shrubs and ornamental trees, their gay-colored flowers 
 produce a charming effect. On our grounds we have a border two hundred 
 feet in length, and fifteen feet in width, which contains a choice collection 
 of ornamental trees, conifers, shrubs, roses, paeonies and hardy border plants. 
 The tall-growing trees and evergreens form the background, the shrubs and 
 trees of medium size come next, with the paeonies, roses and border plants 
 in the foreground. The assortments of paeonies when in flower is un- 
 doubtedly the most interesting feature of the collection. 
 
 On our nursery grounds a large circular bed about twenty feet in diame- 
 ter, planted with the most showy and distinct varieties, has during these 
 beautiful June days attracted great attention. It is surprising that so noble 
 a flower, almost rivaling the rose in brillancy of color and perfection of 
 bloom, and the*Rhododendron in stately growth, should be so neglected. 
 Amateurs seems to have entirely lost sight of the many improved varieties 
 introduced within the last few years, and our finest gardens, perfect in other 
 respects, are singularly deficient in specimens of the newer kinds. In the 
 hope of popularizing to some extent this valuable class of plants, I will 
 briefly refer to their many desirable characteristics of growth and flower, and 
 at the same time furnish the names of a few choice sorts. 
 
 The first point in their favor is hardiness. It may be truly said of them 
 that they are " hardy as an oak." In the severest climates the plants 
 require no other protection than that which they afford themselves. Then 
 their vigorous habit and healthy growth, freedom from all diseases and 
 insects, are important arguments in favor of their cultivation. Growers of 
 roses know well that their flowers are obtained by great vigilance and care. 
 Not so with the Paeony, which, when once planted, all is done. Each suc- 
 ceeding year adds to their size and beauty. The foliage is rich and glossy 
 and of a beautiful deep-green color, thus rendering the plants very orna- 
 mental even when out of flower. 
 
 The newer varieties produce very large, handsome, regularly- formed cup- 
 ped blooms, resembling large roses. No other flower is so well adapted 
 for large, showy bouquets. The Paeony may be planted either singly on the 
 lawn or in borders. Where the lawn is extensive a large bed makes a grand 
 show, almost equal to a bed of Rhododendrons. The following are six of 
 the best and most distinct kinds : 
 
 Modeste Deep rose, very large, cupped like a rose. 
 
 Delachii Dark purplish crimson ; the best dark variety. 
 
 Ambroise Versehaffelt Purplish crimson, very full; fragrant. 
 
 Papillionacea White, superb large flower. 
 
34 HERBACEOUS PAEONIES. 
 
 Humei Deep rose with purple shade ; very full and double ; one of the 
 latest in bloom. 
 
 WMttlejii White ; center slightly yellowish ; fragrant. 
 
 For a dozen add the following : 
 
 Chas, Verdier Lilac rose, of perfect form; cupped. 
 
 Monsieur Boucharlat Bright rosy lilac ; large, full, fragrant, and very 
 late. 
 
 Dr. Bretonneail Rosy violet ; large and of fine shape. 
 
 Fulgida Crimson ; profuse flowering. 
 
 Delicatissima Flesh color, delicate and beautiful. 
 
 Festiva Pure white, with a few marks of carmine in the centre. 
 
 Early- flowering Varieties. 
 
 Tenuifolia Single dark crimson ; leaves beautifully cut. 
 Rosea Double crimson at first, changing to rose ; beautiful. 
 Pulcherrima plena Crimson, with purple shade. 
 
NATIVE FRUITS. 
 
 A PAPER READ BEFORE THE WESTERN N. Y. HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY AT 
 ROCHESTER, JANUARY 27'1'H, 1 88 1. 
 
 The Secretary addressed the several members of the committee, as well 
 as some prominent horticulturists, and requested any information they 
 might possess relative to the newer fruits of promise. The replies which 
 some have sent indicate that although a large number of new fruits are at 
 present under trial, few have been sufficiently tested to justify an expression 
 of opinion as to their value. The memoranda which others have kindly 
 furnished appear in full in the report. For the purpose of giving additional 
 interest to the report, the Secretary has taken the liberty to draw attention 
 to some of the older fruits, the merits of which seem to have been disre- 
 garded or overlooked. 
 
 Apples. 
 
 Although a considerable number of new apples are said to have been 
 introduced to notice during the last year, few have come under the obser- 
 vation of the committee. During the autumn, Mr. J. F. Tillinghast, of 
 Factoryville, Pa., sent us specimens of the Clarke Apple, a variety which 
 originated in Lackawanna county, Pa., some thirty-five years ago. It is 
 supposed to be a chance seedling, and in the locality where it was found it 
 is highly esteemed. The fruit is of medium size, say three inches in diam- 
 eter ; form, roundish ovate, contracted at the eye ; stalk, short and slender ; 
 skin, whitish-yellow, sprinkled with dark specks ; flesh, white, fine grained, 
 tender, juicy, mild sub-acid, not rich, but pleasant to the taste. The tree 
 is said to be of branching, drooping habit, and an early, regular and abun- 
 dant bearer. It is evidently a fall fruit, but Mr. Tillinghast says it will 
 keep till spring. On account of its good quality, we deem it worthy of trial. 
 
 Sutton Beauty. We are indebted to Mr. O. B. Hadwen, of Worcester, 
 Mass., for the following, relative to this variety: "Its origin was on the 
 farm of the late John Waters, of Sutton. Worcester county, Mass. I think 
 it was first shown at the rooms of the Worcester Horticultural Society, 
 some twenty-five years since, by Joel Knapp, but the annual exhibitions 
 being in September, and the ** Sutton" being shown in an unripe condition, 
 it did not receive the notice it deserved. A few trees were grown by the 
 late S. H. Colton and George Jaqut s. I have two trees of it, some twenty 
 years old, that bear fine crops on the even years, and I have a growing ap- 
 preciation of its value. First, for the thrifty, upright habit of the tree; 
 second, for its productiveness of apples of uniform size, of roundish conical 
 form, fair specimens measuring 9^ inches each way ; third, the color of the 
 fruit is very marked and attractive, being a light crimson red, with a few 
 
36 NATIVE FRUITS. 
 
 dots at the stem end, but thickly dotted at the calyx end ; the stem is short, 
 sermted in a clear, well turned cavity, slightly bronzed ; the calyx is par- 
 tially open, in a basin of medium breadth and slightly corrugated ; the flesh 
 is white, with a slight yellow tinge, crisp and tender, sub-acid, with decided 
 character. It is an apple that is rapidly growing in favor, one that the 
 customer seeks the second time and always after using it once. I think as 
 an apple for export it will take the front rank, as it looks well, tastes well, 
 and keeps well up to May." 
 
 We have fruited the Sutton Beauty two or three times, and fully concur 
 in all that Mr. Had wen says of it. As a late keeper it will undoubtedly 
 prove valuable, as it retains its freshness and fairness for a remarkably long 
 period. Its waxen yellow skin, beautifully shaded with light crimson, ren- 
 ders it showy and attractive, and in spring, when there is a scarcity of fruit, 
 it will command a good price. 
 
 Through the kindness of Mr. Arnold, of Paris, Ont, we were enabled to 
 test his seedling apples, Arnold's Beauty and Ontario. The former is said 
 to be a seedling of the Northern Spy, crossed with the Wagener and Spitz- 
 enberg. It is a handsome fruit, about the size of Wagener, and possesses 
 some of the striking characteristics of that variety, but I do not think it is 
 any improvement upon it, if as good. It may have merits which the Wag- 
 ener does not possess, but, so far as I can see, it will not be of much value 
 here. 
 
 Ontario, said to be a seedling of the Northern Spy crossed with Wag- 
 ener, bears a striking resemblance to the Spy, and outwardly would easily 
 be taken for that variety, even by good judges; but it is only necessary to 
 put the knife into the flesh to detect the difference. The flesh is not nearly 
 so firm and delicate as that of the Spy, neither has it the exceedingly agree- 
 able flavor for which that variety is so justly prized. For shipment and 
 long carriage it is better adapted than the Spy, on account of the flesh, 
 which is firmer. In the nursery both are strong-growing trees, and can be 
 propagated profitably, but it is questionable whether they have sufficient 
 merit to deserve propagation, at least here. 
 
 In the rapid introduction of new fruits, many choice old sorts are very 
 much neglected. The Melon Apple is an instance of this. A rehearsal of 
 its valuable qualities will no doubt recall to the minds of many here pleas- 
 ant recollections of an old but truly noble fruit, one which, though rarely 
 seen now-a.days, is not, I trust, destined to be forgotton altogether. It 
 originated in the orchard of our much esteemed member, Mr. Chapin, of 
 East Bloomfield, and for some time its cultivation was confined to the or- 
 chards in that vicinity. Mr. Reuben Norton, of East Bloomfield, first 
 brought it to the notice of Ellwanger & Barry, and recommended it by 
 saying, of all the apples lie grew (and lie had a very fine collection) this 
 was always the first to be consumed by his family and friends. The atten- 
 tion of the public was first drawn to it by Ellwanger & Barry, through the 
 Albany Cultivator. As the tree is rather a delicate grower, nurserymen 
 cannot propagate it advantageously, and on this account the stock has al- 
 ways been very limited. The only way to obtain good standard trees it to 
 top graft it on some strong-growing sorts, which of course renders the trees 
 more expensive ; but the apple is so valuable that no one should object to 
 pay an extra price for the tree. Lest there should be some who are not 
 acquainted with this variety, it may be well to describe it briefly : Size 
 
NATIVE FRUITS. 37 
 
 medium to large ; form, round, slightly flattened at the ends ; skin, pale 
 whitish-yellow in the shade, nearly covered with light red, and frequently 
 striped with carmine ; flesh, white, exceedingly tender, juicy, melting, agree- 
 ably perfumed, and having a mild sub-acid flavor. As a desert apple it has 
 no superior, if any equal. The fruit, however, is so tender that it will not 
 bear much handling or long carriage, and the tree is not vigorous enough 
 to render it a profitable variety for orchard culture. But it is such a de- 
 sirable fruit for family use, that it ought to be included in every garden 
 collection. 
 
 The public are beginning to appreciate .choice fruits, and orchardists will 
 find it profitable to top graft this kind upon a vigorous-growing variety. I 
 am certain it will sell readily at a good price, as soon as its merits are 
 known. Is it not surprising that a fruit possessing so many good qualities 
 should be so rarely seen ? To show how scarce this apple is, I doubt if a 
 barrel of them could be found in Rochester to-day. Yet it is unquestion- 
 ably the finest of all winter dessert apples, and ought to be found in the 
 market. 
 
 Another apple equally valuable, and nearly as difficult to obtain, is the 
 Jonathan. It is one of those slender-growing sorts, which find no favor 
 with nurserymen. But it seems to me that the people cannot afford to 
 dispense with such a valuable sort. If its value were properly estimated, 
 nurserymen I am sure would be able to raise trees of it profitably. Among 
 the numerous sorts on exhibition to-day, I ask is there a handsomer or 
 better apple than the Jonathan ? Of medium size, roundish ovate form, 
 skin of a light yellow color, nearly covered with light red, deepening to a 
 rich crimson, then to a dark purple; flesh, white, tender, juicy, with a pleas- 
 ant sub-acid flavor, it has all the qualities which constitute a perfect dessert 
 apple. And this, one of our best winter apples, can hardly be obtained in 
 the market. In this, one o f the greatest fruit-producing regions of the 
 world, there is no excuse for depriving the public of the best apples we 
 have. Grow extensively, if you will, Baldwins and others of that class for 
 exportation, but let us have the best for home consumption. It will not be 
 long till fruit generally, and the apple especially, will be classed among the 
 most important articles of food. For those who are engaged in sedentary 
 pursuits, or who suffer from indigestion, apples of fine quality, like those 
 above mentioned, are invaluable, and they should be used daily in every 
 family, and at every meal, in some form or another. 
 
 \Ve do not half appreciate the advantages we possess in being able to 
 enjoy such luscious fruits as can be obtained here at so small a cost. Last 
 summer, while in England, I paid exorbitant prices for grapes, peaches and 
 strawberries. Even then the peaches, having been grown under glass, could 
 not compare in flavor with ours produced in the open air. And the hot- 
 house grapes, which the English esteem so highly, were not any better, if as 
 good, as our best native grapes. I there learned to appreciate my good 
 fortune in being a resident of Western New York, where the finest fruit can 
 be had remarkably cheap. In no other section of country that I know of 
 can such fine apples be raised as in this vicinity, and we ought certainly to 
 give more attention to the choice sorts, especially since they can be raised 
 with so little extra trouble. 
 
 I might refer at length to other valuable varieties, which deserve more 
 attention than they receive, but the limits of this paper will not admit 
 of it. 
 
38 NATIVE FRUITS. 
 
 Pears. 
 
 Among the New Pears the Hoosic is destined to hold a high place in 
 public estimation. Its size, attractive appearance, fine quality and pro- 
 ductiveness, will soon render it popular among fruit growers 
 
 Frederick Clapp, another fine pear of recent introduction, combines 
 valuable qualities which will make it a general favorite. As it has been 
 pronounced by competent judges superior to Beurre Superfine, we have a 
 right to expect that it will prove to be one of our best native pears. 
 
 Plums. 
 
 Mr. S. D. Willard, of Geneva, says : "A few years since my attention 
 was called to a plum being grown on the Hudson River, styled the Gweii, 
 which I have fruited for the secon'd season, and while the quality can 
 scarcely be regarded as equal to many other varieties, the beautiful bloom 
 which appears upon the fruit as it matures, coupled with its great produc- 
 tiveness, and hardy and fine growing qualities of the tree should, I think, 
 make it a very desirable market sort for this section. The fruit sold at 
 good prices in Philadelphia." 
 
 Peaches. 
 
 This is a prolific subject. Several favorable peach seasons in Western 
 New York have given a fresh impetus to peach culture. While the yellows 
 in some localities is destroying many fine orchards, a large number still re- 
 main in a thrifty condition and yield large crops, to the great satisfaction 
 of those who enjoy this luscious fruit. While great progress has been made 
 in producing early sorts, several choice old kinds are very much neglected. 
 Prominent among these are Brevoort, Druid Hill, Malta and Poole's 
 Large Yellow. Several of Mr. Rivers' productions have proved to be very 
 valuable, but they hardly come within the province of this report. 
 
 Briggs' Red May and Harper's Early, two of the very early sorts, are 
 growing in favor. The first named appears to be less disposed to decay 
 than the other early sorts. Harper's Early has fine flavor. From in- 
 formation received from many cultivators of the peach in different States, 
 I learn that a large number of the new sorts which gave promise of remark- 
 able earliness, failed during the past year to fulfill the expectations which 
 were raised about them. A great many of them opened later than usual 
 and about the same time as Alexander. It is a singular circumstance, and 
 difficult to account for. It will require Another season's trial to determine 
 the value of these sorts. An objection is frequently raised to the very early 
 peaches, as they decay so easily. Those who are cultivating the peach on 
 an extensive scale are experimenting with the very early varieties, in the 
 hope of finding one which is free from this defect. Unfortunately the 
 severity of this winter has been so great that peach trees will have suffered 
 more or less in every section of the country, and it is to be feared that this 
 will delay many important experiments which cultivators had been intend- 
 ing to make. 
 
 Grapes. 
 
 The number of new grapes now in course of propagation and dissemin- 
 ation is very great. Several of the hybrid varieties raised by Mr. Ricketts 
 are being tried in various sections of the country, and reports as to their 
 
NATIVE FRUITS. 39 
 
 merits are beginning to appear. The Lady Washington seems to be the 
 most promising of all tested thus far. It is remarkably vigorous, has fine 
 foliage, and the quality of the fruit is good. The Hon. Marshall P. Wilder 
 mentions a graft which made seventy-five feet of wood last year. Mr. Chas. 
 A. Green, of Clifton, N. Y., says : " It succeeds admirably with me thus 
 far. Vine vigorous and healthy ; fruit exceedingly handsome, and few com- 
 plaints will be made of its quality. The pink blush over the clusters is an 
 attractive feature." We regret to have to say that Mr. Rickett's Secretary 
 has turned out to be a great failure. The fruit is small, of medium quality, 
 not so good as Clinton ; the vine is a miserable grower, and the foliage 
 poor. In this connection Mr. E. Williams, of Montclair, N. J., says: "Of 
 the new varieties now being offered, I have strong hopes that the Jefferson 
 will attain a prominent position. I have had several opportunities of test- 
 ing Mr. Rickett's seedling at exhibitions, for two years past, and basing my 
 opinion on this alone, I regard the Jefferson as the best in quality of any 
 he has yet sent out, and its parentage leads me to hope it has sufficient 
 vigor to succeed generally. Of Moore's Early Mr. Williams says : " It 
 bids fair to supercede the Concord as an early grape." I am glad to hear 
 so good an account of it from New Jersey. I hardly think it will displace 
 the Concord, at least in Western New York. In quality it is little if and 
 better than Concord, and the bunch and berry do not seem to be very 
 much larger. In New England, where great importance is attached to 
 earliness, it has, perhaps, a particular value. 
 
 The Niagara, Prentiss, Duchess and Pocklington are all promising 
 White Grapes, and as they are being grown extensively in this vicinity, we 
 shall take a special interest in them. They possess important qualifications 
 which have long beed sought in white grapes, such as vigor, hardiness and 
 productiveness. With five fine varieties like the above and more to come 
 soon, grape growers will surely be able to satisfy a long felt want. 
 
 It will be an interesting experiment to test these varieties side by side, in 
 order to determine which is the best. 
 
 The Centennial is a new grape raised by Mr. D. S. Marvin, Watertown, 
 \. Y., and is claimed to be a seedling of the Eumelan grafted upon an 
 lona root. Mr. Marvin believes that grafting is an important factor in 
 improving our native grapes. The plant which we have in our garden 
 produced a small, compact cluster of white berries, slightly flushed with 
 pink. We are not yet prepared to pass judgment upon this variety as the 
 plant has not had a fair chance Being a product of the Eumelan and 
 lona, we may look for something good from it, and we shall watch it 
 closely. 
 
 The Vergennes Grape, a sample of which was exhibited at the last 
 Annual Meeting of this Society, was described at length in the Rural New 
 Yorker of May ist, 1880, and its qualities were summed up by Gen. W. II. 
 Noble, in the following language : 
 
 " For hardiness, vigor of growth, large bounteous fruitage, a luscious 
 fruit of the richest of tint of blended pink and purple bloom, for its yield 
 of wine with the most delicate aroma, for its early maturity of wood and 
 fruit, for its long keeping quality, lasting in excellence beside the apple on 
 our table. I think this the equal of any American grape yet grown. I 
 say this with great tenderness towards all its native rivals." 
 
 The "Amber Queen " is claimed by the originator, Mr. N. B. White, 
 Norwood, Mass., to be the richest and best flavored grape that has ever 
 
40 NATIVE FRUITS. 
 
 been produced. It is described as a strong grower, with thick leaves, 
 bunch large, shouldered like the Hamburg, berry large, amber colored but 
 growing darker as it becomes riper. Eatable in August and lasts through 
 September. 
 
 Elvira and Uhland White Grapes, raised in Missouri and recently intro- 
 duced, are of little value in this locality, the bunches being small and the 
 berries are so much crowded that they crack badly. 
 
 We have on trial twelve of Miner's Seedlings, all of which are white, 
 and we hope to find among them some which will prove worthy of cultiva- 
 tion. The Victoria appears quite promising. 
 
 While a great deal of attention has been given to the newer varieties, 
 some excellent old sorts are very nearly forgotten. The Lindley for exam- 
 ple, where it does well, is one of the best red grapes we have. The Hon. 
 M. P. Wilder in writing to the Rural New Yerker, says : " From the 
 first intoduction of Rogers' grapes, -I have considered it one of the most 
 reliable varieties. Its quality is but little below that of the Delaware with 
 me, while in size, beauty, vigor and hardiness it is superior. As a proof of 
 its excellence. I selected samples of both, taking small berries of the Lind- 
 ley so as to have them in appearance as much alike as possible, and had 
 them tested by connoisseurs, nine out of eleven persons preferred the 
 Lindley." 
 
 The Gaertner, another of Rogers' Hybrids, appeared unusually well with 
 us the last summer. The bunch and berry were large and remarkably 
 showy ; color at first amber deepening to a rich purple ; quality, though 
 not of the highest character, good ; vine hardy and productive. This va- 
 riety seems to be but little known. Should it continue to be as fine at it 
 proved last season it will be worthy of a good deal of attention. 
 
 The Eumelan is one of the best flavored grapes that we are acquainted 
 with. It is hardy and bears well every year. As it is propagated only with 
 considerable difficulty, nurserymen do not regard it very profitable to grow. 
 It should be grafted upon some vigorous sort. 
 
 A good authority says with reference to the old varieties : " The Dela- 
 ware as a table fruit still stands at the head. The bunch is elegant in form, 
 beautiful in color, and the quality is unequalled." 
 
 "The lona, when in y^erfection, which it seldom attains, requiring the most 
 favorable conditions of soil, exposure, culture, etc., is on account of its 
 wonderful excellence worthy of every care." 
 
 "The Catawba, when perfectly ripened, comes close up to the lona and 
 is really good enough, but it needs in our State the warmth of Pleasant 
 Valley with good seasons and good culture." 
 
 It is interesting to note what a correspondent of the Country Gentleman 
 recently said about grapes. Writing from Ohio, he says : " I have spent a 
 thousand dollars in planting, tending and digging up, and am still experi- 
 menting. I planted an acre of lonas, dug them up and planted Salems, 
 and now, after ten years labor without fruit enough to pay first cost of 
 vines, I have to dig them up and put out Delawares which will stand thirty 
 years if properly cared for " 
 
NATIVE FRUITS. 4l 
 
 Raspberries. 
 
 It augurs well for the future now that the quality of fruit forms a subject 
 for discussion in horticultural journals. We usually attach too much 
 importance to appearance and productiveness, and have too little regard 
 for flavor. Take for example the newer Raspberries, and we may well ask 
 ourselves what progress they indicate. True, we have made gains in certain 
 directions in hardiness and productiveness, but the flavor has not been 
 improved, on the contrary it has deteriorated. With one or two exceptions 
 hardly any of the newer raspberries are fit for garden cultivation, and we 
 have to rely mainly on the older sorts for high flavored fruit. It is question 
 able whether this is the right kind of progress. In raising new fruits now-a- 
 da\s, we should aim at producing in the first place, fruit of good quality, 
 due regard being had for the necessary vigor and bearing properties of the 
 plant. But in Raspberries I refer now to the newer sorts we have a 
 superabundance of vigor and little flavor. What we want in red Rasp- 
 berries is a fruit with flavor equal to that of Brinckle's Orange but sufficiently 
 firm to carry well, and the plant should be as vigorous, hardy and produc- 
 tive as Braydywine, Thawck, Delaware, Philadelphia and others of that 
 type which produce dry, insipid fruit. The public are getting tired of them. 
 So far as I know, the nearest approach to the perfect red raspberry is the 
 Clarke or the Herstine, although these are said to fail in some localities or 
 lack firmness. 
 
 Reliance, though not so good as either in quality, possesses greater 
 firmness, and would probably be more valuable for market. 
 
 I have not seen the Cllthbert, but if it comes up to the descriptions 
 which are given of it, it is the raspberry that has been anxiously looked 
 after for years. 
 
 The Turner is esteemed by many on account of the sweetness of the 
 fruit and the great hardiness of the plant, but it is too soft to bear much 
 carriage. I think the time has arrived when so many mere apologies for 
 fruit should be discarded and our attention turned to those varieties which 
 deserve it. A step forward has been made in yellow Raspberries in the in- 
 troduction of the Caroline, a berry of fair quality and the plant is sufficiently 
 vigorous and hardy to withstand severe weather. 
 
 New RochellP, a new cap, is remarkably productive, but the fruit has 
 a dirty color and its quality is indifferent. 
 
 A well known authority says " The Clarke is by no means the best of 
 red raspberries. The Hudson River Antwerp, Fastolff, Franconia and 
 Knevett's Giant are all fine, and only need to be laid down in winter. 
 Brinckle's Orange is not very tender. It never suffers if laid down, and it 
 is the finest of all the raspberries." 
 
 " Caroline is a Yellow Cap, less seedy and better flavored than the class 
 generally, but still not to be compared with Orange. People who want fine 
 raspberries must stand by the old sorts named above. The seedy, insipid 
 caps may do for market to supply those who cannot afford better." 
 
 I hope this question of quality in fruits will be more freely discussed in 
 the future than in the past. An exchange of opinion, together with the 
 discussions which must result therefrom, will have a tendency to bring 
 the choicer fruits more prominently before the public. In this manner a 
 keener appreciation for really good things will be encouraged. 
 
42 NATIVE FRUITS. 
 
 Strawberries. 
 
 So many new varieties are now on trial and opinions differ so much as 
 to their value that it is a difficult matter to select those which merit particu- 
 lar notice. 
 
 Crystal City, one of the newest sorts, appears to meet with favor every 
 where on account of its extreme earliness and good quality. It is the first 
 to ripen with us. The fruit, however, is so soft as to render it unfit for 
 long carriage. The plant is very vigorous and productive, and requires hill 
 culture. 
 
 Cinderella is growing in estimation as a choice garden sort. 
 
 Sharpless has succeeded beyond the anticipations of the most sanguine- 
 According to all accounts it has failed in but a few localities. 
 
 Glendale will perhaps be valuable for market on account of its bright 
 color, lateness and productiveness, but the flavor is not of such a character 
 as to render it desirable for garden cultivation. I saw it at Cleveland when 
 it was first exhibited two years ago, and I concluded at once that its poor 
 flavor would be a great drawback to its successful introduction. 
 
 Glossy Cone, one of the more recent introductions of Mr. Durand, is a 
 handsome fruit, but this season it rotted before it was fully ripe, and the 
 flavor was indifferent. The plant is vigorous and productive. I notice 
 that this variety usually is highly recommended. 
 
 Crescent Seedling is wonderfully productive, and when grown in hills is 
 a success on nearly all soils. 
 
 Miner's Great Prolific produces large, handsome fruit, but it is dry and 
 spongy. Plant very vigorous and productive. 
 
 Champion and Windsor Chief as we have them are distinct. The 
 former is a moderate, low grower and produces medium sized fruit which is 
 very acid. It ripened June Qth. The latter is a strong grower and yields 
 abundantly large, fine flavored berries. Ripened June i6th. We received 
 the Windsor Chief from Michigan and the Champion from a grower in 
 New York State. 
 
 Panic, raised near Waterloo, is a good shaped, high flavored fruit, nearly 
 equal to Triomphe de Grande. The plant is more vigorous and the fruit 
 more perfect. 
 
 M. Roe, in response to an inquiry kindly furnishes the following notes : 
 
 "I regard the Bid well as the most promising new variety of Strawberries. 
 It was originated in Michigan by a Mr. Bidwell and was first sent out Mr. 
 T. T. Lyon. The plant is a rapid and vigorous grower, forms immense 
 stools, foliage light green, and there was not a sign of curl leaf, burning or 
 scalding during the entire season. Very productive. Fruit large, conical, 
 regular, of a bright, glossy crimson color, with a glazed neck. Flesh firm, 
 pink, rich, meaty and of the genuine strawberry flavor. Mr. Downing and 
 many others who saw it, thought it the most promising of the new berries. 
 Season early." 
 
 Oliver Goldsmith is a variety originated by Mr. Wm. Bennison, Dela- 
 ware, Ohio, in 1874, and is a cross between Charles Downing and the 
 Monarch of the West. I have been so impressed with the value of this 
 variety that I have purchased the entire stock. The plant is strong, vigor- 
 ous and very productive; the fruit large and of good quality." 
 
NATIVE FRUITS. 43 
 
 Mr. E. Williams of New Jersey says that at the State Horticultural 
 Society's Exhibition in Newark last June, Mr. E. W. Durand, of Irvington, 
 rxhibited samples of two new seedlings which he has named Superb and 
 Jersey Queen, which attracted much attention from professionals and 
 amateurs. Mr Williams regards the Superb as much the best in quality of 
 any berry he has yet shown. 
 
 I close t'us report hoping that the season of 1881 may be a favorable 
 one for fruit, so that a fair trial may be given the many interesting novelties 
 which are now being experimented with. 
 
 W. C. BARRY, 
 
 Secretary of Native Fruit Committee. 
 
NOTES ON PEACHES. 
 
 SEASON OF 1880. 
 
 [Published in The Cultivator and Country Gentleman, January 0, 1881.] 
 
 The season of 1880 was remarkably favorable for the peach crop in Wes- 
 tern New York. An experimental orchard embracing 114 varieties, which 
 we set out three years ago came into bearing for the first time and en- 
 abled us to test the leading standard sorts, besides many of the older 
 kinds which are little known, as well as several novelties. I give the re- 
 sults of our observations, naming the kinds as nearly as possible in the order 
 of ripening. 
 
 The Early Sorts. 
 
 On the 24th of July we gathered fine specimens of Briggs' Red May. 
 This variety originated in California, and was one of the first of the very 
 early sorts brought to notice. It has much the same character as the Alex- 
 ander and Amsden, and is hardly distinct enough to be grown under a sep- 
 arate name. Mr. Myers, a prominent peach-grower of Bridgeville, Delaware, 
 says it is less liable to rot than either Alexander or Amsden. He also states 
 that a well-known pomologist of Georgia, after having seen Briggs' Red 
 May two years, believes it superior to Alexander or Amsden for shipping. 
 
 July 26. We have before us splendid specimens of Alexander and 
 Amsden. The difference between them is very slight. Alexander, however, 
 appears to average larger, and is less disposed to decay upon the tree. 
 
 July 27. To-day we received a fine basket of Waterloo peaches, gathered 
 from the original tree. These are fully up to the standard. Next year we 
 hope to have fruit from our own trees, when the opportunities for com- 
 parison will be better. 
 
 July 29. This morning we find upon our table a remarkable collection 
 of peaches. Alexander, Amsden, High's Early Canada, and Harper's Early 
 are ripe and beautiful. All these varieties bear a striking resemblance to 
 each other. High's Early parts more freely from the stone than the others, 
 and Harper's Early seems to excel in flavor. 
 
 August 2. We sold Alexander and Amsden to-day at the rate of $3 per 
 bushel. The specimens were superb, many measuring eight inches in cir- 
 cumference, and weighing four and a half ounces. 
 
 August 4. Early Beatrice is now ripe, but after enjoying such mag- 
 nificent fruit as we have for the last few days, this small peach fails to give 
 satisfaction, and is of little value here. Mr. Myers writes me he has mar- 
 keted thousands of bushels of this peach, and he finds it valuable ; though 
 small, it is produced very abundantly ; the tree is hardy, and the fruit is ex- 
 empt from rot. 
 
NOTE3 QN PEACHES. 45 
 
 August 7. Early Louise, now in perfection, seems to be a profitable 
 market variety. Mr. Myers says that in Delaware the tree is remarkably 
 productive, and when in bloom it is capable of withstanding, without injury, 
 a greater degree of frost than any other peach. 
 
 August 10. That delicious peach, the Early Rivers, is now in fine con- 
 dition, for eating. In this vicinity it is, beyond question, the best variety 
 we have. Mr. Robert Hogg, in his Fruit Manual, says: "This pe?ch was 
 sent to me by Mr. Rivers on the 2oth of July, 1867, when it was first pro- 
 duced, and I was so struck with its superiority over all other early peaches, 
 and its perfectly distinct character, that I considered it a fitting opportunity 
 to record the name of the raiser by associating it with a fruit which cannot 
 fail to become a universal favorite. In France it succeeds so well, that Mr. 
 F. Jamin says it is the finest early peach in France. Its only fault is that it 
 splits at the stone." In one of my reports on peaches, I expressed the 
 opinion that Early Rivers would not be of much value for market, owing to 
 its thin skin and delicate flesh, but Mr. Myers, who for ten years has made 
 a specialty of peach-growing for market, informs me that Early Rivers is the 
 most valuable of any of the early peaches for market. It is a great satis- 
 faction to be able to commend so choice a peach for both purposes. In 
 many instances only the coarser fruits can be recommended for market. 
 
 August 15. Early Leopold is too small, and the quality too poor, to 
 render it worthy of a place in a collection. 
 
 August 1 8. Rivers' Early York is the earliest freestone we have fruited. 
 Fruit of medium size, good quality, and the tree yields well. Snow is a 
 beautiful white peach, especially valuable for canning and preserving. It 
 deserves more extensive culture. 
 
 August 20. Large Early Mignonne is of medium size, fine quality, and 
 a freestone. The tree, loaded with fruit, presents a remarkably fine ap- 
 pearance. 
 
 August 22. Hale's Early is ripe. 
 
 August 23. Acton Scott, Early Rose, Early Savoy, and Belle Conquete 
 are good peaches, but not large enough to be grown, profitably. Belle de 
 Doue, Belle Beauce, Grosse Mignonne and Belle de la Croix have the 
 highest flavor and can be recommended to all who are seeking after de- 
 licious fruits. 
 
 August 25. Two of the best peaches in our collection are now ripe. I 
 refer to Haine's Early and Large Early York varieties which are undoubt- 
 edly identical. I have.no hesitation in placing them at the head of the list, 
 cither for garden or orchard. George the IV is another high-flavored 
 peach, resembling the two last named very closely. Cooledge's Favorite is 
 one of the most valuable vaneties. The fruit is not large, but handsome 
 and of good quality, and the tree is so hardy that this peach will always be 
 a favorite in the northern sections of this country, where many kinds fail, 
 owing to the rigorous and changeable climate. Mountain Rose, of recent 
 introduction, promises to be desirable for market. It is not so richly 
 flavored as the above, but large and handsome. 
 
 August 31. Shanghai, a very large Chinese clingstone peach, is ripe, and 
 is remarkable for its fine flavor and handsome appearance. The tree is ex- 
 ceedingly prolific, and the fruit is so showy that it will take well in market. 
 Most of the specimens measured nine and one-half inches in circumference, 
 and weighed eight ounces. It is a variety which merits attention. 
 
46 NOTES ON PEACHES. 
 
 The September Varieties. 
 
 September i. Early Alfred, Crimson Galande, Dagmar and Pucelle de 
 Malines, are handsome white-fleshed peaches of medium size ; but ripening, 
 as they do, about the same time as Crawford's Early and Surpasse Meloco- 
 ton, they cannot compete with them, and we shall drop them from the cata- 
 logue. Crimson Galande, with its deep purple cheek, is very handsome, 
 and a tree full of fruit is an interesting object to look upon. Crawford's 
 Early, on account of its size and attractive appearance, maintains its repu- 
 tation as one of the best peaches for market. Foster and Surpasse Aieloc- 
 oton are rivals which are steadily growing in favor, and both are superior to 
 Crawford's in flavor, and they average equally as large, if not larger. We 
 had specimens of Surpasse Melocoton weighing five and three-fourths 
 ounces, and measuring eijjht and five-eighths inches in circumference; 
 Foster weighed five and one-fourth ounces, and measured eight and five- 
 eighths inches in circumference ; Crawford's Early weighed five ounces, and 
 measured eight and one-fourth inches in circumference. Richmond, Dr. 
 Sylvester's seedling, does not prove satisfactory. Conkling is a large, fine 
 yellow peach. Alexandra Noblesse, one of the newer sorts, is an excellent 
 large peach, raised by Mr. Rivers from the old Noblesse. Early Silver, from 
 which the Early Rivers was raised, is a splendid variety, and deserves ex- 
 tensive trial. Magdala, Morning Glory and Atlanta are medium sized, 
 white-fleshed peaches, but not large and attractive enough for market. At- 
 lanta deserves attention from amateuis for its delicate flavor. The Wager 
 peach, with yellow flesh parting freely from the stone, is said to be valuable 
 for canning. 
 
 September 5. Morris White is still a favorite with orchardists. 
 
 September 10. Jacques' Rareripe, resembling Crawford's Early, may be 
 esteemed in some sections of the country, but it lacks flavor here. Mon- 
 strous of Douay, Chevreuse Hative, and Hicks' Seedling do not possess suf- 
 ficient merit to render their cultivation advantageous. Goshawk, raised 
 from Cooledge's Favorite, adds size to the many valuable qualities of its 
 parent. It is certainly very promising. 
 
 September 12. Malta is a desirable peach for the amateur's garden. The 
 flesh is juicy and melting, and the flavor all that one could desire, but the 
 tree is not productive enough to justify us in commending it for market. 
 
 September 15. Leopold ist, a Belgian variety, and Prince of Wales, one 
 of Mr. Rivers' seedlings, are deficient in flavor, and we intend to drop them 
 from our lists. Cole's Early Red will be treated likewise. Just now Brevoort 
 is the best pearh we have. Its flavor it delicious, and on that account it is 
 certainly entitled to a place in every garden. The tree is only a moderate 
 bearer, which would prevent its culture for market. Oldmixon Free is now 
 in first rate condition for eating, and deserves to be, as it is, classed among 
 the most valuable peaches for garden or orchard. In addition to its 
 many other good qualities, it has a rich flavor, which will always make it 
 desirable. Stump the World, although a popular market peach, has not 
 flavor enough to commend it to the attention of amateurs. 
 
 September 20. Susquehannah, a large yellow peach, has a rich, vinous 
 flavor. Hill's Chili has been highly recommended, but I do not see why it 
 should be. The fruit is not large, and the flavor is indifferent. Late 
 Morris White is a variety of Morris White, resembling it in every particular, 
 but ripening ten days later. The Nectarine peach is, by all odds, the best 
 
NOTE3 ON PEACHES. 47 
 
 of its season. It is sajd to have been raised from a stone of a Dutch 
 nectarine, called Grand Noir, and has a peculiarly delicious flavor. \\ hi 
 Melocoton is a large, handsome peach, juicy, melting, and of good quality. 
 Carmine has no flavor, and should therefore be rejected. Red 
 Melocoton and Mammoth Melocoton are fine, yellow-fleshed peac/ 
 Raymacker's resembles Crawford's Late, and does not seem to be any 11 
 provement upon it. 
 
 ^Member 26. Van Buren's Golden Dwarf is a large yellow peach, re- 
 sembling Crawford's Late. It is a clingstone. The tree is of dwarf habit 
 and very prolific. Princess of Wales, raised by Mr. Rivers from seed of 
 Pavie de Pompone, is a beautiful cream-colored peach, melting and ot good 
 flavor valuable on account of its lateness. Crawford's Late continues to 
 be valued as a late peach. Pool's Large Yellow, ripe at same time is a 
 verv larae yellow peach. The flesh is finer than that of Crawford s Late 
 and from what I have seen of this variety, I think it deserves a good deal 
 of attention. It seems quite an improvement on Crawford's Late, 
 bearing qualities I am not able to judge. 
 
 September 27. Lord Palmerston, another of Mr. Rivers' fine seedlings, 
 raised from the Princess of Wales, is very large, skin creamy white, with a 
 pink cheek ; flesh fine, juicy and rich, stained with red at the stone. It 
 deserves careful trial, as it promises to be of great value to succeed Craw- 
 ford's Late. Ward's Late Free is a desirable white-fleshed variety, 
 flavor is excellent. Druid Hill, raised in Baltimore, has an exceedingly 
 pleasant flavor. I should not hesitate to rank it among the best of peaches. 
 It has an additional value in ripening so late, and it surpasses Ward's Late 
 Free in flavor. Walburton Admirable is large, juicy and delicious: a first- 
 class peach in every respect. Heath Free is a choice late peach. McClane's 
 White does not equal it in flavor. Carpenter's White is very good, and 
 merits attention. 
 
 October 2 Lady Palmerston will be valuable further south, but is too. 
 late for this locality. This remark applies equally well to Smock Free, 
 Salway, Temple White. De Grauw's White, Delaney Heath Cling, Jersey, 
 Comet and Jones' Seedling. Some of these in such exceptional seasons as 
 that of 1880 ripen here pretty well. 
 
 A few trees did not produce fruit. This will account for the absence of 
 some kinds from the list. 
 
 Several varieties of the very early peaches show a disposition to decay, 
 and theii value is greatly lessened by this defect. Another year's trial will 
 establish to a certainty the advantages which some sorts possess over others 
 in this respect. As will be seen from these notes, several old peaches which 
 have been neglected of late have been found to possess qualities which well 
 merit attention. We expect next year to fruit the following : Saunders. 
 Wilder, Musser, Conkling, Mrs. Brett, Bradley, Honeywell, Governor Gar- 
 land, etc. Mr. Myers says that Saunders is not quite so large as Alexander, 
 but has fine color and is entirely free from rot. The tree is very produc- 
 tive, and ripens its fruit a few days after Alexander. Downing ripens with 
 Alexander and Amsden, and is of medium size, and free from rot. Wilder, 
 of same season as Alexander and Amsden, decays like these varieties. 
 
 This collection of peaches has been the most interesting that I have had 
 the pleasure of examining. I hope that other fruit growers will favor us with 
 the results of their experiments, so that we may assist each other in deter- 
 mining which kinds to keep and which to reject. 
 
NOTES ON SOME DESIRABLE 
 
 FRUITS. 
 
 [Published in the Country Gentleman.'] 
 
 An Invaluable Apple for the Table. 
 
 Considering the large number of apples known to cultivators, it is sur- 
 prising how few answer the requirements of a perfect table fruit. In 
 choosing apples for eating, it is customary to make flavor a primary consid- 
 eration. This I think is an error, for some of the highest flavored apples 
 have such hard solid flesh that they burden the stomach, and are difficult to 
 digest. In my opinion the most important qualification of a good eating 
 apple is a tender, delicate, melting flesh, which dissolves quickly and digests 
 easily. Flavor is the next consideration. 
 
 Apples abounding in acidity are liable to derange the stomach, and a 
 mild sub-acid flavor is undoubtedly the pleasantest as well as the one best 
 calculated to promote digestion. I am reminded of this fact by the hand- 
 some and excellent Fanieuse or Snow apples which we are enjoying, and 
 which I am glad to say are tolerably abundant in the market. This 
 variety, more than any other that I know, possesses qualities which com- 
 mend it, not only to all w|po enjoy fine fruit, but more especially to persons 
 who suffer from indigestion. It is a beautiful fruit, of medium size ; the 
 skin is of a purplish crimson color, its flesh is white as snow, tender and 
 delicate, and the flavor very pleasant, with just enough acidity to render it 
 exceedingly refreshing. Now that fruit has come to be regarded so val- 
 uable an adjunct to other food, and so conducive to health, there are many 
 no doubt searching after the choicest kinds, and I recommend this as one 
 of the finest fruits of its season. 
 
 Criticism of the Above. 
 
 The Fameuse Apple. In your number for Dec 2d, W. C. Barry's article 
 upon " an invaluable apple for the table," selects the Fameuse as the one variety most 
 nearly combining all the qualities of a dessert apple. He is certainly quite right as to 
 its quality when it is grown perfectly, and free from black spots or cracking ; but unless 
 he succeeds much better than myself and many others, he will have to grow at least 
 five apples to get one fair specimen. For this reason, perhaps, his article may mislead 
 many irt selecting this variety for setting, unless he can give a remedy for this defect 
 in the fruit, and loss in growing for market. I would suggest the Gravenstein as an 
 apple equally as good in quality, growing more uniformly fair, and much more profitable. 
 
 South Byron, jV. Y. C. E. 0. 
 
 RESPONSE. 
 
 The Fameuse Apple. 
 
 EDS. COUNTRY GENTLEMAN On page 822 of your paper, C. E. C. crit- 
 icises my article on the Fameuse apple. In reply, I would say that the 
 object of my remarks was to draw attention to the valuable qualities of the 
 
NOTES ON SOME DESIRABLE FRUITS. 4'.' 
 
 apple as a dessert fruit. I had no intention of recommending it for mar- 
 ket, although I believe that when it is properly appreciated it will command 
 a ready sale at good prices. For family use no apple of its season equals 
 it. Those who know its value will readily pay an extra price for it. It 
 sometimes cracks and spots, but this undoubtedly comes either from allow- 
 ing the trees to overbear, or from their unthrifty condition. We all know 
 that judicious thinning and good culture are necessary to produce fine fruit. 
 To obtain perfect specimens of the Fameuse, it is highly important to have 
 the tree vigorous, and if the crop is too large, the fruit should be thinned 
 out. If growers find that this sort is more difficult and expensive to raise 
 than others, then a higher price should be demanded for it. No better 
 proof of its widespread popularity could be offered than the fact that in the 
 catalogue of the American Pomological Society, it is recommended for 
 nearly every State in the Union. 
 
 C. E. C. suggests the Gravenstein apple as equally good in quality, growing 
 more uniformly fair, and much more profitable. The Gravenstein is an 
 excellent apple, and 'probably more profitable for market than the Fameuse, 
 but it will not take the place of that apple. The Gravenstein ripens in 
 September and October, when there is an abundance of choice fall fruit. 
 The Fameuse is in perfection from November till the middle o f January, 
 before the best winter apples are ready to eat. The Gravenstein is high 
 flavored, tender and juicy, but rather acid, and is liable to derange the 
 stomach of many persons. The Fameuse, on the contrary, has such a 
 mild, sub-acid flavor that it never disturbs even the weakest stomach. This 
 constitutes its chief value. 
 
 I think the idea which I wished to convey could not be made clearer than 
 by comparing these two apples. Now-a-days a great deal of money is ex- 
 pended on medicines for the cure of indigestion, and I would suggest the 
 daily use of this apple, during its season, as one of the best remedies for this 
 disorder, as well as one of the most valuable means to keep the digestive 
 organs in a healthy condition. I am so convinced of the superior excellence 
 of the fruit that I have no hesitation in recommending its introduction to 
 every garden, no matter how small. In time the public will understand its 
 real value, and then there will be a demand for it. A family which has 
 once enjoyed the fruit, will not be without it. 
 
 [Published in the Country Gentleman.] 
 
 A, Valuable Chinese Peach. 
 
 One of the most remarkable peaches produced in our extensive collection 
 during the past season was the Shanghai. This variety, although known to 
 cultivators for a long time, having been sent to this country from China 
 several years ago, has received very little attention. We have fruited it 
 once or twice under glass, and have been struck with its distinct and attract- 
 ive appearance, but it has never shown itself to such good advantage as it 
 did the past season in the orchard. The young tree producing the fruit was 
 heavily laden, and all the specimens were large to very large, many measur- 
 ing nine and one half inches in circumference and weighing eight ounces. 
 
 In form it is roundish oblong, somewhat irregular, with a deep suture on 
 one side. The skin is of a pale green color, occasionally marked with red 
 next the sun. The flesh is white, red at the stone, to which it clings ; very 
 
r >0 NOTES ON SOME DESIRABLE FRUITS. 
 
 juicy, melting, and of excellent quality. The tree seems to be hardy, very 
 productive, and the fruit ripens about the middle of August. Notwithstand- 
 ing the many fine varieties now under cultivation, we invite attention to this 
 one, believing that it has qualifications which render it worthy of the atten- 
 tion of both amateur and orchardist. 
 
 [Published in the Country Gentleman.'] 
 
 A Splendid Early Pear. 
 
 Petite Marguerite is one of M. Andre Leroy's seedlings, and was held in 
 such high esteem by that celebrated French pomologist that he named it 
 after the youngest of his grand-daughters. In the year 1863 it was first 
 offered in France, and in this country it has been on trial several years, but 
 not until recently have its merits been recognized, and its propagation and 
 dissemination seriously undertaken. This shows how much time is required 
 to determine the value and to raise a stock of a new fruit. M. Leroy was 
 remarkably fortunate in the production of choice pears, but many of his 
 seedlings, like Eugene Appert, Henri Desportes, Madame B. Despcrtes, 
 Mme. Andre Leroy, and Maurice Despories, are such indifferent growers 
 that nurserymen will not attempt to propagate them, and these sorts must 
 therefore remain comparatively unknown, at least until a higher estimate is 
 placed upon quality, and cultivators are willing to pay an extra price for 
 choice kinds that are difficult to raise in the nursery. These varieties will 
 all have to be double worked, which of course adds to the cost of the tree. 
 Petite Marguerite, although a moderate grower, both on pear and quince, 
 is sufficiently vigorous to satisfy nurserymen, and I hope in the near future 
 to see this valuable pear extensively propagated in the nurseries. The list 
 of choice early pears is not so large but a few more good sorts may be 
 added, and I am certain that all lovers of fine fruits will welcome the new 
 comer. There is no doubt that when this pear becomes known it will be 
 regarded as indispensable. 
 
 It is of medium size, just large enough to be acceptable as a dessert 
 fruit ; skin green, covered with grey and brown dots, and sometimes 
 bronzed on the side exposed to the sun ; flesh greenish white, fine, melting, 
 juicy, acidulous, with a pleasant perfume. Ripening, as it does, about ten 
 days before the Bartlett, it possesses a particular value as an early pear. 
 As a fruit of the very first quality, it can be highly recommended to con- 
 noisseurs for the table, but it is not large and showy enough for market. 
 M. Leroy, in his "Dictionnaire de Pomologie," describes it as the best pear 
 ripening in August. We believe this statement to be as true in America as 
 it is in France. 
 
WIER'S CUT-LEAVED MAPLE. 
 
 (ACER DASYCARPUM VAR. WlERII LACINIATUM.) 
 
 In thr American Af/ricultn.rist.] 
 
 To acquire a really valuable new tree is nowadays of such rare occurrence 
 that, when a novelty like Wier's Maple is introduced, there is cause for 
 congratulation among admirers of beautiful trees. As this tree was 
 brought to notice in 1873, giving sufficient time to prove it thoroughly, we 
 may now safely venture an opinion as to its worth. Like its parent, the 
 native Silver Maple, it has a vigorous constitution, and makes a remark- 
 ably rapid and luxuriant growth ; the leading shoots push directly upwards, 
 while the lateral branches, being slender, fall in graceful curves towards the 
 ground. This half drooping habit is an interesting feature in this tree, 
 while its deeply and variously cut leaves constitute one of its greatest 
 charms, and fully justify us in ranking it among the most valuable of orna- 
 mental trees. This variety, as well as the typical form, possesses a great 
 advantage as an ornamental tree which is not sufficiently appreciated, that 
 is. its freedom from disease and the attacks of insects. Not alone in 
 Spring, but all through the Summer, its clean, bright, delicately cut foliage 
 has a peculiar freshness which delights the eye ; though the leaves do not 
 assume the brilliant colors for which some of our maples are so justly ad- 
 mired, nevertheless the rich golden autumnal tints of this tree make it a 
 desirable object in scenery. The extremely rapid and spreading growth 
 of Weir's Maple makes vigorous pruning absolutely neccessary, and a 
 judicious use of the knife gives the tree a pleasing outline, and tends 
 greatly to increase its beauty. I think all who know this Maple will join with 
 me in commending it, on account of its graceful habit, as a fit companion for 
 the Cut-leaved Birch. It is especially suited for planting singly in conspic- 
 uous places on the lawn, and introduced among other trees, it imparts to a 
 group an effective variety and expression. 
 
DOUBLE WHITE-FLOWERED 
 HORSE CHESTNUT. 
 
 [Published in the American Agriculturist, February, 1880.] 
 
 Although the Double-flowered Horse Chestnut was introduced to this 
 country in 1852, this superb variety has not acquired that popularity which 
 its merits warrant. It is surprising that so important an addition to our 
 hardy flowering trees should not have met with greater favor, and I can 
 only account for this lack of appreciation by the fact that its many good 
 qualities have not been understood. It was figured and described the first 
 time in America, in the Genesee Farmer for 1852. Since that time it has 
 been propagated and disseminated in but limited numbers, and, as yet, fine 
 specimen trees are seldom seen. The first imported tree, obtained from the 
 late Mr. Rivers, is now growing on the grounds of Ellwanger & Barry, at 
 Rochester, and is about sixty feet high, its branches covering a circle twenty 
 feet in diameter. It is as hardy as the common Horse Chestnut, of vigor- 
 ous, erect growth, regular, pyramidal outline, with rich, dense foliage and 
 splendid inflorescence. Few trees can lay claim to a greater combination of 
 attractive features, and it possesses several characteristics which render it 
 even more desirable for ornamental planting than the ordinary form. In habit 
 it is more upright and formal, its height being about three times its breadth, 
 and a fully developed specimen is a perfect pyramid of verdure. Its flowers 
 are perfectly double, and in spikes larger than those of the single flowering 
 kind, resembling gigantic hyacinth bouquets. They appear in remarkable 
 profusion at the season of bloom, which is about two weeks later than that 
 of the common kind. On the lawn this tree forms a conspicuous and 
 pleasing object, and although I have never seen it used as a street tree, I 
 think it admirably adapted to the purpose. It produces no fruit, a charac- 
 teristic which many will regard as an important point in its favor, as much 
 litter is avoided. A proper consideration of the merits of this fine tree will 
 induce amateurs and planters to employ it oftener in the ornamentation of 
 public and private grounds. 
 
SOME OF THE BEST HARDY 
 ROSES, 
 
 WITH BRIEF HINTS AS TO CULTURE. 
 
 [Published in the Rural New Yorker, January, 1881.'] 
 
 I know of no hardy plants which will render a garden more interesting 
 and attractive than a choice collection of roses. There are many persons 
 who suppose that rose culture is exceedingly difficult, and who for this 
 reason are unwilling to attempt it. This is an error, and the object of this 
 article is to demonstrate how easily the rose may be grown, as well as to 
 call attention to some of those varieties which are. best adapted for general 
 cultivation. 
 
 Location. 
 
 One of the principal requisites of the rose is a genial situation. We 
 should select the best spot in our garden ; a place which is protected from 
 bleak, cutting winds, and sheltered from the full force of a mid-day or after- 
 noon's sun. Too much shade must be avoided, as well as proximity to 
 hedges or overhanging trees. An eastern aspect, 'where the full benefit of 
 the morning sun may be obtained, is the best. A hedge, wall or fence on 
 the north, south and west sides will afford the necessary shade and shelter. 
 Fences and walls, usually unsightly, may be rendered very ornamental by 
 covering them with climbing vines and running roses. S. Reynolds Hole, 
 the well-known rosarian, says: "The rose garden must be both exposed 
 and sheltered, a place both of sunshine and of shade. The center must be 
 clear and open, around it the protecting screen. It must be a fold wherein 
 the sun shines warmly on the sheep and the wind is tempered to the shorn 
 lamb a haven in which the soft breeze flutters the sail, but over which the 
 tempest roars, and against whose piers the billow hurls itself in vain." 
 
 To secure the best results our roses should be kept together and planted 
 in rows in a prepared border, or in beds; when scattered about the garden 
 it is difficult to give them the care which they require. If we are content 
 with moderate results, we can plant them here and there in the garden, 
 where they will produce a fine effect; but we must not expect such fine 
 blooms as can be obtained from those plants which have the benefit of rich 
 soil and shelter. 
 
 Soil. 
 
 It is absolutely necessary that the soil should be well drained. The rose 
 is a great feeder and luxuriates in a rich, stiff loam, such as is found in a 
 well cultivated garden. If the soil is sandy and light, it should be made 
 heavier by the addition of cow manure, clay or loam. If too heavy and 
 stiff, lime, leaf mould and stable manure should be applied. 
 
54 SOME OF THE BEST HARDY ROSES, 
 
 Manures. 
 
 No plant that I am acquainted with shows so quickly the advantage of a 
 well prepared soil as the rose. In rich ground it makes a luxuriant growth 
 and yields flowers in the greatest profusion. In poor soil it makes no growth 
 and quickly becomes the victim of disease and suffers from the attacks of 
 various insects, so that it becomes necessary, if you wish success with your 
 roses, to plant them in good ground, properly emiched in advance with 
 well decomposed manure. Fresh manure incorporated with the soil just 
 before planting, is apt to injure the roots of the plants, and unless suitable 
 manure can be obtained it is better not to use any until after the plants 
 have started ; then the manure can be applied on the surface of the ground 
 as a top-dressing and be left as a fertilizer through the summer. It will 
 keep the soil cool during the hot, dry weather, and will prevent the plants 
 from suffering from drought. Then in the fall, say in November, give each 
 plant a liberal supply of the best cow manure, leaving it around the plants 
 during the winter and turning it under in April. Of all the manures which 
 I have experimented with cow manure shows the best effects spent hop>s 
 mixed with cow manure add value to the dressing. This mode of manuring 
 should be practiced every autumn. Liquid manure is very beneficial and 
 can be applied occasionally during the summer, but care must be taken that 
 it be not too strong ; make it weak and apply it frequently. 
 
 Pruning. 
 
 This is an operation of great importance. We find the early spring, be- 
 fore the plants have commenced to grow, the best time to prune. Some 
 varieties require to be cut back more than others ; but a rule which will 
 apply generally is to shorten the strongest stems of last season's growth to 
 about 1 8 or 24 inches, and cut out all weakly growth. We take it for 
 granted that the bushes make a growth of from five to seven feet during the 
 season. In my garden several varieties make an annual growth of eight to 
 nine feet, that is, when not summer-pruned. A great many are afraid to 
 use the knife vigorously, and their plants suffer materially on that account. 
 In order to obtain flowers in autumn the plants m?y be slightly pruned in 
 July, after the flowering season is over. The plants will then produce a 
 quantity of blooms again in September, and the shape of the bushes will 
 be improved. 
 
 Planting. 
 
 The spring is the best season for planting, although where the winters 
 are not severe it can be done in autumn. It is highly important to plant 
 early, as roses suffer extremely if set out after the growth has started. April 
 is the best time in this locality. Secure your plants early, and if they are 
 budded on the manetti, plant them so that not only the stock, but also a 
 portion of the bud will be covered with earth. This will enable the plant 
 to send out roots above the bud, and in a short time the bush will be on its 
 own roots. This point is worthy of serious consideration, If you do not 
 set out the plants yourself, see that your gardener observes this suggestion. 
 I prefer budded plants, except for beds, to any others, as you obtain a 
 stronger growth and larger and finer flowers than you do from plants on 
 their own roots. Some object to budded plants on account of the suckers 
 they send up. These suckers will not appear if the planting is properly 
 done, and any one who loves roses will soon learn to distinguish the stock 
 from the plant, and as soon as a sucker appears it can be cut out. 
 
WITH BRIEF HINTS AS TO CULTURE. 55 
 
 Protection in Winter. 
 
 To protect against injury from severe weather in winter, I would recom- 
 mend laying down the shoots in the autumn, the same as is done with 
 raspberry canes. In bending the stems be careful not to break them, and 
 cover with a few inches of earth, leaves, 01 branches of evergreens. Some- 
 times the shoots make such a strong growth that it is almost impossible to 
 bend them without breaking. In this case it is better to tie them to stakes 
 and cover them with straw. A little practice and experience, however, will 
 enable any one to lay down roses without injuring them. 
 
 Care and Management During the Growing Season. 
 
 Having procured strong, thrifty plants, and having set them out properly 
 in well prepared soil, and in a good situation, your roses ought to make a 
 good growth, If dry weather should prevail, liquid manure, well diluted, 
 will be very beneficial One of the greatest secrets of success in rose cul- 
 ture is to keep the plants in a thrifty condition. As long as the plants are 
 in robust health they easily resist the attacks of insects, and with a little 
 assistance from us they gain the battle every time. 
 
 We hear it said frequently, " If I could only keep off the insects, my 
 roses would thrive.'' At the outset 1 am going to be plain, and tell you 
 that insects are numerous ; that they are great foes, and can be conquered 
 only by great industry and perseverance. Now, if we esteem our roses as 
 we ought to, we will be willing to devote some time to them every day. To 
 the ardent lover of the Queen of Flowers, nothing is pleasanter than each 
 morning to make a tour of the rose garden, while the plants are yet spark- 
 ling with myriads of dew drops. How can we pass an hour more pleasantly 
 than in examining the variety of growth which the different kinds exhibit, 
 in comparing the peculiarities of habit, in noting the marked vigor of some 
 sorts, the thorny shoots of others and the beautiful foliage with which some 
 varieties are clothed ? And, while engaged in this examination, let us keep 
 on the lookout for the rose caterpillar, which in May makes its appearance, 
 rolling itself up in the leaves. Its presence is easily detected, and we must 
 at once make up our minds to put an end to its career, by crushing it be- 
 tween our thumb and fingers. Go over every plant, every day, and rid them 
 of this pest. The rose slug appears in July and August, and eats the leaves. 
 It can be disposed of by hand-picking and by syringing the plants with a 
 weak solution of whale-oil soap. White hellebore, sprinkled over the plants 
 while the dew is upon them, will keep off other insects. 
 
 Roses in Bush Form. 
 
 The bush form is the one usually adopted, and is perhaps, on the whole, 
 the most satisfactory. Roses grown in this way produce the finest blooms 
 and furnish flowers a longer time than when pegged down. 
 
 Roses Pegged Down. 
 
 This is a method of bending the shoots so as to make the plants low and 
 dwarf. It is practiced to great advantage when making beds of roses upon 
 the lawn. Plants intended for growing in this way should be allowed to 
 make their first season's growth in the usual way. Early the following 
 spring shorten the longest and strongest shoots a little, and cut away the 
 weak stems. Then, before the buds start, bend the shoots toward the 
 
56 SOME OF THE BEST HARDY ROSES, 
 
 ground and fasten them to it by wooden pegs or hooks, such as you can 
 obtain at any pile of brush. It is surprising what a quantity of blooms will 
 appear on each shoot, making a superb display; but there is this disadvan- 
 tage, that all the flowers appear nearly at one time, and there is not that 
 succession of blooms that there is on the bush plant. Pegging down must 
 be attended to every spring, preserving and bending down the best wood, 
 and cutting out weak growth. For beds or the outer edges of borders, 
 where tall growth Vould be objectionable, this method can be practised. 
 
 VARIETIES. 
 
 I shall recommend only those which can be grown to the best advantage 
 by the amateur cultivator. 
 
 Alfred Golomb I name first, because I regard it as the peer of any rose. 
 It has a vigorous habit, fine foliage, and it produces carmine-crimson flowers 
 of beautiful form and delightful fragrance. That famous raiser of roses, 
 Lacharme, at Lyons, who rarely, if ever, fails to give us a good rose, origin- 
 ated this one. 
 
 Anne de Diesbach is one of the older roses, which the newer sorts have 
 not yet displaced. It lacks fullness of flower, but its brilliant, carmine shade 
 is.unequaled and renders it one of the most effective roses. 
 
 La France, now classed among the Hybrid Teas, is a rose the beauties 
 of which it is difficult to portray. Possessing in an eminent degree the de- 
 licious fragrance and perpetual-blooming qualities of the Tea Rose, it has 
 also sufficient hardiness to endure severe cold, when it receives a little extra 
 care. It generally produces its choice blooms so abundantly and continu- 
 ously that great injury is done to the plant unless some of its buds are 
 removed. It is a most valuable variety, and should be included in every 
 collection. 
 
 John Hopper, one of the old favorites, has hardly an equal as a rose for 
 general cultivation. It is a model of healthy habit and robust constitution ; 
 its flowers are large, full, of a bright rose-color with carmine center. Among 
 many varieties in my garden, it has given the best results with the least care. 
 
 General Jacqueminot is another old and well known sort. It is hardy 
 and vigorous, and its blooms, though not so well formed as might be desired, 
 are of a brilliant crimson color, which always attracts and pleases. 
 
 Madam Victor Verdier is a most beautiful, finely formed, very fragrant, 
 free-blooming rose, of a carmine-crimson color. 
 
 Comtesse Ce ;ile de Chabrilliant, though not large, is the admiration of 
 all connoisseurs for its symmetrical blooms of a delicate pink shade. 
 
 Marie Baumann; on account of its unequaled beauty, ought to have been 
 placed first on the list. It resembles Alfred Colomb, and is finer, but it is 
 probably not quite so valuable, being less vigorous. Perfect blooms such 
 as it usually yields, possess the highest qualities which could be sought after 
 in a rose, and in competition with other sorts of its class almost invariably 
 take the prize. 
 
 Ghas. Lefebvre is rapidly becoming one of the greatest favorites, Its 
 large, well-formed, reddish-crimson flowers never fail to excite admiration, 
 while its good habit and fine foliage commend it to those who appreciate 
 desirable qualities. 
 
WITH BRIEF HINTS AS TO CULTURE. 57 
 
 Coquette des Blanches and Madame Alfred de Rougemont are valuable 
 free-blooming, white roses, and yield an abundance of flowers during the 
 summer. There are many other white roses propagated which produce ex- 
 quisite flowers, but which are of no value, as they make such a poor growth. 
 
 Louis Van Houtte is a variety which I esteem next to La France. Its 
 elegant form, rich, velvety maroon color, and fragrance, form a combination 
 of desirable characteristics rarely found in a single rose. I do not hesitate 
 to call it the best dark rose we have. 
 
 Paul Neyron is a real curiosity among roses on account of its immense 
 size. Although very large, its blooms are not coarse, but handsome and 
 showy ; the plant has ample foliage, is a free grower and very vigorous ; 
 color deep rose. 
 
 Baronne Prevost, one of the oldest sorts, is still much admired. Its 
 flowers are of a pure rose-color, and its habit is all that could be desired. 
 
 La Reine, surpassed by many others in beauty of flower, is valued chiefly for 
 its hardiness. The flowers are large, moderately full and of a glossy rose-color. 
 
 Victor Verdier is a choice sort resembling John Hopper, but devoid of 
 fragrance. Its habit is good. 
 
 Maurice Bemardin is a fine, free-flowering variety, producing vermilion- 
 colored flowers. 
 
 Caroline de Sansal bears pale, flesh-colored flowers. It is one of the 
 best of the light roses. 
 
 Madame Boll, an American rose, is much prized for its large carmine- 
 rose blooms, and its rich, glossy foliage. 
 
 Prince Camille de Rohan and Baron de Bonstetten are the two sorts 
 upon which we have to depend mainly for our very dark flowers. 
 
 Francois Miche]on is a superb variety, of a deep carmine-rose color. It 
 yields an abundance of flowers in summer, when other varieties are out of 
 bloom. 
 
 Marguerite de St. Amande distinguishes herself as an autumnal bloomer, 
 producing a profusion of rose-colored flowers in autumn. 
 
 Marquise de Castellane verifies the adage " no roses without thorns." 
 Its shoots are remarkably thorny ; its flowers are noted for their bright car- 
 mine-rose color. 
 
 Baroness Rothschild is a charming sort ; flowers large, of fine globular 
 form, and of a pale flesh color. 
 
 Mad'lle Eugenie Verdier is a beautiful and graceful rose, with large, 
 finely formed blooms of a silvery-rose color. 
 
 Mad'lle Marie Rady bears superb, bright-red, fragrant roses. 
 
 Countess of Oxford produces very showy carmine-colored flowers, and is 
 a most valuable and effective variety. 
 
 General Washington, one cf the older kinds, still merits a place in col- 
 lections. It bears an abundance of bright red blooms shaded with crimson. 
 
 Among climbing roses. Baltimore Belle, bearing white flowers, and 
 Queen of the Prairies, producing red blooms, are still favorites. The new 
 hybrid climbing rose, Jules Margottin, bids fair to become valuable. 
 
 Among the summer roses which bloom but once, yet seem indispensable, 
 are Madame Hardy and Madame Plantier, with pure white, well-formed 
 flowers, and the Persian Yellow, bearing beautiful bright yellow blooms. 
 
SOME OF THE BEST HARDY ROSES. 
 
 Prominent among the Mosses are the Common, Glory of Mosses, Crested 
 and Salet. 
 
 All the roses in the above selection are valuable and desirable. Any one 
 who is willing to observe the cultural directions given above can succeed in 
 growing superb roses. For further information on this subject, S. Reynold 
 Hole's " Book About Roses," and Mr. Hibberd's " Amateur Rose Book,' 
 are strongly recommended. 
 
AMERICAN GRAPES. 
 
 [rnbli.<l,rfl iii tlif (jit r<le tiers' Chronicle, London, Enyliiml. Xmnnbei- ti, 1880.] 
 
 When in England I noticed particularly the scarcity and high price of 
 good fruit. Grapes at $s, and 4*. ;jer pound are too expensive a luxury to 
 be indulged in by the masses, and the question frequently suggested itself 
 whether it might not be possible to produce cheaper fruit by cultivating the 
 American Grape. I understand that the chief obstacles to open-air grape 
 culture are late spring and early autumn frosts, as well as moist, dull, cloudy 
 weather. But are there not localities, at least in the southern parts of 
 England, where these frosts do not prevail, and where there is a sufficient 
 amount of solar heat to mature the grape ? It is well known that night 
 frosts are far more destructive in valleys than on elevations. Vegetation, 
 too, on low ground is far more liable to injury from frost, because the 
 growth is more luxuriant and less matured. In our severe climate we see 
 this verified every year, and when in France a short time ago, I saw on low 
 ground relics of what were once magnificent specimens of Sequoia gigantea, 
 but which had been utterly ruined by the severity of the past winter, while 
 on high ground but a short distance away this tiee was uninjured. 
 
 Again, in low places the mild weather which often occurs in winter forces 
 the buds prematurely, and succeeding cold weather does great injury. We 
 think here, that hillsides sloping to the east and south, where the full benefit 
 of the sun may be obtained, and where protection from high winds is se- 
 cured, are sites peculiarly suited to the growth of the vine. I call attention 
 briefly to these points, not so much for the purpose of giving information, 
 as to remind experimenters that elevation and aspect have a great deal to 
 do with successful cultivation. I find another impediment to the introduc- 
 tion of the American Grape is the quality of the fruit. I learned that 
 American Grapes were considered too pulpy and foxy to merit attention. 
 Varieties like Isabella, Concord and Hartford Prolific, which rank second 
 in quality even in America, seem to have been tested to some extent, and, 
 proving unsatisfactory, the conclusion seems to have been reached that all 
 American Grapes deserve similar condemnation. I regret that an opinion 
 like this should prevail, for during the last few years several American 
 Grapes of fine quality have been introduced, and it seems to me that if 
 these were tried in the open air under favorable circumstances, they would 
 certainly prove desirable, if not profitable. 
 
 Our grapes may not be so melting and high flavored as well- grown, thor- 
 oughly ripened Hamburghs, Front ignans, Muscats, etc., nevertheles I 
 have seen in the London market hot-house grapes which certainly were 
 inferior in quality to American Grapes. In August I found a considerable 
 portion of the grapes in the market only half colored and imperfectly rip- 
 ened, and frequently I visited several stands before obtaining such grapes 
 as I desired. I am aware that this is the result of over-cropping ; but I 
 mention the fact to show that European grapes are not always perfect, at 
 
60 AMERICAN GRAPES, 
 
 least such as are sent to market. In Paris I had a similar experience, and 
 I naturally came to the conclusion that if this quality of fruit could be sold 
 at a high price, then American Grapes, if they can be grown, ought to find 
 a ready sale, especially since they could be offered so much cheaper. In 
 view of the difficulty and expense of producing grapes under glass, I hope 
 some one will give American grapes a trial, bringing to bear upon the sub- 
 ject all the knowledge and skill for which the English are so justly cele- 
 brated. It is my intention to name only a few of our best sorts, and I will 
 commence with 
 
 Black Grapes. 
 
 Eumelan, supposed to be a seedling of the Isabella, but without any of 
 the foxiness of that variety. The bunch and berry, though not large, are of 
 good size, and the flesh is tender, juicy, sprightly, refreshing and very agree- 
 able. No grape that I know has such a pleasant vinous flavor, and it is 
 surprising what a quantity of the fruit can be eaten without causing any 
 uneasiness. The only defect which this variety exhibits is the habit of the 
 vine, which I regret to say is not the best, Had it the vigorous constitu- 
 tion of the Concord or Hartford, it would undoubtedly be cultivated almost 
 to the exclusion of all other varieties. It is such a poor grower that it re- 
 quires to be grafted upon a vigorous variety, then it succeeds admirably. 
 
 Barry, or Rogers' Hybrid No. 43, claimed to be a hybrid between an 
 American and a European variety, is a black grape, large in bunch and 
 berry, and bearing a closer resemblance to Black Hamburgh than any other 
 American sort. The flesh is tender, sweet, and the flavor pleasant. Of the 
 many varieties of Rogers this is justly entitled to the first place. No other 
 combines so many valuable qualities, and whether for amateurs' use or for 
 vineyard culture, it has few equals. In our vineyard a long line of trellis 
 supporting some large vines heavily laden with immense bundles of this 
 variety, some of them weighing 27 oz., is a picture which would excite the 
 admiration of a veteran grape grower, and certainly astonish the novice in 
 open-air grape culture. 
 
 Herbert, another black variety of Rogers, is not so large in bunch and 
 berry as the last-mentioned, but the fruit is superior in quality. 
 
 Red Grapes. 
 
 Lindley, or Rogers' No, 9, is, all things considered, one of the best red 
 grapes we have. The bunch is large and long; berry of medium size; flesh 
 sweet, juicy and high flavored. The Delaware has long been regarded as 
 the best table grape, but I think that the Lindley, when it becomes known, 
 is destined to supersede it. The fruit is certainly equal in flavor, much 
 larger, more showy, and the vine is a stronger grower. 
 
 Delaware, in the estimation of the American public, occupies the same 
 rank among grapes that the Seckel does among pears. The bunch is of 
 medium size, shouldered, very compact, ; the berry is small, light-red, with 
 a thin skin ; flesh melting, sweet, vinous, excellent. The vine is a slender 
 grower, and requires high culture ; nevertheless it is hardy, and very pro- 
 ductive. 
 
 Brighton is an early grape, raised by artificial crossing of the Concord 
 and Diana Hamburgh. The bunch and berry are of good size ; flesh ten- 
 der, sweet, vinous and high flavored. The vine is a vigorous grower, and 
 very productive. 
 
AMERICAN GRAPES. 
 
 Rochester is another early purple grape, of fine quality. I consider it 
 one of the most valuable to experiment with, as the vine is healthy and 
 vigorous, and the fruit ripens early and well, even in the worst of seasons. 
 
 White Grapes. 
 
 ( )f the white grapes now grown, or about to be introduced, I do not think 
 that any one of them will be entirely satisfactory. Those which are healthy 
 and vigorous in habit produce fruit of medium quality, while those which 
 yield high-flavored fruit are deficient in vigor. It is doubtful whether any 
 of the white grapes will succeed in England ; nevertheless, I would recom- 
 mend a trial of the following : 
 
 Croton, a cross of the Delaware with the Chasselas, is the best, so far as 
 regards the quality of the fruit, but the vine is not robust enough, and is 
 sometimes liable to mildew. 
 
 Rebecca is another fine flavored grape, but the foliage is tender, and the 
 growth moderate. 
 
 Lady Washington, a new grape, is a seedling of Concord crossed with 
 Allen's Hybrid, and is very promising. The vine is a robust grower, bunch 
 large, and the fruit good. 
 
 Duchess is another new variety, and, according to all accounts, perhaps 
 the best. The vine is said to be vigorous and healthy, and the fruit 
 sprightly, rich and vinous. 
 
 Niagara is a splendid new grape, a pure native. The vine is vigorous 
 and hardy ; foliage healthy ; the fruit is large and handsome, and of fair 
 quality. It combines many important characteristics, and will, it is believed 
 by many, take the lead in this class. 
 
 New Grapes. 
 
 \Vc are making remarkable progress in this country in the production of 
 new kinds of grapes. I have recently seen some new hybrids which are far 
 in advance of any varieties now known. They combine qualities long 
 sought after but never attained until now hardiness, vigor^ with fruit of 
 fine texture and high flavor, fully equal to the best foreign sorts. Their 
 introduction will mark a new era in grape culture in America. 
 
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