person is at liberty to send objects for exhibition, whether a member of the society or not. A printed list of the premiums intended to be given during the year, is issued annually some months before the exhibitions begin; so that all growers may see what they are, and regulate themselves accordingly. When the time arrives, several large exhibition tents are set up in the gardens, and on the morning of the exhibition, but not before, at a very early hour waggon loads of plants, &c., begin to arrive, accompanied by their owners, "anxious for the fray, and eager for the fight." Proper officers of the society are there to give directions as to the particular tent appropriated to each collection of plants, and a spot is pointed out to each exhibitor, as that in which he is to exhibit, and then the latter and his assistants proceed at once to set up their collections. In this way, between four o'clock in the morning, and 10 o'clock, the whole of the large tents are filled: and the persons appointed to adjudge the premiums, proceed immediately to the discharge of the duty assigned to them. This they get through in about three hours, so that by one o'clock, P. M., the hour at which the public are admitted, the whole of the tents are ready, and no one would suppose from the finished neatness of the place, that for the preceding five or six hours it had been a perfect maze of confusion.

Now to return to my fair companions, whom I left rather ungallantly, while I have been giving these details of preparation, for me to accompany them to the exhibition. Half an hour's drive through the noisy streets of London, put us fairly out upon the road leading to Chiswick, which is about four miles from Hyde Park. The hour was about two o'clock; and before we arrived within two miles of the gardens, we found we formed one continued line of carriages, which reached the whole of that distance. Of course the other end of this line of vehicles was depositing the occupants at the garden as they arrived there, and consequently our progress onward was anything but that of a railway express train! Onward, however, we went, and at length found ourselves safely deposited at a small mean looking door in a wall, which once passed, opened to our view indeed a contrast with the outside. A fine large spreading lawn was before us, upon which was distributed at short intervals, specimens of exotic ever-greens, the foliage of most of which swept the verdant carpet of velvet herbage beneath; and between these elegant shrubs, were interspersed flower beds of all sizes and shapes, filled with herbaceous plants and new annuals, the bloom of which appeared to rival the rainbow in variety and brilliancy. But lover as I am of flowers, for once my attention, after a hasty glance over them, was involuntarily arrested and completely transfixed by the animated portion of the scene around me. Walking amidst these beauties of the floral world, was such a bevy of the "fair daughters of our mother Eve," as I confess induced me to feel but little regret that I was born in these last days of the world, instead of the early ones, when fair Eve herself, "with sweet attractive grace," adorned the earth with her presence.

I noticed in the beginning of my remarks, that the style is for ladies to go in full dress, and here was before me the "elite" of "Albion's fair daughters," radiant in their native beauty, and decked in all the splendor that luxury could suggest, or money purchase. The gardens were filling rapidly; and the tickets taken on that day at the doors, showed that upwards of eleven thousand visitors had attended the exhibition. And as upon these occasions, the softer sex always predominates considerably over our own, some idea may be formed of the effect such an assemblage was calculated to produce. The one thousand and one nights of our Arabian friends, have introduced to the acquaintance of many of us, a sketch of marvels which we have often in boyish mode, longed to see realized, but undoubtedly few if any other seen than a Chiswick exhibition day, can approach so nearly to " fancy's sketch" of such a realization.

My fair friends were evidently much pleased with the meed of commendation which the appearance of their country women called forth from me; and after having politely addressed to me some flattering tributes to the attractions of some of my own country women of their acquaintance, they proposed that we should pass through the tents to inspect the plants. We therefore bent our steps to the quarter of the garden in which the tents were placed. They were filled to excess with visitors, who were proceeding in one direction round the tables, so that each one in turn could view the plants. Down the length of each table was erected a frame work covered with green cloth, forming a back ground to the flowers, which consequently were distinctly visible without difficulty. The tables themselves and the barrier round them were covered with the same material, which gave a finish to the whole, that was not only pleasing, but which relieved the eye in a great measure from the glare arising from such masses of brilliant flowers.

I will now endeavor to give some idea of the contents of these temporary museums of Flora. One of the largest tents was devoted to general collections, amongst which was a most superb assortment of plants from Mrs. Lawrence, the wife of the surgeon of that name, whose celebrity has become world-wide. This lady is the most enthusiastic plant cultivator of that part of the world; and she has for many years been one of the chief contributors to these exhibitions. Amongst her plants I noticed one enormous plant of our Pimelea spectabilis, which was one perfect globe of flowers from the surface of the pot, and of which the head of bloom was at least four feet in diameter. Another equally conspicuous plant was an Epacris grandiflora, five or six feet high and four feet across, covered with its elegant tubular flowers. An Ixora, with its vivid scarlet blooms, bore ample testimony that the skill of the lady's gardener in the hot-house was not behind his greenhouse culture; whilst a white Indian Azalea, seven feet high, and forming an immense pyramid from the pot upwards, was so smothered by its myriads of snow-white flowers, that it was impossible to see one inch of the stem, or the half of a leaf upon it. But to notice each of the beauties of this collection would be to tell of every plant in it. I must proceed, or I shall not within my limit, get half through the day. From the general collections, we passed on to a tent filled with orchideous plants. Here, within a space of a few hundred feet, were collected what have been properly termed "Flora's Jewels," from all parts of the world. The Brazils, the Cape of Good Hope, the East Indies and China, had contributed to enrich this gorgeous collection. The very atmosphere appeared alive with flowers; for in many of them the long slender flower stalks were not observable to the eye, whilst the butterfly character of the others added to the fragrance which emanated from them, served to perfect the illusion; and apparently to bear unerring evidence, that in the air around was to be found the "local habitation" of these flying flowers.

From this scene we entered the Geranium tent, from which all other plants were excluded, and well might the happy possessors of such specimens pride themselves on the reward of their perseverance. The worst plant amongst them (if worst was there) was a model of beauty; and none who have not been present at such a sight, can picture to their imagination the elegance and softness of the shading which many of the specimens of this family of plants presented. I observed particularly that the visitors passed more slowly through this part of the exhibition than any other, and the attraction extended to myself as well as to those around me.

Perhaps, of all the objects which delighted me on that day, the tent of Ericas, was that which excited in me the greatest surprise. One of the most difficult families of plants to grow in our own country, from the nature of its climate, I was not prepared to expect such perfect bushes as they were. Many of them were very dwarf, but of three or four feet

diameter, and covered with their delicate foliage to the edge of the pot, while their crowns were entirely concealed by their flowers. I learned that two different systems of pruning this family of plants, are adopted by those who grow them extensively. Some cultivators aim at producing a circular head to these plants, so as to present to the eye a dome of bloom; while others, (and they are now among the best growers,) prefer giving the plant a more irregular tree-like outline. I saw many trained in each way, and I give the preference to the latter, as the more truly symmetrical, because the more natural form. Amongst these heaths some of the most striking were Cavendishii, Perspicua nana, Ventricosa, Superba, Densa, Hartnelli, Splendens, Cerinthoides, and Boweana, which I name in the hope of seeing more attention paid to this family amongst ourselves. By keeping them principally in a north aspect, out of the hot rays of the sun, in the summer months, I have succeeded here in growing plants of them in a very fair state of perfection; and I by no means despair (as I see my plants improve daily) of in time having them as large as is convenient to an amateur whose collection is limited. We afterwards passed on to the Fruit tent, which was filled with forced fruit of all descriptions, from the pine apple to the cherry. Many more were the floral wonders of the day; but I must pause, having noticed those principal ones which commanded the greatest share of admiration. There is a very handsome conservatory in the gardens, which is some forty or fifty feet in height, filled principally with Australian and hard-wooded plants, which do not require a very high temperature in winter. Some of the Acacia family flourish there in great perfection. After inspecting the flowers we joined the promenade of fashionables in the Arboretum, whilst three military bands belonging to the regiments of guards stationed in London, appeared to vie with each other for the palm of excellence in "discoursing sweet music," with a degree of rivalry equal to that evinced by the horticultural competitors.

At six o'clock the exhibition closes. The exhibitors and their gardeners take possession of the tents; and in two hours more, there is scarcely a plant left of the hundreds which adorned them; whilst the company linger on the lawns until the shades of evening warn them that the pleasure of each happy day must have an end. Such was my "day at Chiswick," and long will the hours I passed there present pleasing reminiscences to my memory. AMERICUS.

CULTURE OF DWARF FRUIT TREES.

BY P. BARRY, ROCHESTER.*

The attention given at the present time to the culture of dwarf fruit trees, both in the garden and orchard, in all parts of the country, renders the subject one of the most important in the whole range of horticulture; and at a hazard of repeating what we may have heretofore said, we will take this occasion to offer a few hints on their management. We are well convinced from hundreds of letters received from those who are engaged or engaging in their culture, that with all the information that has been in various ways elicited within a year or two past, there yet exists a very general want of that particular kind of knowledge-and not only knowledge, but of that earnestness and appreciationso indispensable to success. A vast number of persons who never before gave a thought to fruit culture, are all at once tempted into it by the irresistible attractiveness of some dwarf trees, not over three or four years old, which they have seen loaded with mag

From the Genesee Farmer.

nificent fruit in a neighbor's garden. They look upon this as an example of fruit culture "made easy," and as a proof-as proof it is-that half a life time need not be spent in waiting for their trees to bear. A resolution is at once formed to plant a garden, perhaps an orchard. The ground is plowed after a fashion, the nearest oracle is consulted in regard to the best sorts, the trees are procured and planted; and there the work ends. The next year, or year after, the trees are expected to be loaded with such beautiful fruit as those which first awoke their enthusiasm and enticed them to become planters; but alas! where are they? Not one to be seen, perhaps; and not only that, but the trees generally are wanting in that vigorous, luxuriant appearance, that indicates a perfect state of health; they are, in fact, unthrifty and unfruitful, looking quite as much like dying as living. At this stage of the proceedings, it is suggested by a knowing one that these dwarf trees are a "humbug." "I told you so." Thus results, and thus will result, the hasty, ill-advised planting enterprizes of a multitude of persons. We are by no means drawing upon the imagination in this matter, and we have not the least doubt but that many who read this will recognize the course of proceeding pointed out as bearing a striking resemblance to theirs.

We are very far from being disposed to aggravate the difficulties of fruit culture, or to try to persuade people that there is any mystery in the art of good cultivation, or any obstacle in the way, that common care and skill cannot remove. On the contrary, we aim, and have always aimed, at giving every encouragement in our power consistent with the truth. We must confess, however, that we are frequently surprised at the comparative recklessness with which people embark in planting-spend perhaps ten, twenty, or even fifty dollars for trees, without possessing a single correct practical idea of their treatment; without having consulted any reliable work, or engaged the assistance of a competent person; relying merely upon the uncertain light of a few vague ideas picked up from some very questionable sources. What else can such people reasonably expect but a failure? And if a failure happen them, they should at once take the blame to themselves, and hasten to make amends.

Having thus alluded to what may be termed mal practice, we will sketch very briefly the course we would recommend. When a plantation of dwarf trees has been determined upon, whether of 10 trees or 1000, the following considerations should be carefully considered, and all the information in regard to them be obtained from the most reliable

Sources:

First, The Soil. Is it of a suitable character for the purpose? Is it too wet, or too dry? Does it require draining, subsoil plowing, or trenching and manuring? It should always be understood that dwarf trees require a soil of the best quality; and that, too, kept in the best condition. The roots do not extend like the roots of standard trees, and must obtain a liberal supply of food from a small compass. When the soil is right in regard to dryness, depth, and richness, the next consideration should be

The Trees. These should be on stocks most suitable for dwarfing the species; they should be healthy, vigorous, and of such growth as to be easily moulded in to the form in which they are to be grown. The matter of stocks is one of the most important, and should be considered as though the entire success of the undertaking depended upon it. There is yet, even among experienced growers of trees, a very great want of knowledge on the subject. Most people act with a degree of impatience that in many cases proves fatal to their success. They must have large trees-bearing trees. general thing, say: "Our customers want large trees, above all." ceeds upon this principle, can make a fruit garden or orchard that will be either success

Tree dealers, as a No man who pro

ful or satisfactory. What is it to wait a year, or two years even, compared to having beautiful instead of unsightly trees? We know a gentleman who is at this moment rooting up a plantation made on the principle of the "larger the better," to make room for young well shaped trees. Taste and experience will lead to this in time.

Next comes the question of Varieties. Here, instead of making out a list of the best without regard to circumstances, such should be chosen, and such only, as have been proved to succeed well on the stocks used for dwarfing, and are of such habits of growth as will make their training a thing practicable. In order to secure these objects, it may be necessary to dispense with favorite and first rate sorts: for it is far better to succeed well with a good or second rate sort, than to fail with one a degree better. Neither should a large number of varieties be made a special object; for that and entire satisfaction otherwise can rarely be obtained.

Next comes the arrangement and the planting, involving many practical details to which we cannot now refer particularly.

And when all this is done, there is the After Culture; for trees can take care of themselves no more than domestic animals, and more especially when it is desired to maintain and enjoy a high state of artificial culture. An annual pruning, and pruning and pinching at intervals, are necessary; the nature and objects of which must be studied until well understood. Then there is manuring, which must be done in such a way as to meet the wants of the tree, keeping in view the nature of the soil; for the same quantity or kind of manure will not be applicable in all cases.

We will close by recommending to all who are cultivating dwarf fruit trees, to mulch them with half decomposed stable manure from three to six inches deep, on the commencement of winter. This excludes the frost from the roots near the surface, and the snow and rains dissolve it, and send down its best soluble parts to be taken up by the roots the following spring. This supplies the exhaustion of the previous year, and the trees are sustained in an uniform vigor. Thus mulching accomplishes a two-fold object, and may with great advantage be applied to other than dwarf fruit trees.

THE FOREIGN GRAPE UNDER GLASS.

BY A. MESSER, GENEVA

It has been often remarked, in the best publications of the day, that there is advancement in the science and the art of horticulture. The evidences of the truth of this are numerous and satisfactory. And while floriculture and pomology have received a large share of attention, the cultivation of the grape has not been forgotten. This is true, both of the native and foreign varieties. I speak not now of vineyards, planted for the purpose of producing wine, and which are becoming a prominent feature in our agricultural history, especially in that of Ohio; but I refer to the raising of the best varieties of grapes for the table. It is said, that in a neighboring city, there is almost no garden, however small, but has its Isabella or Catawba grape vine. It is gratifying to learn that there is one city so far in advance of the age;" and if there be others which have made equal progress, let it be published in the Horticulturist.

Here a query presents itself. Have all who have a suitable space, and opportunity to grow the foreign varieties under glass, attempted to do so? Have they ordered a structure