No. 7. UEPAKTMENT OF AG RICULTURK. 323 



Rosa Wicliuriana, the Vimea Menir or some of the rapid growing 

 honeysuckles. When possible, aquatic effects should be introduced 

 and those attractive water lilies of different shades, and the other 

 aquatic novelties added. 



Thus far and no allusion to hedge planting without which a plant- 

 ing would hardly be complete. The old-fashioned thorn hedge, with 

 its irregular openings and evidences of neglect has been supplanted by 

 the more modern California Priest, of all the deciduous hedge plants 

 we believe the most desirable. Its popularity is gaining and its ease 

 of growth and culture place it beyond its rivals. The choicest ever- 

 greens for hedges are the Norway and Hemlock spruce and the 

 American arborvitae; each have their advantages, which location and 

 object sought after alone can determine. Another feature of horti- 

 cultural interest now rapidly on the increase is the establishment of 

 parks in all large cities and in many not so designated. This shows 

 a commendable interest in the cause and is a feature to be approved 

 of from an educational and charitable standpoint as well. 



WTien we recall the fact that the first park in England was estab- 

 lished during the reign of Henry the First, early in the sixteenth 

 century, and was surrounded by a wall, we cannot but admire the 

 advance of civilization, which makes the parks of to-day the centre 

 of horticultural adornment, either native growth or acquired, the 

 drive of the wealthy, the recreation ground of the toiler and the play 

 ground of the poor; the breathing spot for all who long for the 

 fresh air of the country and the shade of the forest. The reputation 

 of a city's parks are among its plaudits. Many of us who have 

 never before had the pleasure of visiting your city have heard of the 

 beauty and attractiveness of your Schenley, Highland and Allegheny 

 parks, and as time advances and means become available, there is 

 no question but what their value and availability will be greatly ad- 

 vanced under the present efficient and competent management. 

 What is true of Pittsburg is equally so of other cities throughout 

 this broad land. With increasing prosperity ornamental horticul- 

 ture should meet with a new impetus, and in the next decade make 

 more rapid strides than in the past. 



Mr. Pierce: What is the best handbook or catalogue on this sub- 

 ject? 



Mr. Moon; I do not think of anything up to date. The best source 

 of information is the various catalogues. 



Mr. Pierce: I was much interested in the paper just read, although 

 I cannot agree with the author in all points. While the elm is one 

 of the finest trees, I do object to Japan Guigko. It is a deciduous 

 tree, with the habit and appearance of a conifer. To me it is one of 

 the most disagreeable and inartistic trees we have. Like the Can- 

 ada thistle, thp more von have th<^ worse vou are oft' 1 snw in Fro 



