126 THE FLORIST. 



Another, a small conical- shaped Apple for dessert, called QueerCs Delight, 

 was highly approved of. The Chairman stated that this was a very- 

 old variety, and that the trees were in the last stage of decay ; but 

 that it was his intention to place a quantity of the grafts of this and 

 the Flanders Pippin at the disposal of the Society for distribution. 

 He also reported upon three varieties of seedling Plums, which were 

 raised in his neighbourhood, and which, being of superior quality, he 

 also intended to place at the disposal of the Society. 



Mr. Smith, of Hereford, sent a collection of Cider Apples, as did also 

 G. S. Wintle, Esq., of Gloucester. Among the latter were some fine 

 old varieties of dessert Apples, which were in good condition. 



Mr. Lane, of Berkhampstead, sent some excellent specimens of Easter 

 Beurre Pears, and of the New Uawthornden Apple. The latter was 

 in excellent condition, and was as good as the old variety ; but, even 

 at this late season, perfectly firm and sound. 



Mr. Rivers submitted specimens of the Melon Apple, of America, 

 gro\vn at Sawbridgeworth, which were found to possess very great 

 merit. They were of good size, very delicate flesh, and with a re- 

 markably fine flavour, resembling that of the imported Newtown 

 Pippin. 



CALENDAR FOR THE MONTH. 



Auriculas. — Water these freely, using weak liquid manure occasion- 

 ally, to support and mcrease the size of the truss of bloom. Towards 

 the end of the month remove the plants to a cool northern aspect, to 

 prolong their bloom. No dust should be allowed to spoil the purity of 

 the matchless white which is to be found in the flowers. 



Azaleas. — Attend to directions given previously. 



Bedding Plants. — While increasing those varieties that are scarce, 

 endeavour to forward the growth of the remaining stock, if much used 

 for cuttings. Keep down insects by frequently fumigating. Verbenas 

 especially, as now they are liable to be attacked by aphis when beginning 

 to push. Many kinds of Geraniums should be increased now ; Golden 

 Chain, Unique, Mountain of Light, &c., will strike readily at this time, 

 and be sufficiently strong to bed out. Forward roots of Salvia patens, 

 and form a short growth by frequently pinching the shoots, if they are 

 required for beds, especially. 



Carnations and Picotees. — The operation of potting is rather late 

 this spring ; no time should now be lost in completing it, however. The 

 plants are in an excellent state, not having started prematurely into 

 bloom. Any tall plants should be firmly secured with small stakes as 

 they are potted, to prevent the wind from injuring them : when first 

 stood out they are liable to be broken if this precaution is not taken. 

 The sparrows will also be very destructive at this season of their growth. 

 Means must be taken to scare them away, or many fine plants will be 

 rendered useless. The pots the Carnations are grown in should be 

 raised above the ground, on narrow strips of wood. In potting, press 



