PREFACE. 
Success in the cultivation of the large number of Stove and Greenhouse 
Plants now known in British gardens, to a great extent depends on an 
acquaintance with the particular wants of each individual kind, as not only 
do many allied species require different treatment, but it frequently happens 
that individual varieties of the same parentage want something in their 
management quite different from each other, without which they fail to 
thrive. With this view, in preparing the accompanying treatise, the 
intention has been, so far as possible, without resorting to unnecessary 
repetition, to avoid giving directions that are too general in their application, 
but rather to state fully the treatment which each species or variety has 
been found to do best with. In such cases, where several kinds of plants 
succeed under like conditions, the details are given to one, the others 
being referred thereto. . 
In describing the general character and appearance of the plants treated 
of, Botanical details have been omitted, but the purpose to which each — 
is best adapted, whether for planting out, growing in pots, as roof climbers, 
or trained specimens, ordinary decorative use, the supply of cut flowers, 
&c., &c., is given, and this, it is hoped, will assist those but little acquainted 
with plants in the selection of the kinds best suited to their requirements. 
The best new plants that have appeared up to date are included, as 
well as the large numbers of older kinds possessing sterling merit. When 
any plant holds a relatively inferior position, this is stated in the description 
accompanying it. Notes are given of the particular kinds of insects each 
species is subject to, and instructions as to the safest means for their 
destruction; also, hints on the form, construction, and heating of Green- 
houses and Stoves. 
Cultural details on a portion of the plants here treated of have appeared 
in “The Garden” and ‘The Gardeners’ Chronicle”; these have been 
revised and added to so far as found necessary. 
JWR o 
