X i'|{?:ka( E. 



to certain simple rules and methods is alono 

 requisite to ensnre success. 



It may be that occasional divergencies of 

 opinion may be foinid in the papers now submitted 

 to the public, and the Committee desire it to be 

 understood that although as Editors of this Manual 

 they hold themseh'es responsible for the general 

 utility of the information given in its pages, they 

 have not interfered with the free expression of 

 individual opinions, where these do not tend to 

 introduce erroneous views upon the main prin- 

 ciples of culture. 



The great increase ot notice and popularity 

 which has been of late years bestowed upon these 

 flowers encourages the Committee to anticipate a 

 rapid development of the beauty, variety, and 

 hardmess of its many forms, and to this end they 

 are extremely anxious to encourage the raising of 

 seedling plants. 



The}' have received from some of their sup- 

 porters promises of surplus seed, which, they 

 propose distributing among such of their members 

 (subscribers of 10s. and upAvards) who will under- 

 take to raise plants from it. If the number of 

 applicants is in excess of the seed at their disposal, 

 the distribution will be made by ballot. 



The attention of the Society was for many 

 years, after its inauguration in 1876, mainly 

 directed towards the improvement and encourage- 



