166 THE CARXATION MANUAL. 



For a number of years all the best collections 

 have been grown in pots, and bloomed under glass. 

 The Metroj)olitan Floral Society, which existed 

 some twenty years ago, during its brief existence, 

 tried to encourage shows, but without success. 



The establishment of the Southern Section 

 of the National Carnation and Picotee Society 

 changed the face of things. For a few years it 

 seemed as if its efforts, like those of other 

 societies, would be unavailing; but then came 

 an awakening of interest and the number of 

 exhibitors increased. The energy and practical 

 skill of Mr. E. S. Dodwell added a large 

 number of fine varieties to the lists, especially in 

 Carnations ; and if anybody will look through such 

 a catalogue as Mr. Charles Turner's, of Slough, 

 it will be seen how largely the modem cultivator 

 is indebted to Mr. Dodwell for some of his 

 choicest gems ; while a visit to the Drill Hall on 

 the Exhibition day will show how much the Car- 

 nation and Picotee have gained in popularity. 



It ought to be extensively grown in the neigh- 

 bourhood of London, for it is one of those flow^ers 

 which flourishes in large towns, as witness the 

 beautiful collection grown by Mr. Ben. Simonite 

 close to smoky Sheffield, where he has not only 

 grown them in perfection, but has raised very 

 fine seedlings. 



It may be asked of me. What is your idea of the 



