PREFACE. 



IN the following pages are embodied the results of 

 more than twenty years' experience in the propagation 

 ?md culture of the Camellia Japonica. 



Though much has been written concerning the cultiva- 

 of this greatly admired plant, I do not think that any 



r ~has been published in England or America which is 

 y ;vt>ted exclusively to it. A great variety of opinions are 

 held concerning the propagation and treatment of the 

 Camellia, and, as long and patient observation and labor 

 have enabled me to become one of its most successful cul- 

 tivators, I do not doubt that the present work will be in 

 some degree acceptable. 



I do not write for the instruction of experienced culti- 

 vators, who are already familiar with the propagation of 

 this plant, but for those of limited experience, amateur 

 gardeners, owners of small conservatories, and for all who 

 desire practical knowledge on this subject. 



I have frequently been solicited for information on the 

 culture of the Camellia, and more especially for the pro- 

 cess of growing alba plena successfully from cuttings; for 

 this process is new even to many large growers, who are 

 thoroughly acquainted with all the methods of inarching, 



