INTRODUCTION. 



THE object of this volume is the diffusion of general knowl- 

 edge and practical information in relation to the floral kingdom, 

 particularly for hardy trees, shrubs and plants, desirable for the 

 embellishment of the flower-garden and pleasure-ground. It is 

 not designed as a scientific treatise for those far advanced in the 

 knowledge of plants, but for new beginners, who are just entering 

 the temple of Flora ; or, as a book of reference to those who 

 have but little time for research, and who desire some simple 

 instructions as to the mode of culture, or description of the 

 habits, of plants or seeds which they may wish to grow. That 

 it may be more acceptable to the great majority, technical 

 descriptions have been avoided as much as possible. I con- 

 sider it important that plants should be generally known by their 

 scientific name, as this is universal, while the common name is 

 only local ; and have, therefore, given precedence to the botanical 

 name, and followed with the common name, where any has been 

 known. Some work of this kind, it has often appeared to me, 

 was much needed. It has often been called for, in my business 

 as seedsman. Customers will purchase a quantity of seeds, not 

 knowing, perhaps, anything about their habits, cultivation, or 

 treatment, or that there should be any difference in their manage- 

 ment. Having had long experience in the cultivation, as well a? 



