INTRODUCTION. 



WE are again called upon to present to the public the 6th 

 edition of this popular work on the Culture of Flowersa 

 taste that is now widely disseminating itself; in fact, a know- 

 ledge of which is requisite before a refined education is com- 

 pleted. We boldly and fearlessly say that no country has 

 made such rapid advancement in the art and science of Horti- 

 culture in so short a period as the United States. Wherever 

 the taste prevails, it diffuses a peace and harmony among its 

 participants without either symbol or mystery. In this 

 edition, a feast of new materials has been served up ; entire 

 lists have been cancelled and replaced with those of newer 

 and finer forms and habits ; extraneous matter and plants of 

 indifferent character are dropped. The great and successful 

 adaptation of Hot water to Horticultural purposes is explicitly 

 described, and to those who wish to examine the results, we 

 say "Come and see." A new and distinct list of hardy 

 Evergreens has been added, and a new chapter on the ever-to- 

 be-admired ROSE, and every improvement in the art up to 

 this present time introduced. 



True, we have not dilated on the wonderful effects of 

 electricity upon vegetation, nor have we been extravagant 

 in the results of guano in the growth of plants. With re- 

 gard to the former, the capability of its reduction to genera^ 

 practice has yet to be proven and the latter has to bft 



