PREFACE. 



Since the publication of Practical Camellia Culture, and 

 the flattering reception of the work, I have been induced to 

 give my practical experience on the cultivation of the Aza- 

 lea. 



In presenting this treatise on the propagation and culture 

 of this plant, of which I claim to be a successful grower, it 

 has been my endeavor to present the subject in as practical 

 a form as possible. The work is complete in itself, and is 

 confined exclusively to the Azalea. The treatment which 

 is embodied within its pages, so far as my knowledge and 

 practical experience extends, is the result of many years of 

 labor, and I believe to be the best method of culture. 



This work is intended for the inexperienced florist, for 

 the amateur, and for those who wish to receive some 

 practical hints which may lead them to be successful growers. 

 It gives in detail directions how to grow this plant from a 

 cutting in its different stages, to a plant thirty years old. 



I have not omitted or concealed intentionally any knowl- 

 edge on this subject. All that has been given is the result 

 of careful observation and experience of over twenty 

 years. I have endeavored to give all the directions in plain 

 terms. 



Should this work contain some information that will be 



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