REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON GARDENS FOR THE 



YEAR 1917. 



RiCHAED M. Saltonstall, Chairman. 



The Committee on Gardens has made two visits during the year, 

 one to the commercial greenhouses of William Sim at Cliftondale 

 and the other to the private estate of B. H. Bristow Draper at 

 Hopedale. They are reported upon as follows: 



Greenhouses of William Sim, Cliftondale. 



On March 31 the committee was invited to inspect the commer- 

 cial plant of William Sim at Cliftondale to see his extensive col- 

 lection of Primula polyantha hybrids, sweet peas, violets, and 

 carnations. The center of interest in this visit was the houses of 

 primroses and auriculas which Mr. Sim is endeavoring to popu- 

 larize as florists' flowers. Auriculas especially show a wonderful 

 combination of color and although considered hardy are best 

 adapted to greenhouse cultivation in this climate. Mr. Sim reports 

 an encouraging demand for them by the florists. 



The quality of the sweet peas and violets in his numerous houses 

 sustained the well deserved reputation of Mr. Sim as a master 

 cultivator. 



Estate of B. H. Bristow Draper at Hopedale. 



On July 30 the committee had the pleasure of visiting the estate 

 of B. H. Bristow Draper at Hopedale although it happened to be 

 the hottest day of the summer with a temperature of 98° in the 

 shade. 



The committee was very favorably impressed with Mr. Draper's 

 estate which adjoins that of the late Governor Draper. The lawn 



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