IV PREFACE. 



In directions for culture, we give the results of our own experience, 

 and have not hesitated to avail ourselves of any satisfactory results 

 in the experience of others, which might enhance the utility of the 

 work. 



The colored engravings were drawn from nature, by one of the best 

 Parisian artists, and are deemed correct portraits. 



While we do not claim exemption from hyper criticism in any form, 

 we readily express our willingness to be ever open to conviction, in a 

 field where, among the varied results of experiment and skill, there 

 is much room for difference of opinion. 



For our labor we shall feel abundantly compensated, if the publica- 

 tion of this work shall in any way tend to produce a more general ad- 

 miration and increased culture of the most beautiful denizen of the 

 floral kingdom. S. B. P. 



