'with regard to Practical Gardeners. 267 



While on this part of the landscape-gardener's business, it 

 may be observed, that the increased and still increasing stock 

 of new plants promises an extension of the means of the planter, 

 as well for his arboretum as for his woods. New features in 

 grouping may be given, and additional value acquired, by the 

 naturalisation of useful trees. Add to this the great improve- 

 ments made in every branch of mechanics ; the facility with 

 which lofty and elegant horticultural structures are raised and 

 economically heated, for the protection and cultivation of new 

 fruits ; together with the rapid advancement of every branch 

 of gardening. All this adds scope to the conceptions and 

 field of action of the designer. His art must be progressive; 

 and, so long as he can unite value and substantial territorial 

 improvement with the lighter, though pleasing and more taste- 

 ful, part of his profession, so long will it be valued and encou- 

 raged in this as in every other civilised state. 



To quality himself for such a task, the young designer must, 

 not consider the arrangement of scenery as his only business. 

 While he is embellishing a place, he must also add to its 

 value. All the advantages of the soil and situation must be 

 obtained and preserved. The indispensable produce of mea- 

 dows, pastures, orchards, corn fields, and woodlands, must all 

 be considered in his general plan. The whole, in short, must 

 be profitable as well as delightful. 



To be competent to all this, besides being acquainted with 

 those objects in nature which, singly or combined, delight the 

 eye or gratify the mind, he should possess a general know- 

 ledge of architecture, botany, horticulture, agriculture, and 

 arboriculture. He should also have a requisite knowledge of 

 geology, draining, and the management of water ; as well as 

 fencing, road and walk making, embanking, &c. &c. To be 

 able to apportion the requisite particulars of a country-seat, he 

 should know somewhat of domestic establishments, as suitable 

 to the rank or fortune of his employer ; and, finally, he should 

 know as much of mathematics and drawing as will enable him 

 to measure, sketch, map, or plan whatever alterations or im- 

 provements he suggests, or is called upon to execute, and give 

 an estimate of the probable expense, if required. 



I now conclude this hasty sketch of the subject proposed. 

 Written at different times and places, I fear there is a want of 

 connection. It is probably too brief for some readers, and a 

 great deal too long for others. I have only to wish it may be 

 any way useful to those for whom it is intended. 



I am, Sir, yours, &c. 

 Nov. 20. 1828. A. Z. 



