Zo6 



the limb beneath the graft. The remarkable power of inven- 

 tion in man was seen in this production of new kinds of 

 fruit and in different sorts of vegetation, which became wide 

 apart in qualities from the original stock. And even in 

 Horticulture we witnessed the curious results bv hibridiza- 

 tion, of which he cited his own experiments, his method of 

 manipulation and the success attending it : subjects of much 

 interest to the meeting. 



The tendency of all plants to tinally return to their origi- 

 nal type when left to themselves and without careful cultiva- 

 tion was cited by Mr. Mamiing in referring to Mr. Phippen's 

 remarks. Not only was this true of accidental variations 

 upon the adult plant or perfect tree, but was even seen in 

 those, raised artificially from seed. In regard to over-prun- 

 mg, where the soil is rich as in the Western States, the effects 

 were certainly of an injurious character. Instead of strip- 

 ping off every shoot and sucker upon the stem, the suffering 

 them to remain would be found advantageous in the shade 

 and protection afforded to the bark, which 'gets heated un- 

 duly by the sunshine. When vigorous growth is requisite, 

 pruning should be done in the dormant condition of the 

 tree ; but when its growth needs checking, or when its fruit 

 is to be produced, then pruning should be done in the grow- 

 ing state of the plant. For grafting smaller stocks, say of an 

 inch or less in diameter, a sort of saddle-grafting and under 

 the bark has been found serviceable, the process of which 

 Mr. M. described. The desultory mode of the discussion 

 arose from the conversational tone given to the consideration 

 of the subjects of the evening's session, which however was 

 found promotive of much information and instruction. The 

 Chair participating in the conversation, expressed his belief 

 that these topics thus introduced, would be found of interest 

 to the members present. 



The following Spring flowers were noticed by S. B. But- 

 trick, not previously reported this season, viz : Erythronium 



