PEEFACE. 



It is well known to all concerned with horticultural exhibi- 

 tions that a much felt want has long existed of some definite 

 and systematic standard by which the merits of exhibits might 

 be measured with a fair amount of accuracy. In this treatise 

 I have endeavoured to meet this want by giving the details 

 of a simple and efficient system, which can be applied on all 

 occasions, and varied in detail to suit the wants of every 

 case. 



A Handbook of concise hints and cultural notes on the 

 rearing and preparation of specimens for exhibition is also a 

 desideratum among horticulturists, especially amateurs and 

 those of limited experience. The cultural remai-ks in this 

 work will therefore, I hope, be of some practical service to 

 such aspirants to success, and enable them to attain their 

 object with less trouble and more certainty. In the Plant 

 and Cut Flower Divisions of the work I have received valu- 

 able assistance from several eminent growers, for which I beg 

 to express my warmest thanks. 



Further, I am very specially indebted to Mr. Duxx, Dalkeith 

 Gardens, for his kind assistance in revising the volume ; but 

 for all matters of opinion referred to in it, the Author is 

 alone responsible. 



