INTRODUCTION. 
readily consented to write a few introductory words to 
this little volume, because I am convinced that the subject 
of it is one of increasing importance, and I have good 
reasons for knowing that the author is specially qualified to 
deal with it. 
As long ago as 1891, the Worcestershire County Council 
delegated to the Worcestershire Union of Workmen’s Clubs and 
Institutes, of which I have the honour to be President, the 
task of administering the portion of the Technical Education 
Grant set apart for instruction in horticulture. Mr. Udale was 
appointed Instructor, and ever since, his whole time has been 
devoted to giving lectures upon horticulture, visiting orchards, 
market, allotment, cottage, and other gardens, and giving practical 
advice to the cultivators on the spot. 
His experience, therefore, has been exceptionally large, 
and few men I believe are better qualified to give wise counsel 
to small gardeners and fruit growers, and to prove to them 
what a field of profit and of pleasure is open to them, if in 
addition to the industry and shrewdness which they often possess 
they bring to the management of their land a wider knowledge 
of scientific principles and of the result of other men’s experience. 
It is discouraging to note the frequent instances of slovenly or 
ignorant cultivation of orchards and of cottage and allotment 
gardens. The occupiers have forgotten the truth that in these 
days not even a small plot of ground can be made to pay without 
skilful management. The evil consequences of this mistake 
extend beyond themselves, for I am convinced that the future 
of the allotment system in the country, which has been so 
largely developed of late years, mainly depends upon the 
practical recognition of this truth by allotment holders generally. 
On the other hand, there are many men, who, having 
proved their ability to manage small pieces of land with 
intelligence and profit are entitled to look forward to similar. 
success on larger holdings, and step by step to better their 
position and prospects in life. 
