4 



INTRODUCTION. 



house are not only in an artificial and injurious state 

 as to the soil, but also as to their climate, and espe- 

 cially as to heat, light, and air. These requisites to 

 vegetation require also to be particularly attended to, 

 so as partly to imitate nature, and partly to effect 

 particular purposes of art on natural principles. 

 Finally, it must be obvious, that where there is so 

 much art, there must be a greater tendency to disease 

 and accident than in ordinary nature ; and conse- 

 quently, that no small degree of vigilance is required 

 in this respect. 



Let none, however, feel alarmed at these obsta- 

 cles, or imagine that by a moderate degree of care 

 and attention all these evils may not be avoided, and 

 the enjoyments of the green-house fully obtained. 

 It is the object of this little work to enter into the 

 details of the subject in such a way, as may enable 

 any lady or gentleman, with the assistance of a foot- 

 man or common labourer, to manage their own green- 

 house as completely as if they employed a regularly 

 bred and skilful gardener. 



We shall first offer some suggestions as to the 

 form and construction of green-houses ; next, treat 

 of their general management ; and lastly, enter into 

 the details of culture applicable to the plants to be 

 grown in them. 



