280 



REPORT ON NEW FBUIT3 AND VEGETABLES 



that would effectually exclude the sun's rays whilst retardation 

 is going on. Spruce fir branches, however useful in the old 

 system of protection, would not be suitable here. The canvas 

 will be found a better protection against sleet. hoar-fro>ts, and all 

 moisture during blooming-time, than branches would be. It is 

 incalculable to what an extent retardation may be carried. Pyra- 

 midal pears, with Mr. Rivers's calico protectors, may be re- 

 tarded until late, and richly they deserv e it. Many of the very 

 finest and most beautiful French and Belgian varieties swell their 

 buds and burst into bloom early, and under the present system of 

 mere protection they are cut off by frosts : while, on the other 

 hand, had they received a little timely retardation, the result 

 would in general be very different. 



XXXI. — Report on Xew Fruits and Vegetables which have 

 been produced in the Garden of the Society. By R. 

 Thompson. 



{Sept. 3, 1850.) 



1. Bromham Hall Melon. 



Seeds received from Mr. E. Tiley. of Bath. 



From 2? to 4 lbs. weight, roundish, a little depressed at the 

 stalk and crown, indistinctly ribbed, more or less netted, greyish 

 green, usually tinged with yellow next the sun. Flesh green, 

 close-grained, very rich and sugary. It is tolerably early, and a 

 good bearer with similar treatment to that required for the 

 common green-fleshed melon. This sort has taken the lead of 

 prizes for the last two seasons. 



2. TVinnigstadt Scgar-Loaf Cabbage. Chou pointu de 



JVi/migstadt. 



Presented to the Society by M. Tilmorin, of Paris. 



This bears considerable resemblance to the Pomeranian Cab- 

 bage as regards form ; but its leaves, till blanched, have the 

 glaucous hue of broccoli or cauliflower leaves. It hearts firm, 

 and boils tender. Its cultivation is similar to that of other late 

 cabbages. TVhether it is as hardy as the Pomeranian Cabbage 

 remains to be proven, but it stood last winter very well. 



3. Pomeranian Cabbage. Chou conique de Pomeranie. 



This was obtained from M. Vilmorin, of Paris. 



It is remarkable for its conical tapering form, very compact, 

 and firm to the apex. It is very hardy, and may be cultivated 

 like other hearting cabbages. But it may be interesting and 



