PREFACE. 



A main factor in the world of plants is constant change. — Burbidge. 



There is no monotony in flowers ; they are ever unfolding new charms, developing new forms and revealing 

 new features of interest and beauty to those who love them. — Introduction (page 2). 



Tl TORE and more persons are added to the long roll of flower lovers every year, the 

 increase being in much greater ratio than the natural growth of our population ; 

 and at no former period were so many persons engaged as floral amateurs in making 

 their home surroundings attractive and enjoyable. 



Endeavour is made in the following pages to aid all, by whom such aid may be 

 required, to engage successfully in the delightful pursuit to which they are attached. 



The scientific principles underlying the production and cultivation of plants are 

 portrayed in a masterly manner by Mr. F. W. Burbidge, F.L.S., who graphically 

 delineates their wonderful structure and the beautiful adaptability of their various parts 

 to each other in the economy of plant life. 



In such practical work as the formation and planting of gardens, Mr. W. Iggulden 

 has contributed freely from the stores of his long experience ; and with the aid of the 

 pencils of his daughter, Miss May Iggulden, and of Mr. George Shayler, has made 

 clear the necessary details which must be carried out if success is to be achieved in 

 flower gardening in its various aspects. 



Mr. S. Arnott, J.P., a recognised authority on the subject, has treated with an 

 ability which will be readily admitted, the increasingly popular subject of Hardy border 

 plants, to be followed in Vol. II. by practical treatises on hardy Florists' Flowers. 



The Eev. F. D. Horner has contributed a valuable chapter on the flower that no 

 one has done so much to improve as himself — the Show Auricula, which in its most 

 correct form is a floral jewel of the first water ; and Mr. A. Piper has dealt with the 

 Queen of Flowers which he understands so well — the Rose. 



