On the Cultivation of Mesembryanthemums, &c. 275 



irregularly so as to resemble rock-work : the stones had the 

 effect of keeping the branches from the soil, which might 

 otherwise decay them. The whole have done well, many 

 still continue flowering, and are likely to do so through the 

 winter. Nothing can surpass the brilliancy of the blossoms 

 on a bright day in summer. 



In winter the whole must be covered with lights, and occa- 

 sionally with mats, as pits in front of houses usually are, but 

 these are not necessary in summer, as the plants must be 

 fully exposed to the free air, the same as hardy green-house 

 plants, and require little more than thinning and plenty of 

 water. Pits in front of stoves must be preferred, as the 

 warmth from the front wall in winter will repel damps, and 

 with a little covering above the glass, will sufficiently keep 

 out the severest frost. 



I was induced to attempt the above mode from observing 

 that Ice plants grow to perfection on small hillocks of rich 

 mould, supported by stones put together in imitation of rock- 

 work, two or three feet high, with a base of about four feet 

 diameter ; these banks look well when the plants cover them 

 entirely. I have cultivated Ice plants in this manner with 

 success, every year since I have been at Arley Hall. 



I am, Sir, your obedient servant, 



William Mowbray. 



Arley Hall, near Bexvdley, 

 November 30, 1822. 



