PREFACE. 



A series of Annals of Horticulture, of which the present 

 volume is the initial, is projected for the purpose of preserv- 

 ing in convenient form a record and epitome of yearly pro- 

 gress in horticulture. Our horticultural interests are becom- 

 ing so various and extensive, and records of them are so 

 widely scattered, that such compendiums are a necessity ; and 

 summaries of the most important discoveries and discussions 

 must have a direct and immediate practical use, wholly aside 

 from their values as history. 



A leading feature of the series must necessarily be com- 

 plete records of the introduction of horticultural plants \ and 

 the author desires that these volumes shall comprise the stand- 

 ard publication of new varieties. So far as record is concerned 

 these publications can serve the purpose of the certificates is- 

 sued for new varieties by the Royal Horticultural Society in 

 England, and by similar organizations in other countries ; and 

 to this end, all North American originators and introducers 

 are solicited to make records of their novelties and introduc- 

 tions. It certainly requires no argument to convince both 

 dealer and purchaser that all interests will be greatly subserved 

 by such annual records. 



Complete lists of all the varieties of fruits, kitchen garden 

 vegetables and ornamentals now cultivated in North America, 

 are needed. Such lists are indispensable to an understanding 

 of the present condition of our horticulture, and they become 



