MEMORANDA FOR THE MONTH 279 



Towards the end of the month, and at the begin- 

 ning of 



July, 



we have the Rose-shows, of which I have said my 

 say ; and after these we must bud our Briers with 

 those varieties which a keen and constant observation 

 at home and elsewhere, in our gardens and at the 

 shows, has taught us to admire the most. Ample 

 instructions, wath cleverly drawn illustrations, are 

 given by writers upon the Rose as to the art of 

 budding ; but an experienced gardener, with a sharp 

 knife and a hank of thick cotton, somewhat resem- 

 bling that used for lamps, of bast, China, or Raffia 

 grass, will teach the amateur far more quickly and 

 effectively than he can possibly be taught by 

 books. 



Should mildew make its appearance, remove the 

 leaves most affected, and cover the rest with flower of 

 sulphur when the tree is wet from shower or syringe, 

 giving them another good washing next day. Mr. 

 River recommends soot as a remedy, and kindly sent 

 me in a letter, some years ago, the result of a 

 successful experiment. * Have you mildew ? ' he asks 

 — ^try soot. Some time towards the end of July a 

 batch of Hybrid Perpetuals, fine plants in pots, were 

 white with mildew. Perry ' (his foreman) ^ tried 



