GARDENERS — PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE. 



49 



branches of the profession, but he must have good managing 

 abilities, and be thoroughly educated so as to converse on any or 

 all subjects with the ease and comfort of a barrister-at-law. A 

 typical gentleman's gardener I look upon as one of England's 

 greatest sons. 



As to the prospect of women gardeners I cannot speak with 

 any practical experience, but the following points may be worth 

 discussing, viz. : — (1) What influence will they have on the 

 future prospects of young men gardeners ? (2) Will their 

 physical strength allow them to become thoroughly practical in 

 all branches of gardening ? (3) What are their prospects for 

 positions as head gardeners and managers ? 



GARDENERS— FUTURE. 



The principal object of this paper, as already stated, is to put 

 in a plea for the better training and education of the apprentices 

 and journeymen of to-day, who will in the future become the 

 head gardeners and managers of our various horticultural 

 establishments. 



Many of the points raised may be contentious ; but it will 

 undoubtedly amply repay for any discussion there may be on 

 such an important subject, if it leads to a greater interest being 

 taken in the welfare of our young men by their employers and 

 head gardeners. 



If the integrity and calibre of the profession are to be main- 

 tained, nay, improved, we must endeavour to bring the best men 

 to the front without fear or favour, and with the manliness of 

 true Englishmen. Some gardeners, unfortunately, immediately 

 suppress any signs of enthusiasm or special ability any of their 

 subordinates may display, thinking that their ideas are premature 

 and considerably in advance of their years and practical expe- 

 rience, and that they want to override their superiors. This is not 

 always the case, and they may be nipping in the bud what would 

 have developed into a valuable bloom and a great acquisition to 

 the profession. It certainly requires a great amount of tact and 

 judgment to manage a number of men judiciously. Head 

 gardeners have a great influence on the future of their young 

 men, and ought to treat them and be as interested in their future 

 welfare as if they were their own sons, rejoicing in their successes 

 and sympathising with them in their misfortunes. 



D 



