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METHODS OF IMPROVING INDIGENOUS PLANTS. 
We do not cite the quotation as an authority, believing the whole of the last 
paragraph a mere hypothetical dictum. There is no proof that the leaf ever 
formed a bud : that it accompanies a bud its situation proves ; but what then ? 
Our learned apostle of new generation must permit us to question every ambiguity, 
and also the validity of the assertion that the leaf of Clianthus^ of Hoya^ or of any 
exogen shrub, ever did, or ever can produce a plant ; unless a bud situated on the 
hark of the stem be detached with it. The case is widely different with plants 
which deposit their whole substance in an organized tuber or bulb. There the 
vitality is concentrated in a mass capable of division and extension, and therefore 
we admit the correctness of the doctrine, in as far as the Gesnera and Gloxinia 
above referred to are concerned. 
We shall gain our present object if we induce the inquiring amateur to experi- 
mentise with every cutting he can procure, and to watch and note down tlie phe- 
nomena as they occur ; he will profit much, in the acquirement of knowledge, 
and rational gratification. 
METHODS OF IMPROVING INDIGENOUS PLANTS. 
Much as the wild flowers of Britain may be disregarded by the indifferent 
observer of nature, there are yet among them species which have no slight claims 
to be considered beautiful, even in their native state, and it is principally from their 
commonness that they are passed unnoticed. With flowers, as with other objects, 
that which is of every-day occurrence, which meets our gaze wherever we go, which 
can be obtained without an effort, and does not indicate the exercise of any kind of 
skill, is too frequently thought unworthy of attention, or overlooked without exciting 
thought at all. 
It would be useless to attempt to expose the fatuity of such a course, or try to 
convince the heedless that they deny themselves a most certain source of pleasure ; 
smce curiosity and a taste for novelty are two of the uppermost and most natural 
of human emotions, and must either be ministered to, or usurp an improper and 
dangerous ascendancy. We prefer making it apparent that, by cultivation, British 
species of plants may be rendered capable of arresting the interest, and eliciting the 
admiration, which are so seldom bestowed on them while flourishing in their 
native condition. 
Few take the trouble to reflect, when examining a beautiful bed of Pansies, 
Pinks, Carnations, double Primroses, Violets, Daisies, Scotch Roses, and various 
other plants, that these are essentially the productions of a British climate, although, 
for the most part, so improved, that their identity with the original species would 
hardly be recognised on bringing them together. And yet, probably, the very best 
