July 31. 1884. ] 
JOURNAL OF HORTICLLTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 
99 
crimson colour ; and the Hon. Mrs. Goschen, a fine, erect, round, and deep 
rose. These are only a small quota of the many hundreds of grand varie¬ 
ties crown there. 
Messrs. Laing devote great attention to producing a race of pendant 
habit suitable for hanging baskets. They have succeeded in selecting 
several suitable varieties which are very effective for the purpose. These 
are tastefully arranged in wire baskets, which have the outsides covered 
with growing Lycopodium. A few Palms of light graceful foliage aie 
Like most other plants the Begonia has its special diseases, among 
which may be mentioned a species of fungus, which often proves destruc¬ 
tive to it. To counteract this evil Messrs. Laing & Co.’s Begonia grower, 
Mr. Pope, uses a mixture prepared by himself, and which is named by him 
“ anti-fungoid.” It is said to answer the purpose very effectually. 
In concluding these brief notes I ought not to omit mentioning that 
in addition to Begonias being a speciality with this firm, Caladiums- 
receive much attention, there having been many splendid new varieties 
Fig. 19.—A GEOUP OF BEGONIAS (from a photograph). 
arranged with the Begonias in the baskets, this adding considerably to 
the effect. The principal varieties used for this purpose are Magenta 
Queen and Purple Emperor—single varieties. The double varieties, how¬ 
ever, are very suitable for this mode of culture on account of their drooping 
habit of growth. Not only are Begonias grown in pots, but also in almost 
countless numbers in prepared beds outside. These make a considerable 
displa^rluring August and September, and thus serve as an illustration 
of their growing value for bedding-out. We may safely predict that this 
showy race of Begonias will equal the Zonal Pelargonium for summer 
bedding ere long. 
raised here, in addition to their Dracaenas, Crotons, and other plants. 
Orchids are now claiming a large share of their attention, and it is pro¬ 
posed to build more houses for their accommodation. Time would not 
pei'mit us to inspect the vineyard and other nurseries, hence my notes are 
confined to the Begonias—the principal object of my visit. All those who 
have not yet made a call and seen this wonderful collection of Begonias 
should do so without delay.—T. W. S. 
[The engraving (fig. 19) represents a portion of the remarkable group 
of Begonias shown by Messrs. Laing & Co. at the last Crystal Palace Show, 
and which was by general consent the_mo8t handsome group of Begonias 
