1874. ] 
GARDEN WORK FOR DECEMBER. 
285 
to tlie rapidity of ascent of water in the stem, Sachs observed a rate of 9 in. in 
the hour in the case of the White Poplar, and Dr. McNab, formerly one of 24 in. per hour, 
and now of 39in. and 40in. per hour. Dr. McNab’s conclusions are:—(1) That under 
favourable circumstances, a rate of ascent of 40 in. per hour can be obtained. (2) That, 
contrary to the generally received opinion, direct experiment has shown that the upward 
rapid current of water does not cease in the evening. (3) That checking the transpiration 
for a short time, by placing the branch in darkness, does not materially retard the rapid 
current of water. (4) That the removal of the cortical tissues does not impede the rapid 
current in the stem, which moves only through the wood portion of the fibro-vascular 
bundles. (5) That a well-marked rapid flow of fluid will take place in a‘stem after the 
removal of the leaves. (6) That fluid will rapidly flow downwards as well as upwards in the 
wood portion of the fibro-vascular bundles, as seen in a branch in which lithium solution 
was applied at the top. (7) That pressure of mercury does not exert any very marked 
influence on the rapidity of the flow, in the one experiment made with a pressure of 110-53 
grammes ef mercury. 
- ®HE regime adopted at Trentbam for Growing Cool Orchids^ such as 
Odontoglots, is to give them water most profusely—the cold rain-water which 
falls from the roof being used summer and winter; and to allow fresh air to 
circulate freely amongst them at all times, night and day, except in very severe weather. The 
natural water at Trentham, as does any other water containing lime, kills the Sphagnum used 
for potting these plants, and this is most inimical to the plants; which never thrive so well 
as when the Sphagnum keeps fresh and in a growing state. In respect to the Sphagnum used 
for Orchid-growing, it does not appear to bo generally known that amongst the different 
species the best for potting Odontoglots and similar plants is a dense-growing compact kind, 
whoso very compactness gives it a sponge-like consistency, and enables it to suck up and 
retain water freely. This is what the Odontoglots like. This same kind of Moss, however, 
when used for blocking Phalaenopsis is fatal to them, apparently from its holding too much 
water ; and therefore for these the coarser, looser kind, which can only be packed more openly 
about the roots, should be used. 
GAEDEN WOEK FOE DECEMBEE. 
FLOWERS. 
|REAEY, dark December is not the time to expect much gaiety in the 
Flower-garden. It becomes us, therefore, to make up as far as possible for 
the loss, by extreme neatness and order, and by having the beds filled with 
glossy evergreens, and the infinite variety of spring-blooming plants. They 
at once assume a warm and cheerful appearance, and cannot fail to be 
appreciated by all, more particularly by those who, from their migratory habits, 
only enjoy their country seats for a month or two during winter. During open 
weather, levelling and turfing repairs, and the laying of Box-edgings should be 
seen to. Keep the grass free from worm-casts, and smooth by constant rolling, 
and the walks firm, for dry solid walks are indispensable to comfort. If severe 
frost sets in, see to the efficiency of the protecting materials employed; Magnolias^ 
Standard Bays^ Laurustinus^ &c., should have their stems protected. Remember 
also that the roots of tender plants are as liable to suffer as the tops. Prune and 
nail Hardy Creepers^ tying-in such as are upon pillars or lattice-work. 
Shrubberies : The weather having hitherto been so favourable, planting should 
be in an advanced state, and what may yet remain to be done should be pushed 
forward without delay, bearing in mind that the draining and preparation of 
the ground is important to insure anything like satisfactory results. More par¬ 
ticularly in the renovation of old Shrubberies, does deep cultivation, adding 
materials likely to produce a rich and fertile element, become essential to insure 
luxuriance of growth ; but it should be remembered that the tracing-out and 
retaining unmutilated as many of the fibrous roots as possible, is important in 
facilitating re-establishment. When established, shrubberies should never be dug, 
