6 
of this plant are an inch or more across and range from nearly white to deep 
violet. A selection of the best plants was made for further propagation, which 
is done simply and easily by means of leaf cuttings. 
Seed Exchange 
An important aspect of horticultural work in the Gardens is the exchange 
of seed with other Gardens and scientific institutions. Two men were kept fully 
employed collecting, preparing, packing and despatching seed in response to 
numerous requests from all parts of the world. Over 1.800 packets were 
despatched and some 750 received. 
Government House Domain 
X 
The Allen motor scythe purchased in 1948 continued to be useful in dealing 
with areas still to be cleared of lallang and other rough grass. 
Beds and lawns throughout the Domain were kept in good condition, 
and young trees well manured. The tennis court at the Colonial Secretary’s 
house was topdressed twice during the year and continued to give good 
service. Levelling, digging and regrassing was done at the houses of the 
Colonial Secretary, the Under Secretary and the Attorney-General. 
Much attention was given to the nursery, where some 1,200 to 1,500 pot 
plants are kept for decorative purposes in Government House. These plants 
are changed twice a week. Clerodendron calamitosum proved to be a useful 
and popular pot plant. The nursery also provided a considerable quantity of 
papaya and avocado fruits. 
Other Work outside Botanic Gardens 
As in former years, advice was given to various Government, Military, 
civil and private establishments, as well as to the many individuals who call 
at the Gardens office for information. Planting was carried out at the Telok 
Paku holiday bungalow, the Telecommunications Station at St. Michael’s Road, 
in the Cathedral compound, at the Government offices and Raffle# Statue 
in Empress Place and at the Supreme Court. 150 trees were planted at the 
Cathedral to replace the old ones removed in 1948. A great improvement 
to the front of the Government offices was made by planting Tecoma, Hibiscus, 
Frangipanni and Gardenia, all of which have done remarkably well. Royal 
Palms were planted in front of the Supreme Court. The usual contact with 
the Municipal Parks Department was maintained, with whom planting material 
was exchanged. * 
Botanical Reserves 
The three reserves, at Bukit Timah, Woodlands and Pandan were main¬ 
tained satisfactorily. 
