.

The great truths which it is the object of this treatise to impress, are
these: that the ultimate success of gardening operations does not depend
on the performance of any part of them, at a particular time, or in a
particular or even superior manner, but rather upon the supplying, in a
natural manner, as far as possible, _all the conditions_ which are
necessary to the nutrition and perpetuation of plants; and, that it is
within the open pathway of Science, and not the bye-ways of empiricism,
that the finger-post of direction should be sought.

Royal Botanic Garden, Regent's Park,

March 2nd, 1844.

TO THE SECOND EDITION.

In the present edition, it has been thought best to preserve the original
text exactly as it appeared in the first edition. The new matter will be
found in the Appendix.

The author may take this opportunity of returning his thanks to those who
have noticed and commended the former edition, and of expressing a hope
that the present will receive an equal share of favour.

Camden Town, Aug. 1, 1847.

CONTENTS.

CHAP. I. PAGE

Botanical name, and affinities of the Cucumber--properties--
foreign names--improvements in cultivation 9

CHAP. II.

Structures--dung beds--brick pits--forcing houses--gutter
system of heating--the tank system--bottom heat--description
of Cucumber house--aspect--position--angle--covering 11

CHAP. III.

Propagation by cuttings--early fruitfulness--preservation of
varieties--layers--objections to cuttings and layers--seeds--
disadvantages--progressive growth--seed sowing 23

CHAP. IV.

General principles of culture--importance of light--pruning
and training 31

CHAP. V.

Composition of the soil--heath soil--leaf mould--preparation
of soil--charcoal--manures--liquid manures 36

CHAP. VI.

Application of water to the soil--special conditions--
atmospheric moisture--insects--mildew--canker--mode of watering 42

CHAP. VII.

Regulation of temperature--principles to be kept in view--day
and night temperature--deductions 46

CHAP. VIII.

Admission of air--effect of cold air on tender plants--
deterioration--evils resulting from unguarded atm