Palm House.—

As the hot-water apparatus described in the Report for 1877 is of a novel construction, I think it necessary to state that it gives entire satisfaction, whether as regards wear, the economical consumption of fuel, or the diffusion and easy control of heat. Many plants now flourish which had for many years previous to its introduction led a languishing life, and even some that it was impossible to cultivate at all, such as the cocoanut palm, grow well; and I have no reason to doubt that the original intention of the building, namely, its devotion to palms and plants of that class, may be eventually carried out. Already some of these from tropical regions flower and fruit to perfection, whilst the collection of Cycadæ and Pandanæ has increased greatly in extent and beauty. Of the Pandaneæ, the finest specimen in Europe, that in the northern wing facing the entrance, has now reached the glass, not only over its head, but on both sides, and as from its bulk and weight it cannot be removed from its position, if accommodation is not given for its further development in its present position it must be destroyed. The tub in which it grows stands on the iron, grating over the hot-water pipes; if the latter were removed the tub might be lowered 4 feet, and so much top and lateral (the roof of the building being curved) space bo obtained for its further spread of foliage. This is of course a question of expense, and the object to be attained being only temporary the desirability of incurring it or not will have to be carefully considered. Having regard to the great attraction of the plant to the general public and to the scientific visitors from all parts of the world, I think it only page 7 right that the assurance should be given, that whatever conclusion may be arrived at, it will not be hastily formed. I should add that the specimen has been lopped on various occasions and will stand no further mutilation without complete destruction of its distinctive features.

Herbaceous Ground.—

The collection of Liliacea has been arranged along the west side of the wall bounding the Herbaceous Ground on the west, and the Amaryllidæ to the south end of the Herbaceous Ground.

A quantity of duplicate herbaceous plants have been sent for the ornamentation of the London Parks.

A cemented brick tank has been built for open air water plants, 80 feet long by 20 broad, and raised 20 inches above the ground. It as divided into bricked compartments, and a constant run of water through it is provided.

The planting of named specimens of rare plants along the principal walks of the Botanic Garden has been proceeded with; the path from the gate leading to Brentford Ferry from the broad walk is now lined with exotic, chiefly Asiatic and American, maples of which 23 kinds are thus disposed, and a collection of rare oaks has been planted on the left of the path between the Brentford Gate and that opening on the Sion Vista.

The wooden staging which occupied the centre of the Orchid House, and which was in a state of decay, has been replaced by one of brick and slate.

The ruinous condition of the Tropical Fern House, alluded to in the Report for 1878, has been remedied, and the repair of the woodwork of various other houses has been overtaken at the same time as the replacement of the glass destroyed by the hail-storm in August 1879, the effects of which are elsewhere detailed. In effecting these repairs pine wood has been largely replaced by teak, which it is hoped will eventually prove a great economy. I may mention that the teak-wood tallies, giving the names of the collection plants in the Arboretum, &c., which were placed in the ground in 1872, show no signs of decay.