251.During the empire botanic gardens were formed in the provinces; and something like a general system of correspondence was established between them and the Paris garden. The latter garden was, during this period, carried to a high degree of perfection, under the direction of Professor Thouin: it was liberally supported, and kept in admirable order. The constant wars in which the country was engaged during this period almost prevented the introduction of new plants; and the culture of flowers and plants of ornament was very little, attended to by any part of society throughout the country. With the exception of the gardens of M. Boursault and M. Foulchiron, and perhaps one or two others, none of those now eminent for botany, or floriculture, date from a period earlier than the Restoration.
