36 ‘MISSOURI BOTANICAL GARDEN BULLETIN 
varieties were then figured, but now the range of color is 
much greater, including yellows and reds of many shades. 
The Dutch hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis) and the 
Roman hyacinth (H. orientalis albus) are the two types 
commonly forced. The latter differs from the former in a 
smaller bulb producing earlier flowers, usually of a pale 
ink, blue, or white color, and fewer on astalk. The Dutch 
yacinth produces a single stiff flowering stem from a bulb, 
as a rule, while the Roman hyacinth may produce three or 
four graceful spikes. 
The propagation of the hyacinth is so: distinct as to re- 
quire a brief mention. In July fully ripened bulbs are 
taken out of the ground, and 3 or 4 cross cuts deep na 
to reach the growing point made in the bottom. These bulbs 
are then placed in a trench, with the cut end upward, cov- 
ered with soil, and allowed to remain a few weeks. As soon 
as the wounds are healed and the cuts opened wide the bulbs 
are taken up and placed in storehouses until October, when 
planting takes place. Upon. being lifted next June the cuts 
are found to be lined with 20-30 small bulblets, while the 
substance of the old bulb has practically disappeared. The 
young bulbs are planted next fall in a aimntte manner to 
the old bulbs, this process being repeated for four or five 
years, until a mature flowering bulb is developed. Another 
method consists of scooping out the center of the bottom of 
the bulb instead of scoring it. More but smaller bulblets 
are secured in this manner, but the advantage of quantity is 
offset by the additional one or two years required to attain 
maturity. 
_ The soil and conditions essential for proper forcing are 
similar to those of the narcissus, except that Dutch hyacinths 
are grown singly in pots. It is very necessary to produce a 
strong root system in order to have long healthy spikes of 
flowers. Low temperature, not above 65° F., is conducive 
to large flowers, more brilliant coloration, and longer last- 
ing qualities. Usually for Dutch hyacinths 4-6 weeks are 
required for the proper development of the flowers after be- 
ing brought from the frames. The Roman hyacinths may 
be forced in a much shorter time. 
_ The Dutch hyacinth, as well as the Chinese sacred lily, 
is often Shibe in water. The principles of growth are the 
same as for potted bulbs, except that each bulb is so placed 
in a glass that the bottom is barely in contact with the water. 
It should then be set away in a cool, dark place for 8-10 
weeks, until a strong root system has been developed and the 
growing shoot has reached 2-3 inches in length. By grad- 
