300 MISSOURI STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 



well cared for will give better results than the more expensive when 

 neglected. 



The bulbs we chiefly depend upon for early spring flowering are 

 the Hyacinth, Tulip, Crocus, Snowdrops and the Narcissus, all of 

 which are here in this latitude hardy. In Holland, the home of the 

 bulbs, the classes here named, as wtll as Lilies of all denominations, 

 are never allowed to freeze other than very lightly, if at all. How shall 

 we protect? It matters little how, the more convenient is the better 

 plan. A good method is to cover the beds with leaves to the depth of 

 4 to 6 inches, kept in place by light brush. Leaves are the most natural 

 mulch and the most effective. Coarse manure and litter of any kind 

 answer a good purpose, but requires a greater depth to fully protect,, 

 and is more unsightly. 



The soil you have is the best one. It matters not what that soil 

 may be, you cannot well change it, consequently you have no choice. 

 The conditions are all you can regulate. Whatever the soil, make it 

 rich for all manner of bulbs, but do not use other than well-rotted 

 manure, you can hardly use too much ; do not use fresh stable manure 

 by any means, for it would be better to use none at all than unfer- 

 mented. 



The time to plant is a vital consideration. All Dutch bulbs should 

 be planted during the month of October, for the greatest protection of 

 bloom, but at that time our gardens, when properly managed, present 

 the most gorgeous appearance and cannot be disturbed, consequently 

 we must await the coming of frost, which destroys all tender forms, 

 and it is timely here to say, that the beds to be planted with bulbs for 

 spring flowering should be occupied with tender annals or bedding 

 plants during summer, in order that they may be removed quickly after 

 their beauty has faded. All bulbs lose vitality rapidly after their period 

 of rest is over and the new growth commences, which will be in the 

 later part of September, if an opportunity is afforded them. The 

 Crocus suffers the most from this cause, and if not planted early, better 

 not plant at all. The Hyacinth can remain dry without much loss until 

 the first of November. The Tulip and Narcissis will do well if not 

 planted until the middle of December providing the soil is put in good 

 condition, and then thoroughly protected against frost. By all means, 

 plant every bulb as soon after October first as possible. 



WHAT TO PLANT. 



As to varieties, taste must dictate, cost does not always indicate 

 worth in the garden. Some Hyacinths multiply their bulbs rapidly, the 

 very beautiful as well as the common in appearance. This has much 



