404 . THE GARDENER. [Sept. 



July to Christmas. Anne Boleyn Pinks are valuable for flowering 

 early. The scent is so good and the colour uncommon, every garden 

 should have long lines of them. They are easily managed, and very 

 hardy. Bulbs — such as Hyacinths, Tulips, Narcissus, &c. — should now 

 have attention. Purchasing is a mere lottery. High prices are often 

 taken for very inferior kinds. Last season we had far finer flowers from 

 bulbs bought at 50s. per hundred than those we were charged Is. 6d. 

 each for. Nevertheless, novelty requires a price, and "fanciers" are 

 seldom opposed to paying for their hobby. Bulbs should be solid, 

 heavy in proportion to their size, and quite free from decay on any part 

 of them. The largest size are seldom the best for throwing compact 

 and vigorous spikes. Good turfy loam three parts, one part decayed 

 manure and sand, will give vigour throughout the whole period of 

 growth. However, when potting three or more bulbs in a pot, we 

 put extra rich stuff over the drainage, so that the roots can have plenty 

 when they go down. Manure-water may be freely given when the 

 spikes are showing. When potting, only half cover the bulb, placing 

 a little sand where the roots are to be emitted. The pots may then 

 be stood on a firm bottom, and 6 or 8 inches of old tan, fine coal- 

 ashes, or sand, placed over their surface, will keep the bulbs in their 

 place till they grow an inch, when they should be taken out and placed 

 in a cold frame for a time, to be taken to force if required, which, how- 

 ever, is best done gently, beginning with a slight bottom-heat, keeping 

 the crowns near the glass. There are several early kinds which come 

 in quickly without forcing. Tulips, Narcissus, &c., do with the same 

 treatment as Hyacinths. Propagate all kinds of decorative plants for 

 next year. Any which are to be saved from frost should be lifted in 

 time, potted in light sandy soil, and placed in a frame, watering 

 thoroughly at first, but afterwards only when really necessary. Large 

 quantities of Pansies should be placed under hand-glasses, or behind 

 a wall; they are of great service where glass is scarce. Rose- cuttings 

 will root freely in sandy soil if they are taken oflf with a "heel" joint. 

 All plants which have stood out through the summer, and are to be 

 under protection through the winter, should be taken in now. Let the 

 pots be thoroughly washed, the surfaces stirred ; all drainage must be 

 secure and free from worms. A little clean soil placed over the surfaces 

 of the pots will give a neat appearance. Hardy annuals for spring decora- 

 tion may be sown at the end of the month. Pelargoniums which have been 

 cut down and well broke into growth, maybe reduced at the roots and pot- 

 ted into smaller pots, using rather sandy loam ; but richer soil is neces- 

 sary after they have made plenty of roots. Cinerarias, Primulas, and other 

 favourites may have more sun, and should be looked after for green-fly. 

 Weak manure-water may be given when the pots are full of roots. M. T. 



