142 THE CULTURE OF POT-I'LANTS 



respects, though less hardy than Spanish or EngHsh irises, 

 they may be treated in the same way. 



Lilium (Lily). — There are a large number of magnificent 

 species, among the most popular being L. auratinn (golden- 

 rayed lily of Japan, large open white flowers with yellow rays 

 and crimson blotches), L. longiflo7-iwi (white trumpet-shaped), 

 L. speciosum (large open flowers, many fine varieties), and 

 Z. Thiinberglanum (or elegans — erect, cup-shaped, dwarf, 

 ranging according to the variety from yellow to crimson). 

 The two first produce roots at the base of the stems as well 

 as at the base of the bulbs (see p. 131), so when they are 

 planted some space should be left in each pot for additional 

 soil for covering any roots that may show above the surface. 

 A little peat may with advantage be mixed with the soil for 

 all lilies. When the bulbs — which, as in the case of 

 hyacinths, should be firm and solid — are planted, some sand 

 should be laid under each, and a little more sprinkled round 

 them. The usual rule as regards water for this class of plant 

 should be observed — at first only sufficient to keep the soil 

 slightly moist, and a gradually increasing supply after growth 

 commences. All lilies are most satisfactory in partial shade. 

 In strong sunshine the leaves soon turn brown, and the 

 flowers do not last long. When the stems die down the 

 bulbs should be dried off, and a month or two later they 

 should be repotted. There are several fungoid diseases to 

 w^hich lilies are subject. It is difficult, if not impossible, to 

 cure them, as they develop inside the tissues and only show 

 externally when the damage is done. Badly diseased bulbs 

 should be burned ; those which are only slightly attacked 

 should be sprayed with a solution of sulphide of potassium 

 (i oz. to I gal. of water), but not near painted woodwork, 

 w-^liich is blackened by the liquid. Doubtful bulbs should 

 be immersed for a quarter of an hour, before they are planted, 

 in a I per cent, solution of salicylic acid. 



Lily-of-the-Valley. — See Convallaria majalis, p. 81. 



Narcissus (Daffodil). — Excellent plants for pots in 

 bowls. If good bulbs are selected they never fail to flower 

 satisfactorily, provided that the usual rule as regards moisture 



