271 
couple of weeks, they will become dry and firm, and an 
hour or two of sunshine will finish them properly for 
storing. The growth of Hyacinth bulbs for sale is chiefly 
done in Holland. The sandy soil and moisture of both 
soil and climate in that country are especially favorable 
to the growth of the Hyacinth. Hundreds of acres are 
devoted to the culture of these and many other bulbs 
that we all hear so frequently referred to as ‘‘ Dutch 
Bulbs,’’ and the gardens of our Dutch friends are gay 
sights from early Spring until farintotheSummer. The 
plan of propagation is carried on by sowing the seed or 
by taking offsets from the parent bulb. It is only from 
seeds that new varieties are obtained, and all the already 
known and valued kinds are raised from offsets from the 
parent bulb. The bulbs in some cases are cut crosswise 
and sprinkled with sand or dry dirt to absorb any moist- 
ure that may exude from the newcut. Aftera time they 
are planted in the earth, when numerous small bulbs are 
formed on the edges of these cuts. At the expiration of 
one season they are again lifted from the ground and the 
numerous small bulbs still only partially developed are 
separated from the parent root and planted out from year 
to year for three or four years before they become flower- 
ing bulbs and of a marketable quality. It is only Dutch 
skill and perseverance that can accomplish this. In 
offering our Fall bulbs for sale we often say they are the 
best imported bulbs, when ladies sometimes ask why we 
do not raise them ourselves. When we tell them the 
climate, disadvantages, and the lack of patience in the 
American breast to await the four or five years’ develop- 
ment of a bulb that can be bought for a dime, they only 
appear half satisfied, and tell you they grow them them- 
selves and it is nota bit of trouble. Yes, bless them, we 
know they can raise a few, but if they were to raise them 
