98 BEECK'S NEW BOOK OF FLOWERS. 



The only time to remove them with success, is during 

 the time of their dormant state, at which time the offsets 

 may be separated, and planted where the cultivator may 

 judge best. 



The season of rest, for most bulbs, happens shortly 

 after they have done flowering. Tulip and Hyacinth bulbs 

 are generally ripe in about one month from the time of 

 flowering. As soon as the foliage of the Tulip turns pur- 

 ple, and begins to dry, the bulbs may be taken up ; and, 

 with the Hyacinth, before the foliage is fully decayed. 

 As a general rule, when the tops have quiet died down, 

 the bulbs may be taken up and separated. 



With the exception of Tulips, Hyacinths, Narcissus, 

 and some others, most hardy bulbs, as the Lily tribe, 

 Crown Imperial, etc., are injured if kept long out of 

 ground. It is best to plant offsets of bulbs, of every de- 

 scription, immediately, for if kept long out of ground they 

 become exhausted and perish. Bulbs that have com- 

 menced growing, before planting, are always weakened ; 

 yet ignorant purchasers will frequently select such because 

 they look more lively. If they have made much growth, 

 the bulb will not flower at all. 



Some tuberous roots are classed with bulbous roots. 

 Strictly speaking, it is not correct, but for convenience 

 sake we shall so consider them. The Dahlia and Peony 

 are, properly, tuberous roots. Directions for cultivating 

 these will be given when they are described. 



HERBACEOUS ^PERENNIALS AND BIENNIALS. 



The mode of cultivating this class of plants is perfectly 

 easy ; three things chiefly have to be attended to. First, 

 the manner of propagation. Second, the most suitable 

 soil. Third, the requisite temperature. There are five 

 methods of propagation practised : by divisions, suckers, 

 layers, seeds, and cuttings. 



