RAISING BULBS 269 



HYACINTHS. The bulbs of Hyacinths may be planted from Octo- 

 ber till freezing weather. Set them from 4 to 5 inches 

 deep a little shallower in heavy soils and about 4 to 6 

 inches apart. They are not quite hardy at the North unless 

 protected, so should always have a winter mulch where the 

 ground freezes hard in winter. Hyacinth bulbs are all 

 imported. Over 200 varieties are extensively grown, but 

 many of the varieties are very similar. Most any of the 

 single sorts are readily forced. Generally speaking, the 

 singles are preferable. For bedding purposes, medium or 

 small-sized bulbs are preferable and cheaper. 

 TULIPS. September is the best time for planting these, but 

 as the beds are usually occupied at this time, planting 

 will have to be postponed till October or November. For 

 garden culture the Single Early Tulips are the best. There 

 are Early Double-flowered varieties also. Some prefer the 

 double, as their flowers last longer. Late Tulips are gor- 

 geous, but occupy the beds too long in the spring. Tulips 

 are quite hardy, but are benefited by the winter mulch. 

 For simple designs in colors, they are the most brilliant in 

 effect of all bulbs. In working out such patterns, the utmost 

 care should be used to have the lines and curves uniform, 

 which is only to be secured by marking out the design, and 

 careful planting. Formal planting is, however, by no means 

 necessary for pleasing effects. Borders, lines and masses of 

 single colors, or groups of mixed colors which harmonize, are 

 always in order and pleasing. Clear colors are preferable to 

 neutral tints. As varieties vary in height and season of bloom- 

 ing, only named varieties should be ordered. 

 CROCUS. The Crocus is useful as a border-plant for other beds, 

 for small groups, or beds to itself. It loves a sunny situa- 

 tion and a well-drained soil. Two kinds are commonly cul- 

 tivated. One is the Autumn Crocus (C. sativus). The 

 other is the spring-flowering (C. versicolor). The latter is 

 the more popular. The bulbs should be planted as early as 

 possible, and not later than the first of October, if it can be 

 avoided. They grow if kept out of the ground, and will, 

 therefore, suffer when planted late. It is advisable to get 

 the best corms, and those under name. 

 NARCISSUS. Daffodils, Jonquils and the Poet's Narcissus, all 



