114 SCHOOL AND HOME GAKDENS 



If watering is necessary, enough must be given to reach 

 the roots. Cultivate the soil soon after watering. 



For early blooming, start bulbs in sand in four-inch 

 flowerpots and transplant after the plants have become 

 hardened and when all danger from -frost is over. 



The finest specimens for vases are obtained if the 

 flower spike is cut when the first buds open. Every bud 

 on the stalk will open after it is brought into the house. 



Clip off withered blooms to force strength back into 

 the bulb, and dig as soon as the foliage turns brown or 

 is destroyed by frosts. The stalk should be cut close to 

 the bulb. Dry the bulbs in a cool place and store them 

 in baskets at a temperature as near forty degrees as 

 possible. 



Pests. If the leaves are troubled by plant lice, give 

 them a liberal application of tobacco dust. 



GOLDEN GLOW 



The golden glow (Rudbeckia) is a very hardy plant, 

 producing large, showy, golden-yellow flowers in abun- 

 dance from July to September. It grows to a height of 

 from five to seven feet and may be used as a screen or 

 in a border, where it makes a very effective background 

 for other perennials. 



It prefers a moist, rich soil. Strong plants that bloom 

 the first season may be produced by setting out roots 

 early in the spring. Transplant often to keep up a 

 supply of large flowers from year to year. 



