October 



now will bloom splendidly next autumn. Instructions for sowing 

 are given under January. 



Gladiolus. By the end of the month lift roots which have 

 flowered, even if the stems are still green. Label them, and hang in 

 an airy place to dry. A little later remove the foliage with a sharp 

 knife. Then lay out the roots for about a fortnight, and when ready 

 store them in paper bags or boxes placed on a dry shelf, secure from 

 vermin. 



Hollyhock. In favoured districts and in light soil it will be safe 

 to winter this plant in the open ground with merely the protection of 

 a little dry litter. But in damp adhesive land it is perilous, and a 

 cold frame will afford the requisite protection until May returns. 



Hyacinth. Considering the magnificent appearance of this 

 flower, its culture is most simple. Any fairly good garden soil 

 which is not too damp in winter will grow it ; and the bulbs may be 

 planted in clumps or beds in any pattern or arrangement of colour 

 that taste may dictate. At six inches apart there will be a brilliant 

 display, but the distance is quite optional. The crowns of the bulbs 

 should not be less than four or more than six inches below the 

 surface ; the greater depth will slightly retard the flowering. When 

 planted they will give no more trouble until the time arrives for 

 lifting them to make room for other occupants. 



Hyacinth, Feather, is an exceedingly beautiful border flower 

 during May and early in June. The stems are from nine to fifteen 

 inches high, and carry flowers whose petals are cut into slender fila- 

 ments. It will grow in pots and in the open, in any soil which suits 

 Hyacinths. Plant a good number in each group. 



Hyacinth, Grape. An interesting dark blue flower, which 

 should be freely grown in mixed borders to bloom in April. Singly it 

 is useless ; plant good-sized clumps in any soil which answers for bulbs. 



Hyacinths, Miniature, are the delight of children, in whose 

 honour many of the varieties are named. Except for their diminu- 

 tive size, they are in all respects equal to their larger relations. The 

 culture in pots, glasses, and beds is similar to that advised for the 

 full- sized roots, save that the planting in open ground need not be 

 quite so deep, three inches of soil over the crowns being sufficient. 



Hyacinth, Musk. This flower derives its name from its odour 

 of musk ; but apart from the perfume, it is a charming little plant, 

 and is worthy of a place in borders where various bulbs are grown. 



Hyacinths, Italian and Roman. Uncover the pots containing 

 the earliest planting, and at first place them in a dimly lighted position. 



369 B B 



