TUBEROSE — TULIPS 405 



These plants may be turned out into the open ground the last of May- 

 or in June, and will probably flower in early September. 



In the northern states, if planted in the border they will not start 

 into growth until the ground has become thoroughly warm, — usually 

 after the middle of June, — making the season before frost too short 

 for their perfect growth and flower. If any danger of fall frost is 

 feared, they may be lifted into pots or boxes and taken into the house, 

 when they will bloom without a check. As with other bulbs, a sandy 

 soil will suit. 



Just before frost dig up the bulbs, cut off the tops to within 2 

 inches of the apex of the bulb. They may then be placed in shallow 

 boxes and left out in the sun and air for a week or more, to cure. 

 Each evening, if the nights are cold, they should be removed to some 

 room where the temperature will not fall below 40°. When the outer" 

 scales have become dry, the remaining soil may be shaken off and the 

 bulbs stored away in shallow boxes for the winter. They keep best 

 in a temperature of 45° to 50°. It should never fall below 40°. 



The Dwarf Pearl, originating in 1870, has long been popular, and is 

 still so with many. But others have come to prefer the old, tall 

 kind, the flowers of which, even if not so large, are perfect in form and 

 seem to open better. 



Tulips are undoubtedly the most prized of all early spring bulbs. 

 They are hardy and easy to grow. They also bloom well in winter in 

 a sunny climate. The garden bed will last several years if well cared 

 for, but most satisfactory bloom is secured if the old bulbs are taken 

 up every two or three years and replanted, all the inferior ones being 

 cast aside. When the stock begins to run out, buy anew. The old 

 stock, if not entirely spent, may be planted in the shrubbery or peren- 

 nial borders. 



September is the best time for planting tulips, but as the beds are 

 usually occupied at this time, planting is commonly postponed till 

 October or November. For garden culture the single early tulips are 

 the best. There are excellent early double-flowered varieties. Some 

 prefer the double, as their flowers last longer. Late tulips are gorgeous, 

 but occupy the beds too long in the spring. While tulips are hardy, 

 they are benefited by a winter mulch. 



