CHAPTER XVII 



GREENHOUSE AND STOVE BULBS 

 Freesias Gloxinias Haemanthuses Hippeastrums 



FREESIAS 



FREESIAS, whose fragrant flowers are so acceptable, are 

 so nearly hardy, that it might, perhaps, have been more 

 consistent to include them among the half-hardy bulbs. 

 They are, however, of so much more value when grown 

 and flowered under glass that we may be pardoned for 

 including them among greenhouse bulbs. They are 

 very cheap, and increase so freely that they might be 

 grown in far larger quantities. A five-inch pot will hold 

 about a dozen of good-sized bulbs, and they may be 

 potted at intervals from the beginning of August for a 

 month or two. They like a light, but rich soil, with 

 the addition of some leaf-mould and silver sand. A 

 depth of an inch is generally recommended, but they 

 are none the worse for being a little deeper. After 

 planting, the pots may be watered and placed in a cold 

 frame, plunged in cocoa fibre or ashes. 



When some growth is made, they may either be 

 removed to a frame with a moderate bottom heat, or 

 taken into the place where they are to bloom. In a 

 sunny window they may be brought nicely into flower 

 as well as in a greenhouse. They like air, however, 

 when possible. It is essential that they should have 

 plenty of water while in growth. A temperature of 

 about fifty-five degrees is suitable for blooming them in. 



