406 THE PRINCIPLES OF FLORICULTURE 



and the tazetta (Paper Whites) may be had in flower in 

 ten weeks after planting. They are usually grown in flats, 

 and are brought into the houses as needed throughout the 

 season. Too high a temperature at first will blast the 

 buds. The Von Sion force the slowest, not flowering 

 satisfactorily before February. They require a subdued 

 light, otherwise chlorophyll will develop in the petals, 

 turning them green. Too much nitrogenous fertilizer has a 

 similar effect. The jonquils and Poet's narcissi are espe- 

 cially good for forcing. Perfect flowers depend in a large 

 measure upon the strength of the root system, hence, this 

 should be well developed before the plants are forced. 



667. Purchasing. In purchasing bulbs, it is better, as 

 a rule, to buy the best grade obtainable. This does not 

 necessarily mean the highest priced, for the newer varieties 

 are always expensive. All bulbs should be of good size, 

 firm in substance, and free from disease. 



668. Soil and potting. The bulbs should be potted 

 as soon as received, for bulbs deteriorate rapidly when 

 exposed to the atmospliere. The best soil for bulbs is 

 composed of nearly equal parts of fibrous loam, finely 

 sifted leaf-mold, and thoroughly rotted manure. Enough 

 sand should be added to this mixture to insure perfect 

 drainage. Narcissi are rarely satisfactory when potted 

 singly, but are more attractive in six- or eight-inch pans. 

 This grouping of several in a pan for attractiveness is 

 true of all bulbs. For smaller bulbs, like freesias, grape 

 hyacinths, and crocus, smaller pans may be used. Con- 

 siderable " crock " or small stones should be placed in 

 the bottom of the pan to facilitate drainage. Some soil 

 should be placed on this, and care taken to have it 

 worked among the pieces of " crock " or stones, so that 

 later, when the plants are watered, the soil will not be 



