216 FLORA DOMESTICA. 



using a vessel of glass in preference to one of earthenware, 

 and their beauty would be seen to even greater advantage. 

 Some persons put a little nitre in the water, which is said 

 to improve the brightness of the colours in the flower. 



When the bulbs are planted in earth, it should be done 

 between November and February, and they should be 

 placed within sight of the sun. A soil proper for them 

 may be obtained from a nursery-man in the habit of fur- 

 nishing plants, &c. The pot should be about seven inches 

 in depth ; the crown of the bulb about an inch and a half 

 or two inches deep, according to the size. When the plant 

 begins to appear, the earth should be gently watered twice 

 or thrice a week, as may be requisite to keep it rather moist. 

 Fresh air may be admitted when convenient, as directed for 

 those in water. 



The flowers will blow in a shorter or longer time from 

 planting, in proportion to the warmth of their situation : 

 such as are designed for later flowering, may be gradually 

 accustomed to the open air in April ; but when so treated, 

 must be raised in a room without fire, or the change may 

 be too great. These must enjoy the morning and evening 

 sun, but be screened from the scorching heat of noon. 

 They must likewise be sheltered from heavy rains ; gentle 

 showers will not be prejudicial to them ; and such plants 

 as are abroad will not require any other watering, except in 

 a long continuance of dry hot weather. 



When the plants have ceased flowering, the stalks, 

 leaves, and fibres, will decay ; the principle of vegetation in 

 the bulbs will be for a short time dormant : they should 

 then be taken up, and laid in the open air, and in the 

 shade, to dry. After a few days they may be removed 

 into an airy room, and having remained uncovered until 

 they are moderately hardened, the decayed parts, the 

 loose skin, earth, &c. should be cleaned away, the offsets 



