228 THE PRACTICAL GARDEN -BOOK 



seeds, which are extremely small and require early sowing, 

 warmth and close attention. 



Tulips are hardy and easy to grow. The ad- 

 vice given under Bulbs, Crocus and Hyacinth applies to 

 Tulips. They may be forced for winter bloom (see 

 under Window - Gardens) . 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. Plant in October, 4 to 6 inches 

 deep. 



Turnips and Rutabagas are usually a fall 

 crop, from seed sown in July and early August, 

 although many kitchen gardens have them from spring 

 sown seed. The culture is easy. Sow in drills 12 inches 

 apart. They will become edible in from six to eight weeks. 

 They are cool-weather crops, and the tops stand much 

 frost. If maggots bother, do not raise them on the same 

 land again for three or four years. Bordeaux mixture 

 repels the flea-beetles. One ounce will sow 150 feet of 

 drill. 



Varieties. It is usually one of the first desires 

 of the intending planter to inquire about Varieties. It is 

 one of the secondary things to be considered, however, for 

 the first thing to do is to prepare the land, to determine 

 whether one's soil and site are adapted to the plant in ques- 

 tion, and to discuss other matters of a general nature. 

 When all the fundamental things are settled, then the 

 question of Varieties, which is a special matter, may be 

 taken up. Although the selection of Varieties is a very 

 special matter, it is nevertheless essential to success or 

 satisfaction in the growing of any plant. 



It should first be considered that the selection of Varieties 

 is very largely a personal matter. The man should grow 



