72 THE HYACINTH. 



and all loose scales having been removed, we proceed to 

 pot the bulbs ; the time being from the first of September to 

 the middle of November, according to the time at which we 

 wish them to bloom. Often, however, it is best to make 

 several plantings, at periods of from two to four weeks, to 

 secure a succession of bloom. And, first, place about half 

 an inch or more of dried cow-dung, such as may be picked 

 up in the pastures, crumbled fine, and free from wire- 

 worms or grubs, at the bottom of the pot ; then fill in 

 with the prepared compost, placing the bulb so that its 

 apex is just above the surface of the soil, and the soil about 

 half an inch from the top of the pot at the side, and sloping 

 from the bulb. Give a good watering from the fine rose 

 of a watering-pot, and set the pots in a sheltered place, on 

 a bed of coal-ashes, if out doors or in a cellar. The ashes 

 will prevent earth-worms from entering the pots. The 

 object now is to promote the growth of roots before the 

 shoot develops, which is effected by " plunging " the pots, 

 or by putting them in a dark frame. By the former 

 method, the pots are placed close together, and covered 

 with from four to eight inches of coal-ashes, tan, or any 

 material of similar nature ; and thus they are to remain 

 until the roots touch the sides of the pot, when they, or as 



