50 MARKET NURSERY WORK 



The compost used is usually loam, manure, and leaf mould, 

 at least 50 per cent, being the first named. Silver sand is added, 

 and very careful amateur growers see that the bulb rests on a 

 little carpet of this. Carefully crock the pot, fill it about one- 

 third full of the compost, and press well down. Stand the 

 bulbs in the centre and hold it in position while filling in the 

 compost and firming it down with a potting stick. When we 

 use the word " firm " we wish to distinguish from " hard," 

 because when too hard the roots are likely to lift bulb and compost 

 from the pot. Give a good watering, and when well drained 

 plunge the pots in ashes in the open air or in lightless frames, 

 and leave them undisturbed till wanted. This must not be 

 until they are well established and growing. 



When they find themselves freed from their coating of ashes 

 and placed in the houses, it helps them considerably if an inverted 

 pot is placed over each, this simple arrangement accelerating the 

 growth of the bloom and the grass. When approaching full 

 growth, the flower spike should be supported by a thin unobtru- 

 sive stick, as its soft growth is not strong enough to support 

 the not inconsiderable weight of the head. 



TUUPS 



Where tulips are grown in quantity they are planted thickly 

 in boxes early in September. A box 15 by 10 by 2j inches 

 will accommodate from 120 to 144 bulbs, according to variety, 

 which varies in size. The bottoms of the boxes are covered with 

 finely broken crocks, as good drainage is essential. On these a 

 thin layer of manure siftings are placed, and then an inch of 

 compost on which the bulbs are placed in rows, almost touching 

 each other. The soil, shingled between the bulbs, will need 

 pressing home with the fingers, and the whole covered to the 

 depth of J inch. Note the difference between the tulip and the 

 hyacinth, for while the latter may have its crown flush with 

 the surface of the soil, the tulip needs burying. 



Like other bulbs, it must be stood in the open or some cool 

 place and covered with ashes. Being naturally later than the 

 hyacinth it does not become active so quickly, but the early 

 flowering varieties are ready to start on in December, providing 



