CULTURE IN MOSS FIBRE, 81 



They are made in the following sizes: 2|in., 4in., 5 Jin., 

 7in., Sin., 9in., lOin., and 12in. The first size is suit- 

 able for small bulbs like crocuses, snowdrops, squills, and 

 chionodoxas; the next one (4in. or 5in.) for one bulb of 

 hyacinth or three of narcissi or tulips ; and the others for 

 growing a number of bulbs. 



The Compost. This should consist of two parts of 

 moss-fibre and one part each of finely-ground sea-shell 

 and charcoal. But those who do not want to be bothered 

 with the trouble of buying the ingredients separately, and 

 mixing them, may purchase from any of the bulb dealers a 

 specially-prepared mixture of the above materials with the 

 addition of artificial manures for about 3s. 6d. per bushel. 



Especial care should be taken in seeing that the com- 

 post is in a thoroughly moist condition before it is placed 

 in the bowls. If this precaution be not taken it will be 

 practically impossible to add the requisite moisture after- 

 wards, as, if the material once gets dry, it will not readily 

 absorb water. It is advisable, therefore, to spread the 

 compost out thinly ; then sprinkle it with water, and mix 

 together. The proper condition of moisture can be 

 ascertained by squeezing the compost in the hand. If, 

 as a result, the moisture oozes out slightly through the 

 fingers, then it is in a suitable state to use, not other- 

 wise. A bushel of compost will suffice for about twenty- 

 four bowls of six-inch diameter. Some lumps of charcoal 

 are also essential to serve as drainage, and a half- inch 

 layer of this should be put in each bowl prior io adding 

 the compost. 



General Treatment. Great care must be taken 

 not to over-water the fibre so as to make the latter sour. 

 Give just enough to make it fairly moist. If by any 

 chance too much water has been applied, tilt the bowl 

 on one side to allow superfluous moisture to drain away. 

 Nor should cold water be given, as this would chill the 

 roots and cause the flowers to develop improperly. Stand 



