66 THE HYACINTH. 



V 



Size is no criterion ; for some varieties always produce 

 large bulbs, and others are usually small. Round, medium- 

 sized, plump bulbs, the base or root-stool flat, hard, free 

 from mould or decay, and not sunk, and the top formed of 

 small, closely-fitted scales, with perhaps a stout, strong 

 shoot just pushing, will give the best flower : those having 

 a hollow apex should be avoided. 



Large, light, scaly bulbs seldom produce close, compact 

 spikes of bloom, though often throwing a fine mass of 

 foliage, and giving several loose spikes of bloom. Double- 

 crowned bulbs, though usually producing two spikes of 

 bloom, are not desirable, as the flowers are generally infe- 

 rior in size. 



Bulbs should be selected as soon as imported : the expo- 

 sure to the air, and the handling they undergo in a florist's 

 shop, do not tend to improve them. If the bulbs are not to 

 be planted immediately, they should be kept in a cool, dry 

 place, laid singly, or wrapped in thin paper, and as nearly 

 as possible in a state of perfect rest. If kept too moist, the 

 roots are excited to growth ; and if too hot, the tops sprout. 

 If by chance the roots have started, the bulbs should at 

 once be planted. The single varieties produce the finest 

 spikes and more flowers ; the double, the finest single 



