106 EVERT WOMAN HER OWN FLOWER GAFDENER. 



corner, where the soil is moist and i-ich. Are perfectly hardy, requiring 

 no protection in the coldest winter. There is no bulb that flourishes so 

 perfectly under neglect; and no flower which is more perfect in form 

 and fragrance. 



The Ranunculus. 



There are two kinds of these bulbs — the Double Persian, and the 

 Turban; they form a fine contrast when planted together. They require 

 a rich soil, at least a foot and a half in depth of friable, rich earth ; that 

 taken from a marshy wood — deep and dark, and mixed 'with very old 

 decomposed manure — is the best for them. They need to be frequently 

 watered ; drought will kill their blossoms, and they are too tender to 

 endure the cold of northern winters, but must be kept in dry sand, and 

 planted out three inches deep, early in the spring. The hot sun will 

 fade out their bright colors, so it is best to plant them in the shade. 



Ixias, Scillas, Irises, Colchicums and Crown Imperials are all good 

 border plants, and add variety to a bed of bulbous roots. 



Generally, any well-drained garden soil will answer for them ; if clay, 

 a good sprinkling of sand, and a top dressing of well decayed manure 

 will make them bloom more freely. 



