72 BOOK OF OLD-FASHIONED FLOWERS 



The hybrids require some care and should be planted 

 in March at a depth of three inches and a distance of 

 nine inches apart in deeply dug, rich, well-drained soil, 

 free from fresh manure. About the second week in 

 September, before the foliage has died down, the corms 

 should be lifted and thoroughly dried off in a freely 

 ventilated shed. 



But most brilliant of all the flowers of August are 

 the scarlet Lobelias, L. cardinalis (described by Parkin- 

 son), and L. splendens with their varieties. They are 

 not very hardy, but with a little protection during 

 winter can be grown in most well-drained gardens. 

 Moisture during summer is essential, so that a slightly 

 shaded position should be selected. 



