HYACINTH. 



ic5 



single bulb ; three or four in a larger one produce 

 a fine effect. Set the bulb firmly in the centre of 

 the pot, so only its upper surface appears above the 

 soil. Saturate the earth with water, and set them 

 in a cool, dark cellar a few weeks, where the bulbs 

 will develop roots, though but little foliage. Re- 

 move, a few at a time, to a warm, light room, and a 

 succession of bloom can be enjoyed. If the tem- 

 perature be above jo they should be changed at 

 night to a cooler room. One or two applications 

 of liquid manure, when first brought forward, will 

 be beneficial. 



Hyacinths are flowered in glasses. Many fanci- 

 ful designs are made for that purpose ; dark colored 

 ones are best. Place the bulb in the crown of a 

 glass filled with rain-water until it nearly reaches 

 but does not touch the base of the bulb. Set them 

 in a cool, dark place, and change the water weekly, 

 or as often as it becomes discolored. When the 

 flower buds appear give the plants a light moist at- 

 mosphere, sprinkle frequently and they will soon 

 bloom and may be taken to a warmer room as 

 wanted. One or two drops of aqua ammonia added 

 to the water after the plants are brought to the 

 light will hasten the flowering. Hyacinths will not 

 bloom in perfection in a dry hot room. Their 

 flowers should be cut as soon as they begin to fade. 



Hyacinths can be flowered in wet moss, sand, 

 charcoal, etc., by those wishing to gratify curiosity. 

 The future value of bulbs forced otherwise than in 

 5* 



