NARCISSUS. 



239 



in growing the Narcissus, that when a planting is once 

 made, no further attention is necessary, as they will pro- 

 tect themselves against all encroachment. Quack grass 

 even has to give way to them, and in spite of it there 

 will be an annual improvement in the quantity and 

 quality of bloom. 



The third class, having N. Tazetta as the type, and 

 including the species and varieties usually employed for 

 forcing by the florists, cannot be treated so carelessly ; 

 it demands greater attention, and is not, by any 

 means, hardy. The bulbs should be planted, at least, 

 five inches deep, and be protected against frost. In a 

 changeable climate, where there is alternate freezing and 

 thawing, these bulbs will not succeed unless ample pro- 

 tection is afforded. They are desirable for pot culture, 

 for the window garden, and should be potted as early as 

 possible after they arrive from Europe. The Double 

 Eoman and Paper White naturally come into bloom in 

 advance of the other sorts, and should be selected for 

 early display. Pot them rather firmly in a rich, porous 

 soil, but not so firmly as to render it impossible for the 

 roots to penetrate, or they will raise the bulbs out of the 

 soil. Place the bulbs in a cool spot, and cover them 

 with coal ashes or any other material, to keep the bulbs 

 in their places, and to prevent the foliage from starting 

 prematurely. When top growth commences, which will 

 be by the first of December, the pots can be given their 

 position in the window-garden or conservatory. A suc- 

 cession can be kept up until flowers appear in the open 

 border, by bringing the pots in at intervals. If a little 

 bottom heat is given the plants as soon as the buds ap- 

 pear, it will hasten their flowering, but those who have 

 not the necessary appliances will not be the losers, as 

 the flowers will be better without artificial aid. 



The Tazetta class of Narcissus can also be grown in 

 glasses in water, in the same manner recommended for 



