THE CULTIVATION OF HIPPEAST RUMS. 



39 



their growth and mature their bulbs early. Towards the end of July 

 they should be placed in a cold pit and allowed plenty of air and 

 light, and ultimately rested as already described. In December some 

 of the most dormant of the bulbs might be placed in heat, others 

 being introduced at intervals in order to give a succession of bloom. 



The following season the plants which have been forced will go 

 to rest earlier, and may be placed in heat in November, which is 

 probably as early as there is any necessity to start them. 



Winter-flowering Hippeastrums are best potted directly they 

 have finished flowering, when, without disturbing the roots, they, 

 should be placed in larger pots or given a top-dressing of rich compost. 



The important points, then, in the cultivation of Hippeastrums 

 are : — 



1. Early potting before growth starts. 



2. Thorough drainage in the pots and the avoidance of over- 

 potting. 



3. Growing the plants in a light house and near the glass. 



4. A moist atmosphere while they are in active growth. 



5. Keeping them free from insects, especially Thrips ; and 



6. Placing the bulbs in a lower temperature when at rest. 

 When these and other comparatively simple requirements are 



attended to, there are very few other hothouse bulbous plants that 

 make such a good je turn for the work spent upon them. 



