Bulbs should be bought during September and October, for 
all potting ought to be over by the last of October. For this work 
with bulbs, have ready the bulbs, soil, sand, charcoal, broken 
crock and the pots. 
The Bulbs.— In the first place, order these of any good seeds- 
man. If hyacinths be chosen, remember that the named varieties 
are more likely to give good results, but they are more expensive 
than the unnamed ones. If one cannot afford the named varie- 
ties, order by color such as the blues, whites, etc. Be sure to 
choose firm, solid bulbs. These have more strength to do their 
work; more food supply stored up. For, within the heart of the 
bulb the flower itself is already formed, ready to push itself up 
and out into the world, when conditions are right. So the strong 
bulbs are better fitted for their work than the weaker ones. Re- 
member this, too: that Roman hyacinths bloom earlier than 
other hyacinths, requiring a shorter resting period. Those 
planted in October may be had for Christmas bloom. 
Soil. — The soil for bulb planting should not be too heavy. 
Heavy soil clings firmly together when moistened, due to clay in 
it. Light soil falls apart. If the soil seems to be a heavy one, 
lighten it with sand, adding about one-third sand to the amount 
required. Sand not only lightens soil, but it helps by carrying 
surplus water off. In very heavy soils, w r ater may collect about 
the base of the bulbs. This causes decay. Free the potting soil 
from lumps and stones; if it is necessary, sift it. 
Pots. — Bulbs may be planted in pots, pans or flats. Pans are 
low crocks. Flats are low boxes of about four inches in height. 
The bottom of a flat ought to have holes in it or spaces for 
drainage. Many bulbs can be planted, just as closely together 
as possible, in a single flat. When the bulbs are almost ready to 
bloom they may be transplanted into separate pots. The number 
of pots to buy depends upon the number of bulbs. It is a matter 
of calculation. Bulbs need just enough space to grow in, without 
touching neighboring bulbs. Suppose the pot be a five-inch one: 
allow two Dutch hyacinths to such a pot; three Roman ones; two 
