cueteserol Bulb Planting 
PETER VALINGA, “The Dutch Bulk Specialist” 
GENERAL INFORMATION 
BULB STRUCTURE 
A bulb consists of four or five layers of 
food storing tissue, which enclose—in mini- 
ature—the new flower and leaves. 
The root system which the bulb develops 
after planting draws in the very beginning 
its sustaining nourishment from these food- 
storing outer layers of the bulb. After the 
root system has sufficiently developed, it 
takes over and starts feeding the.miniature 
flower in the bulb. 
The foundation of the bulb is its root system. Only a low 
ground temperature, 40-45 degrees Farenheit, will induce a bulb 
to develop an adequate root system. . 
The reason why we have always objected to planting tulip 
and hyacinth bulbs before the end of October, and this applies 
especially to Southern California, is that a high ground tempera- 
ture retards root development. 
A high ground temperature not only prevents an adequate root 
growth, but it also prematurely develops the flower inside the 
bulb. 

WHERE TO PLANT YOUR BULBS 
Customers often ask me: ‘Where is the best place in my gar- 
den to plant my bulbs?’ My answer has always been: ‘Plant 
them where you can enjoy them most when they are in bloom.” 
The general objection to this is that when, during the latter part 
of October the tulip and hyacinth bulbs should be planted, the 
favorite place in the garden is still in full bloom. This problem is 
overcome by potting (see page 3). Generally speaking bulbs do 
best in full sun. They may, however, be planted in partial shade. 
Most effective display is obtained by planting in clusters against 
a background of shrubs, a brick wall or the side of a house. 
PREPARATION OF THE SOIL 
After having selected your location prepare the ground by 
digging to a depth of 18 inches. If your soil tends to pack mix in 
a liberal amount of cow manure, bean straw, or peat moss, as 
bulbs like a loose, well-drained soil. Raise your bed 6 to 8 inches 
above the ground level to provide maximum drainage. 
a CARE OF BULBS AFTER PLANTING 
Water immediately after planting and at least once a week 
until the rains start. If the rains are light or at long intervals, 
continue watering as the soil must be kept moist. 
