In formal gardens planting may be done by 
removing the topsoil to the proper depth and plac- 
ing the tulips at the right distance, replacing the 
soil. Under these circumstances it is also conven- 
ient to renew the topsoil every three years, forking 
the sub-soil and working in a layer of well rotted 
cowmanure. 
Wherever the Tulips are planted, proper culti- 
vation of the soil up to flowering time is absolutely 
necessary and feeding with a good bulbfood will 
intensify the color of the flowers and make for 
longer stems. 
When your Tulips arrive, keep them in a dry, 
dark and cool place, to prevent root action, which 
would be injurious to the flowering results. Top 
growth does not matter. Open all bags and do 
not stand them on a damp floor. 
In the East late planting is advisable, from the 
last week in October to the end of November, de- 
pending upon the weather. Do not plant right 
after a rain. 
Generally speaking, Tulips may be planted 
successfully as long as the ground is open. 
Experience has taught us that in general 
bulbs need no protection against winter weather 
and that often more harm is done by covering. 
What then I say is this, 
that we ignoramuses 
who know very little about it 
can derive a pure pleasure, 
not merely from the contemplations of gardens, 
but from the reading of books about them. 
—TLorp RoseBeERY. 
wa 
