BULB PLANTING

Evening Post, Volume CXXIX, Issue 21, 25 January 1940, Page 19

BULB PLANTING

The time has arrived for planting some of .the -early-flowering narcissi and other bulbs, many of which have very little resting time, the roots becoming active almost before the foliage is properly ripened off. ' l\ is".generally better to get the bulbs in as soon as possible to give them an opportunity of making good strong roots before they throw out foliage. Narcissi will grow in any kind of soil, but for good results they must have-something to feed on, and as they are deep rooting the soil should; be broken up to a good depth and the lower spit be enriched with plenty of humus. In preparing the ground work the humus into the lower spit, and,add some bonedust to the top soil. Wood ashes or ashes from a rubbish fire are particularly good for all kinds of bulbs, but organic manures are best avoided as they are apt to encourage disease.

Narcissi should be planted from 3 inches to 6 inches deep to the base of the bulb according to size—the larger the bulb the more covering it will require. In light soils the bulbs may be planted deeper than in heavy-clay. Lachinalias have a very short resting time, so should be planted as soon after lifting as the ground can be got ready for them. They do best in fairly light soil and do not require to be planted more than 3 inches, deep. In their native state they grow in pure sand.

It is necessary to have perfect drainage and a warm situation. The foliage is very liable to be affected by even the slightest frost. Lachenalias flower in the early spring; are easy to grow, increase rapidly, and make a vivid patch of colour for a month or more. There are several varieties and hybrids, mostly either yellow or red, some combining the two-colours, while, others have green or purple tops to the! petals.