The illustrated dictionary of gardening; a practical and scientific encyclopaedia of horticulture for gardeners and botanists Volume 2 - Softcover

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1887 edition. Excerpt: ...fibry peat and charcoal, all broken and used as lumpy as possible, form a good and lasting compost. After potting or top-dressing in spring, Crinums should bo started into Crimim--continued. growth by being placed in stove heat, or in a somewhat cooler, but at the same time close, temperature, according to the requirements of individual species. Frequent syringings should be given, and some liquid manure may occasionally be applied to established plants. The flowers are all very beautiful, and are produced at various times throughout the summer, but more particularly towards the autumn. After flowering, water should bfl partially withheld for the winter or resting period, and the plants fully exposed to the sun. Crinums are seldom much injured by sunshine, but a slight shading is preferable in summer, when some of the leaves are young and tender. Outdoor Culture. A rich soil, in a sheltered south border, with plenty of drainage provided, is requisite for success with Crinums in the open air. Deep planting is recommended if they are to remain all the winter, in order that the bulbs may be out of the reach of frost. They should be of a good size before planting out. The best season is the end of May, as time is then afforded for the plants to flower and the roots to become established before winter. They must be kept clean, and watered when necessary. On the appearance of frost, the necks of the bulbs should be protected with haybands or fern; and when the leaves die away, the whole may be covered with cocoa-nut fibre. Where safety eannot thus be insured, on account of locality, it is best to lift and store the bulbs for the winter in a cool house or shed, and plant out again the following May. A stake must be placed to the flowerscape, when it...