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General Requirements (Specific requirements)

Specific requirements for the different kinds of bulbs are given at the end of this chapter, but there are certain ones which apply to all bulbs. They all require a good garden loam, light enough to allow surplus water to drain off and to admit a free circulation of air. Cold, stiff, clay soils must have their texture modified, by incorporating ample sand into them. Good drainage is an essential as stagnant water permeating the soil will cause the bulbs to rot while they are not in active growth. It is advisable to thoroughly trench soils intended for bulb planting and to incorporate into them either bone meal or leaf mold. Well-rotted manure can be used advantageously provided great care be observed, when planting, not to allow any particles to touch the bulb.

Most bulbs prefer a rich, sandy soil in which a certain amount of available plant food is within reach of the roots. Although the bulbs contain a certain amount of stored nourishment in themselves the size of the flowers and the luxuriance of their growth is aided by some extra food. It must also be remembered that food contained within the bulb is obtained from the available supply in the soil immediately after the blooming season.

Hardy, spring flowering bulbs can be planted as [142]