Purdue University Agricultural Extension Service Lafayette, Indiana
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FLOWERING BULBS Department of Horticulture
Few home gardeners realize the possibilities of flowering bulbs-their variety of bloom, range of color, sequence of bloom, and their gorgeous effect unequalled by other flowers. Many gardeners are prone to think only of lilies, tulips, hyacinths and narcissi when the term "bulb" is mentioned.
In this case, the term "bulb" is used horticulturally to include corms, tubers and rhizomes. These are included in this classification because they may be handled in a dormant condition.
By judicious use of some of the bulbs listed, it is possible to have bloom in the garden before the last snow in the spring up to the first snow in the fall. Bulbs require little ground and top space in the garden and, therefore, can be planted in perennial and annual beds, among shrubs, under trees and practically every nook of the landscape plan. Some bulbs may be classed as expensive, but compared to their permanence and fast multiplication, the investment is actually low.

Culture of Bulbs
When to Plant
Under each plant listed, the approximate planting time is given. Care should be taken to order bulbs well in advance, and required delivery dates should be listed with the order.
Tulips, narcissi and others which have a protective covering of dry scales can be stored for some time, but the fleshy bulbs and roots must be planted shortly after delivery.
Forced bulbs received from the florist for Easter and other spring holidays can be. carried over until the foliage dies down, then dry them off and store until the fall. Bulbs can then be planted outside; however, these forced bulbs seldom bloom the succeeding spring.

Where and How to Buy Bulbs
Many of the popular bulbs have been given new variety names which are added to the catalogues each year. Many of the newer ones are simply improvements or selections of older standard varieties and have little to justify their high cost. Imported bulbs are no better than American grown. Advertised "bargains" -for instance, bushel of bulbs for a dollar-are likely to be worthless as many of the bulbs may be culls, seconds or have been injured in some way or another.
It is best to buy your bulbs from a reputable concern.

Planting Bulbs
Nothing will cause bulbs to disappear or deteriorate so quickly as poorly drained ground. A sandy loam soil is best for the majority of bulbs, although many bulbs will grow in heavier and poorer soils.
After the proper planting depth has been decided (see individual listings on following pages), the bulbs can be planted in one of the following two ways:
1. Dig individual holes for each bulb (or clusters) with a trowel. Sand may be placed at the bottom of each hole, but it is not absolutely essential. More important is to see that there are no air pockets at the