THE WOMAN GARDENER

Wairarapa Times-Age, 26 April 1938, Page 5

THE WOMAN GARDENER

POTTED MAGIC. In these days, one need not be a Maskelyne to produce potted magic, for, with the aid of a few bowls, pots, jugs, indeed, any suitable dishes, some bulbs, a quantity of moss fibre, or prepared compost, one can miraculously produce colour and fragance that will be a source of delight in the home when flowers are not very plentiful. So easy is it to grow bulbs indoors that it is surprising how few people go in for this fascinating and delightful hobby.

Specially designed bulb bowls can be bought, some cheap, and other not so cheap, but any kind of receptacle will do, as drainage is unnecessary if one uses fibre, provided a few lumps of charcoal are placed at the bottom. To be successful, bulb culture depends on good bulbs and early potting. They must not be forced in the early stages.

Wash and dry the bowls thoroughly and place the charcoal in the bottom. Place the bulbs on top of the charcoal, keeping them well apart. Moisten the fibre well, and squeeze nearly dry, then pack it tightly around and over the bulbs. Place the bowls in a room that is dark, cool, and airy. The fibre should be kept moist, but not wet. After they have grown sufficiently, bring them into a room that gets plenty of sun.

The interest aroused in seeing the development of these flowers is ample reward for the little trouble there is in growing them. Many years ago bulbs were grown extensively in coloured glass vases specially made for the purpose. The vase was filled with water, • and the bulb rested in the neck of the vase. They were kept in the dark until they were well rooted, and then brought out to a sunny room. Watching the development through the glass was interesting.

All kinds of bulbs are suitable for growing indoors, the most popular being the old favourites, daffodils, freesias, hyacinths, and tulips. As gifts for birthdays or other occasions they are unsurpassed, especially for those who live in flats, and who have no gardens. If special colours are desired to harmonise with interior decorations, get your bulbs from a reliable seedsman, who will give you all information about the colour.

Bowls can be bought with the bulbs already planted, but they do not afford the same thrill as when you plant them yourself. So here’s to “good planting.”