moderate amount should be given. When the pots are full of roots,
shift the plants into larger ones, and grow on in a house with a
uniform high temperature and moist atmosphere. For a succession of
bloom place the roots in a cold frame and cover with cocoanut fibre
until growth begins, then remove the fibre, water moderately, and
transfer the most forward plants to the conservatory. Bloom may be had
all the year round by planting in succession from September to June.
Tulips.--Drainage may be considered as the chief means of success in
the cultivation of these showy spring flowers. The soil they like best
is well-rotted turf cut from pasture land and mixed with a moderate
amount of sand, but they will thrive in any ground that is well
drained. The bulbs should be planted during October and November about
3 in. deep and 5 in. apart, either in lines or groups, and they retain
their bloom longest in a shady situation. As soon as the leaves begin
to decay the bulbs may be taken up, dried, and stored away, keeping
the colours separate. For pot-culture the single varieties are best.
Put three bulbs in a 5-in. pot and six in a 6-in. one, and treat in
the same manner as the Hyacinth. They may, if desired, be forced as
soon as the shoots appear. When required to fill vases, etc., it is
a good plan to grow them in shallow boxes, and transfer them when in
flower to the vases or baskets. By this method exactitude of height
and colouring is ensured. Tulips are divided into three classes: (1)
Roses, which have a white ground, with crimson, pink, or scarlet
marks; (2) Byblomens, having also a white ground, but with lilac,
purple, or black marks; and (3) Bizarres, with a yellow ground having
marks of any colour.
Tunica.--Same treatment as "Dianthus."
Turkey's Beard.--See "Xerophyllum."
Turnips.--To obtain mild and delicately-flavoured Turnips a somewhat
light, sandy, but deep, rich soil is necessary. For a first crop sow
the Early White Dutch variety in February or the beginning of March on
a warm border. For succession sow Early Snowball at intervals of three
weeks until the middle of July. For winter use sow Golden Ball, or
other yellow-fleshed kinds, early in August. Thin each sowing out so
that the bulbs stand 9 in. apart. To ensure sound, crisp, fleshy roots
they require to be grown quickly, therefore moist soil and liberal
manuring is necessary, and the ground kept free from weeds. If fly
becomes troublesome, dust the plants with quicklime early in the day,
while the dew is on them, and repeat the operation as often as is
necessary.
Tussilago Fragrans (Winter Heliotrope).--A very fragrant hardy
perennial, flowering in January and February. It will grow in any good
garden soil and bears division. Height, 1 ft.
Twin Flower.--See "Bravoa."