Most bulbs do best if not lifted after blooming; that is, let them be in the ground for several years. Then the new bulbs which have grown on the old ones will need to be separated and planted. Narcissus and daffodils may remain many years without disturbing. Hyacinths do not do as well as other out-door hardy bulbs, becoming less vigorous each year. They do a little better if the bulbs are lifted and dried in the Summer and replaced in the Fall. If you plant— BULBS IN THE GRASS One caution is necessary: after they are through blooming, wait until the green leaves turn yellow before cutting the grass. If the leaves are cut before they turn, the bulbs will die. Nowhere else do such flowers look so beautiful as in the grass. To plant small bulbs, such as crocus, dig holes in the turf with an apple-corer, or with a “dibble,” which is a pointed stick. Throw in a tiny bit of bone meal and some sand. After placing the bulb, being certain to put the root end down, and the pointed top up, cover with sand and pack the turf firmly back in place. A better way is to lift the turf with a spade. Dig, to loosen up the soil; add a little bone meal; plant bulbs, replace sod. To place them in an artistic position, throw down a handful and plant where they fall. CHAPTER LVI DAFFODIL AND OTHER BULBS “GOOD!” Bob approved as Billy paused, “that’s a splendid lecture, Bill.” “Isn’t it?” cried Eleanor. “I believe we know almost everything now about planting bulbs.” “What kinds are we going to plant?” asked Mary Frances, looking at the large package the boys had brought with them. They opened it and Bob began to speak: “Young ladies,” he commenced; then, “Oh, I say, Bill, I can’t come this ‘professor act.’ You’d better do the lecturing!” “No, sir-ee!” declared Billy. “It’s your turn now. Go ahead.” “Oh, go on, Bob,” cried Eleanor. “Please do!” begged Mary Frances. “All right, then,” replied Bob, laughing, “only don’t expect much erudite stuff from humble me—even when I read my notes.” Then, opening his book, and clearing his throat, he started once more: “Listen, young ladies, and you will hear of— BULBS TO PLANT IN THE FALL _Snowdrops_ The earliest Spring garden flower, sometimes coming literally out of the snow as early as February; but usually blooming in March. The blossoms are small, white, bell-shaped, not in the least showy. Only one who has come upon them unexpectedly blooming in his garden knows the thrill of pleasure which they bring. As they are small and inexpensive, plant a number of bulbs about two inches apart, to cover an irregular circle. Once planted they take care of themselves. _Squills_ (_Scilla_)