FoodNetArchive

The standard book of recipes and housewife's guide, comprising as complete cook book

1901

Page 119

Presented as published in 1901. Historical recipes may not meet modern food-safety standards. Cook from the modern interpretation, not the original instructions.
The hyacinth is an easily-cultivated plant, of which more than a thousand vari- eties are grown in Holland, forming an im- portant item of that country's export trade. All Europe and the United States are sup- plied with bulbs from this source. These should be set out in October or November, the finer sorts in beds, the common kinds as border plants. They will bloom in April, and may be kept in bloom for nearly a month. No watering is needed, but they must be kept free from weeds and supported with small sticks as they increase in height. They form a rich garden ornament, var^dng through ever}^ shade of red down to white, from blue to almost black, while some few are of yellow color. The brilliant tulip is also a plant largely grown and yielding many varieties in Hol- land, in which land it has been famous for centuries. The bulbs should be planted in October or November, being set about four inches deep and four to six inches apart. They need a protective covering in case of severe frosts. They bloom in early spring, making a brilliant display with their gay and rich hues. There are both early and late bloomers, so that a tulip border may be kept in fine appearance for a considerable period. They succeed well in ordinary gar- den soil, and, with the hyacinth, make a very showy spring floral display. After the period of bloom, they can be taken up and stored until autumn, other plants taking their places. Pansies. The heart's-ease, or pansy, is a favorite with every one, from its beauty of color and the great variation I alike in the form and tint of its flowers. These make their ap- pearance early in the spring, and will con- tinue to bloom till the time of frost comes again. They reach their finest bloom in May and June, wilt somewhat under the summer sun, but regain their beauty in autumn. In planting pansies, a spot with a north aspect should be chosen. Soil of medium texture and not overfertilized is best. The soil should be kept loose around them , and care be taken to see that the border is free from the wireworm. By setting out the plants in September they become well bedded before winter, and seem to do as well as those kept in frames. Their propagation is easy, and young plants can be depended upon for the following season's beds. Seeds, if saved, should be taken only from choice flowers ; in this way alone can im- proved varieties be obtained. Verbenas and Petunias. The verbena is a South American plant, which will bloom with us, in the open air, from May to November, its brilliant scarlet flowers having no superior for rich show. Endless varieties have been produced b}^ cultivation, their tints running through every shade except blue and yellow. There are every shade of red, scarlet, crimson, purple, rose, etc.; also scarlet and purple, white with red e3^e, and various other pretty combinations.