On Many Subjects
then grow less vigorously, and multiply less rapidly. “Breeders,” therefore, are chiefly used in propagation, and are called by the Dutch “mother tulips.” There is, of course, always the chance that these seedling tulips will give rise to a new variety. Great skill is needed in the cultivation of them, and an intelligent and careful grower will produce well-marked flowers where another would fail. The Dutch growers commonly manure the ground in which the tulip is to be ultimately grown, and then plant it with potatoes, in order to make the soil, which would otherwise be too strong, suitable after a couple of years for the reception of the bulbs. Every summer they are taken up, the offsets are detached, and all replanted in fresh soil. Those who wish to feast their eyes on a sea of colour should hie to Holland about Easter-time,
233
