6 MAY 1949, Page 20

In the Garden Though Lincolnshire has proved as congenial to

the tulip as Haarlem itself, we must grant that the Dutch have a supreme knowledge of the bulb; and since the bulb itself is what matters to them they are wont to destroy the flower almost in its heyday. Our gardeners do not want to do this ; but for the strengthening of the bulbs it is not a little important to destroy the seed-head as soon as possible. Tulips are rather kittle cattle. Some may be left indefinitely in suitable ground ; most should be dug up and dried off before replanting, if degeneration, even dis- appearance, is to be avoided ; and even then the second year will not be S3 'good as the first; and very few sorts flourish in grass.

W. BEACH THOMAS.