How to Obtain a Choice Collection.
There are, as before stated, some qualities which are requisite to a
good gladiolus, but this demand does not draw close or inflexible lines.
There are hundreds of varieties in existence which possess the necessary
traits in a considerable degree, and more are being produced every year
by the growing of seedlings. This breadth of variation gives room for
the exercise of individual tastes equally as diversified, and it is
interesting to observe the differences displayed. One person's ideal may
be quite ordinary in the estimation of another. Once, when I exhibited
ninety varieties at a fair, I was surprised to see a lady select as her
first choice the one which was ninetieth in my opinion.
There are several ways of obtaining a fine collection. If one can afford
to gratify his wishes without regard to expense, he can buy named
varieties year after year, select those that he most admires, and reject
the others. With less outlay he can buy mixed bulbs of a high grade, or
unbloomed seedlings, and retain the finest, as before. This is an
excellent way, and in no other can a choice collection be obtained for
so little money in so short a time. Another method, which involves still
less expense but requires more time, is to grow bulbs from seed, and it
is wise to procure the seed from many different sources, in order to
attain the most extensive range of colors and characteristics. Seedlings
well grown the first year will show a few flowers the second, and the
next season all will bloom. The grower can then choose those that please
him best, and this work is unspeakably captivating.