Snowdrops - in the green NOT
James Waddick (Fri, 08 Apr 2005 07:46:12 PDT)

Dear Louise and John;
As you both preach, the tradition of 'In-the-green*' is
nutsy. I propose that we use a "new" term - "Fresh**". This is oppose
to the usual dried*** to crispness of traditional fall bulbs. Many
bulbs are severely stressed by drying to this crisp state. Lycoris
and Galanthus are just two genera that share this need to be kept
fresh during dormancy. If not allowed to dry totally they can be dug
when the foliage has ripened, stored for a few months and sent while
still in a fresh state without stress or set back.

Some definitions:

*In the green Bulbs are dug with all foliage green, roots
intact, even soil attached. Some bulbs tolerate this for a quick move
from one part of the garden to another or for modest division. An
emergency only.

**Fresh Bulbs are allowed to ripen their foliage, enter
dormancy and are then dug and stored in a cool, dark moist state.
They may be divided and cleaned of most soil. Roots may/or may not
dry out. Such bulbs are shipped for later planting or around the
garden.

***Dry Bulbs are dug after foliage has ripened, they a re
dried in a warm dry spot for days or weeks. Usually all foliage roots
and soil are removed. Outer tunics and skin are crispy and flaky.
Very dry to the touch. Bulbs are stored warm and dry until shipping
or replanting.

I suggest that some bulbs TOLERATE a variety of conditions,
but others are severely stressed by improper digging and storage.

Surely readers can suggest other bulbs that require 'fresh' treatment.

Best Jim W.
--
Dr. James W. Waddick
8871 NW Brostrom Rd.
Kansas City Missouri 64152-2711
USA
Ph. 816-746-1949
Zone 5 Record low -23F
Summer 100F +