How to Force Spring Flower Bulbs by Dee Power

Waiting for spring during the cold winter months doesn't have to mean staring at a bleak winter landscape wishing for warmer weather. Get a head start on spring with forced flower bulbs. Many varieties do well in pots when given the proper environment. A little planning ahead and the right types of bulbs is about all it takes.

Bulbs Lots of bulbs can be forced or tricked into blooming out of season. Most of them naturally flower in the spring time with a few exceptions. Easter or trumpet lilies are forced for very early spring blooming when they naturally bloom in mid summer. Amaryllis is forced for blooming during the winter holidays but naturally bloom in early summer.

Spring blooming bulbs include tulips, hyacinths, crocus, daffodils, tulips, and grape hyacinths.

Get the bulbs ready to grow Most spring bulbs require a period of cold to induce the flowering process. However, cold doesn't mean freezing. If the bulbs freeze they'll die. Keep the bulbs in a dark cool (below 40 degrees) place such as a garage, in the vegetable crisper of the fridge or planted in pots that are kept outside in a protected area. When the chilling period is within a week or two of the appropriate time check the tops of the bulbs for any new shoots. They'll appear as tiny very light green bumps. If you see them it's time to plant.

Tulips and hyacinths require the longest chilling period, 16 weeks. Crocuses require from 12 to 14 weeks. Daffodils from 10 to 12 weeks. Narcissus, a relative of daffodils don't require any chilling. Chilling times are approximate.

Planting Select a pot with drainage. Fill with three inches of soil. Place the bulb in the pot flat side down and pointed end up. If you have spotted the light green bumps, plant that end up. Cover the bulbs with soil and water thoroughly. Let drain. Do not over water or the bulbs will rot. Let them almost dry out completely between waterings. Keep in a cold dark area until the shoots are above the soil. Move to a warmer sunnier area.

Forced in water Bulbs will grow forced in water without soil. After the chilling period fill a clear glass or glass container with several inches of marbles. Place the bulb on top and add marbles up to the neck of the bulb. Fill the glass with water up to just over the bottom of the bulb. Place in a well lighted window. Keep the water level steady. Don't immerse the bulb in water. If the water gets cloudy change it completely.

About the Author

Find more gardening tips Dee Power is the author of several nonfiction books. She loves cooking and gardening and coming up with party ideas for kidsand Valentine Gift Ideas