Forcing Spring Bulbs for Winter Blooms
- 1). Purchase large, top-quality, blemish-free bulbs. The label on the package will usually indicate the best varieties for forcing.
- 2). Prepare a clay or plastic container with at least one drainage hole in the bottom. Scrub pre-used containers with dish detergent and hot water. Fill the container 3/4 full with a mixture of 1/3 commercial potting mix, 1/3 coarse sand and 1/3 peat moss.
- 3). Plant the bulbs closely together in the container, allowing 1/2 to 1 inch between bulbs. A 6-inch pot will hold six daffodil bulbs, 3 hyacinth bulbs, six tulip bulbs or 15 crocus bulbs. Plant the bulbs with the pointed end facing up and the flat side facing the outer edge of the container. Plant small bulbs such as crocus just under the soil. Plant larger bulbs such as daffodil, hyacinth and tulip so that the tip can be seen above the soil.
- 4). Water the bulbs lightly. The soil should be damp but not soggy. Write the date on the outside of the container or make a note on your calendar to remind yourself when you planted the bulbs.
- 5). Place the bulbs in a cool place such as an attic, basement or garage to chill. Maintain the temperature at 35 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, or place the bulbs in the refrigerator.
- 6). Bring the bulbs indoors when you see healthy roots through the bottom of the pot and small sprouts emerging from the top of the bulbs. Except for tulips, most bulbs require 9 to12 weeks of chilling time. Tulips need 12 to14 weeks.
- 7). Bring the container into a cool room after the chilling time has passed. Place the bulbs in indirect light with temperatures of 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Water as needed to keep the soil slightly damp.
- 8). Move the pot into normal room temperature and bright, indirect light when the shoots are 2 to 3 inches tall. Turn the pot occasionally to promote even blooming.
