Forcing Bulbs
Many bulbs can be forced to bloom indoors. Daffodil bulb varieties such as Dutch Master (yellow) and Salome (white) and among tulip bulb varieties, Triumphs and some Darwin hybrids are the easiest to force. Only purchase Hyacinth bulbs that have been specifically prepared for forcing into early blooming.
The bulbs should be planted from mid October to early November and will need a minimum of 12 weeks of cold treatment. Once the bulbs are planted, the containers should be placed in an unheated place about 4 - 8 Celsius. The refrigerator is a good place if you have room.
Water only when the surface of the soil begins to dry out. The soil should not completely dry out, as the roots will be damaged. If bulbs are over-watered they will rot. Check the containers weekly and use containers with good drainage.
When the bulbs have top shoots, about an inch high, take the bulbs out from the cold storage and place them in a spot out of direct sunlight. Let them slowly adjust to the warmer temperature and fertilize each time you water. It will take about another 3 to 4 weeks before they bloom.
Lori
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