Forcing Flowering BulbsChoosing Bulbs First, only top quality, good-sized bulbs should be used. Al’s Garden Center carries an excellent line of high quality, spring flowering bulbs and the varieties that are best suited for forcing say so right on the package or bulb container. Planting Bulbs Begin by planting the bulbs in clean, sterile clay or plastic pots. Use Al’s potting soil and make sure to keep the tips of the bulbs exposed. Do not bury the bulbs. Plant the bulbs close together in the pot, but not touching. Usually 6 tulip bulbs, 3 hyacinths, or 6 daffodils will fit into a 6-inch pot. It is extremely important that bulbs be handled with care at all times. Never allow the bulbs to be in temperatures above 65 degrees F. The bulbs should be watered immediately upon planting, and thereafter the soil should never be allowed to become dry. Cold Treatment Bulbs must be given a cold temperature treatment of 35-48 degrees F for a minimum of 12-13 weeks. The vegetable section of your refrigerator works well as a storage spot. Be sure to cover the pots with plastic bags and punch a few breathing holes in them. Do not allow the bulbs to freeze. Forcing in Pots Mark your calendar to remind yourself when the first pots can be removed from storage for forcing to begin. If planted October 1, bring the first pots into the home right after Christmas. For a continuous supply of flowers, bring a few pots out of the refrigerator at weekly intervals. On the average the bulbs will flower in three to four weeks. In the home, place the pots in a cool, sunny location. A temperature of 50-60 degrees F is preferred for the first week or until the shoots and leaves begin to expand. Then, they can be moved to warmer locations such as the living room. Avoid direct sunlight. Once the bulbs are blooming, move the pots to a cool location every night. The cooler temperatures will prolong the life of the flowers. Enjoy your early blooms! |
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PORTLAND METRO-AREA NURSERY LOCATIONS |
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SALEM AREA NURSERY LOCATION |
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