Forcing Bulbs

Try forcing a few spring flowering bulbs for indoor enjoyment or added beauty on your patio and deck.

Use a container with drainage holes and deep enough to accommodate your largest bulbs. Fill the bottom of the container with a well-drained potting mix. Place larger bulbs like tulips, daffodils and hyacinths in the lower level. The tallest bulbs should go in the center surrounded by shorter varieties. Place tulips with the flat side of the bulb facing the pot for a better display.

Cover these bulbs with soil and add the smaller bulbs like squills, grape hyacinths and crocus to the next level. Plant the bulbs close to each other, covering the surface for greater impact. Cover this layer with soil.

The next step is to water and then move the pot to a cool location, about 35 to 45 degrees, for at least 12 to 15 weeks. When ready bring indoors or place in your landscape for added spring color.

A bit more information: Chill the bulbs in a refrigerator or unheated garage. Water the containers whenever the soil is thawed and dry. Or sink the container into a vacant garden space in your landscape. Mulch the soil once the ground starts to freeze with evergreen boughs. This will make it easier to remove the pot in early spring.