Home with Spring Colors

Forcing Bulbs - Brighten Your Winter Home with Spring Colors
By Jonathan Johnson

Nothing brightens a dreary winter day like a bouquet of fresh flowers. But there’s no need to venture out in the cold to purchase pre-cut flowers that won’t last; you can grow your own long-lasting arrangement in the comfort of your home. Forcing bulbs to bloom in your home is an excellent way to bring a little of that spring color you’ve been dreaming of inside during that last long cold stretch of winter. It’s also a great project to do with the kids or grandchildren. With just a few simple steps and a bit of patience, you will soon have a flower display that will be the envy of your neighbors.

First, we need to define what is meant by forcing. Forcing is tricking the bulb into thinking that it’s spring. That is achieved by creating an environment that pushes the bulb through its natural growth stages more quickly than they would occur on their own.

Now the fun begins! Pick out the type of bulbs you wish to grow. Some popular choices are tulips, narcissus, hyacinths, daffodils and amaryllis. When selecting, it is important to remember that this is one of the cases where bigger is better! If you encounter a situation where you can purchase a large or small bulb of the same variety, choose the larger of the two. Large, high-quality bulbs are preferable because the larger bulb contains more of the food required to produce a healthy, flowering plant. Or, more simply, a bigger bulb produces more flowers, and that is really what we all want. Select bulbs in much the same way you would choose a melon at the grocery store. Pick it up and give it a squeeze; it should be firm, not mushy. A healthy bulb is dry to the touch, but should not feel dried out. Also, avoid any that show signs of mold or mildew. Your nose can help, too. Don’t buy anything that smells pungent or offensive.
CFD Tip! Look for labels that say “good for forcing.”