A Beginner’s Guide to Forcing Tulip Bulbs Indoors
When the weather outside is cold and dreary, many gardeners turn to forcing tulip bulbs to bring a touch of spring indoors. Forcing tulip bulbs is a relatively easy process that can be done with a little planning and care.
Choosing and Preparing Tulip Bulbs
Not all tulip bulbs are suitable for forcing. Choose varieties that are specifically labeled as “forcing tulips.” These bulbs will have been pre-treated to ensure that they will bloom indoors.
Purchase your forcing tulip bulbs in the early fall, when spring bulbs are being sold. Choose firm, healthy bulbs that are free of blemishes. Larger bulbs will produce larger flowers.
Once you have your bulbs, place them in a cool, dark place for 12 to 16 weeks to be chilled. The average temperature should be between 35 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit (2-7 degrees Celsius). Many people chill their bulbs in the vegetable drawer in their fridge, in an unheated but attached garage, or even in shallow trenches near the foundation of their homes.
Planting Tulip Bulbs
After chilling, you are ready to start planting your tulip bulbs. Choose a container with good drainage. Fill the container with soil to about 3 to 4 inches (7.5-10 cm) below the rim of the container.
Place the tulip bulbs on top of the soil, pointy end up. Fill the container with soil around the tulip bulbs to the top of the container. The very tips of the tulip bulbs should still show through the top of the soil.
Water the bulbs lightly. Place the pots in a cool, dark place, such as a basement or unheated garage. Water lightly about once a week.
Forcing Tulip Bulbs to Bloom
Once leaves appear, bring the tulip bulbs out and place them in a location where they will get bright, but indirect light. Your forced tulips should flower in two to three weeks after being brought into the light.
Caring for Forced Tulips
After forcing tulips, they are cared for much like a houseplant. Water the tulips when the soil is dry to the touch. Make sure that your forced tulips remain out of direct light and drafts.
With a little care, you can enjoy beautiful blooming tulips indoors all winter long.
Troubleshooting
- My tulip bulbs are not blooming. This could be due to several factors, including:
- The bulbs were not chilled for long enough.
- The bulbs were not planted deeply enough.
- The bulbs are not getting enough light.
- The bulbs are too warm.
- My tulip bulbs are growing too tall and leggy. This is usually a sign that the bulbs are not getting enough light. Move the bulbs to a brighter location.
- My tulip bulbs are developing mold or fungus. This could be due to overwatering or poor drainage. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings and make sure that the container has good drainage.
Tips
- For a more dramatic display, plant several tulip bulbs in a large container.
- To create a unique look, plant tulip bulbs in different colors and varieties.
- Forced tulips make a beautiful gift for friends and family.
- With proper care, forced tulips can be enjoyed for several weeks.
