Holiday Gifts of Spring Blooming Bulbs

If any of your bulbs are still sitting in bags waiting to be planted outside, consider keeping some out of the garden and using them for holiday gifts or decorations for your own home.

Charley's Greenhouse sent out an email with the instructions if you missed them in my column last week.

Here are the basics from Charley: Most spring-blooming bulbs need a cold dormancy period of 10-12 weeks for best stem and flower development.
Choose containers that are shallower rather than deeper.
Start with large, firm bulbs of similar size so they will all bloom at once.
Add about 1 inch of sterile, good draining potting mix to the bottom of the pot.
Set the bulbs in so they are almost touching.
Add more soil to within ½ inch of the top of the pot.
For increased show in limited spaces, combine 2 or more types of bulbs in your pot. Layer the bottom of the pot with larger bulbs. Cover them with a layer of soil. Next add a layer of smaller bulbs like dwarf daffodils and reticulated iris. Cover the top layer with 1 inch of soil
Place your pots in a cool (33°-40°F) area such as a shed, garage, root cellar, next to your house. Light isn't needed during this period, but keep the soil moist.
When top growth begins to appear, move the pots indoors and maintain a temperature between 55°-65° F. Now they need bright light.
After several weeks, move your containers into a warmer place (68°-72°F). Flowers will soon emerge, bringing the promise of spring ahead!

Photos: Fall at Greenleaf State Park


Get out and enjoy our local beauty on these 75 degree days. The fall color is stunning.