Not too late to plant bulbs

It is not too late to plant flower bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths outside or in pots inside. I planted some daffodils in early January last year with good success. They bloomed a little later but were otherwise quite normal.

Tulips, daffodils, crocus, hyacinths and grape hyacinths are best for growing in pots with a cold treatment. The best tulips for forcing are the triumph strain which have medium height stems. Read labels or ask for the varieties which are best for indoor flowering. Almost any daffodil can be forced into bloom. Miniature narcissus or daffodils can also be grown in pots. Hyacinths are the most fragrant of bulbs. Single bulbs can be forced in a special hyacinth glass which has a lower chamber for roots and water and an upper one for the bulb. They can also be bloomed with several bulbs planted in a pot. It requires a 12 week treatment after planting in a cool dark place such as a refrigerator for bulbs to develop roots. Then they can be brought inside to bloom in about 3 to 4 weeks.

Amaryllis is another interesting bulb which is easily grown inside. For best results use a 6 inch or larger pot. Large amaryllis are generally planted one bulb per pot, and smaller miniatures 3 to a pot. This native South African flower has already been pre-treated and will bloom in 5 to 8 weeks after planting.