Forcing Bulbs

Many years ago I forced bulbs: daffodils,  crocuses and hyacinths.  I had never forced tulips before.  They aren't my favorite flower.  They aren't reliable bloomers in my yard.  My mother says it is because we don't get cold enough here.  I think we have too many critters who eat the bulbs or eat the flowers before they bloom.  I like bulbs that come back reliably year after year.  Tulips won't do that here.  For me they aren't worth the energy they take to dig the hole.

But I decided to try and force some for a friend of mine who takes care of our dogs.  This variety is a red tulip called 'Merry Christmas'.  These bulbs were chilled for about 5 weeks and have been growing for another five.

 

I've been turning the bowl to try and straighten them up, but it doesn't seem to do any good.  I had a couple of bulbs I thought were duds, but just this morning I see a little green, so maybe they will grow after all.

 

I also have a hyacinth that has been growing V E R Y   S L OW LY.  I started this guy in October.  I think he might be a dud!

 

 

The lady at the nursery thinks my house isn't warm enough for him to grow very well.  Sorry, bulb,  I can't turn up the heat just for you.

 

I pulled the other bowl of tulip out of the frig last week. I'm keeping these in the warmest and brightest room in the house to see if that makes a difference.

 

 

These are the ones for my friend.  I hope to have them ready for her by her birthday in February.