How to Force Tulip Bulbs

A good way to brighten a dreary winter day is to have a pot of colorful flowers blooming on your windowsill. Normally tulips bloom in the spring after a fall planting. However, with a few simple steps, you can force tulip bulbs to bloom in time for Christmas.

Things You'll Need

• Tulip bulbs
• Container
• Potting soil

Instructions

1. Choose a pot or container that has good drainage and fill about 3/4 full with high peat content potting soil. Measure the diameter of the container and plant the corresponding number of tulip bulbs--for example, six tulip bulbs in a 6-inch pot.

2. Plant the tulip bulbs pointed side up and cover with soil leaving shoots above the soil line. Mark your calendar or label the pot with the date it was planted.

3. Water thoroughly until water comes out of the drainage hole.

4. Force the dormant bulbs into bloom by placing them in a dark location with a consistent temperature of 40 to 50 degrees. A shelf or vegetable bin in your refrigerator is ideal. If space is limited and depending on your climate, try your garage or a cold frame.

5. Check the soil's moisture level and water weekly.

6. Remove the container from its cool location in about 8 to 12 weeks and place in indirect sunlight for a week or two. When the shoots are 4 to 6 inches tall, move to a brighter area.

7. Water the container when the soil begins to dry out.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for healthy bulbs that are not dry and shriveled. Check for mold and unpleasant odors.

• Make the blooms last longer by returning to indirect sunlight when they start to take on color.

• Remember this is not a quick process. If you want blooms by Christmas, you will must plant the bulbs planted and have them chilling 8 to 12 weeks prior.

• Fruit emits a gas that affects the tulip bulbs' ability to bloom. In order to avoid this, keep the container and fruit in separate areas of your refrigerator.