Great Valentine's Day Alternatives

Every year I do the same thing by giving my loved ones cut flowers for Valentine’s Day, but this year it is time to try something new. With cut flowers you only get a few days of enjoyment, but a live plant provides weeks (and in some cases, years) of enjoyment. So, being the plant lover that I am I thought it was time to spread my love of plants with my loved ones. This year, instead of a bouquet of flowers from the florist, I’m opting for houseplants. Not just any old houseplants, though, but ones that have long bloom times and gorgeous flower color. Plants such as Forced Bulbs, Gloxinia, Primrose, Cyclamen and Hydrangea can add a new and exciting experience to your Valentines Day. These plants will live longer, bloom month after month and will be a living gift that is going to make for a spectacular Valentines Day and more!

Forced Bulbs
The key to getting bulbs to bloom early is by forcing. This is done by controlling the correct temperatures at crucial times so that the bulbs will produce roots, leaves and eventually flowers. This process should begin in September (*unless the bulbs are precooled), by selecting the kind of bulb you would like to force. There are several bulbs that respond well to forcing; these include tulip and daffodil bulbs.

Once you have selected your bulbs, the process of forcing should take place about twelve to fourteen weeks before you want the flowers (*again, unless the bulbs are precooled). Store the bulbs in a cold room, like the basement or garage until you are ready to begin forcing. When it is time for you to start the forcing process, you will need to put the bulbs in a container. Fill the container half way with well-aerated potting soil and place the bulbs in the container with the flat side of the bulb facing down. Depending on the type of bulb you choose, there may be room for more than one; if so, space the bulbs one-half to one inch apart. Continue by filling the remainder of the container with well-aerated potting soil, leaving just the neck of the bulb sticking out. Slowly water the bulbs until water runs out the drainage holes. Place the newly potted bulbs in a cold area, about 40 to 45 degrees F; make sure they are protected from light. Leave these bulbs in a dark cold spot for about ten to twelve weeks and remember to keep the potting media moist.

Once there are substantial roots, move the bulbs to a well lit area, protecting from direct sunlight. When the bleached shoots turn green, place the bulbs in a sunny area (direct sunlight). Once the flower buds start to show, take the bulbs out of the direct sunlight and place them in a well lit area. At night you are going to need to take the bulbs and place them in a spot that is about 60 to 65 degrees F, for best flowering.

Once you have flowers on your newly forced bulbs, there are a few simple things that will help keep your plants healthy. Both bulbs (tulip and daffodil) need high to very high light, but no direct sunlight. They also need liquid fertilizer applied once during the indoor flowering period.

*An easier way to produce these flowers is with precooled bulbs that are offered at most garden centers. After getting these precooled bulbs you will start the planting process. Now it is time to enjoy the beautiful flowering bulbs.




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