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Tulips come in just about every color but pure blue. ■ Tips from Jo-Anne van den Berg-Ohms’ company at www. johnscheepers.com/narcis sus-forcing.html and www. johnscheepers.com/hftulips. html.
■ University extension websites such as www.extension. umn.edu/garden/yard-garden/ houseplants/forcing-bulbsforand extension.missouri.edu/p/ G6550. the same time; and labeling each container with the date and type of bulb.
After planting, water moderately and place your charges in a cool, dark location.
“While they are chilling for 10 to 12 weeks (depending on the type of bulb), the bulbs set down roots to anchor themselves into the soil,” she said.
Check once in a while to see whether you need to add water. Barely moist is OK; dry-as-dust means it’s time again to water moderately.
The first shoots, no matter how timid, will make your heart soar as much as any lush garden in June.
Because they sprout in near-darkness, they usually look pale and anemic. Fear not, though, because as soon as they get some sun, they’ll green up.
After the recommended cooling period, move the pots into increasingly warmer and brighter locations. Once the flower buds start showing color, a sunny room with temperatures in the 60s makes a good home.
And when the flowers start blooming, you’ll realize that you just might survive winter after all.