What does it mean to force flower bulbs? Forcing flower bulbs is a method of planting that involves providing

the bulbs a cold period to produce flowers indoor. Forcing bulbs is

often done in warm climates that do not naturally receive the cold

temperatures required to produce a bloom.

Why do people force flower bulbs? Flower bulbs that are planted in the fall months of the year require cold temperatures in order to produce a flower bud. If these fall planted bulbs do not get the cold temperatures they require they may grow leaves, but will not produce a bud, and therefore will not produce a flower.Therefore they need to be “forced” into blooming by providing the cold temperatures they need in one way or another.

Who would use the method of forcing to get their fall planted bulbs to bloom? People in warm climates will need to find a way to provide a cold period artificially. To provide the cold period needed it is best done by refrigerating their bulbs for 12-16 weeks prior to planting. Fall planted bulbs require 8-16 weeks of consistently cool temperatures (below 50 degrees during the day) to produce a flower bud.People who want to enjoy flowers blooming in pots inside their home during the late winter and early spring months will also force their bulbs to bloom.

What kinds of flower bulbs work best for forcing? The best flower bulbs for forcing are tulips; particularly triumph tulips, single early tulips, double early tulips, and Darwin hybrid tulips. Daffodils, dwarf daffodils like Tete a Tete, Jet Fire, and Minnow Daffodils work well for forcing. Trumpet daffodils and large cupped daffodils like Dutch Master, Mount Hood, Ice Follies, and Carlton also force well. Hyacinths are some of the most popular fall planted bulbs for forcing, any variety will work. Crocus, and grape hyacinths also are good choices for bulbs to use for forcing.

Where do people force flower bulbs? People may use a refrigerator to provide an artificial cold period if they are in a warm climate, or if they are forcing the bulbs for indoor blooms. Also, bulbs may be potted up and stored in a naturally cool location that is protected, such as an attic, shed or garage.