Expert: Laura Walker - 2/28/2004

Question
I have bulbs that i did not plant in the fall.  Tulips, specifically.  I have heard that I can indeed start them indoors.  How?

Thanks!

Answer
If they have had a cold dormancy of 10 to 12 weeks you can start them in pots now,but they should be under lights unless you live in a very warm,sunny climate.If you are in zone 7 or below:use large pots or containers and fill 3/4 full of fresh potting soil. Place the bulbs about an inch apart on top of the soil,with the largest part of the bulb down.They can be touching each other.Cover with soil just leaving the tips showing above the soil.You should be able to plant as many as 6 bulbs in a large round pot.You can also plant smaller bulbs on the top layer of soil so that they bloom together.For instance Tulips first,then Grape Hyacinths or Snow drops or Wood Hyacinths.Water thouroughly and place the pot under plant lights or flourescent lights.You should see some growth from the tips in about 1 to 2 weeks.They may bloom later than the ones outdoors in the ground and will probably not produce as many blooms,but you should see some pretty spring color by April.
This is IF they have had a proper cold period prior to planting. Any more questions just ask.
Have a great Spring!