Spring bulbs truly appear to defy the laws of nature, bursting into life and producing an abundance of the most vibrant floral displays, and all this in seemingly no time at all. We all yearn for flowers and greenery as winter drags on, and thus it is no surprise that spring blooms delight year after year. Potted bulbs allow one to partake in this magical transformation from the comfort of one’s own home. Tulips and daffodils are quite truly the harbingers of spring, and as such bring with them a sense of freshness, vibrancy and new beginnings.
Spring bulbs can be enjoyed both in- and outdoors, and both have their merits. Indoors we able to enjoy plants long before they would emerge naturally in a garden setting, and we can do so up close. Their beauty, fragrance and bold colors instantly decorate and enhance our homes, which in the current health crisis is even more valuable. Outdoors blooms last considerably longer due to cold temperatures, and of course many bulbs return annually. And for those of you that planted your own bulbs, you will know how rewarding and exciting it is to spot those first leaves poking out of the ground!
To prolong the bloom time of all bulbs, keep plants in a cooler part of your home, or move them to a cooler area for the night. Water plants sparingly to hold them back and reduce the speed at which they emerge and bloom. Plants do not require fertilizing when in bloom. Outdoors feed plants when these have finished flowering using a specific bulb fertilizer. When purchasing potted bulb plants be aware that not all plants will return reliably after winter if planted out. Daffodils are generally resilient and return quite consistently, whilst modern tulips are quite sporadic in their longevity. Tulip bulbs are also a favorite food for squirrels as opposed to daffodils and hyacinths.
Latin Names: Tulipa, Narcissus, Hyacinth
Plant Families: Liliaceae, Amaryllidaceae, Asparagaceae
