How to Get Light Bulbs Indoors in Winter
Seeing a green spot breaking through snow or cold winter ground is one of the most noticeable signs of spring. But, given that there is not even a month left before the onset of winter, it will take some time before this happens. Unless, of course, you did not grow bulbs inside.
The official term for this is “coercion” on the lamp, and while it sounds a little coercive, it is more deceiving than aggressive. This is because forcing the light bulbs makes them think spring is already here. Here’s what you need to know about forcing light bulbs.
How to get light bulbs indoors
Basically, the process is very similar to the outdoor process, except that you plant the bulbs in pots and mimic the old dark winter conditions in which they should grow. There are many gardening tips out there with additional details , but here’s the basics :
- Start by planting the bulbs in a shallow pot or bowl, using loamy compost with a little sand to ensure drainage.
- Be sure to place the bulb with the pointed end up – just below the soil surface – then backfill with soil around it.
- After the bulbs are planted, store the pots in a cool, dark place. One option is to line the drawer or drawer with a sturdy black trash bag, place the pots in there, and then store in your garage, basement, cellar, or shed (depending on your local climate). The key is to make sure it’s somewhere where the temperature doesn’t exceed 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Check the condition of the bulbs every few weeks and water lightly if they appear dry.
What is the timing of forcing bulbs?
In most cases, the bulbs need 12 to 15 weeks of simulating winter in cold storage for them to take root enough to flower. Some flowers need more cold than others. Here are some examples of how long different types of bulbs need to heal for a cold:
- Crocus, netted iris and snowdrops: 15 weeks of cold
- Daffodils: 15 to 17 weeks.
- Hyacinths: 11 to 14 weeks
- Muscari: 13 to 15 weeks
- Scilla: 12 to 15 weeks
- Tulips: 14 to 20 weeks
You will know the bulbs are ready to grow out of the cold when you see roots at the bottom of the pot. Even if you see the plant starting to sprout from above, if it has no visible roots, it is not ready yet.
When roots appear, give the plants some time to get used to the warmer climate by placing them in a cool, bright place in your home (and away from heat sources) for two or three weeks . In most cases, the bulbs begin to bloom after two to five weeks .