Do I want to grow flower bulbs in pots? Is there anything else besides planting in the ground?
Fall-planted flower bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, crocuses and grape hyacinths do well in containers. However, there are some differences.
First, make sure all containers have drainage holes. Don't try to use open spaces. Make sure you use potting soil that dries quickly.
Place the bulbs, just barely covering the tips, in a small pot about 8 inches in diameter. Bulbs can be planted a little deeper in a larger pot. This allows the roots to grow through most of the soil. The lamps should be placed close to each other so that they practically touch each other.
After planting, the container should be placed in a place protected from lower winter temperatures, for example, under a shed or canopy. At the end of February, they can be exposed to a more open area.
In most cases, only one type of bulb should be planted in pots 6 inches in diameter or smaller. Larger containers may have two or more species. Types of plants that are higher in the center and lower at the edges.
If there is no fertilizer in the soil, add a long-acting fertilizer such as Osmocote. Water well until some moisture comes out of the drainage holes. Water again when the soil dries out.
Small pots can be allowed to bloom in January and February. Flower bulbs need 40-45 degrees (refrigerator temperature) for at least 12 weeks. For early flowering, place the container in the refrigerator without fruits and vegetables. Check the soil frequently to ensure it is moist and water as needed. If you see roots starting to stick out of the bottom drainage hole, you can pull them out into the sun. They will start growing in a week and will bloom in about two weeks.
Pots left outside will bloom at about the same time as those planted in the ground. Bulbs can be left in large pots for the second year of flowering. Plant annual flowers such as petunias or marigolds between the bulbs, and cut the leaves of the tubers in half. Then remove the leaves when they turn yellow or brown.
All daffodils grow well in containers. Dwarf daffodils grow well in small containers or as borders in larger containers.
Low-growing victory tulips are better than tall varieties. They are better suited for close-up viewing. Grape hyacinth forms a beautiful border.
Water hyacinth is an excellent choice for dishes because it is very fragrant.
Amaryllis and white paper daffodils are two bulbs that can be grown in refrigerated containers during the winter.
