Growing Tulips Indoors

The winter is long and cold, but you can add a little bit of spring to your place by growing some of your favorite tulip varieties indoors. Tricking tulips into growing indoors is sometimes referred to as 'forcing' them. This process is simple and very similar to the cold moist stratification process you may have used in growing some native plants from seed.

The process is very simple:

1) Procure yourself some tulip bulbs, we have a few premium mix packs left from our friends at Roam Flora (Ottawa). To check the quality of the bulbs make sure they are firm and free of rot and soft spots.

2) Place your bulbs in a reusable container or plastic bag and place them in a cool dark place (2-7C) for 12-16 weeks. The crisper in your refrigerator is a great spot,  in an unheated garage or even place in a safe spot outdoors (where they will need get wet and the critters can't eat them).

3) Choose an indoor pot with good drainage and fill with soil up to 3-4 inches below the rim of the pot. Place your bulbs on top of the soil with the pointy side up, and fill around them with soil, ensuring the top of the bulbs are still poking through the soil.

4) Keep your pot in a cool, dark spot (a spot in the basement or garage works) and water lightly once a week. Once leaves appear, move your pot into a location with direct light and enjoy the blooms!