All types of fauna such as trees, shrubs, bushes and flowering plants bloom only in the right season. Genetic patterns control the growth of all plants. For this reason, it becomes almost impossible to find off-season plants in bloom. However, horticulturists, professional and amateur have tried a number of techniques to prompt the growth of flower bulbs in non-seasonal periods. Of the few successful methods that help achieve this objective, forcing flower bulbs is an effective practice.
Forcing flower bulbs at home is an exciting activity. The entire process spreads over a couple of weeks, and many families enjoy trying to force flower bulbs to bloom. It allows them the unique pleasure of anticipating the arrival of spring flowers during the winter months. These forced flower bulbs may be stored for many weeks in a refrigerator before transferring them into pots. Successful storage is only possible if they are kept in mesh or paper bags that allow aeration. It is not necessary to water these bulbs, since a refrigerator provides the requisite humidity. They only need to be inspected occasionally in order to prevent drying up.
Prior to a flower bulb being forced, it is put in a pot and allowed to grow. The bulb is completely covered and grows within the pot. During this phase, it grows roots that make further growth possible. The actual forcing process starts when these root-growing bulbs are exposed to warmth and sunlight. This prompts the growth of leaves and flowers. The correct level of exposure to sunshine and temperature are an absolute necessity to ensure forced growth. The entire process lasts for 3 to 4 weeks until the flower bulb blooms.
A number of spring flowers usually require a long rooting period and predetermined temperatures to produce a good root. This assists the successful forcing of flower bulbs. When the buds assume color, they need to be juggled indoors and outdoors. In case the bulbs bloom very fast, they should be placed indoors, away from direct sunlight. These can be replaced outdoors to restart growth. The few most common flower bulbs that are forced in this manner are amaryllis, paper-white narcissus and hyacinths. It is important to mention that all flower bulbs cannot be forced.
