Brighten Winter with Bulbs

We're all familiar this time of year with the bright red flower called Amaryllis. Amaryllis vittata hybrida  is commonly sold at Christmas time and usually comes in a see through type of gift box. Inside is a very large bulb with simple instructions on what to do to force the bulb to flower.  Just by occasionally adding water, in just a few short weeks, the results are a delightful striking display of color. 


Need a Winter blah pick me up? Flowers may be enjoyed indoors from January until spring. Do a quick, fun, creative project. Grow bulbs in large or small containers for movable spots of color in your windows, a sun room, on your deck or patio. 

Check out this Iowa State Extension Services site. It tells how many spring-flowering bulbs can be forced indoors during the winter months: 

 http://www.ipm.iastate.edu/ipm/hortnews/1999/10-8-1999/forcebulb.html.  

Submitted by hutchgaudygardener.