Spring bulbs can be forced for early bloom in soil or water for a glorious flower show in the cold winter months. The best floral displays result when you crowd bulbs into the container. Large, firm bulbs have the largest blooms. Gather your bulbs, a container, potting soil, trowel and gloves, then take the simple steps shown in the following pictures and described in their captions.

Forcing Bulbs in Soil - Step 1

Forcing Bulbs in Soil - Step 1

Gather a ceramic or glass container, potting soil, prechilled bulbs, water, a trowel and garden gloves for this easy planting project.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Forcing Bulbs in Soil - Step 2

Forcing Bulbs in Soil - Step 2

Cover the pot’s drainage hole with filter fabric or a piece of a broken pot. Fill your container with potting soil at least 3 inches deep. Compact it gently.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Forcing Bulbs in Soil - Step 3

Forcing Bulbs in Soil - Step 3

Tightly pack the bulbs in the container, orienting their tops upward and pressing them into the soil. Fill around the bulbs with potting soil.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Forcing Bulbs in Soil - Step 4

Forcing Bulbs in Soil - Step 4

Saturate the planting with water, then allow it to drain. To force the bulbs for early bloom, chill them for the recommended length of time for the species, keeping the soil damp until sprouts emerge. (They can be chilled in the coldest, darkest spot in your house – try your basement, garage or root cellar if you have one.)
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard