Grow Indoor Bulbs in Water | Forcing Bulbs Above Water: Gardening

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Both clean, modern furnishings and rustic country décor match bulbs forced in a clear glass container partially filled with decorative rocks, polished stones or marbles. Choose large, heavy bulbs for forcing – they’ll need all of their nutrients to grow and bloom on water alone. Gather your bulbs, container and decorative stones or beads, then follow these easy steps shown in the pictures and described in their captions.

Forcing Bulbs in Water - Step 1

In a clean, medium-height, glass container, make a bed of polished stones or glass beads at least as deep as the bulbs are tall.

Forcing Bulbs in Water - Step 2

Orient each bulb with its flat side down and position it atop the stone bed. Nestle the bulbs down into the stones to hold them temporarily. Pack the bulbs tightly.

Forcing Bulbs in Water - Step 3

After each bulb has been seated, fill the spaces between the neighbors with more stones.

Forcing Bulbs in Water - Step 4

Fill the container with water to slightly below the base of the bulbs. Chill them for the length of time recommended for the species. (They can be chilled in the coldest, darkest spot in your house – try your basement, garage or root cellar if you have one.)

Forcing Bulbs in Water - Step 5

Enjoy – or give as a gift!

Facts

Bulbs with cuts, gouges and bruises can lead to decay after planting. Stick with heavy, undamaged bulbs for the best planting results.
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In China, paper whites (Narcissus tazetta) are called the “good luck flower” or “New Year lily.” The plant is an easy-to-force, fragrant bulb that’s often enjoyed during the holiday season.

Tips

Try forcing hyacinths in a hyacinth glass – a narrow-necked vase that allows one bulb to rest on top. Seat the bulb in the glass, pointed end up. Note where the bulb’s bottom rests, then fill the glass with water to a point just below that base. Replace the bulb. Store in a dark, well-ventilated spot (refrigerator, basement or garage) at 40-50 degrees F. Avoid freezing temps. Check the water level every few days, adding more when needed. In about 12 weeks, the bulb will fill the glass with roots and develop a shoot. Bring it to a warm spot with indirect sunlight (72 degrees F). After the leaves expand, it should be moved to a warmer location until growth accelerates. When foliage turns green, place in full sun.

Next Steps

Forcing Bulbs in Soil
Forcing bulbs in containers is an easy, fun and inexpensive way to bring springtime blooms to a dreary indoor winter. Learn the simple steps of how to force bulbs in container.
Forcing Amaryllis
Amaryllis is an attractive, flamboyant houseplant thanks to its large, showy blooms and glossy, spearlike foliage. By forcing amaryllis into early flowering, you can keep a steady stream of indoor blooms from week to week throughout the dreariest months of winter. Learn how to force amaryllis to bloom.
Forcing Bulbs for Winter Bloom
Fool your spring bulbs into winter bloom. You will add a touch of spring color to your indoor containers.

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Forcing Bulbs in Water