I plant flowers every year so I can have fresh cut flowers for my home all summer long. I noticed that during the winter months I missed my flowers; so I began forcing bulbs. Bulbs are cheap, easy to grow, and they make wonderful winter gifts for Christmas, Valentine's Day, and birthday's. My favorite place to keep them is in my kitchen; where I spend a lot of my time. Not only are they beautiful, they add color and decoration to any kitchen. They also lift my spirits while I do the dishes and clean up. Flowers always make me smile.

Step 1: Supplies

Several Bulbs such as Hyacinths, Crocus, or Narcissus. I used Hyacinths.
1 Clear glass container or shallow dish.
Small rocks or decorative glass beads
Water
White Spray Paint (optional)
Red or Pink Tube paint (optional)

Step 2:

I usually buy the bulbs in the fall and store them in a cool dry place until I want to start a garden. This year I failed to buy bulbs for winter so I wound up buying some bulbs that were already started in pots.

I removed the bulbs and washed off the dirt.
If using bulbs that have not been started, go on to the next step.

Step 3:

Gather a few rocks from a driveway or use glass stones.
Wash the rocks.

Step 4: Paint

If you wish to paint the rocks, now is the time to do that.

Spray the rock using the white spray paint.
Dry.
Draw a picture or write a message on the rocks using the tube paint.
Dry.

Step 5: Arrangement

Have the rocks, container, and bulbs handy.
Start placing the bulbs in the desired container; anchoring the roots down with a few rocks.
Add a few more rocks to cover the bottom of the container.
Top with the painted rocks if desired.
Add water up to the shoulder of the bulb.

Step 6: A Few Arrangements

Here are a few arrangements I made up to share. I made one in a shallow dish that was not deep enough to cover the shoulder of the bulb.
I think it will be OK because it has a nice root system.
The important thing is to keep the bulbs wet.

Step 7: Starting the Roots

Because I used bulbs with a good root system; I can place them in a sunny room and expect them to bloom soon.

Place bulbs in cool, dark room (preferably under 50 degrees F) for four to eight weeks until the root system has developed and the top elongates.
Then place them in a sunny location where they will soon bloom.

Step 8: Sunshiine's Final Thoughts

Some bulbs do better in dirt. I like to use water if I can. I have given them to family and friends and they love them.
Thank you for stopping by and I hope you have a beautiful day!
Sunshiine