Easter Week has begun and apart from the religious observances taking place across the country and abroad, now is the perfect time to send loved ones a festive arrangement to celebrate the new season and to express your love during a time when otherwise families would typically come together.
Apart from some of the stunning arrangements the Spring season presents, potted bulbs or plant baskets are another way of adding a bit of sunshine to lives of those we may miss this coming Sunday. Here are a few potted bulb ideas presented by the folks at Roaring Oaks Florist.
Daffodils:
One of the earliest blooms of the Spring season are Daffodils. Daffodils are one of the easiest to grow and most popular spring flowering bulbs. The best way to ensure the healthy growth of the daffodils you receive as a potted gift is to plant the bulbs with their ends pointed up. According to thespruce.com, “Rule of thumb says to plant them twice as deep as they are wide. Three to 5 inches is about right. You can add bulb food or bone meal at planting time to get the bulbs off to a good start. Water well and keep them watered, whenever the soil dries out. Gardeners in warm climates can also plant pre-chilled bulbs, but those are grown as annuals.” Daffodils will bloom most brilliantly in full sun, but a little intermittent spring shade should not affect them greatly. It is highly recommended to stop watering daffodils about 3 to 4 weeks after the flowers themselves fade. They tend to go dormant during the summer and prefer dry soil.
Tulips:
As one of the most recognizable signs of the Spring season, Tulips generally grow and bloom in late winter or early part of spring. Tulips are perfect for bringing bright color to gardens and home flower beds. Apart from the earthbound landscape, these bulb plants are equally successful as potted features. According to hunker.com, “Potted tulips require the same planting times, placement and care as outdoor tulips if they’re to bloom in spring, so buy some tulips bulbs in fall and get started. Fill the pots halfway with quick-draining potting soil, and set the tulip bulbs on the soil with their noses pointing up. Plant tulip bulbs closely, but never place them close enough to touch each other. Fill the pots to within 1 inch of the surface with more potting soil.”
Hyacinths:
The Hyacinths are back once again! As flowers planted in the fall, hyacinths bloom majestically in the spring and are sure to resonate with someone as a potted arrangement. Though typically hyacinths are reserved for outdoor gardening, they can be forced indoors for display during the winter or early spring months. According to almanac.com, “Plant (hyacinths) with the tips just showing, in soil-based potting mix in containers with drainage holes. Keep in a dark place at temperatures above freezing but no higher than 45°F (7°C), for at least 10 weeks to allow roots to develop. When shoots are about 1 inch long, increase light and temperature gradually. Water carefully, avoiding wetting the shoots or water logging the soil. Soil should be moist, not wet.
After flowering, forced hyacinths may be transplanted to the garden and they will flower again in subsequent years.”
The folks at Roaring Oaks Florist will have each bloom as fresh cut flowers or potted plant options.
Roaring Oaks Florist
“Unique designs created with personal attention”
349A Main Street ~ Lakeville, CT 06039
860•364•5380 ~ 800•801•7876
Terence S. Miller
Tmiller@roaringoaks.com