Valentine Flowers

I have been forcing bulbs. I went a bit over the top this year. I have already forced some hyacinth and currently have amaryllis, hyacinth, and crocus in bloom.

In the next few days I will have a second amaryllis open and another round of hyacinth. I used to force the amaryllis in soil but have gone all hydroponic since I had a terrible time with soil gnats.

My new love is forcing crocus. They have done very well (though they are extremely thirsty). You can use any tiny container. Below is a votive candle holder with pebbles and 3 crocus bulbs.

To have spring flowers in the middle of winter is a treat. It takes a bit of planning ahead (buy some extra bulbs in the fall and stash them in the fridge), but is worth it. The kids have enjoyed watching them and M is very into reporting how much they have grown.

love and hugs and isn't it funny how my bulbs blooming inside in February makes me happy but the ones blooming outside are driving me to distraction? B

PS-- I'm trying to teach myself to tie shoes left-handed so I can teach G. I had D show me and he condescendingly said "It's just like you do it". Well, the basic method is the same but left-handed it is all backwards and wrong.