Maybe you got a package of spring bulbs as a gift late in the season or perhaps you just forgot to plant a bag that you bought. Either way, you now have to figure out how you should be storing bulbs that have sprouted because you have a whole bag of them and the ground is frozen and rock hard.
How to Store Bulbs That Have Sprouted
Here are a couple tips on storing bulbs that have already sprouted.
Store Bulbs in a Dry Place
If the bulbs are in a plastic bag, the first thing to do is remove the sprouting bulbs from the bag and either put them in a cardboard box wrapped in newspaper or a paper bag. Be careful that you do not break the bulb sprout off, as this will kill the bulb. The bulb sprout is very susceptible to rot and the paper will help to keep the bulb sprout from rotting.
Store Bulbs in a Cold Place
Keep sprouted bulbs in a cold location. Not simply cool. It needs to be cold (but not below freezing). In the back of a refrigerator or a cold garage (one that is attached to the house so it will not completely freeze) is ideal. Sprouting bulbs are coming out of dormancy, but a drop in temperatures will help return the bulbs to their dormant state. The green bulb sprout will not grow any further once the bulb goes back into dormancy. Also, bulbs need a certain amount of dormancy in order to be able to bloom properly. Returning sprouting bulbs to their dormant state will help them bloom better in the spring.
Plant Sprouting Bulbs as Soon as Possible
In the spring, as soon as the ground is workable, plant your bulbs in the desired location outdoors. They will grow and bloom this year, but be aware that their bloom will be less impressive than it might have been due to the fact that they will not be well established. With these bulbs, it is extremely important that you do not cut back the foliage after the blooms are spent. They will desperately need to restore their energy reserves, as they will not have had a good root system to help support them through blooming. Never fear, if you follow these steps for storing bulbs that have sprouted, your sprouted bulbs will bring you plenty of pleasure for years to come.
-
How To Put Lights On A Tree Outside – The Right Way To Wrap A Tree For A Dazzling DisplayThe holidays are on the horizon and we’ve been wondering how to put lights on a tree outside. Fortunately, our experts have the answers.
-
5 Best Winter Indoor Plants To Grow To Turn Your Home Into A Cozy Houseplant HideawayKeep your home (and heart) warm and bright during the chilly months with these gorgeous winter indoor plants – guaranteed to boost your seasonal happiness factor!
-
Pretty Spring Bulbs For PollinatorsWhat are the best flowering bulbs for pollinators in spring? Click here to find out.
-
Grow An Early Spring Flowering Bulb LawnWant a lawn that nourishes pollinators, never needs weeding, and grows more beautiful every year? We have the lawn for you. Click for more.
-
When To Dig Up Bulbs That Bloom In SummerClick here to learn when to dig up faded summer bulbs of some of the most common ornamentals grown.
-
Corms, Tubers, And Bulbs That Are Deer ResistantWe love tulips, and so do deer! If you have hungry deer and you hunger for spring blooms, this article should help.
-
Care for Bulbs After BloomingIt's tempting to chop down the leaves after you bulbs have bloomed, but you have to resist this urge! Click to learn why.
-
Best Spring Bulbs for Sun and Shade: Bulbs That Grow in Shade and Full SunBulbs are beautiful harbingers of spring. Most flower bulbs thrive in full sun, but what if you have a shaded landscape? Read on for more.
-
Bulb Life Cycle In Winter: What Bulbs Do For Months Under The SnowDormancy in winter doesn't mean nothing is happening with bulbs. It just means you don't see any growth above the ground. Read on for more.
-
How To Plant Bulbs In Pots - Lasagna StylePlanting bulbs in containers is an easy way to create a gorgeous spring porch arrangement, especially when you use the lasagna method.
