October 11Forcing Hyacinths Enjoy blooming hyacinths inside this
winter by forcing the bulbs, ideally by mid October. Hyacinths
can be forced by either planting the bulb in a pot of soil or
using water in a hyacinth bulb glass. Selecting bulbs marked
“suitable for forcing” increases success. For forcing in soil,
use ordinary potting soil and plant the bulbs close together but
not touching. The pointy end of the bulbs should be planted
about half an inch deep. Water the bulbs thoroughly and place
the pot in a cold (35-48 degree) dark place for at least 12
weeks. Keep the pot watered and in the dark until shoots reach 1
inch tall. Then move the pot to a location with light (north
facing window is ideal) and cool temperatures around 55 degrees.
The process of forcing a bulb in water takes about a month.
September 13Irises-Part II Dividing and Transplanting Irises-
Part II If possible, till the soil a week or so before planting.
Avoid adding barnyard manure because this can rot the rhizomes.
If your soil is heavy