How to Refrigerate Bulbs

Overview

Many spring-blooming bulbs need a period of dormancy in the cold in order to bloom in the spring. If you plant bulbs in the fall, normal winter weather takes care of chilling them for you. But if you live in a warmer climate, or you want to plant bulbs in the spring, you'll need to replicate winter conditions by placing the bulbs in your refrigerator. Refrigerate your bulbs properly and they'll reward you with colorful blooms.

Step 1

Purchase tulip, hyacinth or crocus bulbs three to four months ahead of planting. In areas with mild winters, plan to plant bulbs in late December or early January.

Step 2

Place the bulbs in a mesh or paper bag. Put all the bulbs of one kind in a single bag. Label the bags with a marker, indicating the type of bulb.

Step 3

Place the bags in the refrigerator. A vegetable crisper is a good location, but the bulbs should be kept separate from all other produce.

Step 4

Leave the bulbs alone for 12 to 16 weeks, until ready to plant.

Step 5

Remove the bulbs from the refrigerator and plant immediately.