Exploring the world of paperwhites, potted hyacinths, and more, award-winning writer Katherine Whiteside combines hands-on how-to with a flower lover's enthusiasm in a forcing primer that's as complete as it is glorious.
Organized by plant type, FORCING, ETC covers dozens of common and exotic plants that are readily available and easily growable for the indoor gardener. Here are step-by--step instructions demystifying the techniques of forcing bulb into bloom by simulating autumn, deep winter, and early spring in an accelerated time frame. Of tricking bare branches and twigs to blossom in the house--weeks or even months before their scheduled time. Of potting up and water forcing. And of raising and propagating--favorite indoor plants. There are unexpected ideas for choosing the right containers throughout, and an appendix offering a mail-order listing of sources for both plants and unusual ornamental materials.
FEATURING:
--Hardy Bulbs. Crocus, narcissus, tulip, and other cold-loving flowers of a spring garden.
--Tender Bulbs. Exotics from the other side of the world, such as bowiea, amaryllis, clivia, and calla lily.
--Houseplants. The classic houseplants--ficus, coleus, scented geranium, jasmine, begonia.
--Twigs & Branches.
Forsythia, quince, witch hazel, and others already in your garden, waiting to be transformed as if by magic.
Plant-by-plant instructions on prechilling, potting up, putting away, and water forcing. Choosing unexpected containers. Creating tripods, trellises, and tuteurs. Extensive mail-order source list for plants and materials.
