Spring Seasonal Plant Care

Hardy perennial bulbs, such as daffodils, tulips, crocus, and hyacinth can be forced to bloom earlier than normal so they can be enjoyed indoors in early spring — long before most outdoor flowering plants are available. After blooming indoors, these bulbs can be planted outdoors once temperatures warm and the soil is workable, where they can return and bloom for years to come.

Hardy bulbs can be grown indoors in almost any light level and temperature; however, the more light and heat they’re exposed to, the faster they will bloom and fade. After flowering is finished, remove the spend flowers and stems, but leave the foliage. In spring, plant the bulbs in a sunny, well-drained area. Allow foliage to yellow naturally, the cut it back to the ground and enjoy their next bloom cycle the following spring.

Tender annual bulbs, such as calla lilies, ranunculus, and Easter lilies require bright indirect light indoors (and part shade outdoors). Tender bulbs can be planted in containers and enjoyed outside if protected from temperatures below 45ºF.  Wait to plant outdoors until the rist of frost has passed, typically around mid-May in Northeast Ohio. Remove flowers after blooming and care for remaining foliage like any other annual until fall.

After the bulbs have experienced a few fall frosts, dig and remove bulbs, remove excess soil, and let dry out for several days. Store bulbs over winter in a vented cardboard box with dry peat or shredded paper in a cool, dry place. In early spring, replant bulbs in pots with fresh potting mix and store in the basement or a cool garage until growth begins.

Florist varieties of Mophead & Lace cap hydrangea are available in early spring along with many other Easter seasonal plants. Their blue, pink, and white blooms can be enjoyed indoors in bright indirect light. They prefer cooler indoor temperatures and average moisture. They can be enjoyed outside once the last chance for frost has passed. Though they can be planted in a part shade area of the landscape, these florist varieties are generally not considered to be hardy enough to withstand our Northeast Ohio winters.

Florist Azaleas are forced, non-hardy azalea varieties that are meant to be enjoyed indoors as colorful houseplants for approximately 3-4 weeks. Expose them to bright indirect light, average moisture, and high humidity for longer lasting blooms. Their evergreen foliage will remain and can be enjoyed in a container year-round.