Can I grow grape hyacinths indoors?

?Isabella Wright, Ottawa, ON

Isabella,

Yes, you can force grape hyacinths (Muscari). First, the bulbs need to have a period of cold?about eight weeks (leave them in paper bags in a dry part of the fridge with no fruit or tomatoes). Then plant them in a bulb pan, using potting soil. Keep them moist in a cool, dark spot for a couple of weeks. When you see roots coming out of the bottom of the pot, gradually move the pot into warmth and bright light to stimulate flowering. Frankly, it’s a lot easier to buy them started at the corner store.

?Marjorie Harris, Editor at Large, Gardening Life