How to Force Bulbs with Gravel
An easy method for forcing Daffodil & Hyacinth Bulbs
Forcing bulbs over gravel is a wonderful way to start bulbs — especially in a small space. You don’t need anything fancy to get started, but you certainly can do multiple bulbs in a single container with lots of success. And if you don’t want to use gravel, try glass stones, marbles, or even small pebbles.
Be sure you use pre-chilled bulbs. Almost all spring bulbs need a period of dormancy, so purchase pre-chilled bulbs for forcing.
MATERIALS
Pre-Chilled bulbs: hyacinths or daffodils work best for this method
A wide-mouthed vase, bowl, or pan
Gravel, marbles, beads, or small stones
Water
Choose Your COntainer
The method works in almost any type of container as long as it does not have drainage holes. Consider bowls, large vases — anything with a wide mouth!
Fill it with gravel
The gravel provides a bed for the bulbs to rest upon. Consider marbles, glass beads, stones — anything small and water-proof.
Arrange Bulbs
The bulbs should be close but not touching eachother. Arrange them in a pleasing array.
Fill with Water
The water should just touch the bottom of each bulb. Monitor the water level, and add more as needed.
And wait for blooms!
HOW TO FORCE BULBS IN SOIL
This is the go-to method for all bulbs including tulips, hyacinth, crocus, daffodils, and even amaryllis.
HOW TO FORCE BULBS IN WATER
This method works best for hyacinth bulbs which are traditionally forced with water.
HOW TO FORCE SPRING BULBS
All the basics behind the how and why of forcing spring bulbs.
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This tutorial will teach you how to force daffodil bulbs and hyacinth bulbs. I am often asked "can you force daffodil bulbs?" The answer is YES! Forcing daffodils is easy, and the same method can be used for hyacinths, too. Forcing daffodils indoors is a wonderful way to decorate for spring. Learn how to force bulbs indoors and vases for forcing bulbs, too.