Plant several small pots each with a different color or kind of bulb. In the spring as they bloom, arrange the pots in different patterns on your front porch or patio. Each garden contains its own micro climate. Bulbs planted against the southern side of your house may bloom up to a week earlier than the same ones planted on the north side. Bulbs planted in dense shade may be twice as tall as those planted in full sun.
Cities tend to be warmer than rural areas.
Bulbs planted by a warm sidewalk may push out of the ground earlier due to the warmth absorbed by the concrete. Early shoot growth in the fall doesn't seem to affect the bulbs ability to bloom the following spring. The flowers you buy at our farm have been placed in water after picking to help ensure a long life. They have also been placed in a cooler at 32 degrees to slow down the respiration and breakdown of the flower. Flowers are also picked prior to opening and placed in protective sleeves which helps prevent bruising and other damage to the flower.