Too darn cold by Elizabeth Licata

A back room that’s just chilly enough

After reviewing the situation in my root cellar over the weekend, I decided I better just get all the hyacinths out of there, whether their buds are large enough or not. The temps have been in the single digits for days now, with no relief promised, and the root cellar isn’t providing its usual protection. I’ve found that freeze/thaw cycles can turn hyacinths to mush (tulips are tougher), so better to let them take their chances at room temp. Already, after a couple days, the slower buds are emerging, and I know they’re rooted enough.

These big pots hold 12 bulbs each, which is really the best way to do it.

I’ve found that most bulbs—especially hyacinths—will take a decent amount of abuse and still bloom, but this winter is testing their resolve, even in the house. It’s like they know how bitter it is outside and are staying cautious, just in case. This year, I won’t see flowers until mid-February, I’m guessing.

It’s a good winter to feed the birds, which I’m doing with seeds and suet. It’s also a relief that I gave up on most of my macrophylla hydrangeas. The summer of 18 won’t be too good for mopheads around here. Every now and then, ma nature likes to remind us what a WNY winter can do. This is one of those years.

Too darn cold originally appeared on Garden Rant on January 2, 2018.

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