Starting bulbs from seeds

Last fall was the first time I ever planted any bulbs (besides daffs). Unexpectedly, I've got at least one variety (Tulipa tarda) and possibly many others which will be producing seeds. How are bulbs grown from seed? When should they be planted, and what will happen during the first year they germinate? Are they like most perennials during their first year, just building a foundation, with minimal foliage and no blooms?

I'll be interested in answers to your questions. This winter I winter-sowed seeds from frittilaria meliagris, allium aflatunense and muscara aucheri. The only seedlings I got were the frits, and they're about 8" tall now. We'll see what happens!

Was hoping someone with all the answers would respond. But in my experience the seed should be absolutely fresh. I've had some luck with several different bulbs when I watched carefully for the seed pods to ripen on the plant. When the pods are just starting to split I pick them and just scatter the seeds on top of the ground wherever I want them to be. It takes a few years to get to be blooming size. I've always wanted to try putting seeds in a tray to grow for a couple of years so I could better control where they untimately end up but never get around to it. But I think the trick is to deal with the seeds when they are fresh!

Thanks for the responses... at minimum it'll keep the thread bumped up. Meanwhile, I'll try scattering a few seeds I harvested just last week as suggested by ghopper. I'll also plan on trying a few other methods as well.

Maybe because it potentially takes such a long time to get the desired results is why it's not a common method. Probably just more efficient to purchase and/or divide the bulbs. But that won't stop me from trying and in the end hopefully have more abundance without the cost or labor. I can wait. Still hope to get some feedback though from those in the know, or anyone who's had experience one way or another.

If you don't get any good responses here, think about joining the Pacific Bulb Society discussion list (http://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/list.php). The people there know just about everything there is to know about bulbs.

Thanks faeden... I'll check it out.

You're very welcome! I've been a paid member there for several years and really like the people. You don't have to be a paid member to join in the discussions.

Oh My, so much to learn! What a great site! Thanks!

You're very welcome. Glad you liked it.