Bulbs in North Florida???

Is there anyone with experience growing bulbs in north-central florida area? I live in gainesville area, and want to plant some for cut flowers such as allium, crocus, iris reticula, chiondoxa, and any others... Any suggestions?? I currently have Amaryllis, Crinum, Cannas, and Gingers... Any suggestions would be appreciated!

Katrina

I have Ginger, Canna, Crinum, and Iris. I have tried gladioulus here in Orlando, but they fizzled and died after two years. Only bloomed the first year. I think the nematodes or fungus got them. I have seen some people growing allium hybrids here. We have a native blue flag iris (Iris viginica) that does well as long as you put it in a moist area--ponds work great. It gets much taller than I. reticulata though--that's a cute little iris! Anything that needs cold treatment will have to go in the fridge down here. Have you talked to the local county extension agents?

If you're going to grow things like tulip, crocus, daffodil bulbs, then you have to put them in the refrigerator for at least 6 weeks or longer. they have to go through a cold dormant stage.

I planted bulbs without refrigerating them.

New to Dave's and just learning, hopefully not the hard way!!!

Did use new soil and fed bulb food.

Think they'll survive?

Summerwind.......I would think the NJ weather will do a much better job of cooling your bulbs than a refrigerator ever would. In warm climates we need to refrigerate bulbs since our weather does not do it for us.

Thank you Kell:

It's tough being the newbie on the block!

I was concerned.

Now I know something else
At this time the only thing I can share is dog information.

LOL Summerwind, do not to worry. We all learned by trial and error. You will a great garden in no time.

Don't forget, keep the bulbs away from apples while chilling in the refrigerator.

Katrina ~~~

I suggest you contact the lovely people who own:

www.amaryllis.com/

They are located in Florida and have extensive experience with bulbs.

You will find the owner..., I forget his name..., a really interesting and fun guy to talk to, who will share lots of information with you.

I order my unpotted amaryllis bulbs from them (about $200 / year), and get fine product.

I feel certain they will be glad to share all sorts of knowledge with you.

Good luck.

Adam.