Watch Spring bloom at the table: Just when it seems winter will never end, crocus pushes itself out of the icy ground and through the snow to reassure us Spring is on its way. Watch the seasons change in your dining room by growing crocus centerpieces. Generally, to grow crocus indoors you need to start in the Fall. However, if you purchase pre-chilled bulbs you can start your plantings now and have blooms within a few weeks.

Have residents help assemble your living centerpieces by planting the bulbs in attractive pots. Once the bulbs are fully chilled, move the pots into the dining room so the entire community can watch them emerge and bloom. If your dining room is light-challenged in some areas, rotate the pots so they all get some time in sunny spots.

Use your homegrown centerpieces as conversations starters all season.

Want more tips for your dining room? Read past issues of Kind Dining® Connection and subscribe to receive future issues right in your inbox—it’s free!