Forcing Bulbs to Bloom Indoors

This time of year can be so hectic with the holidays quickly approaching. But, every year I try to plan ahead so that I have some beautiful, fragrant blooms to enjoy during winter. I decided to spend a little 'me' time planting some narcissus bulbs (also known as paperwhites) in glasses to force them to bloom inside. It's a project I do annually usually in mid-October. But, this year I'll just have my blooms a little later than usual. By planting them in October, I usually have blooms in late November or early December. So, this year, they will bring a little cheer later. What I'm saying is, it's not too late for you to try this, too, providing you can find the bulbs. Just look for them at your local nursery. I found mine at the Home Depot nursery. It's such an easy, rewarding project! 

Paperwhite Bulbs Indoors

narcissus bulbs in ceramic bowl

narcissus bulbs in ceramic bowl diptych

The items you'll need are:

~  paperwhite bulbs (They are a variety of narcissus.)

~  pebbles, marbles, glass beads, or your choice of any filler

~  containers  

-  I prefer tall glass that I can see through, but any container that holds water will do.

~  water

~  sunny window 

Fill the glasses or jars up to about one inch from the top with the pebbles. Then push the bulb, root side down, into the pebbles. Scatter a few more rocks on top of the bulb almost to the rim of the glass, but leaving the tip of the bulb exposed. This helps to keep the bulb from falling over as the roots begin to grow. Then add water to the brim.

grid of planting bulbs

After first planting mine, I usually check them twice a day to make sure there is plenty of water. Keep an eye on the water level making sure that the root end of the bulb remains submerged in water to encourage the roots to grow.  Once the roots begin to grow, it's not so critical to keep the water high just as long as the roots are in the water.

grid of paperwhite bulbs

Narcissus or Paperwhite Bulbs  |  Home Decor or Gift

These potted bulbs make nice decorations in just about any room of your home. Plus, once they bloom, the fragrance is delightful! They can also make nice hostess gifts. I like to decorate the outside of the container with a little jute and some greenery just to dress them up a little.

This year I need to remember to take a photo of them when they are in bloom!

When the blooms are mostly spent, you can wrap the stems by folding them down and using some of the stems to wrap around them. Once they’re dry, save in a dry place to plant outdoors for next year. Sometimes forced bulbs will not bloom again. But, hey, why not give it a try?

Good luck with this and ENJOY!

*****

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Nadeen Flynn is a published, award winning northern California fine art and portrait photographer. Living in the greater Sacramento area, she specializes in fine art landscape and still life photography. Nadeen’s style is authentic, fresh and personality-driven. This retains the timeless features of photography that create family heirlooms. She offers in-person workshops, hourly lessons, and mentoring. While currently living in rural northern California with her husband and a couple thousand walnut trees, she posts regularly to Instagram.

Currently booking mentoring sessions. Locations include Yuba City/Marysville, East Nicolaus, Wheatland, Lincoln, Woodland, Roseville, Rocklin, and Sacramento areas.

(530) 633-7575