Forcing bulbs indoors is a great way to add color to your living space during the winter and early spring months. Bulbs that can be forced indoors fall into two categories: those that need to be stratified or undergo a cool chilling period, and those that do not. Paperwhites (Narcissus sp.) and amaryllis (Hippeastrum sp.) are two of the easiest bulbs to force indoors as they do not require a chilling period, and can be potted up immediately after receiving them.
Bulbs that need a chilling period include crocus (Crocus sp.), daffodils (Narcissus sp.), hyacinths (Hyacinthus sp.) and tulips (Tulipa sp.). To force these, the potted bulbs must be stored in a dark area between 35-45 F for 12-15 weeks for the bulbs to root. A good storage location can include a cool, dark unheated basement, a refrigerator or an outdoor cold frame.
Place several bulbs in each pot for the best effect. A 6-inch pot can hold 3 hyacinth bulbs, 3-6 daffodil bulbs, 5-6 tulip bulbs or 8-12 crocus bulbs, or mix and match bulbs to create a unique floral display. Plant with the top of the bulb just at or below ground level. Water the soil well and store in a cool location so the bulbs can root. It is critical that the bulbs stay cool and the soil in the pots remain moist, but not wet.
After 12-13 weeks, check the pots. If roots have grown through the drainage hole and top growth is about 1 ½ inches high, the pot can be moved to a warm location with indirect sunlight. After a week, move the pot to a bright, sunny window and continue to keep the soil moist. The bulbs will bloom approximately one to two weeks later.
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crocus
(Crocus vernus HOKUS CROCUS)
common hyacinth
(Hyacinthus orientalis
'Purple Sensation')
split-corona daffodil
(Narcissus 'Cassata')
jonquilla daffodil
(Narcissus 'Sailboat')
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amaryllis (Hippeastrum 'Fairytale')
jonquilla daffodil (Narcissus 'Sailboat')
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