
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.
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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