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How to force daffodil bulbs

in Home : Projects: Greenhouse and house plants

You will need

  • 'Paperwhite', 'Soleil D'Or' or any prepared narcissus bulbs
  • Pebbles, gravel or glass beads
  • Glass jar
  • Watering can
Do it: September - early October
Takes just: 10 minutes

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Overview

Plant any prepared narcissi now and you'll be able to enjoy their fragrant flowers during the dark days of winter. For an interesting indoor display, choose a glass bowl and fill it with gravel, glass beads or pebbles.

How to do it

Placing pebbles in vase

1Place a layer of pebbles, gravel or glass beads in the base of your chosen container.

Pushing bulbs into pebbles

2Push the narcissus bulbs to about half their depth into the pebbles to hold them firm.

Filling vase with water

3Add water to just below the bulb and no higher, topping up to this level as needed.

Adam's tip

Buy enough narcissus bulbs to plant several vases every seven to 10 days throughout September and early October to provide a succession of flowers through December and January.

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Talkback: How to force daffodil bulbs
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russianmama 24/11/2011 at 15:28

I'll try this - have done hyacynths' before. Will be nice to have some early colour.

Ian4602 24/11/2011 at 15:29

I'm really enjoying my paper-whites at the moment. How can I make them flower at Christmas again next year?