Timing Paperwhite Narcissus for Christmas Blooms: Planting Schedule and Forcing Technique

Q: What is the timetable for starting paperwhites to peak before and during Christmas week?

Paperwhite narcissus bulbs bloom 4-6 weeks after planting. Plant around first week of November. Initially place in cool, dark place (closet in unused bedroom). Leave 2 weeks until small shoots and white roots appear. Then move to bright window with no cold drafts. Flowers follow in 2-4 weeks. For continuous winter bloom, plant bulbs every 2 weeks from late fall through February.