My friend sent us Paperwhite bulbs this Thanksgiving, and I was so excited, I planted them immediately.  

 

The directions said they would bloom in 4 - 6 weeks.  Well, I must have the perfect conditions in my house, because it's only been three weeks, and here they are!!!  Who knew that 60° inside could be perfect for ANY living thing, but.....

 

Paperwhites are in the genus Narcissus, the same as daffodils,  Narcissus tazetta papyraceus.  They are sold commercially in late fall, to be forced, for fragrant indoor winter blooms.  Betty waits until January to plant hers, bringing sweet flowers inside in midwinter.  I've never grown them before, so I didn't think to save them til midwinter. 

 

That's ok, the directions also said that I can plant the bulbs outside after they finish blooming.  They need full sun in order for the leaves to make food for the bulbs.  I have the perfect spot all ready when the ground thaws in spring, right next to my Rain lilies.  They bloom at different times, but like the same conditions. 

 

They all make me smile and think of my friends, the Bridges.

 

 

HAPPY GARDENING!!!