The beginning of this new year I opened a waiting Christmas gift from a thoughtful neighbor. I gently placed my waiting bulb, into a small pot filled with moist soil. The sun through a north window added warmth. Then I waited. Waiting is easy to do in the frigid temperatures of winter in Chicago; easier than ever this sub-zero January. This mid-month week, with daily snow and sub-zero forecasts the delicate Paperwhites (Narcissus papyraceus) flowers emerged yielding a light sweet aroma. Promises of spring; reward for patience and faith. What a wonder-ful gift.

My bulb was prepared and ready for growth. If you want to force your own bulbs for early arrival, to warm the cold gray days of winter, check out these instructions:  https://www.whiteflowerfarm.com/growing-paperwhite-narcissus-bulbs.html