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How to Keep Yellow Narcissus Indoors to Keep Blooming

Yellow narcissus (Narcissus polyanthus) produces its blooms in early spring when grown naturally outdoors. These flower bulbs also make a suitable winter potted flower because you can force them to blossom early by growing them indoors. The narcissus brings a breath of spring indoors when the weather outdoors is still cold. The yellow flowers can keep blooming for four weeks or longer when provided with the proper indoor climate and if you follow the correct care practices.

Things You'll Need

  • Pot
  • Potting soil
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Instructions

    • 1

      Plant narcissus in a flower pot that has at least one hole in the bottom. The hole provides drainage so the soil doesn't become too wet, which can cause the bulbs to rot. Rotting bulbs fail to flower or the flowers die prematurely.

    • 2

      Fill the pot with a quality potting soil. Avoid garden soil, as it may contain pests or fungal spores that can shorten the life of the flowers.

    • 3

      Sow the bulbs with the flat side down, burying them up to the neck of the bulb. Space the bulbs 2 inches apart in all directions so they have room to send out roots.

    • 4

      Water the soil until the excess just begins to drain out of the pot bottom. Keep the pot in a dark, cool room for five to seven days, or until the bulbs send up the first shoots. Water as necessary during this time so the soil remains moist.

    • 5

      Move the narcissus to a sunny location in a 60 to 65 degree Fahrenheit room once the shoots appear. Move the bulbs gradually closer to the light over a five day period so the sudden onset of bright sun doesn't shock or burn the plants. Continue to water the bulbs once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.

    • 6

      Remove the spent flower stalks after the blossoms wilt. This diverts the bulb's energy to the remaining flowers and buds so they can continue producing and blooming for a longer period.