Paper whites are generally available in late fall to early winter in most garden centers and plant stores. In some instances, they are already potted when sold. They need to be placed in a well-lighted area at a temperature of about 60 degrees. The planting medium should be kept moist but not wet. If paper whites are planted in non-draining bowls, which is often the case, special care is needed to prevent overwatering.
Amaryllis provide a wider range of colors and forcing time than the paper whites.
After purchasing an amaryllis bulb, place it in a well-lighted area and give an initial watering. Subsequent waterings should be light until the plant grows. The flower stalk should emerge before the leaves. The second group of bulbs that can be forced consist of the spring flowering types such as tulip, hyacinths, daffodils and crocus. The forcing process for these bulbs can be started now for most hardy bulbs sold for outdoor planting.