Paperwhites (Narcissus papyraceus) are a popular choice for indoor forcing because they produce fragrant, white cluster blooms without requiring a chilling period. These bulbs offer a simple way to bring fresh flowers and scent into the home, especially during the winter. The main appeal of this plant is the speed at which it moves from bulb to blossom. This guide details the process and timing required to cultivate these indoor flowers.
Preparing the Paperwhite Bulbs
Starting the growth process involves selecting one of two primary indoor forcing methods: growing in soil or growing in water. For soil planting, use a well-draining potting mix and nestle the bulbs closely together, leaving the pointed tips exposed. If using the water method, select a container without drainage holes and anchor the bulbs using a layer of pebbles or gravel.
For either method, the base of the bulb must remain consistently moist to stimulate root development. The bulb itself should not sit fully submerged, as this can lead to rot. When using water and pebbles, fill the container so the water level just touches the bottom of the bulbs. After setup, place the container in a cool, dark location for about one week to encourage root growth before moving it into the light.
The Standard Blooming Timeline
Paperwhites typically bloom rapidly, usually between three and four weeks from the initial planting or setup. This quick turnaround makes them a favorite for staggered planting, where new batches are started every two weeks to ensure a continuous display. The speed of development depends heavily on the environment provided.
Temperature influences the timeline significantly. Cooler conditions (ideally 50°F to 60°F) slow growth, resulting in a more compact and sturdy plant. Warmer rooms accelerate the process, bringing the bloom date sooner but often causing undesirable stretching. Once roots are established, move the container to a location with bright light to support the emerging foliage and flower stalks.
To manage stem height without affecting flowering time, growers can use a dilute alcohol solution. Once green shoots reach about two inches tall, replace the plain water with a mixture of one part hard liquor (such as vodka) to seven parts water, creating a 5% alcohol solution. This mild stressor stunts vertical growth by up to one-third, preventing stems from flopping over while maintaining blossom size and fragrance.
Troubleshooting Common Growth Issues
The most common problem during growth is the development of tall, weak stems, known as stretching or flopping. This occurs when plants reach for a distant light source or when the ambient temperature is too high. To correct this, move the container immediately to a cooler spot and ensure it receives sufficient bright, indirect light.
If stems have grown too tall, temporary support can be provided by carefully staking the stalks or tying them loosely with twine. Another issue is the failure of a bulb to sprout or the onset of rot, which is usually caused by overwatering. Rot occurs when the bulb is submerged in water for too long, preventing oxygen intake. Always ensure that only the base of the bulb is in contact with the water or moist soil.
Post-Bloom Care and Disposal
Once paperwhites finish their blooming cycle, the flowers typically begin to fade after one or two weeks. To maximize the display period, move the container to a slightly cooler location with diffused light once the buds have opened. This reduces the rate of metabolic activity, extending the life of the blooms.
Paperwhite bulbs are generally treated as annuals for indoor forcing because the process expends all stored energy. While it is technically possible to save and re-force them, it is impractical for the average grower, as the bulbs rarely bloom again indoors with the same vigor. The recommended procedure is to compost or discard the spent bulbs and foliage, purchasing fresh bulbs for the next season.