Paperwhite plants, scientifically known as Narcissus papyraceus, are a popular choice for indoor forcing, especially during the cooler months. These bulbs are cherished for their fragrant, pure white blooms that bring a touch of spring indoors. Their ease of cultivation makes them a favored option for vibrant, aromatic flowers without extensive gardening experience.
Starting Your Paperwhites
Start with healthy, firm bulbs free from blemishes. For a robust display, plant five to seven bulbs in a six to eight-inch wide container. Two primary methods exist: water forcing or potting mix.
For water forcing, place a layer of pebbles or glass beads at the bottom of a clear container. Nestles bulbs on top, pointed end upward. Add water so it barely touches the bulb’s base, as direct contact can lead to rot.
If planting in soil, use a well-draining potting mix. Bury about two-thirds of the bulb, leaving the top third exposed. Water thoroughly until the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Caring for Growing Paperwhites
Once paperwhite bulbs sprout, care focuses on suitable light, consistent moisture, and appropriate temperature for healthy growth and prolonged blooming. Place growing paperwhites in bright, indirect light, such as near a south or west-facing window. Avoid direct, hot sunlight, which can cause them to grow too quickly and become leggy. For soil-grown paperwhites, maintain consistent moisture, watering when the top inch of soil feels dry, but do not allow the soil to become soggy. For water-forced bulbs, regularly replenish the water level just below the bulb’s base.
Maintaining cooler temperatures (50-65°F / 10-18°C) helps slow growth, resulting in shorter, sturdier stems and a longer blooming period. Warmer temperatures accelerate growth, leading to tall, elongated stems that may struggle to support the blooms. As stems lengthen, they often require support to prevent toppling. Stakes, thin bamboo canes, or decorative wire supports can gently prop up stems and maintain an upright display. Rotating the container every few days also helps ensure straight stems by preventing leaning excessively towards the light source.
After the Blooms Fade
After paperwhite blooms fade, the bulbs are typically considered spent, particularly when forced indoors. Unlike many garden bulbs, paperwhites forced indoors usually do not gather enough energy to rebloom in subsequent seasons. Indoor forcing exhausts the bulb’s stored energy reserves without sufficient time for replenishment. Therefore, it is generally recommended to discard the bulbs or add them to a compost pile once flowering concludes. While some sources suggest attempting to save them for outdoor planting in warm climates (USDA zones 8-11), successful reblooming is rare and often takes several years, making it an unreliable endeavor for most indoor growers.
Troubleshooting Common Paperwhite Problems
Paperwhite cultivation can have issues, but most have straightforward solutions. Leggy growth, characterized by tall, spindly stems that flop over, is a common problem caused by insufficient light and overly warm temperatures. Move the plant to a cooler location with more intense, indirect light. Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, especially if the soil remains soggy, which can lead to root rot. Ensure proper drainage in potted plants; allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Mold on bulbs occurs due to poor air circulation or excessive moisture around the bulb itself. This is common in water-forced setups where the bulb is in constant contact with water. To mitigate this, ensure the water level remains just below the bulb’s base, allowing air circulation around the bulb. Removing any affected parts of the bulb, if the mold is minor, and improving ventilation helps prevent further spread.