The paperwhite (Narcissus papyraceus) is a fragrant perennial bulb native to the Mediterranean region. A member of the narcissus family, which includes daffodils, paperwhites are ideal for indoor growing because they do not require a chilling period to stimulate blooming. This makes them one of the simplest bulbs to “force” indoors during the winter months. Forcing encourages the bulb to flower outside of its natural season, and the water-and-jar method provides a straightforward way to enjoy their distinctive scent and white clusters within weeks.
Choosing Supplies and Setup
The process begins with selecting materials, primarily a clean, decorative jar or vase without drainage holes that is deep enough to accommodate the substrate and the bulbs. Choose healthy bulbs that feel firm and heavy, without soft spots or mold; they are typically available from early fall through late winter. You will also need an inert material to anchor the bulbs and provide stability, such as clean pebbles, glass beads, or decorative marbles.
Start the setup by filling the bottom of the jar with two to four inches of the chosen substrate to create a firm foundation. Place the paperwhite bulbs closely together on top of this layer, pointed tip facing up. Use two to seven bulbs depending on the container’s width, as close proximity helps the bulbs support each other as they grow. Add more stones around and between the bulbs to secure them upright.
The water level must be carefully managed to prevent the bulbs from rotting. Slowly add clean, room-temperature water until the level just touches the base of the bulbs; the entire bulb must not be submerged. The goal is for the roots, which emerge from the bottom, to seek out and grow into the water. Once set up, place the container in a cool, dark location, ideally 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit, for the first one to two weeks to encourage strong root development before the green shoots appear.
Essential Care During Growth
Once the initial rooting period is complete and the green shoots are one to two inches tall, move the jar to a brighter location. Paperwhites thrive in bright, indirect light, such as near a well-lit window. Avoid hot, direct sunlight, which can cause the stems to become weak and leggy. Check the water level every few days and replenish it as needed, ensuring the water remains just below the base of the bulb to prevent decay.
Maintaining a cool environment helps prolong the life of the blooms; temperatures around 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal for healthy growth and longer flowering. If the room is too warm, growth accelerates, resulting in weaker stems and shorter bloom time. The process from planting to full bloom typically takes four to six weeks. As the stems grow taller, rotate the container regularly, perhaps once a week, because the stems naturally stretch toward the light source.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The most common issue with forced paperwhites is their tendency to become tall, weak, and flop over under the weight of their flower clusters. This legginess results from growing in conditions that are too warm or lacking sufficient light, causing excessive stretching. To physically prevent stems from collapsing, use a decorative ribbon or twine to gently tie the stalks together for support, or utilize the sides of a tall, narrow vase.
A proven method to limit stem height is to water the bulbs with a diluted alcohol solution once the shoots are one to two inches high. Alcohol creates a mild water stress, stunting vertical growth without affecting the size or fragrance of the flowers. To create this solution, use one part of a 40% distilled spirit (like vodka or gin) mixed with seven parts water, yielding a safe four to six percent alcohol concentration. Mold or rot on the bulb is usually caused by the bulb sitting directly in the water; correct this by pouring off the excess water and ensuring only the roots are submerged.