How To Grow Paperwhites Indoors For Beautiful Winter Blooms

Once your mums and asters are done blooming in autumn, it often feels like there are few flowers to look forward to until spring finally arrives. Thanks to the practice of bulb forcing, though, you don't have to wait for April or May to see your favorite spring flowers. This clever trick allows you to grow bulbs indoors all winter long. While a variety of spring bulbs can be grown this way, paperwhites (Narcissus tazetta) are one of the easiest.

Unlike many bulbs, paperwhites don't require a chilling period, meaning you can start your bulb forcing project right away, instead of chilling the bulbs for several weeks first. Like other types of narcissus, paperwhites are moderately toxic if eaten, so you may want to opt for a different type of bulb to force if you have curious pets or young children. If you're confident you have a spot to grow paperwhites inside safely, then all you need are your bulbs, a pot and potting soil, or a jar or dish, and some pebbles or rocks. 

To begin your indoor paperwhite project, start by purchasing paperwhite bulbs. They are readily available in autumn, as they can be either forced indoors during winter or planted outside in zones 9 through 11. Paperwhites also come in a variety of different cultivars with subtle differences in fragrance and shade. Check your bulbs to make sure they are healthy and firm.

If you opt to grow your paperwhites in potting soil, plant them into a pot with drainage holes that has been filled with moist potting soil. This is similar to the process for growing daffodils indoors in mason jars. Unlike with spring blooming bulbs you plant outside in your garden, these paperwhite bulbs should have their pointed tips still visible above the soil. Alternatively, you can grow the bulbs hydroponically by placing them in a jar of rocks and water. Make sure the bulb isn't fully submerged in the water though, as only the bulb's base should be touching the water.  

Next, place your bulbs and their pots or jars into a cool, dark place for a few weeks. An unheated closet, garage, or basement can be ideal locations. This will help the roots grow and develop. Check on the bulbs regularly and make sure the water level in the jars of rocks or the moisture level in the potting soil are maintained. Once you see a few inches of growth on your plants, you can bring them out into a warm and bright area. They should bloom within a month or two, so if you start your paperwhite project in October, you should be able to spice up your holiday décor with these plants by December.