How to Plant Paperwhite Bulbs in Water

Growing paperwhite bulbs is a popular winter tradition for many flower enthusiasts. These delicate and fragrant flowers, which belong to the narcissus family, are easy to grow and can brighten up any indoor space. One of the easiest ways to grow paperwhite bulbs is in water. Here's how you can plant paperwhite bulbs in water.

What you'll need

Before we get started, you'll need a few things:

Paperwhite bulbs

A container

Stones or pebbles

Water

Instructions

Now that you have all the necessary items, follow these steps:

Choose your container. You can use any container that is about 3-4 inches deep with no drainage holes. A glass container would be ideal as it will allow you to watch the roots grow.

Add the stones or pebbles. Fill the container with stones or pebbles until they reach about 2 inches from the top. This will provide enough support for the bulbs and help anchor them in place.

Place the bulbs on top of the stones. Make sure the pointed end of the bulb is facing upwards. The bulbs should be spaced about an inch apart from each other.

Add water to the container. Add enough water until it reaches just below the base of the bulbs. Be careful not to submerge the bulbs completely as this could cause them to rot.

Place the container in a cool, dark place. Paperwhite bulbs do not need light to grow their roots, so you can place the container in a closet or cupboard for a few days until the roots start to grow. After three to five days, you should begin to see the roots growing down into the stones.

Move the container to a sunny spot. Once the roots have started to grow, move the container to a sunny window or a well-lit room. The bulbs will absorb the sunlight and begin to grow stems and leaves.

Keep the water level consistent. Be sure to check the water level every few days and add more water as needed. The water should always be just below the base of the bulbs.

Enjoy your paperwhite blooms! Paperwhite bulbs typically bloom within 4-6 weeks of planting. Enjoy their fragrant, delicate flowers and brighten up your indoor space during the dreary winter months.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your paperwhite bulbs:

Use distilled water or rainwater, if possible, to prevent the bulbs from rotting.

If your paperwhites start to flop over, you can try adding a small amount of vodka to the water to stunt their growth.

Once the paperwhites have bloomed, you can prolong their lifespan by keeping them out of direct sunlight and in a cool, well-ventilated room.

Now that you know how to plant paperwhite bulbs in water, it's time to get started! Enjoy the beauty and fragrance of these wonderful winter flowers.