Paperwhites

 While most blooms were lost in the freeze a couple weeks ago, it is nice to have paperwhites which are getting ready to bllom in the dining room.

J and I purchased these beautiful blooms at the PRC's Holiday Home Boutique in early December.

Paperwhite Narcissus: Narcissus papyraceus

If you long for spring daffodils during the bleak days of winter, paperwhites are a close relative that you can force indoors at almost any time of year to make it feel like spring even on a snowy day. Like amaryllis bulbs, paperwhites require no chilling period before forcing. Simply put them in soil or a bowl filled with water, and within a few weeks you will be enjoying their dainty, daffodil-like blooms. If you live in a warm southern climate, you can also plant paperwhites outdoors in the garden, where they will bloom in early spring. (Garden Design)

Paperwhites, y'all!

Passion for Paperwhites

Paperwhites in a beautiful basket

     As January is upon us, many flowering plants are dormant as they take a long winter's rest. That's why paperwhites are so lovely and so easy to grow at this time of year.

     BFF and co-worker LC gifted J & I with a lovely paperwhite growing kit as a holiday hostess gift this past December. I could not wait to get these bulbs planted. As I stated, it is oh-so easy!

Paperwhite bulbs

      Bulbs can be planted in just about anything. Start with a clean container and add your choice of soil, pebbles, marbles, rocks, or hard candy (yes, hard candy!). The bulbs will grow so easily. Press the bulb into your "soil" choice making certain most of the bulb is below the "soil". Water regularly and watch them grow.

Planted bulbs

     After only two weeks, I had beautiful white flowers. I am still enjoying them today. I added a layer of green moss to beautify the soil and added coastal touches to the base. Use your creativity! I also placed the container into an antique silver champagne bucket. As they get taller, you may have to secure the long stems with ribbon and a stake. You will see below how I secured my paperwhites. Be creative too!

Paperwhites growing tall

Paperwhites... How do you like the coastal touches added to the base?

Paperwhites after being moved closer to a window. Notice my stake--- a Mardi Gras mask on a stick!

         Growing paperwhites is fun and easy. You will have some great blooms for several weeks into the long days of winter.

     Happy Growing!