How to Plant Paperwhites in Potting Soil
Paperwhite narcissus are popular for indoor forcing. Many bulbs require a long cooling period before they will blossom but this is not true of paperwhites. They are also easy to grow, requiring only proper planting and growing conditions that most people can provide indoors. These characteristics make them a good choice for indoor growing. Adding to their appeal is their attractive star shaped flower and strong, sweet fragrance. Paperwhites are useful as decorative plants and as gifts, either already forced or ready for planting. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Paperwhite bulbs
- Container with no drainage holes
- Good quality potting soil
- Water
Instructions
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1
Examine the bulbs to be sure they are free of soft spots and discoloration. The bulbs should be firm, not mushy, and should not have any mildew, soft spots or discoloration on the surface.
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2
Select a container that is larger than 3 inches but no more than 5 inches in depth. The diameter of the container depends on the number of bulbs you plan to use. The container must be able to accommodate that number of bulbs planted close together.
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3
Place approximately 1 1/2 to 2 inches of potting soil in the bottom of the container. The depth of this first layer of soil depends on the depth of the container. It sound be deep enough so that, when planting is finished, the top of the bulb will be even with, or slightly above, the rim of the container.
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4
Set the bottom of the bulb in the soil firmly.The bulbs will be flat on the bottom and may have remnants of roots. The top of the bulb will end in a narrow point or tip. Some bulbs may have leaves already beginning to show at the tip. This is normal and no cause for concern.
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5
Add additional bulbs, placing them so they are almost touching, until the container is filled.
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6
Add more potting soil. Cover all of each bulb with soil but do not cover completely. About 1/4 inch of each bulb's tip should be left uncovered.
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7
Water until the soil is moist but not saturated. As the soil absorbs water it becomes heavy and settles. If this settling forms depressions, gradually add more soil to fill them in and water again.
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Tips & Warnings
Some potting soil has added nutrients. Bulbs contain all the nutrients they need to grow. For forcing, it is not necessary to use potting soil with fertilizer added.
Paperwhites have small flowers. They display best when planted in groups. Use enough bulbs to fill the container.
To have flowers throughout the winter, plant a new batch of paperwhites every two weeks.
Be careful not to get the soil too wet or the bulbs may rot.
