Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Forcing Paperwhites for Christmas

Last year was my first time growing my own indoor paperwhites and I loved it. Now is the time to start these! A new tradition for our home come holiday time. In case you haven't forced paperwhites, I took a few pictures along the way so I could share with you all. Even those with a black thumb can grow paperwhites- promise!


Here is what you will need:


-Glass containers or another container you wish to use
-Rocks 
-Paperwhite Bulbs


I buy the rocks from the Dollar Store. Since I'm using glass containers for these, I stick to natural/white stones to help hide the roots that grow.


Fill your containers about 1/3 of the way full with rocks.


Nestle the bulbs down into the rocks with the sprout end pointing up. I use containers that fit at least 2-3 bulbs each for a fuller arrangement.


Fill with water until the roots of the bulb are touching water. Set them aside in a cool, dark place until the roots begin to grow {this usually takes about 1-2 weeks}.
After your roots have grown, place them in a sunny spot and watch them begin to grow. They should be blooming within 6 weeks.

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Some tips for growing your paperwhites: 

I check the water level every few days to make sure the roots are wet.


If your containers are on the short side, you may need to tie a ribbon around them to keep them upright. Even though they fall when they get heavier/taller, I love the effortless holiday look it can bring. 

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While you are at the Dollar Store grabbing your rocks, pick up some moss.
 I cover my rocks with moss once they get a little taller.

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Do you grow Paperwhites for Christmas? It's fun to have something to watch grow this time of year when nothing else seems to be blooming.

Enjoy! xo.

10 comments:

Dana Frieling said...

I had no idea they'd grow in just rocks. I've been wanting to grow them but was too lazy to mess with the soil and all. Thanks for enlightening me!

Rachel said...

I know what I will be trying this weekend!

Oh Sunnie Day said...

So pretty! I've never heard of these before. I definitely need to give it a try :)

xx

jen

KatiePerk said...

They will be just gorgeous! That would be a good gift too...

Sweet, Pink and Preppy said...

I love this idea!!

Laura Wyatt said...

oooh i love this! maybe this will tide me over until spring when we can get our hands dirty in the yard :)

xoxo

pam {simple details} said...

You know I love them! I've never tried them on the rocks! Ha! :)

Pris said...

Definitely growing some of these this holiday season! Thanks for the tips!

erica said...

Oh my goodness that is going to be so pretty! xx

Diana @ Your Day Simplified said...

You have saved me. The pots I purchased from Ikea don't have drainage so your rock system should still work. Thank you!