Paperwhites, with their delicate blooms and sweet fragrance, are a delightful addition to any home or garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice with a green thumb, learning how to grow and care for paperwhites can be a rewarding experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything from plant attributes to propagation, forcing techniques, common pests, and troubleshooting tips.
Plant Attributes
Common Names:
Paperwhites
Tazetta daffodils
Paperwhite narcissus
Botanical Name:
Narcissus tazetta
Family:
Amaryllidaceae
Plant Type:
Perennial, bulb
Mature Size:
8-24 in. tall, 6-12 in. wide
Sun Exposure:
Full, partial
Soil Type:
Well-drained, loam, sandy loam
Soil pH:
Acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
Bloom Time:
Spring
Flower Color:
White, yellow, orange
Hardiness Zones:
8-11 (USDA)
Native Area:
Mediterranean, Asia
Toxicity:
Entire plant toxic to pets, toxic to people.
Types of Paperwhites
Explore the diverse world of paperwhite varieties:
- 'Ziva': A popular pure white selection used in prepackaged boxes.
- 'Inbal' and 'Ariel': Best forced in soil, these selections have unique characteristics.
- 'Cragford' and 'Falconet': Dark orange trumpets with variations in petal color.
- 'Grand Soleil d'Or': Cold-hardy with white blooms and a buttery-yellow trumpet.
Propagating Paperwhites
Rejuvenate overcrowded clumps or expand your collection with these propagation tips:
- Divide bulbs after foliage turns brown.
- Dispose of damaged bulbs and replant 4-6 inches apart in well-drained soil.
- Plant in groups of five or more for a stunning impact.
Planting Bulbs Outside in Fall
Enjoy a seasonal display by planting paperwhites in the ground:
- Prepare the garden bed with peat or compost for improved drainage.
- Loosen soil deeper than the planting depth (about 6 inches).
- Plant bulbs 4-6 inches apart, tip facing up, and cover with soil.
- Water and mulch lightly.
How To Force Paperwhites
Experience the joy of paperwhite blooms around Christmas by following these methods:
In Soil:
- Use a small pot filled with coarse potting soil.
- Plant bulbs with the pointed tip up and exposed.
- Stimulate roots in a cool room (55-60°F) for 7-10 days.
- Move to a warmer spot (70°F) with bright light for foliage and flowers.
- Rotate the pot as leaves emerge and move to a cooler spot as buds open.
In Pebbles:
- Use fine gravel from a pet store in a shallow, clear dish.
- Add bulbs, ensuring at least one-third is above gravel level.
- Keep water just below the base of the bulbs and follow soil planting directions.
In A Vase:
Select a forcing vase that fits well on windowsills.
Place bulbs in the vase and add water just below the bulb base.
Paperwhite Care
Paperwhites are known for their easy care, but they do have specific needs to thrive.
Light:
- Paperwhites require adequate light for blooming.
- Outdoors, plant in a sunny spot with some protection from mid-day sun.
- Indoors, place them in or near a sunny window, avoiding prolonged exposure to intense afternoon sun.
Soil:
- If planted in soil, use a lightweight, well-draining potting mix.
- In the ground, opt for loamy or sandy loam soil; amend clay soil for improved drainage.
Water:
- Be cautious not to overwater, as paperwhite bulbs are sensitive to rot.
- Maintain water just beneath the bulb when growing in a bowl or vase.
- For soil-grown paperwhites, keep the soil lightly moist, and water only when actively growing.
Temperature and Humidity:
- Paperwhites can be grown year-round but avoid frost.
- Maintain temperatures around 60°F for compact plants and longer-lasting flowers.
- Bulbs can sprout at lower temperatures (45-50°F).
Fertilizer:
- Bulbs contain sufficient nutrients for one season.
- Fertilize soil-planted paperwhites with a bulb-boosting fertilizer at planting and during sprouting.
- Additional fertilizer may be needed for poorly blooming plants.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
Avoid common issues with these precautions:
Rot: Dispose of mushy bulbs and improve drainage.
Pests: Narcissus bulb fly larvae and nematodes can infest bulbs; use insecticides and dispose of infected bulbs.
How To Get Paperwhites to Bloom
Ensure your paperwhites bloom with these tips:
- Provide bright light, avoiding frost.
- Maintain consistent moisture, keeping soil lightly moist or ensuring roots have access to water.
- Understand that bulbs forced indoors may take a few years to bloom again when planted outdoors.
Common Problems With Paperwhites
Address common problems for a healthier, more beautiful display:
Tall, Floppy Plant:
- Water with a mild alcohol solution when the bulb sprouts.
- Keep the plant cooler (around 60°F) for more compact growth.
- Stake leggy plants with bamboo or cut branches for support.
Growing and caring for paperwhites can be a joyful and fulfilling experience. Experiment with different varieties, forcing methods, and planting techniques to discover your favorites and create a stunning display of these beautiful flowers. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice, the charm of paperwhites is sure to enhance your gardening experience. Happy growing!
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