How to Grow Paperwhites Indoors for Winter Fragrance

Paperwhites require little more than potting and watering to produce clusters of fragrant blooms. When bulbs arrive, open bags immediately for air circulation. Pot right away or store at room temperature in a dark place for 4–6 weeks. For a staggered display from a 24-bulb collection, pot 6–12 bulbs at 2–4 week intervals. Bulbs typically bloom 4–6 weeks after potting.

Growing in Stones or Beach Glass (Soilless)

Place a 2-inch layer of stones or glass in a small vase (4 inches in larger vase). Add a layer of bulbs close together, roots down. Anchor with more stones/glass between bulbs, leaving tops exposed. Add water to just below the bulb bases—never let bases sit in water or they'll rot.

Growing in Potting Mix

Moisten potting mix in a plastic tub until damp but not soggy. Fill container ¾ full. Set bulbs pointed-end up, almost touching. Cover up to their necks, leaving tips exposed. Water thoroughly.

Rooting and Care

Place container in a cool (50–60°F) spot away from direct sun. Check frequently: water when potting mix is dry 1 inch below surface (no more than weekly until active growth begins), or when water level drops more than 1 inch below stones/glass. For bowls without drainage, water with extra care—soggy mix causes rot. Weekly, tug gently on bulbs; when you feel firm resistance (usually ~3 weeks), move to a sunny window. Monitor watering closely—actively growing bulbs can dry out in a day or two.

Supporting Top-Heavy Blooms

Forced paperwhites tend to topple when flowering. Use supplied bulb supports or bamboo stakes and twine. Install supports when shoots reach 8–10 inches by inserting legs at regular intervals inside the container edge. Gently guide wayward leaves back inside the ring.

After Bloom

Discard bulbs or compost after flowering—they won't rebloom indoors.

Storing for Later Planting

Store at room temperature in a dark place with bags/boxes open for air circulation if you want to delay planting or stagger displays.