Paperwhite Bulb reminder!
Moms View Message Board: General Discussion Archive: Archive November 2005:
Paperwhite Bulb reminder!
It's that time of year again--paperwhite bulbs! Buy them now and get them into your closets. They'll be blooming for Christmas! They make lovely little gifts.
You just need to find water tight containers and put some rocks in the bottom, place the bulbs in between the rocks and fill with a small amount of water. They will shoot up fast! It's fun to watch. Then, take them out and they will green up and bloom for Christmas!
I usually buy small glass containers at Michael's crafts and tie pretty Christmas ribbon around them.
Eve, they are BEAUTIFUL, but the smell.... LOL!
They are very pretty...do they stink though??
I bought an Amarilis (sp) and I am forcing that in my kitchen window.
I used to do Paper Whites all the time....I think I will try those again this year. 
LOL, Trina. They have a strong smell, but I don't think they stink. It's a personal thing with smell. Give them a try Vicki and see if you like them.
I love Amaryllis, Andi! So pretty. My Aunt always buys a pink bulb to force for Valentines Day too.
You have me curious now. How long do you keep them in the closet? I need step by step instructions. LOL Where do you get the bulbs?
Ooh, you've made me curious, too. Count me in for more instructions! Those are gorgeous! Are they really that easy?
A kit with bulbs, soil and pot are available at Target or WalMart. I've seen amaryllis, hyacinth and paperwhites for sale. They are so easy to grow it's not funny! LOL
I have two amaryllis bulbs planted that I'm hoping will be in bloom for Christmas. They are so beautiful and add a touch of spring indoors.
I love the idea, Eve. I am always at loss for Christmas gifts for my sisters. I think they will love this! Thanks. Sign me up for instructions!
You can use any container you like--I like small round glass containers. I usually go to Michael's and buy some rocks that I like. I've used everything--even the little glass pebbles in green and red for Christmas. Or a glass vase works well and keeps them standing nice and tall.
I usually put 2 bulbs in one container--just in case one doesn't bloom. I sort of make the bulb stand up straight by using the rocks. So, you put just enough in to cover the bottom and to keep it standing up. Then, you put in just enough water to cover the very bottom. (BTW-My Mom likes to do about 8 in a low glass dish, instead of doing small containers)
I put them in the back of the linen closet in a paint tray, so water doesn't leak when I go in to water them. You usually put them in the closet the day after Thanksgiving. I usually leave them in too long, but they shoot up in about a week. (Check on them everyday! It's so exciting!) They'll be a light, pale green. You then need to take them out and let them get a little sunlight--they'll get nice and green. I'll put them in my kitchen window--so it's cool, but gets sun.
They make nice little gifts if you need something at the last minute. You could also buy a pretty vase to give as a gift and force the bulbs in it-and then they get to keep the lovely vase. Or better yet, give them a gift basket with a container, rocks and the bulbs with directions.
Here are some directions I found online. You can find the bulbs at Home Depot or a local nursery or even some Hardware stores carry them. They are inexpensive and fun! It's a family tradtion in our home. The scent is not for everyone, because it's strong, but we all like it in our family. They are a type of Daffodil. Good luck!
Forcing Paperwhite Narcissus Bulbs
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