February 10, 2025

Example of Healthy Bulbs

Roots Planted Downward * Roots Growing Below

Winters in New England can be dark, dreary and depressing for those of us who crave the growing life 365 days of the year. Luckily, there are simple DIY botanical projects which gardeners can cultivate right from the warmth of their homes. When the outdoor temperatures are stationed at a dismal 25 degrees, designers look to create beautifully, inspired floral crafts which lift the decor of one’s home as well as the spirits who occupy the walls. Terrariums are an excellent project option when attempting to reinsert indoor horticultural vitalization while the snowy drifts continue to collect on our garden fences. One variety proven to captivate flower lovers during this time of year are paperwhite bulbs which are simple to grow, delicate in appearance and possess the ability to effervesce a strong spring-like scent to freshen living areas.

The paperwhite bulb (or commonly called Narcissus) belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family which also consists of daffodils, jonquils, onions, snow drops and spider lilies. Paperwhites are true bulbs which hibernate during the summer and bloom in the early winter/spring months (depending on the season’s weather pattern). The paperwhite is the official birth flower of March, which is appropriate since this is its usual sprouting time. The petals unfurl in colors ranging from orange, yellow, cream, white and in some cases blush pink and can be cultivated for outdoor landscaping, indoor terrariums or cuttings to include in springtime bouquets. The flower extends to symbolize many sentiments including rebirth, afterlife, wealth, purity and good fortune. In ancient mythology, Narcissus was a young man obsessed with his good looks which one day transformed him into the flower after longingly staring at his reflection in a pool of water.

DIY Paperwhite Terrarium Instructions

1. Select a clear glass vase that is at least 6-12 inches in height. The added height will assist in supporting your bulbs’ stems when they begin to stretch and grow.
2. Add 3 inches of rocks either natural in color or dyed. Fish rocks make excellent material for this project and can be found at any pet supply store.
3. Obtain paperwhite bulbs from a local nursery or farm. Be sure to select items with a glossy brown coat and a strong inner shell. Stay away from bulbs with mushy centers- they have likely not been stored properly or have been exposed to moisture.
4. Nestle the bulbs 1 1/2 inches in the rocks leaving enough growing space between each plant to ensure all thrive. The end with the hairy roots should be placed down into the rocks. The top of the bulb will have a short stem already ready to begin sprouting. This end should be pointing upwards. The bulbs should be halfway submerged underneath the sediment.
5. Water the terrarium with 3 tablespoons of water per week on the side of the container- NOT on top of the bulbs which can induce rot.
6. Check too make sure pools of water are not collecting on the bottom which will cause the roots to drown- avoid watering until the water has dried up and resume schedule as needed.
7. Wait 3-4 weeks for your paperwhite bulbs to bloom and enjoy the show!

Troubleshooting…..

*If the stems begin to fall over, use a slim stick or skewer to secure the plants base. This will avoid any further toppling issues.