How to Grow Paperwhite Narcissus Bulbs Indoors

Your bulbs will produce a display of blooms in about two to four weeks. If the bulbs have begun to grow, their sprouts may be yellow and somewhat bent upon arrival. They will straighten and turn a healthy green after a few days in a sunny window.

Care

If the soil is dry when plants arrive, water the pot to moisten the soil. The container does not have drainage holes, so tip it over the sink to allow excess water to drain. Place it in a cool, brightly lit location, ideally no more than 2 to 3 feet from a window or under bright, artificial light. Temperatures between 50 to 60 degrees F are best. Plants grow more compactly and blooms last longer in cool temperatures. Plant growth may "stretch" in warmer temperatures and low-light conditions.

As the plants grow, rotate the container to prevent them from leaning toward the light. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy.

Paperwhites will bloom in about two to four weeks. Once the plants begin to bloom, the floral display typically lasts one to two weeks. For longest bloom, keep the soil moist and move the pot out of direct sun.

Paperwhite bulbs will not bloom again after pot-forcing and can be composted after flowering.