Paperwhites
Paperwhites: Fragrant Blooms with a Rich History
Paperwhites, also known as Paperwhite Narcissus, are charming, fragrant flowers that require little more than water to produce clusters of delicate blooms. Their fascinating history, ease of care, and captivating symbolism make them a favorite choice for indoor gardening.
Historical Origins of Paperwhites
The name "Narcissus" for Paperwhites traces its roots to Greek mythology. According to the legend, Narcissus was a beautiful youth who fell in love with his own reflection and eventually drowned in his self-obsession. It is said that the first narcissus flowers bloomed around the pond where he met his tragic end. This story has given rise to the association of narcissus flowers with narcissism. However, not all narcissus symbolism is negative. In fact, Paperwhite Narcissus symbolizes hope and devotion, making it an ideal gift to express pure love and a desire for someone to remain unchanged. These white flowers also symbolize purity, innocence, sweetness, hope, and simplicity.
Planting and Caring for Paperwhites
Paperwhites are renowned for their ease of care and ability to thrive with minimal effort. Here's how to grow these lovely flowers:
Planting Paperwhites in Water:
Begin by layering a vase with stones or pebbles to a depth of about 2 inches for small vases and 4 inches for larger ones.
Place Paperwhite bulbs close to each other, roots facing down, and add some stones or pebbles around and between the bulbs to secure them.
Add water until it reaches just below the base of the bulbs, ensuring they do not sit in water, as this can lead to rot.
Add some charcoal with the stones to keep the smell of stagnant water down.
Planting Paperwhites in Soil:
Use a well-draining potting mix and moisten it until it's damp but not soggy.
Place the Paperwhite bulbs, pointed end up, on top of the mix, with bulbs closely spaced.
Cover the bulbs up to their necks, leaving the tips exposed, and water thoroughly.
Put a shallow layer of decorative rocks or long fiber peat moss on top to create a finished look.
Rooting and Care:
Place the container or vase in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. Check the bulbs and water when the potting mix is dry about 1 inch below the surface.
After about three weeks, when the bulbs start producing roots and offer firm resistance when gently tugged, move the container to a sunny window.
Be vigilant about watering, as bulbs in active growth can quickly dry out.
The Drunken Paperwhites Technique:
To prevent the top-heavy growth of Paperwhites, a unique technique is to use a diluted alcohol solution in watering. It keeps your bulbs short
Wait until the plant has grown 1-2 inches above the bulb.
Prepare an alcohol solution by mixing one part of alcohol (40% distilled spirits) with seven parts of water.
Continue using the alcohol solution for future waterings.
This technique has been researched and proven by the Flowerbulb Research Program at Cornell University to reduce Paperwhites' growth without harming the plants. This technique will not affect the flower size. Just the height of the plant.
Conclusion
Paperwhites are a beautiful addition to any home, offering not only fragrant blooms, but also a rich history and a delightful tradition of gifting them to express love, hope, and purity. Whether grown in water or soil, they require minimal care and reward you with their stunning beauty. So, the next time you want to bring a touch of elegance and charm into your living space, consider planting some Paperwhite Narcissus bulbs, and watch as their sweet fragrance and delicate blossoms brighten your home