The short, dark and gloomy, cold days of winter can be made a little more tolerable by growing some flowers indoors.
One of the easiest flowering plants to grow inside is paperwhite narcissus. These bright, peppery-scented bulb flowers are actually members of the daffodil family. They require no cold treatment like all the other spring bulbs. They grow easily and don't even need potting soil. You can use a bowl with pebbles or marbles to help hold the roots in place.
Paperwhites are available at many garden centers and floral shops. You can often get them as a bare bulb or you can buy them in easy-to-grow kits. Pre-grown potted plants are available for those who want to enjoy the blooms with minimal effort.
Growing paperwhites without potting soil is an easy project for kids and adults, and they make great gifts.
No fertilizing is needed. The bulb contains all the needed nutrients, which is also why no soil is needed. Use a watertight container that is at least four to five inches deep. Fill the container with anchoring material such as marbles or small, washed river rocks.
Place the bulbs evenly around the container with the pointed side up. Add enough water so that it is just beneath the base of the bulbs constantly. Do not let the bulbs sit in water or they will rot.
Place the container in a cool, but very bright, location. Too much heat and not enough light cause weak, stretched-out plants. It can take from two to four weeks to get the bulbs to bloom.
When buying bare bulbs, look for firm, heavy bulbs without bruises or nicks. Buy big bulbs for more stems and flowers. If you cannot plant the bulbs soon after purchasing, store them in a cool location but not in a refrigerator. Do not store alongside any edible fruits or vegetables.