Paperwhites

I have always had the desire to grow Paperwhites.

I love their high fragrance and I love their dainty 

white flowers on stems of glorious green.

 photo via Better Homes and Gardens BHG link for growing tips

I picked up my first batch of bulbs at

Home Depot, I believe, and started them with 

rocks I picked up out of the road.

{Hey, I used what I had on hand!}

I then bought a couple more bags from Walmart and

started those for gifts. Yes, I bought a bag of stones for these.

I started them in whatever I could find.

From my large hurricane

to mason and jelly jars

to a red transferware bowl.

I then set them in the best lit location which is 

the laundry room window. It's a South facing window so 

it gets fabulous light all day.

I read that once the flowers bloom, if you keep them 

out of direct sun, they will last longer.

Well, till then, they will reside in that sunny window

with my Lavender. 

They're growing!

I found my first little bumpy stem this morning

so I know it won't be too long before we see

and smell some action. 

This year is somewhat of an experiment

and so far, so good.

I have plans for doing a show next year around this time

so if all goes well, I'll have some started to sell.

I'll come up with some pretty, rustic and unique

wrapping for them in the meantime.

I think I'll practice that on my gift giving

this year and see who likes what.

Have you ever grown paperwhites for gifts?

I'd love to hear your ideas!