Looking for a little gardening enjoyment as the holidays approach? Plant a pot of amaryllis or a bowl of paperwhites and watch the season unfold indoors. From the first green shoots to the opening flowers, these bulbs bring something fresh and beautiful to the shorter days of late fall and winter.

They also make thoughtful gifts. Pair bulbs with an attractive container and simple instructions, or start them ahead of time so your recipient can enjoy watching the buds develop.

Amaryllis: A Holiday Showstopper

Amaryllis brings dramatic, trumpet-shaped flowers in red, white, pink and other beautiful shades. A single pot can dress up a side table or become the centerpiece of a holiday display.

Start with a firm, healthy bulb and a sturdy pot with drainage holes. Choose a container only slightly wider than the bulb, and plant in fresh potting mix with the upper third to half of the bulb exposed.

Water thoroughly, allow excess water to drain, and place the pot in a warm, sunny window. Water again when the upper portion of the mix feels dry, and empty the saucer so the pot never stands in water. A slender stake can help support a tall flower stalk. Once the flowers begin opening, move the plant out of strong direct sunlight to help them last longer. These instructions apply to traditional, uncoated bulbs; follow the package directions for waxed amaryllis.

Paperwhites: Delicate Flowers with Fragrance

With clusters of small flowers and an unmistakable fragrance, paperwhites make a lovely indoor growing project. Plant several together for a fuller display, using either potting mix or a watertight bowl filled with clean pebbles.

For the pebble method:

1. Add a layer of washed pebbles to your container.
2. Arrange the bulbs with their pointed ends facing up.
3. Add stones around the bulbs to hold them upright, leaving the tips exposed.
4. Add water just to the bases of the bulbs, keeping most of each bulb above the water.
5. Check the level regularly as the roots develop.

A cool location during the initial rooting period encourages good root growth. Move the container to a bright window as the shoots develop, and provide support if the stems begin to lean. Once flowers open, keep the display out of direct sunlight to prolong blooming.

Plan Ahead for Holiday Flowers

Growing bulbs is part anticipation, so give yourself some flexibility. Amaryllis commonly flowers about six to eight weeks after planting, although timing varies with the variety, conditions and how far along the bulb is when purchased. Ask our staff for guidance, especially if you hope to have flowers for a particular celebration.

For an extended display of paperwhites, start a fresh bowl about every two weeks. Set the containers on waterproof trays and add a festive ribbon around the outside for a simple finishing touch. Paperwhite fragrance can be quite noticeable, so consider your recipient’s preferences when giving them as gifts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do amaryllis and paperwhites need chilling before planting?

Neither requires the lengthy chilling treatment that tulips and many other spring bulbs need to flower indoors. Paperwhites benefit from cool conditions while their roots become established.

Can I guarantee flowers for Christmas?

Bloom timing varies. Amaryllis often takes six to eight weeks from planting, so ask our staff for help choosing a bulb and planning when to start it. If the holiday is close, a plant already developing a flower bud gives you a better indication of its progress.

Why are my paperwhites falling over?

Paperwhites can become tall and top-heavy. Give growing plants good light and use slender stakes or a loose ribbon around the stems for support.

Can I save my amaryllis for next year?

Yes. After flowering, keep the green leaves growing in a sunny location. Continue watering and fertilizing to help the bulb store energy for future flowers. With continued care, a traditionally potted amaryllis can be enjoyed for years.

Will paperwhites bloom again next year?

Paperwhites grown for an indoor display are generally enjoyed for one season. They are difficult to force again and are not hardy outdoors through a Massachusetts winter. Start with fresh bulbs for your next indoor planting.

Can I grow paperwhites in soil instead of pebbles?

Absolutely. Use a pot with drainage holes and fresh potting mix. Leave the bulb tips exposed, water thoroughly, and keep the mix moist while allowing excess water to drain.

Bring a Little Growing Joy Home

Whether you prefer the bold flowers of amaryllis or a bowl of fragrant paperwhites, planting bulbs is a simple way to keep gardening through the holidays. Stop by Nunan’s Garden Center in Georgetown for seasonal inspiration and friendly advice on your indoor growing projects.