Growing Non-GMO Ziva Paperwhite Flower Bulbs

Upon arrival of your paperwhite bulbs, unpack them immediately and store them in a well-ventilated location at about 60 F. Don’t store them for more than a few days before planting. To grow paperwhites in pots indoors, plant three bulbs in a 5-inch pot, six bulbs in a 7-inch pot, or nine bulbs in an 8-inch pot. Bury them about 3 inches deep with the tips sitting about surface level. Water them in at the time of planting. Fertilizer is not necessary for paperwhites but won’t hurt them either. Place the pot in a bright, warm location and keep the growing medium moist but not soggy. The paperwhites will likely bloom 3-6 weeks after planting, depending on when they were planted.

As an alternative to growing in soil, nestle the bulbs into 3-5 inches of pebbles with about half the bulbs exposed. Add enough water to come just under the bulbs. Do not allow the bulbs to sit in the water as they may rot. Place the pot in a cool and dark location like a basement or cool closet for a week. Then move to a location with bright, indirect light. Paperwhites are generally treated as annuals when grown indoors.

For planting outdoors in a bed, bury the bulbs about 2-4 inches deep and 4 inches apart in well-drained soil. They should be planted in the fall and will go dormant through the winter before flowering in the late winter to early spring. Fertilizer can be beneficial for paperwhites grown in the ground, but many of them thrive without it. They are popularly grown outdoors but usually in containers rather than in the ground so they can be moved indoors if cold weather is imminent.

No matter where or when you plant your narcissus bulbs, ensure they are well-ventilated to prevent mold. They are easy to grow and do not require a chilling period like other narcissus blooms (like daffodils).

Ziva Paperwhite in the Flower Garden

Ziva blooms are one of the most well-known paperwhites for growing in pots indoors. This makes them ideal for grouping with other potted plants, whether foliage or flowering. Some great indoor pairings include pothos, ferns, tulips, amaryllis, and dieffenbachia. The paperwhite scent is sweet and similar to jasmine or lilies.

Landscape Use of Ziva Paperwhite

In the landscape, paperwhites can be beautiful spring bedding plants for warmer zones. They are low-maintenance and will come back year after year. For perennial use, allow the foliage to die back before removing it to allow the bulbs to recharge and prepare for dormancy. They pair beautifully with other spring flowers and are one of the few bulbs that perennialize in warm climates.

About Ziva Paperwhite Garden Bulbs

They are often used in holiday decorations due to their winter blooming period, adding a festive touch to homes.

Their strong fragrance and attractive appearance make them popular for gift baskets and arrangements. They can be used in natural aromatherapy practices, bringing a sense of calm and relaxation to indoor spaces

Ziva Paperwhites are native to the Mediterranean region, particularly Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. They thrive in climates with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.

They are not safe for consumption. All parts of the plant, including the bulbs, stems, leaves, and flowers, contain toxic compounds.

The individual blooms of Ziva Paperwhites are relatively small, typically around 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. However, they grow in clusters, creating a lush and full appearance. The flowers have a stiff, papery appearance, which is how they got their name.

Ziva Paperwhites have received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit (AGM) for their reliable performance, ease of growth, and outstanding characteristics.

Make Planting Bulbs Easy with a Bulb Planter Hand Tool!

Tips From Our Gardeners

"With all the unknown chemicals and preservatives in candles and air fresheners these days, it is hard to feel comfortable using them in our homes. Paperwhites can be a great alternative because they are fragrant enough to fill a room, but it is completely all-natural!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer