MAINE-LY GARDENING: What’s in the house? Paper White Narcissus and Christmas Cactus

by Jude Hsiang

Paper White

What’s in the House?

Paper White Narcissus, from the family that gives us daffodils and jonquils, add a sparkle as the days grow shorter. Most are white, some with orange center ups, some are yellow. All are fragrant.

The small bulbs can be grown in a pot of regular houseplant soil with the tops of the bulbs showing above the surface. They can also be set in a vase or dish of water that has one or two inches of clean pebbles. Nestle the bulbs among the bulbs and water enough to keep the roots covered. The tops should be above the water level. Place the pot in a sunny window until you see flowers beginning to open.

Once the bulbs start to flower, move the pot to a cooler spot with indirect light which will make the flowers last for several weeks.

As these little bulbs don’t do well in our cool climate, many people just buy new ones each year. However, they might flower again after a few years’ rest if planted outdoors in spring. Keep the soil, water, and light constant through the winter and snip off the leaves and stems when they fade. Plant the bulbs outside in the spring as you may be surprised to see them in a few years.

Christmas Cactus

Christmas cactus, in contrast to the paper whites, will live for decades with a little care. A friend inherited one from her grandmother and it is a beloved part of the family holiday celebration. The red flowers growing from trailing lengths of green, flat leaves give them the holiday’s name, although some varieties bloom closer to Thanksgiving, or even later in winter.

These plants need attention to watering and light throughout the year. In the warmer months when actively growing, water thoroughly, but allow the potting soil to dry enough so that the top inch of the pot is dry. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot.

After the flowers fade, the plants need a few months’ winter rest in a cooler location with only about six hours of sun. A north-facing window is a good spot. Water very sparingly until you see new growth begin to appear in early spring. Christmas cactus can be attractive to common indoor house plant pests like mealybugs and spider mites. Watch for these critters and wipe them off the leaves with a damp cloth.

May these seasonal indoor flowers bring delight for many years.

© Judith Chute Hsiang
Jude Hsiang is a retired Extension Master Gardener instructor and a member of the China Community Garden.