When you’re pouring a drink this Christmas, make sure you give one to your paperwhites, too
In the darkest days of midwinter, one plant never fails to lift my spirits: the delicate paperwhite narcissus, with its pure white trumpets and a scent as uplifting as its flowers are elegant. Watching something grow and burst into flower indoors, when everything outdoors is winding down, is to me a real horticultural happy pill. The best news? There is perhaps no winter plant that is as easy and affordable to grow – and right now is the perfect time to start.
Bulbs are available through any catalogue or from every garden centre at this time of year. Plant them up straightaway in a container of potting mix or bulb fibre. Place the bulbs about 3-5cm apart, with the pointy end just below the surface.