While this idea leans slightly away from strictly 'handmade,' I must share this wonderful gifting concept I recently received:
Paper white bulbs.
I admit my expertise in indoor gardening is minimal; I accepted the paper white bulbs from a friend with some apprehension.
However, they included clear directions which I followed.
Over the past several weeks, we have observed these modest bulbs establish roots, sprout, and now bloom!
For a gift presentation, I suggest packaging them in a manner like this:
Find a tall, transparent vase (as they grow quite tall) and place a layer of marbles or smooth stones, approximately 2 inches deep, at the base. Then, arrange the bulbs inside, securing the included instructions with an attractive ribbon at the top.
These were the instructions provided to me:
Method to Encourage Paper Whites:
- Distribute 1 to 2 inches of stones across the bottom of a vessel.
- Set your paper white bulbs, with the pointed end facing up, onto the stone layer. Gently press them in; this snug fit prevents them from tipping.
- Add another stone layer to fill voids, covering the bulbs up to their shoulders, ensuring the tips remain visible.
- Introduce water so the level just touches the bulb bases. Submerging the bottom stimulates growth, but fully covering the bulb risks rot.
- Light is unnecessary currently, and they thrive in cooler temperatures. Inspect your bulbs daily for watering needs.
- Once roots appear, relocate the container to a bright area; brighter is better, but avoid excessive warmth to prevent leggy growth. {Are mine a bit leggy? I am unsure…}
- After flowering, moving the plants away from direct sun to a cool spot with diffused light will extend their bloom time.
Considering the initial goal of forcing bulbs, I wonder if paper white bulbs are still obtainable this season; perhaps some gardening enthusiasts can advise?
Nonetheless, watching these gorgeous flowers emerge daily has been a delight.
It truly was a wonderful present.
If you missed earlier entries in our 12 Days of Handmade Christmas Ideas, the links are below:
- Paper Star Ornaments
- Painted Antler Signs
