What to Do With Paperwhites After They Bloom: Care Guide

What to Do With Paperwhites After They Bloom?

After paperwhites finish blooming, there are several steps you can take to ensure they bloom again next winter.

First, let the leaves die back naturally and continue to water the bulbs every 2-3 days.

If you live in Zone 8 or higher, you can put the bulbs outside, otherwise, keep them in a window.

After the last frost, you can transplant the bulbs into the garden outside.

Cut off spent flowers to prevent them from draining energy from the plant, and leave the foliage until it turns yellow and easily pulls out by hand.

To save potted paperwhites, keep them in the sun until the foliage dies, add bulb fertilizer, store the pot on its side in a non-freezing location, and water thoroughly when spring comes.

Remember, while getting paperwhites to rebloom is not probable, with proper care, they can bloom for three seasons in a row.

Key Points:

  • Let the leaves die back naturally and continue to water the bulbs every 2-3 days
  • If in Zone 8 or higher, put bulbs outside; otherwise, keep them in a window
  • After last frost, transplant bulbs into garden outside
  • Cut off spent flowers and leave foliage until it turns yellow and can be easily pulled out by hand
  • For potted paperwhites, let foliage die in the sun, add bulb fertilizer, store pot on its side in non-freezing location, and water thoroughly in spring
  • With proper care, paperwhites can bloom for three seasons in a row

Did You Know?

1. Paperwhites belong to the Narcissus family, which also includes daffodils and jonquils.

2. Interestingly, paperwhites do not require chilling like other Narcissus varieties prior to planting.

3. Paperwhites have a unique fragrance, described as a combination of floral and spicy scents.

4. These lovely flowers are native to the Mediterranean region and were first cultivated for ornamental purposes during the Roman Empire.

5. Surprisingly, if you want to reuse your paperwhites, you can force them to bloom again by following a specific watering and lighting schedule after their initial bloom.

Managing Paperwhites After Blooming

After your paperwhites have finished blooming before Christmas, it is essential to know how to manage them effectively to ensure their future growth. If the leaves are still on the plant, it is recommended to let them die back naturally. This process allows the plant to store energy in the bulbs for the next blooming season. During this time, continue to water the bulbs every 2-3 days to keep them hydrated.

If you live in Zone 8 or higher, you have the option of putting the bulbs outside. However, if you reside in a colder climate, it is best to keep them indoors near a window. Paperwhites are only hardy in USDA zone 10, and they need no chilling to force blooms. Therefore, it is crucial to protect them from freezing temperatures.

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Once the last frost has passed, you can consider transplanting the paperwhites into the garden outside. However, keep in mind that paperwhites are not suitable for all regions and may not survive in colder climates. They thrive best in mild climates with warm winters.

Saving Paperwhite Bulbs For Next Winter

While most sources recommend throwing away paperwhite bulbs after they bloom and buying new ones, it is possible to save and regrow them for next winter with proper care. Although getting paperwhites to rebloom is not probable, they can still be enjoyed for three seasons in a row with the right care.

After the flowers have faded, cut off the spent flowers. By doing this, you prevent the plant from expending unnecessary energy and diverting it back to the bulbs. It is essential to leave the foliage until it turns yellow and easily pulls out by hand. This process ensures that the bulbs have stored enough energy for the next blooming season.

To save potted paperwhites, keep them in a sunny spot until the foliage dies. Afterwards, add bulb fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients. Store the pot on its side in a non-freezing location, such as a garage or basement. When spring comes, water thoroughly to prepare them for their next growth cycle.

An alternative method to save paperwhite bulbs is by transplanting them outdoors after blooming. You can either store the potted plant in a garage or basement until summer and then plant it in the garden, or plant it directly into the ground after all risk of frost has passed. Both methods have shown success, so choose the one that suits your situation best.

If you prefer to leave the bulbs in the garden, ensure that you water them regularly during summer. This will help the bulbs retain enough moisture and continue their growth. Alternatively, you can dig them up, wash them, and let them dry out for at least one week before storing them in a cool, dry place until the next planting season.

Transplanting Paperwhites For Outdoor Growth

Transplanting paperwhites for outdoor growth

Transplanting paperwhites for outdoor growth can be a wonderful way to enjoy their beauty in your garden. However, it is essential to consider your climate and the hardiness of paperwhites before making this decision.

  • Paperwhites are only hardy in USDA zone 10, so if you live in a colder region, it may not be suitable to transplant them outside.
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If you reside in an appropriate climate, here are some tips for successful transplantation:

  1. Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil to transplant the paperwhite bulbs.
  2. Ensure that the area receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
  3. Plant the bulbs about 4-6 inches deep and space them approximately 4-6 inches apart.

Water the transplanted paperwhites regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide a layer of mulch around the bulbs to help retain moisture and prevent weed growth.

During the summer months, continue to care for the paperwhites as you would any other garden plant, taking care to monitor their water requirements.

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Proper Care For Maximizing Paperwhite Blooms

To maximize the blooms of your paperwhites, it is crucial to provide them with the proper care. Here are a few key tips to help your paperwhites thrive:

  • Container: Opt for a glass container with marbles or gravel at the bottom. This setup provides stability for the bulbs and helps with drainage.
  • Energy Deficiency: Keep in mind that this setup can make paperwhites energy deficient. For continued blooming, it’s advisable to get a new set of bulbs instead of relying on the same ones.

When planting paperwhites, follow these steps:

  • Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogging.
  • Drainage Holes: Choose a container with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
  • Spacing: Place the bulbs close together but not touching each other to promote optimal growth.
  • Watering: Regularly water the bulbs, making sure the soil remains moist but not saturated.

Here’s how to provide the right conditions for your paperwhites:

  • Sunlight: Give your paperwhites bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause the foliage to yellow and burn.
  • Rotation: Rotate the container every few days to ensure even light exposure on all sides.
  • Blooming Time: Paperwhites typically take around six weeks to bloom from the time of planting. So, be patient and enjoy the growing process.

Remember, with proper care and attention, your paperwhites will reward you with beautiful blooms.

Storing And Replanting Paperwhites After Flowering

After your paperwhites have finished flowering, it is important to know how to store and replant them for future growth. The article titled “What to Do With Paperwhites After They Bloom” provides comprehensive information on these topics.

Firstly, take the bulbs out of direct sunlight and allow them to dry. Hanging the bulbs in a mesh bag that offers good air circulation is recommended until they can be planted again in late fall. This storage method ensures that the bulbs have the necessary airflow to maintain their viability.

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When replanting the paperwhite bulbs, choose a suitable location in your garden or a container with well-draining soil. Ensure that the bulbs are planted at the appropriate depth and spacing. Follow the care guidelines mentioned earlier to provide the necessary water, sunlight, and nutrients for their growth.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully manage, save, transplant, care for, store, and replant paperwhite bulbs after they bloom. With proper care, you can enjoy the beauty of paperwhite blooms for several seasons, bringing joy and elegance to your home or garden.


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Frequently Asked Questions

What to do with a paperwhite after it blooms?

After a paperwhite blooms, it is best to discard the bulb. Unlike other narcissus bulbs, paperwhites cannot be forced again and are not suitable for outdoor planting during winter. However, you can still make use of the spent flowers by drying them and creating beautiful potpourri or pressing them for decorative purposes. Additionally, you may consider composting the bulbs to enrich your garden soil and contribute to a sustainable gardening practice.

How do I save my paperwhites for next year?

To save your paperwhites for next year, start by letting the bulbs dry out in a cool, shaded area for a couple of days. When the skins become papery and thoroughly dry, transfer the bulbs into a paper bag for storage. Ensure the bag is kept in a dry place, away from any moisture that could cause damage to the bulbs. By following these steps, you can successfully preserve your paperwhites and prepare them for replanting in the following year.

Can paperwhite bulbs be reused?

Unfortunately, paperwhite bulbs cannot be reused once they have been forced for early flowering. Despite the desire to extend the lifecycle of these beautiful flowers, experts unanimously state that rejuvenating a paperwhite narcissus bulb is simply not possible. Instead, the only options available are to discard the bulbs in the trash or utilize them in compost bins. While it may be disappointing to bid farewell to these forced bulbs, exploring other varieties of bulbs that can be reused may offer new gardening opportunities and the chance to enjoy different blossoms year after year.

Can you plant paperwhites outside after they bloom?

Although paperwhite bulbs are typically discarded after blooming, they can be planted outdoors in warmer climates where temperatures stay above 20°F. Planting them in late fall, about 6″ deep and 4″ apart, will allow for blooms in late winter. By taking advantage of the suitable conditions and following the recommended planting instructions, paperwhites can continue to bring beauty to outdoor gardens even after they have bloomed indoors.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4

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