How to Plant Paperwhites Outdoors After Forcing
The paperwhite (Narcissus tazetta) is an early-blooming flowering plant closely related to the daffodil and jonquil. It produces clusters of white flowers that are fragrant and often used as cut flowers. Paperwhite bulbs are often sold at the same time as poinsettias, during the holiday season. By placing the bulbs in a jar with stones to hold them in place, you can force the plants to bloom by providing water and light. After blooming, the paperwhites may be planted in the ground to complete their growth cycles and to re-emerge early the following year. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Select a growing location that is sunny or partially shady with well-drained fertile soil. Use a shovel to loosen the soil and remove weeds and roots that may inhibit growth of the paperwhites. Amend sandy or infertile soil with compost. Dig a hole approximately three times the diameter of the plant's bulb. Sprinkle granulated fertilizer for flowering bulbs in the bottom of the hole, as directed by the manufacturer. Sprinkle an inch of soil on top of the granules.
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Remove the paperwhite plant from its container after blooming has finished and the foliage is beginning to turn brown. Be careful to not disturb the roots or foliage. Gently place the paperwhite bulb and roots in the hole. Backfill the soil in the hole and water deeply.
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Cover the exposed plant tops with a thick (3-inch) layer of mulch for overwintering protection. Since the plants will not be visible, it is a good idea to place a plant marker near the planting site. New growth emerges when the weather turns warm, but it may be two years before the paperwhite blooms again.
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Tips & Warnings
Paperwhites will not survive if they are planted in already-frozen ground.
References
- Photo Credit Kate Mathis/Photodisc/Getty Images
