After your paperwhites have finished blooming, it’s time to take care of them to ensure their continued health and growth. Here’s what you can do with your paperwhites after they bloom:
1. Cut the stalks: Once the flowers have faded and the blooms are spent, you can trim the stalks down to the base of the plant. Use a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to make a clean cut. This will help tidy up the plant and promote new growth.
2. Leave the foliage: Unlike some other flowering bulbs, paperwhites benefit from leaving the foliage intact after blooming. The foliage provides nourishment to the bulb, allowing it to store energy for future growth and flowering. So, resist the temptation to remove the leaves immediately after the blooms fade.
3. Maintain as a houseplant: Treat your paperwhites like a houseplant during the post-blooming period. Place them in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Regularly check the moisture level by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil – if it feels dry, it’s time to water.
4. Fertilize occasionally: Paperwhites don’t require frequent fertilization, but you can give them a boost occasionally. Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength and apply it according to the product instructions. This can help replenish nutrients in the soil and support healthy growth.
5. Wait for foliage to die back: Paperwhite foliage typically starts to turn yellow and die back around mid-July. This is a natural process, and it indicates that the bulb has stored enough energy for its dormant period. During this time, continue to care for the plant as you would a houseplant, but gradually reduce watering as the foliage starts to decline.
6. Prepare for dormancy: Once the foliage has completely died back, it’s time to prepare your paperwhites for their dormant period. Gently remove any remaining dead leaves from the bulb, being careful not to damage the bulb itself. Store the bulb in a cool, dry place for a few weeks to allow it to rest and recharge.
7. Replant or store bulbs: After the dormant period, you have a couple of options. If you want to enjoy paperwhite blooms again, you can replant the bulbs in fresh soil and start the growing process anew. Alternatively, you can store the bulbs in a cool, dark place until the next planting season. Make sure to label the bulbs if you choose this option, so you remember what they are when the time comes to plant them again.
By following these steps, you can ensure the long-term health and productivity of your paperwhites. Enjoy their beautiful blooms and look forward to their return in future seasons.
