What to Do with Paperwhite and Amaryllis Bulbs Once They Have Flowered
Indoor gardening is a great way to bring a little bit of nature into your home, especially during the winter months when outdoor gardening is not an option. Two popular indoor plants that can provide a splash of color and fragrance to your living space are paperwhite and amaryllis bulbs. However, once these bulbs have finished blooming, many people are unsure of what to do next.
If you've ever wondered what to do with your paperwhite and amaryllis bulbs once they have flowered, you're not alone! The good news is that there are a few different options to choose from, depending on your preferences and level of experience.
Paperwhites
Let's start with paperwhite bulbs. These delicate, white blooms are a favorite for holiday decorations, but they can also be enjoyed throughout the winter months. Once the flowers have faded, one option is to simply discard the bulbs. However, if you want to try to get a little more life out of your paperwhite bulbs, you can attempt to get them to rebloom.
While paperwhite bulbs are not capable of producing blooms again after their initial flowering, they can sometimes be forced to bloom a second time. To do this, you'll need to provide the bulbs with adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. Once the foliage has died back naturally, the bulbs can be stored in a cool, dry place (I use a paper bag in crate in my garage) until the following winter, when they can be forced to bloom again.
Amaryllis
Amaryllis bulbs, on the other hand, are capable of reblooming year after year, making them a more sustainable choice for indoor gardening. Once the flowers have finished blooming, the first step is to cut back the spent flower stalk. This will help the plant conserve energy and focus on producing new growth. You can also remove any yellow or dead leaves, but be careful not to remove too many leaves, as they are important for photosynthesis and the overall health of the plant.
Throughout the summer months, you can move your amaryllis bulb outside to a shady spot, where it can soak up some natural sunlight and fresh air. Just be sure to bring the plant back inside before the first frost of the season. In the fall, you can begin preparing your amaryllis bulb for its next blooming cycle. Allow the foliage to die back naturally, then store the bulb in a cool, dark place for 6-8 weeks. After the dormancy period is over, you can repot the bulb in fresh soil and begin watering it again. With proper care, your amaryllis bulb should produce new growth and blooming stalks within a few weeks.
So, don't just toss those spent bulbs! With a little effort you can enjoy the beautiful blooms of paperwhite and amaryllis bulbs for a season or two, bringing a little bit of joy and greenery into your home during the winter months for years to come. Give them a try!
Great timing! I was just about to toss a holiday arrangement. I’m going to try this!