How to Plant Paperwhites Outdoors After Forcing
- 1). 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.
- 2). 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.
- 3). 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.