Will Forced Paperwhite Narcissus Bloom Again Outdoors?

Understanding Forced Bulbs

If you received paperwhite narcissus bulbs for the holidays and they have finished blooming, you might wonder whether planting them outdoors will yield flowers again. The short answer: they will not bloom this spring because they were artificially forced to bloom early.

Hardiness and Climate Considerations

Paperwhites (Narcissus tazetta) are less cold-hardy than other narcissus. In the Atlanta area, they often succumb to cold, wet winters, but they survive south Georgia winters most years. Success depends on the severity of the coming winter.

Steps to Encourage Future Blooms

If you want to try keeping them alive:

• Plant the bulbs in a pot with soil if they aren't already potted.
• Place in a sunny window and fertilize once with half-strength houseplant fertilizer.
• Wait until early May to plant outdoors.
• Choose a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade.
• Fertilize again with a full-strength application when planting.

Long-Term Outlook

Most gardeners discard forced bulbs after the holidays, but if you succeed, they will bloom in the spring a few years down the road. Nothing ventured, nothing gained!