Amaryllis is a striking flowering plant known for its large, vibrant blooms. With a bit of care, you can grow amaryllis from bulbs, enjoy it seasonally, and even encourage it to bloom year after year. Here’s a guide to growing and reblooming your amaryllis.
What You’ll Need
- Amaryllis bulb (or a plant that has already bloomed)
- Pot with drainage holes
- Well-draining potting mix
- Water
- Fertilizer (balanced or bloom-specific)
Growing Amaryllis: Initial Planting
- Select a Bulb
Choose a large, healthy amaryllis bulb, as larger bulbs tend to produce more blooms. - Plant in a Pot
Use a pot with drainage holes and fill it halfway with well-draining potting mix. Place the bulb with the pointed end up, covering the lower half with soil, leaving the upper half exposed. - Water Sparingly
Water the soil lightly to settle it around the bulb. Avoid overwatering, as too much moisture can cause rot. Place the pot in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight. - Provide Light and Warmth
Amaryllis prefers temperatures of 70–75°F (21–24°C) to encourage growth. With proper light and warmth, the bulb should start sprouting within 2–3 weeks. - Support Growth
As the stalk grows, rotate the pot occasionally to ensure even growth toward the light. When buds form, support the stalk with a stake if needed. - Enjoy the Bloom
Amaryllis blooms last about 6 weeks. Water regularly, but avoid wetting the bulb directly.
Regrowing Amaryllis for Next Season
- Cut Back After Blooming
Once blooms fade, cut the flower stalks down to the base, leaving the leaves intact. The leaves help store energy in the bulb for future blooms. - Place in Bright Light
Keep the plant in a bright location, watering moderately. Apply balanced fertilizer once a month to nourish the bulb. - Move Outdoors in Summer
After the last frost, place the pot outside in a partially shaded area. This outdoor period helps the plant gather energy. Continue watering and fertilizing.
Preparing Amaryllis for Reblooming
- Induce Dormancy
In late summer, reduce watering gradually to let the leaves yellow and die back. Once dormant, move the pot to a cool, dark area (around 50–60°F or 10–15°C) for 8–10 weeks. - Replant and Restart Growth
After the dormancy period, repot the bulb if needed and water it lightly. Return the pot to a warm, bright spot to initiate regrowth. - Repeat the Cycle
With this care cycle, your amaryllis can bloom again, sometimes even more spectacularly than the first year.
Tips for Successful Reblooming
- Fertilize monthly after blooming to recharge the bulb.
- Rotate the Pot regularly to promote balanced growth.
- Control Watering during dormancy to avoid root rot.
By following this growth and reblooming cycle, you can enjoy the beauty of your amaryllis every year!