How to Grow and Regrow Amaryllis and Make it Bloom Again

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

  1. Select a Bulb
    Choose a large, healthy amaryllis bulb, as larger bulbs tend to produce more blooms.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Enjoy the Bloom
    Amaryllis blooms last about 6 weeks. Water regularly, but avoid wetting the bulb directly.

Regrowing Amaryllis for Next Season

  1. 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.
  2. Place in Bright Light
    Keep the plant in a bright location, watering moderately. Apply balanced fertilizer once a month to nourish the bulb.
  3. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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!

Leave a Comment