Learn How To Plant, Care Or Get Your Amaryllis To Re-Bloom!

Selecting Amaryllis Bulbs

Selecting high-quality amaryllis bulbs is essential for successful growth and beautiful blooms. Here are some tips to help you choose the best Amaryllis bulbs:

Size: Larger bulbs generally produce more stalks and flowers. Look for bulbs with a circumference of at least 4-5 inches (10-12 cm) for the best results. Some jumbo-sized bulbs may have a circumference of 5.5 inches (14 cm) or more and can produce multiple flower stalks.

Firmness: Healthy amaryllis bulbs should be firm and solid when gently squeezed. Avoid bulbs that feel soft, mushy, or have visible signs of rot, as these are likely unhealthy and may not grow well.

Dryness: The outer skin of the bulb should be dry and free of mold or mildew. Bulbs with damp or moldy skin can indicate poor storage conditions and potential health issues.

Intact Basal Plate: The basal plate, the flat part of the bulb where the roots emerge, should be intact and not damaged. A healthy basal plate is essential for proper root development and growth.

No Visible Pests or Diseases: Inspect the bulb for any signs of pests or diseases, such as holes, discoloration, or unusual markings. A healthy bulb should be free of these issues.

Variety: Amaryllis comes in various colors, flower shapes, and sizes. Choose a variety that appeals to you and suits your intended use, whether you plan to grow the plant indoors or outdoors. Find the perfect Amaryllis.

Purchase from Reputable Sources: Buy your Amaryllis bulbs from a trusted nursery, garden center, or online retailer to ensure they are of good quality and have been stored properly.

Waxed Amaryllis Bulbs

Waxed amaryllis bulbs are a unique way to grow and display amaryllis flowers without needing soil or water. These bulbs are coated in wax to preserve moisture and provide a self-contained growing environment, which allows the amaryllis to bloom without additional care. 

Key Features

• Self-Sufficient Growth: The waxed coating seals in all the moisture and nutrients the bulb needs to produce flowers, so there’s no need for watering, fertilizing, or planting.
• No Soil Required: Unlike traditional amaryllis bulbs that need to be planted in soil or water, waxed bulbs can grow in a decorative setting without any planting medium.
• Limited Lifespan: Waxed bulbs are designed to bloom once, producing stunning amaryllis flowers. After the blooming period (usually 4-6 weeks), the bulb is generally exhausted and won’t regrow, unlike bulbs grown in soil, which can be replanted for future blooms.
• Decorative and Low-Maintenance: Waxed bulbs are often sold as decorative pieces, with the wax coating available in various colors and designs, making them great for seasonal or festive décor.
• Ideal for Indoors: These bulbs thrive indoors where there is indirect light and stable temperatures, making them perfect for adding a touch of greenery to homes or offices during the holiday season or winter months.

How Waxed Amaryllis Bulbs Work

The bulb contains all the nutrients necessary for flowering, and the wax coating prevents moisture loss. If the bulb is kept in a warm, bright spot, it will naturally send up a flower stalk and bloom.

Blooming Cycle: Once purchased, the bulb will typically sprout within a week or two and bloom about 4-6 weeks afterward. 

Uses: Waxed amaryllis bulbs are popular as gifts or as part of home decor, particularly around holidays like Christmas, due to their striking flowers and festive look.

Planting Amaryllis Bulbs

Planting amaryllis bulbs is relatively easy, and with proper care, they can reward you with beautiful blooms for years to come. Here’s a step-by-step guide to planting Amaryllis bulbs:

Prepare the pot: Choose a pot with drainage holes that is about 1-2 inches larger in diameter (2-5 cm) than the bulb. Amaryllis bulbs prefer to be snug in their pots. Fill the bottom of the pot with a well-draining potting mix, such as a mix specifically designed for bulbs or a mix of equal parts peat, perlite, and loam.

Plant the bulb: Place the amaryllis bulb in the pot with the pointed end facing upwards. Spread the roots evenly over the potting mix. Fill in around the bulb with additional potting mix, leaving the top third of the bulb exposed above the soil line. Press the soil gently around the bulb to eliminate air pockets.

Water sparingly: Water the potting mix thoroughly, allowing the excess water to drain out of the bottom of the pot. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the bulb to rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Provide light and warmth: Place the potted amaryllis bulb in a warm, sunny location with bright, indirect light. A temperature range of 65-75°F (18-24°C) is ideal for encouraging growth. Rotate the pot regularly to ensure even growth and prevent the flower stalk from leaning toward the light.

Amaryllis ‘Magnum’

Amaryllis Care during the Active Growth Phase

Light: Amaryllis plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them near a sunny window, but avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.

Temperature: Amaryllis plants prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during their active growth phase.

Watering: Water your amaryllis when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause bulb rot. It’s better to err on the side of slightly dry than too wet.

Fertilizing: Feed your amaryllis with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the active growth phase. Follow the fertilizer package instructions for proper dilution.

When blooming: Move your Amaryllis out of direct sunlight when the flower buds have begun to open.

Amaryllis ‘Dancing Queen’

After-Flowering Care

After your Amaryllis plant has finished flowering, providing the proper care to help it store energy for the next blooming season is essential. Here’s what you should do during the after-flowering care stage:

Remove spent flowers: As the flowers fade, carefully cut off the flower stalks about 1-2 inches (2-5 cm) above the bulb. Be sure not to damage the leaves, as they are essential for the plant’s energy production.

Provide light and water: Place your Amaryllis in a bright, indirect light location and continue to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to bulb rot, so letting the soil dry out slightly between waterings is crucial.

Fertilize: Feed your amaryllis with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the active growth phase. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for proper dilution.

Rotate the pot: To encourage even growth and prevent the leaves from leaning toward the light source, rotate the pot regularly.

Keep an eye on temperature: Amaryllis plants prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during their active growth phase. Avoid placing the plant near cold drafts or heat vents.

Prepare for dormancy: After 8-10 weeks of active growth, your amaryllis will need to go through a period of dormancy to prepare for the next blooming cycle. Gradually reduce watering and allow the leaves to die back naturally. Once the leaves have yellowed and withered, trim them off.

Store the bulb: Place the potted amaryllis in a cool, dark location with temperatures between 50-60°F (10-15°C) for 8-10 weeks. A basement or closet can work well. Do not water or fertilize during this time.

Restart the growth cycle: After the dormancy period, bring the amaryllis back into a warm, sunny location and begin watering sparingly. New growth should emerge within a few weeks, and the plant will start its active growth phase again.

By providing proper care after flowering, your amaryllis plant will have the energy it needs to produce beautiful blooms in the next blooming season.

Growing Amaryllis Outdoors

Amaryllis plants can be grown outdoors in regions with mild climates, usually USDA Hardiness Zones 8-11. When grown outdoors, amaryllis plants can become naturalized in the landscape and bloom every year. Here are some steps to follow when growing amaryllis outdoors:

Choose the right location: Amaryllis plants prefer well-draining soil and a location with bright, indirect light or dappled shade. Avoid planting them in areas with standing water or heavy clay soil, as this can lead to bulb rot.

Prepare the soil: Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve drainage and fertility. Consider adding coarse sand or fine gravel to the mix if your soil is heavy or clay-like.

Plant the bulbs: Plant amaryllis bulbs in the fall, about 6-8 weeks before the first expected frost in your area. Dig a hole deep enough so that the top third of the bulb will be above the soil line. Space the bulbs about 12-15 inches (30-37 cm) apart to give them room to grow.

Water the bulbs: After planting, water the bulbs thoroughly to help them settle into the soil. Water regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to bulb rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Fertilize: Feed your outdoor amaryllis plants with a balanced slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer diluted according to the package instructions. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooms.

Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or compost, around the base of the plants to help conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Winter protection: In colder climates, you may need to provide some winter protection for your amaryllis plants. In USDA Zones 7 or lower, consider digging up the bulbs in the fall, storing them in a cool, dark location, and then replanting them in the spring after the danger of frost has passed.

By following these steps, you can successfully grow amaryllis plants outdoors and enjoy their beautiful blooms in your garden each year.

Compare all Amaryllis Flowers

How to Get Amaryllis to Re-Bloom

Getting amaryllis to re-bloom requires providing proper care during both the active growth phase and the dormancy period. Follow these steps to encourage your amaryllis to produce beautiful blooms year after year:

Post-blooming care: After the plant has finished flowering, cut off the flower stalks about 1-2 inches above the bulb, leaving the leaves intact. These leaves will help the plant produce energy for the next blooming cycle.

Provide light and water: Place your amaryllis in a bright, indirect light location, and continue to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to bulb rot.

Fertilize: Feed your amaryllis with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the active growth phase. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for proper dilution.

Encourage dormancy: Approximately 8-10 weeks after the plant has finished blooming, gradually reduce watering to encourage dormancy. Allow the leaves to die back naturally. Once the leaves have yellowed and withered, trim them off.

Store the bulb: Move the potted amaryllis to a cool, dark location with temperatures between 50-60°F (10-15°C) for 8-10 weeks. Do not water or fertilize during this time.

Restart the growth cycle: After the dormancy period, bring the amaryllis back into a warm, sunny location and begin watering sparingly. New growth should emerge within a few weeks, and the plant will start its active growth phase again, eventually producing blooms.

By providing proper care and ensuring the plant goes through a dormancy period, you can encourage your amaryllis to re-bloom year after year. Remember that patience is key, as the process from dormancy to flowering can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks or even longer.

Repotting Amaryllis

Amaryllis ‘Ferrari’

Amaryllis plants generally don’t need to be repotted very often, as they prefer to be somewhat root-bound. However, it may become necessary to repot your amaryllis every 2-3 years or when you notice that the pot has become too small to support the plant’s growth. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to repot your amaryllis:

Choose the right time: The best time to repot an amaryllis is after its dormancy period, just before the new growth starts. This usually occurs after 8-10 weeks of dormancy.

Prepare the new pot: Select a pot that is only 1-2 inches (2-5 cm) larger in diameter than the current pot. Make sure the new pot has drainage holes, and partially fill it with a well-draining potting mix, such as a mix specifically designed for bulbs or a mix of equal parts peat, perlite, and loam.

Remove the plant: Carefully remove the amaryllis from its current pot. You may need to loosen the soil around the edges of the pot with a trowel or your fingers. Gently lift the plant out, making sure not to damage the roots or the bulb.

Inspect the roots and bulb: Examine the bulb and roots for any signs of rot, disease, or pests. If you find any damaged or rotten roots, trim them away with a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. If the bulb appears in poor health, discarding it and starting with a new one may be best.

Divide offsets, if necessary: If your amaryllis has produced offset bulbs, you can separate them from the mother bulb at this point. Gently pull or cut the offsets away, taking care not to damage the roots.

Repot the amaryllis: Place the amaryllis bulb in the new pot, with the roots spread out evenly over the potting mix. Fill in around the bulb with additional potting mix, leaving the top third of the bulb exposed above the soil line. Press the soil gently around the bulb to eliminate air pockets.

Water the plant: Water the newly potted amaryllis thoroughly, allowing the excess water to drain out of the bottom of the pot. Be cautious not to overwater.

Provide proper care: Place the repotted amaryllis in a warm, sunny location with bright, indirect light, and continue to provide appropriate care during the active growth phase. This includes watering sparingly, fertilizing, and rotating the pot regularly for even growth.

By repotting your amaryllis when necessary, you can ensure that the plant remains healthy and continues producing beautiful blooms for years.

Amaryllis Propagation

Propagating amaryllis can be done through several methods, including offsets and seeds. While it’s not difficult, each method varies in time and effort required to achieve successful new plants. Here’s a breakdown of how to propagate amaryllis:

Propagation by Offsets (Bulblets)

This is the easiest and most common way to propagate amaryllis. Offsets, or bulblets, naturally form around the base of the main bulb as it matures.

• Wait until the plant has finished blooming and the foliage has died back.
• Gently remove the mother bulb from the soil and look for small bulblets attached to its base.
• Separate the bulblets carefully, ensuring they have roots attached.
• Plant the offsets in well-draining soil with their tops slightly above the surface.
• Water them lightly and place them in a sunny location.
• Timeframe: It may take 2-3 years for these offsets to mature and produce their own flowers.

Propagation by Seeds

Propagating from seeds is less common since it can take many years for seedlings to mature and produce flowers. However, this method allows you to potentially create new amaryllis hybrids if you cross-pollinate different varieties.

• After the flowers fade, allow the seed pods to develop.
• Once the seed pods turn brown and split open, collect the seeds.
• Plant the seeds in a shallow tray with well-draining soil.
• Keep the tray in a warm, sunny location, and water lightly.
• Timeframe: Seedlings will emerge in a few weeks, but it may take 3-5 years for the plants to bloom.

Common Problems with Amaryllis

While amaryllis is a relatively low-maintenance plant, it can still encounter some issues during growth. Here are the most common problems and how to address them:

Failure to Bloom

• Cause: This can result from insufficient light, inadequate dormancy, or an underdeveloped bulb.
• Solution: Ensure the bulb gets plenty of bright, indirect light. After blooming, allow the foliage to grow to replenish the bulb’s energy. Provide the bulb with a dormancy period (8-10 weeks in a cool, dark place) before trying to rebloom it.

Yellowing Leaves

• Cause: Overwatering is the most common cause, leading to root rot.
• Solution: Let the soil dry out between waterings. Ensure the pot has proper drainage, and water sparingly during the plant’s dormant period.

Soft or Rotting Bulb

• Cause: Bulb rot is often due to waterlogged soil or poor drainage.
• Solution: Remove the bulb from the soil, trim away any rotting parts, and dust it with a fungicide. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil and reduce watering.

Pests

• Aphids: These tiny insects can be found on the leaves and flower buds, sucking plant sap and potentially spreading plant viruses. To control aphids, you can wash them off with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the product’s instructions.
• Spider mites: These tiny pests are difficult to see with the naked eye and can cause stippling or yellowing of the leaves. They thrive in hot, dry conditions, so ensure your plant has proper humidity levels. Control spider mites by washing them off with water or using a miticide, insecticidal soap, or neem oil as directed.
• Mealybugs: These small, white, cottony insects can be found on the leaves, stems, and bulbs of amaryllis plants. They suck plant sap, weakening the plant and potentially causing leaf yellowing or distortion. Control mealybugs by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or using insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the product’s instructions.

Stunted Growth

• Cause: Inadequate light, nutrients, or pot size.
• Solution: Place the amaryllis in bright, indirect sunlight and fertilize it regularly during the growing season. Ensure the pot is large enough for the bulb to grow comfortably.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Amaryllis Bulbs Last?

Amaryllis bulbs can last for many years, often up to 10-15 years or more with proper care. As long as the bulbs are healthy and given the right growing conditions, they can continue to bloom annually, producing beautiful flowers year after year.

What to Do with Amaryllis After It Blooms?

After the amaryllis finishes blooming:

• Cut back the flower stalk to about 1-2 inches above the bulb, but leave the foliage intact.
• Continue watering and fertilizing the plant, allowing the leaves to grow and replenish the bulb’s energy.
• Move the plant outdoors during the warmer months, if possible, to encourage healthy growth.
• After 8-10 weeks, reduce watering and allow the plant to enter dormancy by placing it in a cool, dark place. After dormancy, you can encourage it to rebloom.

How Often Do Amaryllis Bloom?

Amaryllis bulbs typically bloom once per year, usually during the winter or early spring, depending on when they are planted. With proper care and a dormancy period, amaryllis bulbs can rebloom annually.

What Do Amaryllis Symbolize?

Amaryllis symbolizes strength, beauty, pride, and determination. Its bold, towering blooms are often associated with confidence and overcoming challenges, making it a symbol of success and perseverance. The name “amaryllis” itself is derived from the Greek word “amarysso,” meaning “to sparkle,” further reinforcing its association with brilliance and beauty.

Does an Amaryllis Come Back Every Year?

Yes, amaryllis bulbs are perennials and will come back every year with proper care. By providing the bulb with the right growing conditions, including a dormancy period, it will continue to produce blooms each year.

What Is the Myth of the Amaryllis?

The myth of the amaryllis comes from Greek mythology, where a beautiful young girl named Amaryllis fell in love with a shepherd named Alteo. To win his love, she followed an oracle’s advice and pierced her heart with a golden arrow for thirty nights. On the final night, a striking flower bloomed from her heart’s blood, symbolizing her love and determination. This flower was named the amaryllis, embodying the spirit of passionate love, beauty, and perseverance.