Did you recently receive an amaryllis bulb and don’t know how to care for it?
Amaryllis bulbs are a popular choice for festive holiday blooms. These beautiful plants are easy to grow with the right care and planning.
The bulbs, often sold with wax coating, are designed to bloom once by using up the nutrients stored within. However, if you want repeated blooms, it’s better to choose a wax-free bulb that is firm, large, and showing signs of new growth.
Larger bulbs have more stored nutrients, which results in healthier plants and more blooms.
To plant an amaryllis, select a pot that is about an inch wider than the bulb and twice as tall. Amaryllis bulbs prefer to be root-bound, so plant them with the top one-third of the bulb above the soil. Use well-drained soil to prevent root rot and place the pot in a sunny spot. A bloom typically appears 4-6 weeks after planting.
Timing is essential if you want flowers for a specific occasion, such as Christmas. Plant the bulb in mid-November to achieve blooms during the holiday season.
After the amaryllis blooms, it requires continued care to encourage future growth. Keep the plant in a sunny window with about six hours of sunlight daily. Use well-draining soil and water to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Apply fertilizer monthly to nourish the bulb. Once the flowers fade, remove them but let the stalk remain until it turns yellow.
To prepare the bulb for blooming, it needs a dormancy period. Keep the bulb in a cool, dark place around 12°C (55°F), and do not water.
Once the leaves turn brown and dry, remove them and store the bulb in a dark location for 8-12 weeks. Check the bulb periodically for mold or signs of new growth. When growth appears or the dormancy period ends, move it to a sunny window, water, and fertilize it.
If your amaryllis doesn't bloom again, it likely needs more nutrients. Frequent fertilizing can help, with blooms appearing in about 12 weeks.
With proper care, you can enjoy stunning amaryllis flowers year after year.