When to Plant Amaryllis Bulbs
Plant Amaryllis in the fall to enjoy beautiful spring blooms.
Where to Plant Amaryllis Bulbs
Plant Amaryllis in well-draining soil with ample sunlight. If planting indoors in a pot, ensure you rotate the pot to provide maximum sun exposure.
How to Plant Amaryllis Bulbs
Plant Amaryllis bulbs in pots that are about 1 to 2 inches wider than the bulb's diameter. Whether plastic or clay, the containers should have drainage holes at the bottom. Begin by adding a small amount of potting soil to the bottom of the pot. Center the bulb in the middle of the pot and add more potting soil, firming it around the roots and bulb. Maintain a 2-inch gap between the bulb and the pot's edge, ensuring the upper half of the bulb is above the soil surface.
Gently tamp the potted Amaryllis bulb to settle it into the pot and firm the soil. Since mature Amaryllis can be heavy and may topple if not properly seated, this step is crucial. Water the potted bulb thoroughly and place it in a cool location (around 60°F). Water sparingly until growth appears.
For waxed Amaryllis bulbs: After the Amaryllis has bloomed and the bulb has reduced in size, remove the wax by peeling it off by hand or using a razor knife. Take special care not to damage the bulb during this process. Once the wax is removed, plant the bulbs as explained above.
How to Care for Amaryllis
When growth begins, increase watering frequency, move the plant to a warm, sunny window, and apply water-soluble fertilizer every 2 to 4 weeks. Flowering typically occurs about 6 to 9 weeks after potting. Once the flower bud appears, rotate the pot daily to ensure the flower-bearing stalk grows straight. The individual flowers can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. After the blooms fade, trim the tubular flower stem near the top of the bulb, leaving the foliage to continue growing. Water as usual and apply water-soluble fertilizer every four weeks.
Once the danger of frost has passed, you can move your Amaryllis bulb outdoors to your garden, where it can enjoy the summer sun. Continue the fertilizer program every four weeks, as it is necessary for the next round of indoor forcing. In early autumn, bring your Amaryllis bulb inside and allow it to completely dry out. Trim off the dry leaves and let it "rest" for 6 weeks. Now, repot your Amaryllis bulb in new soil and start the process all over again.