There’s something truly magical about amaryllis bulbs. These vibrant flowers have become a passion of mine, and I can’t help but share my knowledge and excitement with fellow plant lovers.
Planting Amaryllis Bulbs
Selecting the Right Bulb
For a truly spectacular display, opt for larger bulbs.
Not only will they produce more flowering spikes, but they’ll also be more cost-effective in the long run, as amaryllis bulbs can be rebloomed year after year.
Consider the desired blooming schedule when selecting your bulb.
Southern hemisphere bulbs, often labeled as “early blooming” or “Christmas flowering,” will bloom quicker, making them perfect for holiday displays.
Northern hemisphere bulbs, on the other hand, take longer to flower but offer a more extended show.
Preparing for Planting
Amaryllis prefer a snug fit, so choose a pot with about one inch of space around the bulb’s edge.
For a 34-36 cm bulb, a 6-inch terracotta pot with drainage holes works perfectly.
Use pre-moistened potting soil, leaving the top third of the bulb exposed to prevent rotting.
Water sparingly, about half a cup per week, to maintain the right moisture level.
Planting Techniques
For a soil-free option, you can place the bulb on a bed of pebbles and fill the container with water up to the base of the bulb, without touching it.
My preferred method is planting in soil, as it allows for easy reblooming each year.
Simply place the bulb in the prepared pot, fill in with soil around it, and water gently.
Caring for Amaryllis
Growth Environment
Amaryllis thrive in warm temperatures between 68-75°F.
I like to start mine on radiators or other warm spots in the house.
Bright locations are essential for encouraging healthy blooms.
As the amaryllis grows, you may need to move it to a cooler spot to extend the flowering period.
Watering and Maintenance
During active growth, amaryllis generally need about half a cup of water per week.
Adjust the amount based on pot size, material, temperature, and humidity.
Enhance the display by top-dressing the pot with decorative elements like Spanish moss, pine cones, or even live plants like pansies or grass seed.
Propagating Amaryllis
Offsets
Look for smaller bulbs, called offsets, attached to the mother bulb.
These offsets can be separated to create new amaryllis plants.
After the blooming period, gently detach the offset from the mother bulb, being careful not to damage either bulb or their roots.
Potting Offsets
When potting the offset, choose a container that allows about one inch of space around the bulb’s edge.
While offsets may take a year or two to flower, the reward of a new amaryllis plant is well worth the wait.
Reblooming Amaryllis
Post-Bloom Care
After the blooms have faded, continue to care for the amaryllis as a houseplant, keeping it in a warm, bright location and watering as needed.
Once the danger of frost has passed, move the amaryllis outside to soak up the sun’s energy and prepare for the next flowering cycle.
Dormancy and Rebloom
In mid to late August, bring the amaryllis indoors and stop watering to initiate dormancy.
Store it in a cool, dark place (50-55°F) for two to three months.
After the dormancy period, repot the bulb or refresh the soil, water it, and provide bright light.
If the bulb has absorbed enough energy, it will resprout and bloom again.
Maximizing Vase Life for Cut Amaryllis
Preparing Cut Flowers
Remove the pollen anthers from the flowers to prevent petal staining and extend vase life.
The hollow stems of amaryllis can be fragile. Insert a bamboo cane into the stem to provide support and prevent breakage.
Extending Freshness
Fill the hollow stem with water to ensure the bloom receives ample hydration.
Use floral tape at the base of the stem to prevent cracking and curling, which can impede water uptake.