As someone who’s been growing amaryllis for over two decades, I can confidently say these stunning flowers are one of the easiest and most rewarding bulbs to grow.
Their large, vibrant blooms never fail to bring a smile to my face during the winter months.
Let me share my tried-and-true steps for growing these beauties.
1. Planting Amaryllis Bulbs
Choosing the Right Pot
When it comes to amaryllis, size matters – both for the bulb and the pot. I’ve found that larger bulbs, typically measuring 34-36 centimeters around, produce more flowering spikes. These impressive specimens can give you three to five flowering stems!
For pot selection, I always go for a snug fit. A good rule of thumb is to choose a pot with about an inch of space between the bulb and the pot’s edge. For a 34-36 centimeter bulb, I typically use a 6-inch terracotta pot. Make sure your pot has drainage holes to prevent water from pooling.
Planting Process
To start, I fill the pot about halfway with pre-moistened potting soil. Then, I nestle the amaryllis bulb into the soil, adding more around it until the top third of the bulb is exposed. This helps prevent overwatering and potential rot.
Once planted, I water around the perimeter of the bulb with tepid water. Amaryllis don’t need much water – about half a cup once a week usually does the trick for me.
Care After Planting
After planting, I place my amaryllis in a warm, bright spot. They thrive in temperatures between 68-75°F (20-24°C). I actually grow mine on radiators to start – it’s a trick I’ve used for years with great success!
2. Amaryllis Growth Stages
Initial Growth
Within a week or two, you’ll start seeing growth. Sometimes leaves emerge first, sometimes it’s the bloom stalk, and occasionally both appear simultaneously. Don’t worry if yours doesn’t follow a specific pattern – I’ve learned that each amaryllis has its own personality!
Blooming Stage
As the bloom stalk develops, it’ll resemble a pencil at first. Then, gradually, the flowers will begin to open. I love watching this process – it’s like nature’s own slow-motion video. The flowers on each stem open in succession, creating a long-lasting display.
3. Amaryllis Aftercare
Post-Bloom Care
Once the flowers fade, I simply pop them off. But don’t discard the plant! The leaves are crucial for the bulb’s energy storage. I treat the foliage as a houseplant, keeping it in a bright, warm spot and continuing with regular watering.
Preparing for Reblooming
Here’s where the real magic happens. In late spring, after the risk of frost has passed, I move my amaryllis outdoors. They soak up the sun all summer, storing energy for next year’s bloom.
Come August, I bring them inside and induce dormancy by placing them in a cool, dark place (around 50-55°F or 10-13°C) for 2-3 months. No water during this time! In late October or early November, I bring them out, repot if necessary, and start the cycle again.
4. Propagating Amaryllis
Propagation via Offsets
Over time, amaryllis bulbs produce offsets – baby bulbs that grow alongside the mother bulb. When I’m repotting, I gently separate these offsets and pot them up individually. It’s like getting free amaryllis plants! These offsets usually take a couple of years to reach flowering size, but the wait is worth it.
5. Using Amaryllis as Cut Flowers
Preparing Cut Amaryllis
Amaryllis make fantastic cut flowers too. When cutting, I always remove the pollen anthers to prevent pollen from staining the petals and to extend the flower’s life.
The stems are hollow, so I support them by inserting a bamboo cane into the stem. I also fill the stem with water to keep the flower hydrated.
Extending Vase Life
To make cut amaryllis last longer, I use cool water in the vase. This slows down the opening process, giving me more time to enjoy the blooms. I’ve had cut amaryllis last up to three weeks with this method!
I also wrap the base of the stem with clear floral tape to prevent cracking and curling, which can inhibit water uptake.
Growing amaryllis has been a joyful journey for me over the years. These magnificent flowers have become more than just plants – they’re a passion. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, I encourage you to give amaryllis a try. Their ease of care and stunning blooms make them a rewarding addition to any indoor garden.
Remember, every amaryllis grower’s experience is unique. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your plants. Happy growing!