Amaryllis is a favourite flower for many people during winter. It’s tall, colourful, and easy to grow indoors. Whether you’ve received one as a gift or picked up a bulb yourself, looking after it is simple with the right steps.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to plant, water, and care for your amaryllis. You’ll also find tips on how to help it bloom again the following year.
Understanding Amaryllis
Amaryllis is grown from a large bulb. When it blooms, it produces tall green stems with large, trumpet-like flowers. These blooms come in a variety of colours, including red, white, pink, orange, and even striped types.
The flower is often seen around Christmas time, as it blooms indoors in late winter. It brightens up homes during the colder months and makes a wonderful gift.
Planting the Bulb
The best time to plant an amaryllis bulb is in late autumn if you want it to bloom by Christmas. You can plant it later too, and it will flower after about 6 to 10 weeks.
Choose a pot that’s just slightly bigger than the bulb. There should be about 2 to 3 cm of space around it. Make sure the pot has holes in the bottom for drainage.
Use a light potting mix. Place the bulb in the centre and press it down gently, leaving the top third of the bulb showing above the soil. Water it once to settle the soil.
Light and Water Needs
Amaryllis likes bright light. Place it on a windowsill or near a sunny spot. It doesn’t need full sun all day, but good light helps the stem grow tall and strong.
When watering, keep the soil slightly damp. Don’t soak it. Let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. Too much water can rot the bulb.
Once the stem appears and starts to grow, you can water a little more often. Avoid splashing water on the bulb. Just water the soil around it.
Caring for Amaryllis During Bloom
When your amaryllis starts to flower, it becomes the centre of attention. It’s tall, bold, and lovely. To help the flowers last longer, move the plant away from strong heat sources like radiators. Keep it in a cool spot with light.
If the stem starts to lean, rotate the pot every few days. This helps the plant grow straight. Some stems can get quite heavy, so you might need a stick or small support to keep them upright.
As the flowers begin to fade, cut off the wilted blooms. This keeps the plant looking neat and stops it from wasting energy on flowers that are already spent.
After the Flowers Fade
When the last flower fades, you can cut the flower stalk down to just above the bulb. But don’t remove the leaves. The leaves are important. They help the bulb store energy for the next season.
Keep watering the plant lightly and place it in a bright spot. This care period may last several months. You can also give it a little liquid fertiliser once or twice a month to help the leaves grow.
If you’ve ever wondered how to care for flowers after delivery, it’s a bit like this. Give the plant good light, just enough water, and keep the soil clean. These simple habits help it stay healthy and strong.
Dormancy and Reflowering
Amaryllis bulbs need a rest period before they can flower again. Around late summer or early autumn, stop watering the plant. Let the leaves naturally turn yellow and dry out.
Once the leaves die back, cut them off and place the bulb (still in the pot) in a cool, dry, and dark place. Somewhere like a cupboard or cellar works well. Let it rest for 8 to 10 weeks.
After the rest period, move the bulb back to a sunny spot and begin watering again. Soon, a green shoot will appear, and your amaryllis is on its way to blooming again.
Common Growing Problems and Fixes
Yellow Leaves
Usually from overwatering or poor drainage. Check that your pot has holes and that the soil isn’t soggy.
No Blooms
The bulb may be too young or not rested properly. Make sure it gets a dormancy period. Large, healthy bulbs bloom better.
Floppy Stems
Not enough light or uneven growth. Move the plant to a brighter spot and turn the pot every few days.
Mould on Soil
Let the soil dry more between waterings. Remove any surface mould gently and avoid splashing water.
These are similar to tips used to care for fresh flowers in general. Light, water, and clean surroundings are key for both potted plants and cut blooms.
Growing Amaryllis Indoors Year-Round
You can enjoy your amaryllis beyond just the blooming season. After flowering, it can act like a normal houseplant. The leaves add greenery to your space and help the bulb prepare for another round of blooms.
During spring and summer, you can even move the pot outdoors to a shaded spot. Just don’t leave it out in the rain or strong sun. Then bring it back inside before the cold weather starts.
You might be wondering how long flowers can last without water. For cut flowers, the answer is often a few hours. But amaryllis in a pot, with its roots in soil, will do well as long as you don’t let the soil go completely dry for long periods. Regular light watering is enough to keep it happy.
Conclusion on How to Take Care of Amaryllis
Amaryllis is a brilliant choice for beginners and plant lovers alike. With just a little care, it rewards you with tall, stunning flowers. Plant the bulb properly, water it gently, give it good light, and it will thrive. After the blooms fade, don’t throw them away; just let them rest and start the cycle again.
This plant is long-lasting, beautiful, and surprisingly simple to grow. Whether you’re adding colour to your home or giving it as a gift, the amaryllis never disappoints.
Looking to gift one or start your own? Windflower Florist offers lovely, blooming amaryllis and more, ready to brighten any space or occasion.
Talk to us today and find the perfect floral gift
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Take Care of Amaryllis
Can I Grow Amaryllis Outdoors?
Yes, but only in warm climates. In cooler areas, keep it in pots and bring it indoors before frost arrives.
How Often Should I Water My Amaryllis?
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Don’t let it sit in water, and avoid getting water directly on the bulb.
Will My Amaryllis Bloom Again Next Year?
Yes. Let it rest for about 8 to 10 weeks in autumn, then restart watering. A healthy bulb can bloom year after year.
What Size Pot Should I Use For One Bulb?
A snug pot about 2 to 3 cm wider than the bulb is best. Make sure it has drainage holes at the bottom.
Do I Need To Fertilise My Amaryllis Plant?
You can use a liquid fertiliser every two to four weeks after it blooms. This helps build strong leaves and stores energy in the bulb.
