how to take care of amaryllis

With its majestic, trumpet-shaped blooms perched atop a tall, sturdy stalk, the amaryllis is a showstopper that brings a burst of vibrant color indoors. These magnificent flowers seem almost too dramatic to be real, yet they are surprisingly simple to grow. Whether you received one as a holiday gift or are treating yourself, learning how to take care of amaryllis is the first step to enjoying its spectacular display year after year.

The Complete Guide on How to Take Care of Amaryllis

Your amaryllis journey begins with proper planting. Choose a pot that is only about an inch wider than the bulb and has good drainage. Plant the bulb so that the top third remains above the soil line. Give it a thorough drink of water and place it in a bright, sunny spot. You should see growth emerge within a few weeks.

Encouraging Those Stunning Blooms

Once the flower stalk starts growing, rotate the pot every few days to prevent it from leaning toward the light. Water your amaryllis when the top inch of soil feels dry, but be careful not to overwater, as the bulb can rot. You typically won’t need fertilizer during this blooming period. All its energy is already stored within that mighty bulb, ready to put on a show for you.

What to Do After the Flowers Fade

Don’t discard your amaryllis once the flowers wilt! This is when the real work begins to ensure it blooms again. Snip off the spent flower stalk, but leave the long, strappy leaves. Continue to water and place it in a sunny location. You can even move it outside for the summer. These leaves are crucial, as they will gather sunlight to recharge the bulb for next year’s performance.

Preparing for Next Year’s Show

To trigger a new bloom cycle, your amaryllis needs a period of rest. In late summer or early fall, stop watering and let the leaves die back naturally. Move the pot to a cool, dark place like a basement for 8 to 10 weeks. After this dormancy, bring it back into the light, resume watering, and watch as the cycle of growth begins all over again.

With just a little attention to its seasonal needs, your amaryllis will reward you with its breathtaking beauty for many seasons to come. It’s a wonderful, long-term relationship with a truly remarkable plant.