If you enjoyed your amaryllis blooms in winters past, you might be wondering how to keep the magic going year after year.
Here’s an easy, step-by-step method for getting those beautiful flowers to return—no green thumb required!
After your amaryllis has finished blooming (especially if you started with a wax-coated bulb that didn’t need water), let the plant die back naturally. Once the flowers wilt, snip them off, and leave the stalks to dry out on their own. When the stalks are dry, move the bulb to your garage and let it rest until late May.
In late spring, trim off any remaining leaves and remove all wax or plastic from the bulb if it’s still in place. Plant your amaryllis outside in a sunny spot, with the bulb buried but the tops of the leaves peeking out. Consider planting them among other perennials for a little extra protection. Water the bulb during dry spells, and you’ll soon see new leaves start to grow. A little fertilizer, like fish emulsion, helps too. Don’t expect new flower stalks outdoors, but the bulb will enjoy its summer vacation.
As fall approaches, keep an eye on the weather. Before the first frost, dig up your bulb and let it dry out in the garage again. By December, cut off any dried leaves and place the bulb in a paper bag in the fridge for at least a month. This cold period tricks the bulb into thinking it’s winter.
Now the fun starts
When you’re ready to start the next bloom cycle. Trim the roots so they’re close to the bulb. Find a tall vessel (a glass beverage dispenser works well) and put some stones in the bottom. Add a couple of inches of water, then set the bulb on the rocks so the roots are near (but not in) the water. Place the vessel in a sunny, warm spot and watch for green tips to appear. Keep just enough water in the vessel, and use tall branches for support if needed.
With a little patience, you’ll be rewarded with fresh blooms in a few months. Some of the bulbs pictured are in their third year of blooming—proof that a little care goes a long way!
Happy indoor/outdoor gardening from Holmes Fine Gardens!