Amaryllis plants, known for their striking, trumpet-shaped flowers, are a popular choice for bringing vibrant color indoors, especially during the colder months. These impressive bulbs offer a rewarding experience as they transform into magnificent blooms. Understanding the distinct growth stages of an amaryllis is key to providing optimal care, ensuring a spectacular display and encouraging successful reblooming in subsequent years. By following specific guidelines for each phase, gardeners can cultivate these beautiful plants with confidence.
Bulb Selection and Initial Planting
Selecting a healthy amaryllis bulb is the first step toward a successful bloom. Look for bulbs that are firm to the touch, indicating good health, and avoid any that feel soft, mushy, or show signs of mold or blemishes. Larger bulbs generally produce more flower stalks and blooms, offering a more impressive display. Before planting, soaking the base and roots of the bulb in lukewarm water for a few hours can help stimulate root growth.
For planting, choose a sturdy pot that is only slightly larger than the bulb, typically 1 to 2 inches wider than the bulb itself, and ensure it has drainage holes. Amaryllis bulbs prefer to be somewhat root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as one designed for houseplants or a mix containing perlite or sand to enhance drainage.
Plant the bulb so that approximately one-third to one-half of the bulb remains above the soil line, with the neck of the bulb visible. Gently firm the soil around the bulb to secure it in place. After planting, water the bulb thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot. After this initial watering, water sparingly until new growth appears to prevent bulb rot.
Sprouting and Stalk Development
After planting, place the potted amaryllis in a warm location that receives bright, indirect light. An ideal temperature range for initial growth and stem development is between 68°F and 75°F. Consistent warmth helps stimulate the bulb to sprout.
Watering should remain minimal during this initial phase; only water when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering at this stage can lead to bulb rot. As the flower stalk begins to emerge and grow, gradually increase watering to keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy.
The flower stalk can grow rapidly, often reaching heights of 1 to 2 feet. To ensure the stalk grows straight and does not lean toward the light source, rotate the pot every few days. If the stalk becomes particularly tall or heavy, especially with large blooms, providing a stake for support can prevent it from toppling over. Inserting a stake early can help avoid damaging the bulb and roots later.
The Blooming Period
Blooming typically occurs 6 to 12 weeks after planting, varying by variety and growing conditions. Amaryllis flowers are large, trumpet-shaped (4 to 10 inches), appearing in various colors and forms, including single or double blooms. A single bulb can produce multiple flower stalks, each bearing several flowers.
To extend bloom life, move the plant to a cooler location (ideally around 65°F) once flowers open. Avoid heat sources or direct, intense sunlight, which shortens bloom duration. Continue to water when the topsoil feels dry, keeping it moist but not waterlogged.
If heavy flower stalks need support, use bamboo stakes, wire, or natural twigs. Insert supports close to the bulb, avoiding root damage, and tie loosely a few inches below flower buds. Promptly remove faded flowers to prevent seed formation and conserve energy.
Post-Bloom Care and Leaf Growth
After flowers fade, cut off spent flower stalks about 1 to 2 inches above the bulb, avoiding emerging leaves. Do not remove green stalks; they contribute to photosynthesis and bulb energy reserves.
The post-bloom period is essential for the bulb to store energy for future flowering. The plant develops long, strap-like leaves vital for photosynthesis, enabling the bulb to replenish nutrients and grow larger.
During spring and summer, treat the amaryllis like a houseplant. Place it in a sunny indoor location with at least six hours of bright, indirect light daily. Water regularly, allowing the top 2 inches of soil to dry between waterings. Fertilize every two to four weeks with a balanced houseplant fertilizer to support leaf growth and energy storage. If conditions permit, move the plant outdoors after frost danger, gradually acclimating it.
Inducing Dormancy for Reblooming
To encourage reblooming, a dormancy period allows the bulb to rest and recharge. Begin this process in late summer or early fall (August or September). Gradually reduce watering and cease fertilization. This signals the plant to prepare for dormancy.
As watering is withheld, leaves will yellow and wither. Allow foliage to die back completely; the bulb draws nutrients from the leaves. Once leaves are yellow and dry, cut them back to 1 to 2 inches above the bulb.
Move the potted bulb to a cool, dark, dry location for dormancy, such as a basement or closet. The ideal temperature for dormancy is between 50°F and 60°F. The bulb should remain dormant for 8 to 12 weeks. After this period, bring out the amaryllis, repot if needed, and restart the reblooming cycle by resuming watering and placing it in a warm, bright location.