Amaryllis bulbs can be replanted and forced to rebloom annually, transforming them into a perennial houseplant. Achieving a second bloom requires replicating the plant’s natural life cycle, which involves distinct phases of growth, rest, and reawakening. Successfully managing the plant through these phases allows the bulb to store the energy reserves needed for the next flower spike. The secret to repeated flowering lies in correctly handling the plant once the initial blossoms fade and providing a mandatory period of cool, dry rest.
Immediate Care After Blooming
Once the final flowers begin to wilt and fade, the first step is to manage the spent bloom and stalk. Snip off the individual faded flowers immediately to prevent the formation of seeds, which unnecessarily expends the bulb’s stored energy. The flower stalk itself should be allowed to remain attached to the bulb until it begins to yellow or soften naturally. While green, the flower stalk is still capable of photosynthesis and contributes energy back to the bulb. Once the stalk has softened, cut it back to approximately one inch above the neck of the bulb.
The long, strap-like leaves that emerge must be kept intact and should never be cut off while they are green. These leaves are the primary energy factories for the bulb, performing photosynthesis to convert sunlight into carbohydrates. This stored energy is the fuel source that will power the next year’s flowers. For the next several months, the amaryllis is treated like any other actively growing houseplant to maximize energy accumulation.
Summer Growth and Preparing for Dormancy
Following the initial post-bloom care, the bulb enters its summer growth phase, where it replenishes the resources used for flowering. Move the potted plant to a warm location that receives bright, indirect light, such as a sunny window. If all danger of frost has passed, the pot can be moved outdoors for the summer, ideally placed in an area that receives at least six hours of full sun daily. The outdoor environment, with its strong natural light, is often better for maximizing leaf growth.
During this active growth period, the plant requires consistent moisture and regular feeding. Water the plant thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the pot drains completely to prevent root rot. Begin fertilization using a balanced, water-soluble houseplant food every two to four weeks throughout the spring and summer. The goal is to maintain healthy, green foliage for as long as possible, building up the carbohydrate reserves for the next bloom cycle. By late summer or early fall, gradually reduce the frequency of watering. This reduction in moisture signals to the bulb that its rest period is approaching.
The Essential Dormancy Period
A period of dormancy is mandatory for the amaryllis bulb to rebloom, as it mimics the dry season in its native subtropical environment. To initiate this rest, cease watering completely in early fall and allow the leaves to naturally yellow and dry out. Once the foliage has completely withered, cut the dead leaves back to about one or two inches above the bulb’s neck. The bulb can then be stored in its pot, or lifted and cleaned if the pot is needed.
The storage location must be cool, dark, and dry. An unheated basement, garage, or cool closet is ideal, with temperatures maintained consistently between 50 and 55°F. This cool temperature range is necessary to trigger the internal physiological changes that lead to flower bud development within the bulb. The bulb must remain in this state of cool, dry rest for a minimum of six to eight weeks, though a period of eight to twelve weeks is recommended. Do not water the bulb during this entire period of storage. Periodically check the stored bulb to ensure it remains firm and dry, without any signs of mold or softening.
Initiating the Next Bloom Cycle
After the required eight to twelve weeks of cool, dark dormancy, the bulb is ready to be reawakened and forced into its next flowering cycle. The timing for this step is based on when you desire the plant to bloom, as the process typically takes six to eight weeks from reawakening to flowering. Begin by removing the bulb from its cool storage and repotting it if necessary, using fresh, well-draining potting mix. The large, onion-like bulb should be planted so that its top one-third remains exposed above the soil line.
Place the newly potted or refreshed bulb in a warm, bright location, such as a sunny window, where temperatures hover around 65 to 75°F. Initially, water the soil only lightly to settle the mix around the roots. Do not begin regular watering until a new green shoot or flower stalk visibly emerges from the top of the bulb. Once new growth is apparent, gradually increase watering to keep the soil consistently moist, but not saturated. The combination of warmth, bright light, and moisture will stimulate the bulb to produce a new flower spike, completing the annual cycle and rewarding the effort with another vibrant bloom.