The Amaryllis, correctly identified by botanists as Hippeastrum, is a tropical bulb prized for its spectacular, large trumpet-shaped flowers. Unlike plants that bloom continuously, the Amaryllis requires a specific period of rest, known as dormancy, to initiate the formation of new flower buds inside the bulb. This forced rest mimics the dry season in its native South American habitat, allowing the bulb to conserve and redirect energy for the next flowering cycle. Successfully managing this resting phase is the single most important step for guaranteeing reliable reblooming year after year.
Preparing the Bulb for Dormancy
The process of preparing the bulb for its resting period begins after the leaves have spent a summer absorbing sunlight and building up energy reserves within the bulb. This energy-building phase typically lasts from late spring to late summer, or for at least six to eight weeks following the previous bloom. To encourage the bulb to enter dormancy naturally, watering and fertilization should be gradually reduced starting in late summer or early fall.
Allow the foliage to yellow and wither on its own, as the bulb is actively pulling nutrients from the leaves during this time. Once the leaves have fully turned yellow and begun to dry, they have served their purpose and can be removed. Use clean, sharp shears to cut the foliage back, leaving a short neck or stump of approximately one to two inches above the top of the bulb.
Decide whether to store the bulb in its pot or as a bare bulb. If choosing bare-root storage, gently remove the bulb and brush away the soil, taking care not to damage the thick, fleshy roots. Trimming back excessive or dead roots is acceptable, but leave healthy, firm roots intact to aid re-establishment later. Allow the bare bulb to air-dry for a few days in a shaded, well-ventilated area before moving it to its final storage location.
Optimal Storage Conditions
The bulb’s dormancy period should last for a minimum of six to eight weeks, and ideally for about 10 to 12 weeks, though it can extend up to three or four months. Maintaining the correct environmental conditions during this time is paramount to preventing the bulb from rotting or drying out. The single most important factor is temperature, which should be kept consistently cool, ideally ranging from 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C).
Temperatures above 60°F may cause the bulb to break dormancy prematurely and produce only leaves, while temperatures near or below freezing will cause irreversible damage. The storage location must also be completely dark or near-dark to suppress growth and reinforce the resting state. Acceptable storage locations include cool basements, unheated closets, or a temperature-controlled garage.
If using a refrigerator, keep the bulb separate from ripening fruit, especially apples, as they release ethylene gas that can sterilize the bulb and prevent flowering. Proper ventilation is needed to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to fungal diseases or mold. A humid environment, such as a damp basement, is preferred over an excessively dry one to prevent the bulb from shriveling.
To package bare bulbs, wrap them individually in newspaper, paper bags, or lightly moistened peat moss. This provides a buffer against temperature and humidity changes. For bulbs stored in their pots, simply place the pot directly in the dark, cool location without further watering. Regardless of the method, check bulbs monthly for signs of shriveling (dryness) or soft spots and mold (excessive moisture).
Post-Storage Care and Reawakening
Timing the bulb’s reawakening should occur six to eight weeks before the desired bloom date. When dormancy is complete, transition the bulb back to active growth by moving it to a warmer environment. If stored bare, repot the bulb in a container, ensuring the top third remains exposed above the soil line.
Use fresh, well-draining potting mix, and ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. For potted bulbs, you can simply refresh the top inch of soil without repotting, as Amaryllis prefer to be slightly root-bound. The potted bulb should then be placed in a warm location, where temperatures are between 68°F and 77°F, and exposed to bright, indirect light.
Water lightly just once to settle the soil around the bulb. Withhold further moisture until a new growth bud or flower stalk visibly emerges. Once growth is evident, begin regular watering, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between applications. The flower stalk often appears before the leaves, signaling the successful utilization of stored energy for rebloom.