The Amaryllis (Hippeastrum species) is a popular houseplant often received during the winter holidays for its dramatic, trumpet-shaped flowers. Once the bloom display finishes, many assume the plant’s life cycle is complete, but this is not true. The reward of Amaryllis ownership is successfully guiding the bulb through its annual growth cycle to coax it into re-blooming year after year. Achieving this requires replicating the plant’s natural tropical rhythm of growth, rest, and reawakening.
Immediate Care After Flowering
The first step after the last flower wilts is to remove the spent blossoms to prevent seed pod formation. Producing seeds consumes energy the bulb needs to store for the next blooming cycle. Snip the individual faded flowers where they meet the top of the main flower stalk.
The thick flower stalk (scape) should not be cut down immediately. The green stalk performs photosynthesis, transferring energy back to the bulb. Allow the stalk to begin yellowing naturally before cutting it back to one or two inches above the bulb’s neck.
Keep the leaves intact, as they are the energy factories for the bulb’s summer growth. Move the potted Amaryllis to the sunniest indoor location, such as a south-facing window, to encourage leaf growth. Continue a cautious watering schedule, allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out before re-watering to prevent rotting.
Maximizing Growth During Summer
As soon as the danger of frost passes (typically late spring), move the Amaryllis outdoors. Placing the pot outside maximizes exposure to sunlight and fresh air, which is necessary for energy storage. Position the plant where it receives full morning sun and partial afternoon shade, as intense midday sun can scorch the leaves.
The summer months are the bulb’s primary feeding period, where it accumulates reserves to produce a flower stalk the following winter. Begin a regular fertilization program using a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20). Apply this fertilizer every two to four weeks at half the recommended strength to support consistent growth.
Consistent moisture is necessary during this active growth phase to support healthy leaves. Water the plant thoroughly when the top layer of soil feels dry, ensuring the pot has proper drainage. This growth period, extending through early fall, directly determines the size and number of flowers produced next season.
Inducing the Dormancy Period
Inducing dormancy is the most important action for triggering reliable re-bloom, as it mimics the plant’s native dry season. This process should begin in late summer or early fall, about 8 to 10 weeks before the desired bloom time. The bulb needs this rest period to initiate the formation of its next flower bud.
To begin dormancy, stop all fertilizer application and gradually withhold water completely over several weeks. The lack of water signals the bulb to rest, causing the leaves to yellow and dry out. Once the leaves are completely yellow and brittle, trim them back to about an inch or two above the bulb neck.
After trimming the foliage, move the entire pot (or the bare bulb) to a cool, dark, and dry location. An unheated basement, garage, or cool closet where temperatures remain consistently between 50°F and 60°F is ideal. The bulb must remain resting for a minimum of 6 to 8 weeks, and up to 12 weeks, receiving no water during this time.
Starting the New Bloom Cycle
After the required 6 to 12 weeks of cool, dry dormancy, the bulb is ready to be awakened. If the bulb was unpotted or the soil is old, repot it using fresh, well-draining potting soil. Amaryllis bulbs prefer to be slightly pot-bound, so choose a container only slightly wider than the bulb, leaving the top third exposed above the soil line.
Move the potted bulb to a location significantly warmer than its dormancy spot, aiming for 68°F to 77°F room temperature. Initially, place the pot in bright, indirect light and begin watering sparingly. The warmth and moisture signal the bulb to break dormancy and begin growth.
Wait until you see signs of new growth (a flower stalk or new leaves) before increasing watering frequency. If properly rested, the flower stalk should emerge before the leaves. It takes about 6 to 10 weeks from reawakening until the flowers fully open. Once the stalk is actively growing, move the plant to bright direct light to support bloom development.