The Amaryllis, correctly known as Hippeastrum, is a popular bulb often associated with the winter holidays due to its striking, trumpet-shaped blooms. While many treat this plant as a seasonal annual, it is a perennial bulb that can be successfully encouraged to flower again year after year. The process of achieving repeat blooms involves a series of distinct care phases, focusing on energy replenishment, a mandatory rest period, and finally, re-initiating the growth cycle. The key to success lies in understanding the bulb’s natural cycle and precisely managing the physical removal of the spent flower parts.
Removing the Spent Flower Stalk
Once the last flower on the stalk begins to wilt, immediate action is required to redirect the plant’s energy reserves. The entire flower stalk, known botanically as the peduncle or scape, must be removed to prevent the formation of seed pods. Allowing seeds to develop drains significant energy from the bulb, making reblooming unlikely the following season.
The correct place to cut is low on the stalk, about one to two inches above the neck of the bulb. Use a clean, sharp knife or pruners for a straight or angled cut. Avoid cutting or damaging the bulb itself or any emerging green leaves. The remaining portion of the stalk will eventually turn yellow and shrivel as its nutrients are absorbed back into the bulb, at which point it can be completely removed.
Regrowing and Recharging the Bulb
After the flower stalk is cut, the Amaryllis enters its crucial growth period to replenish food reserves depleted by the bloom. The remaining foliage uses photosynthesis to create carbohydrates stored in the bulb for the next flowering cycle. Place the plant in the sunniest location possible, such as a south-facing window, to maximize light absorption.
Once the danger of frost has passed, typically in late spring, move the potted bulb outdoors. Place the container in bright, indirect light or morning sun, gradually acclimating it to prevent sun scorch. Maintain consistent moisture during this summer growth phase by watering thoroughly when the top two inches of soil feel dry.
Regular feeding is required throughout the active growing season, from spring until late summer. Apply a water-soluble houseplant fertilizer every two to four weeks to promote healthy foliage and bulb growth. Many growers prefer a high-nitrogen formulation during this period. The healthier the foliage is during the summer, the larger the bulb will grow, which directly correlates to producing multiple, robust flower stalks in the future.
Inducing the Dormancy Period
A mandatory period of rest, or dormancy, must be induced to ensure the bulb sets a new flower bud for the next season. This process typically begins in late summer or early fall, around mid-September, to allow time for a winter or holiday bloom. Initiate dormancy by gradually withholding water and ceasing all fertilization.
This lack of moisture signals the bulb to halt active growth and begin its rest phase. Once the foliage naturally begins to yellow, the bulb is ready to be moved to its cool resting location. The ideal environment is a dark, dry place, such as a cool basement or garage, where the temperature remains consistently between 50 and 55°F.
The bulb should remain in these conditions for a minimum of eight to ten weeks to complete the rest cycle. During this time, the soil must be kept completely dry, and any remaining dead or yellowed foliage can be carefully trimmed off. This cool, dry rest period is necessary for the Hippeastrum bulb to properly develop the next flower bud.
Forcing the Next Bloom Cycle
The Amaryllis is ready to be forced back into bloom after completing its eight to ten-week dormancy period. Plan the timing for this awakening based on when a bloom is desired, as it takes approximately four to eight weeks for the flower stalk to emerge and open.
To begin, bring the potted bulb out of its cool, dark location and place it in a warm environment, ideally 70 to 75°F. Resume watering with a single, thorough application to stimulate root and shoot activity. The plant should be situated in a location that receives bright, indirect light.
Once new growth is visibly emerging from the bulb’s tip, usually a flower stalk appearing before the leaves, resume regular watering. Keep the soil lightly moist, but not saturated, and rotate the pot periodically to ensure the emerging stalk grows straight.