Amaryllis bulbs can live (and re-bloom!) for decades. And its easy to do.
After your amaryllis finishes blooming, you can take these easy steps to coax it to re-bloom next season.
1. Cut Back the Flower Stalk
- Once the flowers fade, cut the flower stalk down to about an inch above the bulb. Do not cut the leaves, as they help store energy for the bulb.
- Water the plant regularly (from the bottom is best), keeping the soil slightly moist but not soggy.
- Fertilize every 2-4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer to nourish the bulb.
- Place the plant in a sunny location, such as a south-facing window, to allow the leaves to photosynthesize and recharge the bulb.
- In late summer or early fall (8-10 weeks before you want it to bloom), stop watering and feeding. Allow the leaves to yellow naturally, then cut them back.
- Place the bulb in a cool, dark, and dry place (40-50°F) for 8-10 weeks to simulate dormancy. You can leave the bulb in its pot or remove it (brush off excess soil, and store it in a paper bag).
- After the rest period, bring the bulb back to a warm, bright area. Begin watering sparingly until new growth appears, then increase watering and resume fertilizing.
Amaryllis FAQs