Amaryllis Care: Planting, Growing, and Reblooming the Winter Bulb

Amaryllis make easy-care houseplants that brighten winter windowsills. A support stake keeps heavy stems upright.

Few bulbs are easier than amaryllis—and few bloom with greater exuberance. Plant in good potting soil, water regularly, provide bright indirect light. Blooms appear 4-6 weeks after planting.

Planting

If not pre-potted, plant each bulb in a heavy 6-8" pot (lightweight pots tip). Pointed end up in potting soil—no garden soil (poor drainage). Pack gently so ⅓ of bulb remains above soil line.

Growing

Sunny location. Water sparingly until 2" of new growth, then regularly. Turn pot periodically for straight stalk. 5-8 weeks for dramatic floral display. Prolong blooms by keeping out of direct sun.

For Bloom Next Year

Amaryllis can rebloom annually with planning. After flowers fade, cut stalk to 1" above bulb. Continue watering and feeding with liquid houseplant fertilizer. Leaves grow spring/summer, storing energy. Mid-August: withhold water, let foliage die back naturally as pot dries completely. Store dormant bulb in cool, dark, dry place minimum 8 weeks. 5-8 weeks before desired bloom, repot in fresh soil, resume watering (sparingly at first). Increase watering once growth appears. Expect blooms in 5-8 weeks. Follow yearly for continuous cycles.

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