Planting Amaryllis Outdoors: Holiday Bulbs Can Perennialize with Care

Two Types, Different Hardiness

• Garden amaryllis (Hippeastrum × johnsonii): Hardy in most Atlanta winters.
• Holiday amaryllis (large-flowered hybrids): Less hardy; best dug in fall and stored like dahlias.

Keys to Success

• Plant with the neck of the bulb exposed.
• Rich, well-drained soil; morning sun, afternoon shade.
• Fertilize every 6 weeks in summer (5-10-10 or 6-12-12).
• Mulch heavily in winter; rake back in late March.
• Divide every 3–5 years after foliage dies.

Many gardeners report holiday types returning for years with deep mulch and good drainage.