Amaryllis, also known as Hippeastrum, is a beautiful flowering plant that is popular for its large, striking blooms, particularly during the holiday season. Although true amaryllis belongs to a different genus, the plants commonly referred to as amaryllis are part of the Hippeastrum genus. Their showy flowers in shades of red, pink, white, and even striped varieties make them a favorite for indoor gardeners. Whether you’re growing amaryllis for the holidays or just to enjoy their stunning flowers, this guide will walk you through the essentials of growing and caring for them.
Why This Plant Works
Amaryllis are an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a plant that requires minimal effort to produce big, beautiful results. Grown from bulbs, they can be forced into bloom at specific times, like around Christmas or New Year’s, which makes them ideal for holiday décor. Amaryllis are also versatile—able to thrive indoors or outdoors, depending on the climate—and are known for their long-lasting blooms that add a dramatic touch to any room or garden. Plus, with proper care, they can bloom year after year, making them a worthwhile investment for any gardener.
What You’ll Need for Growing Amaryllis
To get started with your amaryllis, you’ll need the following:
Amaryllis bulbs: Available at garden centers and online, amaryllis bulbs come in a variety of colors.
A pot: Choose a pot that is about 1-2 inches wider than the bulb.
Potting mix: Well-draining, all-purpose potting soil works best for amaryllis.
Water: For watering the plant as it grows.
Fertilizer: A balanced liquid fertilizer to support growth once the plant begins to bloom.
A cool, dark space: For the resting period once blooming is complete.
How To Grow Amaryllis
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grow your own amaryllis, starting with the bulb and taking it through to beautiful blooming.
Starting with Bulbs
Amaryllis plants are grown from bulbs, which you can easily find at most garden centers or order online. When purchasing, choose large, healthy bulbs that feel firm to the touch, as these will produce the best flowers. A good-quality bulb will yield large, vibrant blooms and ensure a strong, healthy plant.
Potting the Bulb
Select a pot that’s just slightly larger than the bulb—about 1 to 2 inches wider than the bulb’s diameter. This extra space will allow the roots to grow without being cramped. Be sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom, which can lead to bulb rot.
Use a well-draining potting mix, as amaryllis bulbs are sensitive to overwatering.
Place the bulb in the pot so that the top third (the “neck”) is above the soil surface. The bulb should not be buried completely.
Light Requirements
Place the pot in a location that gets plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. Amaryllis needs light to grow, but avoid direct sunlight, especially in the early stages of growth. Once the plant starts sprouting, you can gradually increase the amount of direct light to help encourage faster growth and healthy blooms.
Watering
Initially, water sparingly. After planting, water lightly to settle the soil, but don’t water again until the bulb shows signs of growth. Once the stalk begins to emerge, water the plant regularly, but let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to strike a balance.
Temperature Preferences
Amaryllis prefer temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (15-24°C). They can tolerate slightly cooler or warmer conditions, but providing a moderate, consistent temperature will ensure they thrive. Avoid placing your pot near drafty windows or heating vents, as temperature fluctuations can affect the plant’s growth.
Fertilizing Your Amaryllis
Once the plant begins to grow, it’s time to start fertilizing. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer that’s diluted to half strength and apply every 2-4 weeks. Fertilizing helps the plant produce healthy foliage and supports strong blooms.
Encouraging Reblooming
Amaryllis are not only beautiful holiday plants but can bloom year after year with the right care. Here’s how to encourage reblooming:
After the Flowers Fade
Once the flowers have finished blooming, cut off the flower stalk close to the bulb. This helps the plant conserve energy for future blooms rather than producing seeds.
Ongoing Care
Continue watering and fertilizing the plant to encourage leaf growth. This is important for storing energy in the bulb for future blooms.
Outdoor Care
After the threat of frost has passed, you can move your amaryllis outdoors to a sunny spot, where it will continue to grow. Let it soak up the sun, and the foliage will grow stronger.
Rest Period
As fall approaches, bring the pot back indoors and allow the foliage to die back naturally. This signals to the plant that it’s time to rest. Stop watering the plant and let the bulb rest in a cool, dark place for 8-10 weeks.
Repotting and Restarting the Cycle
After the resting period, it’s time to repot the bulb in fresh potting mix. This will kick-start the growing cycle, and your amaryllis will be ready to bloom once again.
Forcing Blooms for Specific Occasions
One of the most exciting aspects of growing amaryllis is the ability to force blooms for special occasions like Christmas or New Year’s. To do this, follow these simple steps:
Start the Process Early
To have your amaryllis bloom around the holidays, start the growing process about 6-8 weeks before your desired blooming time.
Repot and Place in a Warm Spot
After the resting period, repot your bulb and place it in a warm, bright location. Keep the soil slightly moist as the plant begins to grow.
Follow Regular Care
Once growth appears, continue to follow the regular care instructions, including watering, light management, and fertilizing. The blooms should appear in time for your special occasion.
Final Thoughts: A Plant Worth the Effort
Amaryllis are a stunning addition to any home, providing bursts of color and beauty in the winter months. Whether you’re growing them for the holidays or for year-round enjoyment, these flowers are relatively easy to care for with the right attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above, you can enjoy the spectacular, trumpet-shaped blooms of amaryllis year after year, making them a worthwhile investment for any gardener looking to brighten their indoor space. So, go ahead and add a little holiday cheer or seasonal splendor with these bold, beautiful flowers!