Amaryllis: Proper Care for Re-blooming

Amaryllis is a popular winter houseplant, known for bringing vibrant color during the colder months. While their bloom is short-lived, re-blooming is possible with proper care.

Origin and Characteristics

Native to subtropical South Africa, Amaryllis bulbs are adapted to long dry periods. They store nutrients, allowing them to bloom quickly and impressively after rainfall.

Winter Care for Amaryllis

To care for your Amaryllis as a houseplant during winter:

• Place the Amaryllis bulb in a pot on a windowsill.
• Water moderately each day, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist.
• Adjust the watering frequency to the plant’s rapid growth.
• Note that warmer temperatures will accelerate the plant’s growth, blooming, and subsequent fading.

Encouraging Re-blooming

After the Amaryllis has finished blooming, follow these steps to encourage a new cycle:

1. Remove Spent Blooms: Gradually remove any withered flowers. Once all blooms are gone, cut the flower stem.
2. Repotting: Repot the Amaryllis bulb using standard potting soil. The pot should not be significantly larger than the bulb itself.
3. Leaf Growth Phase: Long, green leaves will begin to grow. During this phase, fertilize the plant every three weeks with a liquid flower fertilizer.
4. Outdoor Placement (Optional): From mid-May, the frost-sensitive Amaryllis can be moved outdoors.
5. Dormancy Preparation: In late summer, cease watering and allow the leaves to wither naturally. The bulb reabsorbs nutrients from the dying foliage, which is crucial for the next blooming cycle.
6. Storage: Once the leaves are completely dried, cut them off. Store the bulb in a dark, cool place.
7. Re-initiate Bloom: In November or December, begin watering the bulb again to initiate a new blooming phase.

Important Note: Unlike other bulb plants such as tulips or daffodils, Amaryllis bulbs cannot be planted outdoors in gardens in frost-prone regions, as they will not survive the cold temperatures.