The ominous looking bulb and the sophisticated bloom of the Amaryllis may intimidate some indoor gardeners. Yet, these holiday treats are as easy as Paperwhites to grow. After their blooms are gone, their care is as easy as Indoor Foliage and they like to be repeat performers! So lets take a look at growing this holiday special.

Probably the hardest part is making a decision on the color to choose. Amaryllis come in shades of red, pink, white, salmon or striped. Once you have the bulb, choose a pot that is slightly wider (1’) than the bulb. The top of the bulb needs to be 1/3 above the soil level and the roots need several inches of soil below to grow. Make sure the pot is deep enough and has holes for drainage. Clay pots are ideal because the weight helps to balance the blooming plant. Use a well-drained soil for potting. Just add water, warmth and sunshine (4 hours), and you’re on your way.

Roots of the Amaryllis do not like to be soggy, so let the soil dry slightly between waterings. About every 4^th watering give it a general-purpose fertilizer (15-30-15). Growth of the bud stalks precedes the foliage and in 6 –8 weeks it should be in bloom. Once it begins blooming, remove from direct sun and put it in a cooler location to extend its bloom time. Remove the blooms that wilt with age.

After it’s done blooming remove the bloom stalks only, leaving the foliage for vital photosynthetic functions. Return to warmth and sun; treat it as a Indoor Foliage. With time, leaves may begin to yellow, some or all of the leaves may fall off signaling dormancy. Move to a cooler (45 – 50 degrees), darker location and cut back on the water. (Do not allow it to freeze!)

The bulb should stay dormant 10 – 12 weeks before trying to revitalize it. After the bulb has been allowed to "rest", bring it back to warmth, water and sunshine. (If growth appears before the dormant period is up, move it back into more hospitable conditions.) If you want to change pots, do it right after it’s done blooming or at the end of the dormant period. Easy enough! The cycle begins again!

For any questions you have on this article, or any topic of concern, email us—or better yet, come by and talk to one of our professional staff members. Remember, Phelan Gardens is open year-round!

For additional information, check the following links:

• Enjoy Early Spring by Growing Amaryllis Plants Indoors
• Growing Amaryllis - University of Nebraska