How to Grow and Care for Amaryllis Bulbs Indoors

The Amaryllis originates from South America, particularly regions of Brazil, Argentina, and Peru. It belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family and has been cultivated for centuries, with its striking flowers symbolizing beauty and strength. The name "amaryllis" comes from the Greek word "amarysso," which means "to sparkle" or "to shine," reflecting its vibrant, eye-catching blooms. While the plant is native to tropical climates, it has been widely adapted for cultivation indoors, making it a favorite for colder regions.

It is particularly popular during the holiday season due to its vivid red, white, and pink blossoms, which fit well with traditional Christmas colors. Its ability to bloom indoors during winter months makes it a festive choice for homes seeking bright, seasonal decorations. The plant also symbolizes renewal and strength, themes that resonate with the hope and celebration of the new year. 

Starting Your Amaryllis Bulb

The Amaryllis needs a good foundation to begin its blooming journey indoors. When selecting a bulb, choose a large, healthy bulb that feels firm to the touch as they generally produce more blooms. Amaryllis bulbs like a snug pot with only an inch of space around the bulb, so opt for a planter that is slightly larger than the bulb, about 6-8 inches deep with any well-draining potting mix. You can also get a pre-potted amaryllis kit which is a convenient option for those who want a hassle-free experience, saving time and effort compared to buying supplies separately!

Potting Step-By-Step

1. Fill the pot halfway with a well-draining potting mix.
2. Place the bulb in the soil with the pointed side up, leaving the top third exposed. This positioning helps prevent rotting and promotes healthy growth.
3. Cover the bulb with potting mix, packing down to remove air pockets but avoid packing down too hard to avoid compaction. 
4. Water the soil just enough to moisten it, but avoid soaking. The bulb doesn’t need much water until it begins to sprout!
5. Place the potted bulb in a warm, sunny spot (65–75°F) to encourage sprouting and avoid direct sunlight until the bulb has sprouted. After sprouting, move it to a bright, indirect light location.

Caring for Your Potted Amaryllis 

Once the bulb starts to grow, it requires consistent care to ensure healthy development and flowering. 

Sunlight

Amaryllis needs bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. A west or east-facing window is ideal, but it can get scorched by direct midday sun from a south-facing window unless the light is diffused. Be sure to rotate the pot every few days to encourage straight, balanced growth. 

Water

After the bulb has sprouted and the flower stalk begins to grow, water the plant whenever the top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry. Reduce watering after the blooms fade to allow the bulb to rest and recharge for next season’s growth.

Fertilizing 

Feed your amaryllis with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks once the stalks appear. This gives it extra nutrients to fuel bloom development!

Supporting the Stalks 

Amaryllis blooms are large and heavy, which may cause the stalks to lean. Use a bamboo stake or similar support if needed to keep them upright.

How to Store Your Amaryllis for Next Season

Don’t toss that amaryllis once the holidays are over—it’s got more to give! With a little care, it’ll bloom again, saving you from buying a new plant for many seasons to come!

Cut Back the Blooms

Once the flowers have faded, prune the flower stalks back to the top of the bulb, but do not remove the leaves. The leaves are still important for photosynthesis which will help the bulb recharge and store energy to bloom next season! 

Continue Watering and Fertilizing

Keep watering and proper care through the spring and summer months so the leaves can store energy into the bulb. You can continue to fertilize it every 2-3 weeks.

Prepare for Dormancy

In later summer or early fall, stop watering and fertilizing the bulb and allow the leaves to naturally yellow and wither. Once the leaves have completely withered and died back, cut back the amaryllis leaves just above the bulb. 

Store the Bulb

Place the dormant bulb in a cool, dry place (between 50–55°F) for at least 8–10 weeks. A basement or a cool room works well, but avoid storing it near ripe fruit as ethylene gas can inhibit blooming.

Repot and Restart

After the dormancy period, repot the bulb with fresh potting mix, water it lightly, and place it in a warm location to begin the cycle again. With proper care, you can enjoy the stunning blooms and look forward to their yearly return! 

FAQs

How long does it take for an amaryllis bulb to bloom?

It typically takes 6–8 weeks for an amaryllis bulb to bloom after planting, depending on temperature and light conditions. Warmer, sunnier spots help speed up the growth process!

Why is my amaryllis only growing leaves and not flowering?

This can happen if the bulb didn’t store enough energy or if it didn’t go through a proper dormancy period. To encourage blooms, allow the bulb a resting period in a cool, dark spot, and make sure to feed it during the growing season to build up its energy for next time.

How long do the blooms usually last on an amaryllis?

Amaryllis blooms typically last between 2-3 weeks, depending on the indoor temperature and light conditions. Each stalk can produce multiple blooms that open in succession, extending the blooming period for a few additional days. Cooler temperatures and indirect light can help prolong the life of the flowers!

Are amaryllis poisonous to cats?