Amaryllis (Hippeastrum) is one of the most breathtaking flowering plants, known for its large, trumpet-shaped blooms in shades of red, pink, white, and orange. Whether grown indoors or in the garden, this bulbous plant can continue to bloom year after year if given the proper care after flowering. However, many gardeners struggle to get their amaryllis to rebloom. The secret lies in understanding its growth cycle and providing the right conditions for dormancy and regrowth.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step amaryllis care after flowering, including watering, fertilization, dormancy, and troubleshooting tips to ensure a healthy and vibrant plant for years to come.
Understanding the Amaryllis Growth Cycle
Before diving into post-flowering care, it’s important to understand the growth stages of amaryllis so you can meet its specific needs at each phase:
- Flowering Stage (Winter – Early Spring): The plant produces large blooms that last for several weeks.
- Foliage Growth (Spring – Summer): After blooming, the leaves remain green and help store energy for the next flowering cycle.
- Dormancy Period (Late Summer – Fall): The plant enters a resting phase where the bulb replenishes nutrients.
- Rebloom (Winter): With the right care, a new flower stalk will emerge, and the cycle repeats.
Proper post-flowering care is crucial for amaryllis to rebloom, so let’s explore what you need to do once the flowers fade.
Step-by-Step Guide to Caring for Amaryllis After Flowering
1. Deadhead the Flowers and Remove the Stalk
Once the blooms start to fade, cut off the flower stalk about 1-2 inches above the bulb. This prevents the plant from wasting energy on seed production and instead directs it toward strengthening the bulb. However, do not remove the leaves, as they play a crucial role in photosynthesis.
2. Continue Watering and Fertilizing
During the spring and summer months, your amaryllis is in its active growth phase. Continue to:
✔ Water moderately: Keep the soil slightly moist but avoid overwatering, as this can cause bulb rot.
✔ Fertilize regularly: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) every two weeks to help the bulb store energy for the next flowering season.
💡 Tip: If growing amaryllis outdoors, place it in a sunny location (like a south or west-facing window) to maximize light exposure.
3. Reduce Watering and Prepare for Dormancy
In late summer (around August), begin gradually reducing watering. This signals the plant to enter dormancy. Eventually, the leaves will start to turn yellow and wither—this is normal and part of the natural cycle.
Steps to prepare for dormancy:
✔ Stop watering once the leaves have completely dried out.
✔ Trim back the leaves to about an inch above the bulb.
✔ Dig up the bulb (if growing outdoors) or remove the pot from a well-lit area.
4. Store the Bulb for Dormancy (Rest Period)
For 6-8 weeks, amaryllis bulbs need a period of rest in cool, dry conditions to promote strong regrowth.
How to store amaryllis bulbs:
- Place the bulb in a paper bag or box filled with dry peat moss, sand, or sawdust.
- Keep it in a dark location at 10-12°C (50-54°F), such as a basement, garage, or refrigerator.
- Do not water or fertilize during this period.
⚠ Important: If storing in a fridge, keep it away from fruits like apples, as they release ethylene gas, which can prevent blooming.
5. Replant and Wake Up the Bulb for Reblooming
After the rest period (usually in November or December), it’s time to replant your amaryllis to encourage new growth.
Steps to wake up the bulb:
- Inspect the bulb: Remove any dried outer layers and check for mold or damage.
- Choose a pot: Select a container that is 1-2 inches wider than the bulb, with good drainage holes.
- Prepare the soil: Use well-draining potting mix, rich in organic matter.
- Plant the bulb: Position the bulb so that the top one-third remains above the soil.
- Water lightly: Give it a small amount of water and place the pot in a bright, warm spot (18-21°C or 65-70°F).
🌞 Light exposure is crucial! Move the pot to a sunny window or a warm greenhouse to encourage new shoots.
In 4-6 weeks, you should see new growth, and soon after, stunning flowers will reappear.
Troubleshooting: Why Isn’t My Amaryllis Blooming Again?
If your amaryllis isn’t producing flowers, here are the most common reasons and solutions:
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No flowers, only leaves | No dormancy period or lack of nutrients | Ensure a proper rest period and fertilize regularly in spring/summer |
| Bulb is shrinking | Overwatering or poor soil | Use well-draining soil and avoid excessive watering |
| No new growth | Stored in the wrong conditions | Keep bulbs in a cool, dark place for at least 6 weeks |
| Weak or small flowers | Bulb is too young or lacks energy | Allow leaves to grow fully before dormancy and use high-phosphorus fertilizer |
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Beautiful Amaryllis Blooms Every Year!
By following these simple but effective post-flowering care steps, your amaryllis will reward you with stunning, vibrant blooms year after year.
🌿 Key Takeaways:
✔ Cut off faded flowers but keep the leaves intact.
✔ Continue watering and fertilizing in spring/summer.
✔ Reduce watering in late summer to trigger dormancy.
✔ Store the bulb in a cool, dark place for at least 6 weeks.
✔ Replant in fresh soil and provide warmth for reblooming.
With proper care, your amaryllis will not only survive but thrive season after season. 🌸✨
💬 Have you successfully rebloomed your amaryllis? Share your tips and experiences below! 👇