Amaryllis Care

A popular indoor plant in the winter and spring is
the amaryllis, with large lily-shaped flowers on
tall stems. They are becoming a popular holiday
gift. As a bulb, it shares some care and growth
methods used with other bulbs. However, because of
its background as a tropical plant and bloom cycle,
there are differences. The bulb is NOT winter hardy,
so will not survive planted outdoors in northern
states. The amaryllis blooms indoors on a yearly
cycle. With proper care, the bulb will flower again
each year.

Growing Instructions

Plant bulb pointed end up, top just above the soil
surface. Place in a warm room (70 to 75 degrees F).
Avoid direct sunlight. Keep soil moist. Water more
frequently as leave grow and flowers open. Turn
plant when stems lean toward light. Support top
heavy plant with stakes or small stones at the base.

Aftercare

After flowering, water and fertilize regularly. When
leaves start turning yellow, water only as needed until
foliage dies. Maintain amaryllis indoors, or bury pot
in semi-shade outside when frost danger has passed. Dig
up just before frost. Let dormant amaryllis remain dry
through summer. Cut off dry, yellowed foliage just
above the bulb. Repot every 2-3 years.