How to Plant an Amaryllis Bulb

How to Plant an Amaryllis Bulb

1. Select a pot that has a drainage hole in the bottom and is at least 6-8 inches deep. Amaryllis bulbs do not need much width to grow (only about an inch of soil between the bulb and the side of the pot), but they get tall and top-heavy — a sturdy pot is essential.
2. Scoop slightly damped, sterile potting mix into the pot. Fill the pot about halfway.
3. Nestle the bulb (root-side down!) into the potting mix.
4. Continue adding potting mix up to the "shoulders" of the bulb — the top 1/3 of the bulb should remain above the soil line.
5. Water and gently adjust the bulb as the soil settles around it.

How to Care for Amaryllis

Light: Once planted, place the pot in a relatively cool, bright location. Direct sunlight is not essential.

Water: Water sparingly until you see about 2" of new growth. In some cases, the flower stalk appears first; sometimes it's the strappy leaves. Either way is fine. Once the plant is in active growth, water regularly as you would any other houseplant.

Care: Once the bulb is actively growing, turn the pot every other day or so to keep the stems from growing at an angle. Buds will appear and blooms will begin to open within 5-8 weeks. To prolong the blooms, keep the pot away from heat and direct sunlight. To promote blooming, use a houseplant fertilizer with a high phosphorus content (this is the middle number: fertilizer packages always show three numbers representing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium).

When Will Amaryllis Bulbs Bloom?

It depends. In general, it takes five to eight weeks for amaryllis to bloom, but this timing depends on many factors, including the type of amaryllis, air temperature, and how long the bulb has been dormant, among others. For the ultimate show, plant several different varieties and be prepared for weeks of overlapping color and form!

Amaryllis are easy to plant and easy to care for, and will reward you with spectacular blooms.