Table of Contents
Amaryllis plants are a popular choice for indoor gardening enthusiasts due to their large, vibrant blooms and relatively easy care. To ensure your amaryllis thrives and blooms beautifully year after year, it’s essential to follow a monthly care timeline. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of what to do each month to achieve gardening success.
January: Rest and Preparation
After blooming in late winter or early spring, your amaryllis enters a resting period. Keep the plant in a cool, dark place with minimal watering. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves and avoid fertilizing during this time. This rest period allows the bulb to store energy for the next blooming cycle.
February: Starting the Growth Cycle
Bring the bulb into a warm, bright location. Water sparingly until you see new growth emerging. Once the first shoots appear, increase watering slightly and begin a regular fertilizing schedule with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Ensure the pot has good drainage.
March: Promoting Bloom Development
As the flower stalks grow taller, support them with stakes if necessary. Continue watering and fertilizing consistently. Keep the plant in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Maintain a temperature of around 65-75°F (18-24°C) for optimal growth.
April: Encouraging Flowering
By late April, your amaryllis should start forming buds. Reduce watering slightly to prevent bulb rot, but do not let the soil dry out completely. Maintain regular fertilization. If the plant is indoors, ensure it receives ample sunlight or supplement with grow lights.
May: Blooming and Display
Expect flowers to open in May. Enjoy the vibrant blooms and continue to care for the plant by watering as needed and providing bright light. Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming and prevent disease.
June: Post-Bloom Care
After blooming, cut back the flower stalks to about 1-2 inches above the bulb. Continue watering and fertilizing to support the bulb’s energy reserves. Keep the plant in a warm, sunny spot and avoid overwatering to prevent rot.
July: Growth and Foliage Development
During summer, the amaryllis focuses on leaf growth. Keep watering regularly and fertilize monthly. If outdoors, ensure protection from pests and extreme weather. The foliage will help the bulb gather energy for future blooms.
August: Preparing for Dormancy
As summer ends, gradually reduce watering. Allow the leaves to yellow and die back naturally. This signals the plant is entering dormancy. Keep the bulb in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
September: Rest Period
Continue to keep the bulb in a dormant state. Do not water or fertilize during this time. Store in a cool, dark location for about 8-12 weeks. This rest period is crucial for the bulb’s health and future flowering.
October: Revival and Replanting
Begin to reintroduce the bulb to light and warmth. Check for healthy roots and remove any that are rotted. Repot the bulb into fresh, well-draining soil if necessary. Water lightly to encourage new growth.
November: Growth Resumption
As new shoots appear, increase watering and resume fertilization. Place the plant in a bright, sunny location. Maintain warm temperatures to stimulate rapid growth and prepare for flowering.
December: Final Preparations for Blooming
Ensure the plant receives ample light and proper watering. Support flower stalks if needed. With proper care, your amaryllis will be ready to bloom again in late winter or early spring, completing the yearly cycle.