Amaryllis Bulb Care: From Planting to Bloom

Quick answer

Plant amaryllis bulbs with the top third above soil, water sparingly until growth appears, then keep the soil lightly moist and provide bright indirect light for steady blooms.

Amaryllis bulb care FAQ

How deep should I plant an amaryllis bulb?

Plant the bulb so that the top one-third to one-half remains above the soil line. Use a pot only 1-2 inches wider than the bulb diameter with drainage holes. Firm the soil gently around the bulb.

How often should I water amaryllis?

Water very sparingly until you see about 2 inches of growth. Then water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week. Pour water onto the soil, not the bulb crown. Never let the pot sit in standing water. A consistent amaryllis watering schedule is key: less at first, regular once growth starts.

How much light does an amaryllis need?

Place it in bright, indirect light, such as an east or west window. Direct south sun can scorch leaves. Rotate the pot every few days so the flower stalk grows straight. Too little light causes weak, leggy growth.

How long do amaryllis blooms last?

Each bloom lasts about 2-3 weeks. Staggered stalks can extend the show to 6-8 weeks. Keep the plant away from heat vents and drafts to prolong flowers. Remove spent blooms to keep the display tidy.

What do I do with amaryllis after it blooms?

Cut the flower stalk down to 1-2 inches above the bulb after blooms fade. Continue watering and fertilizing the leaves every 2-4 weeks with a balanced houseplant fertilizer. The leaves recharge the bulb for next year. In late summer, stop watering and let the leaves die back naturally. Store the bulb in a cool, dark place for 8-10 weeks before repotting. Amaryllis after bloom care is essential for reblooming: keep leaves growing, then give the bulb a dry rest period.

Why isn't my amaryllis blooming?

Common causes: too little light during leaf growth, not enough fertilizer, or skipping the dry rest period. Bulbs need 8-10 weeks of dormancy to reset. Also, very small bulbs may not have enough energy to bloom. Patience and proper seasonal care usually fix it. Check your amaryllis blooming tips: light, feed, and rest are the three pillars.

Product spotlight

• Majestic Blooms: This double arrangement features two premium bulbs nestled together in an elegant emerald green oval container. Two bulbs in one container give you a fuller display with multiple bloom stalks, but they also share the same soil volume, so careful watering is even more important to avoid root rot.