Amaryllis are one of the easiest and most rewarding bulbs to grow indoors, especially during the winter holidays when we’re craving a little extra color. With just a bit of care, these cheerful blooms can brighten your home for weeks and even rebloom year after year. This guide covers everything you need to know to plant and care for Amaryllis with confidence.

When Is the Best Time to Plant Amaryllis Bulbs?

Plant your Amaryllis bulbs in fall or early winter, anytime from September through January. Most varieties bloom about 6-8 weeks after planting, though timing can vary depending on the specific variety and growing conditions.

How to Transplant an Amaryllis

Your Amaryllis will arrive pre-potted with no need to transplant, you can simply slip the nursery pot into the decorative pot of your choosing. When your Amaryllis outgrows its container or if you want to move your Amaryllis from its nursery pot to a planter, this is how you transplant:

1. Select a new pot that’s just slightly larger than the current one and has a drainage hole.
2. Prepare fresh, well-draining soil like our Living Soil.
3. Trim any spent stalks before gently removing the bulb from its pot.
4. Loosen the roots, then replant the bulb using the planting method described below.

Your Amaryllis will appreciate the extra space to continue producing strong roots and stunning blooms.

How to Plant Amaryllis Bulbs

1. Choose the right pot: Select a container that’s 6-8” wide and has a drainage hole.
2. Prepare your soil: Use a well-draining potting mix like our Living Soil to prevent soggy roots.
3. Plant the bulb: Position the bulb so the pointed end faces up, packing soil firmly around it while leaving about one-third of the bulb above the soil line.
4. Water lightly: After planting, water sparingly until you see new growth appear. Once your Amaryllis begins to grow, increase watering and keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy.
5. Provide bright, indirect light: Place your pot in a sunny spot with bright, indirect sunlight, and rotate it regularly to encourage straight, upright growth.

You can expect to see blooms 6-10 weeks after planting, often two to three large flowers per stalk. To extend the life of your blooms, move your Amaryllis out of direct sunlight once flowers open.

Caring for Wax-Wrapped Amaryllis Bulbs

Wax-wrapped Amaryllis bulbs make a beautiful, low-maintenance gift. Since the bulb contains all the nutrients it needs, no watering or soil is required while it’s blooming!

• Place the wax-wrapped bulb in bright, indirect sunlight.
• Rotate regularly to encourage straight growth.
• After blooming, snip the spent flower stalk close to the bulb.

To replant for future blooms, gently peel the wax from the bulb, follow the potting instructions above and the tips below.

How to Save Your Amaryllis for Next Season

Keep in mind that Amaryllis bloom in winter and then shift into a growth phase through spring and early summer. During this time, regular fertilizing will help the bulb store energy for its next bloom cycle. By August, stop fertilizing and gradually reduce watering to encourage the bulb to enter dormancy, this rest period is essential for reliable reblooming. You’ll notice the leaves begin to yellow; allow them to fade completely before removing them. Once dormant, store the bulb in a cool, dark place for 8-10 weeks. When fall returns, repot your bulb in fresh soil, begin watering again, and get ready for another beautiful season of blooms.

How to Care for Amaryllis Blooms

Don’t be alarmed if your bulb sends up leaves before the flower stalk, this is completely normal. The stem will follow soon after. Depending on the variety and size of the bulb, you may see one or multiple flower stalks.

Once the blooms appear, you can:

• Cut the stalk for use as a long-lasting cut flower in a vase, or
• Enjoy it potted or in wax as a festive indoor centerpiece.

After the flowers fade, snip them off or cut the stalk back to within a few inches of the bulb. Continue watering and providing light until the foliage yellows, then follow the instructions above for how to save your Amaryllis for the next season.

Shop Amaryllis

With just a little seasonal care, your Amaryllis can become a cherished part of your yearly gardening rhythm, brightening winter days and rewarding you with bigger, better blooms each year. Whether you’re growing your first bulb or expanding a long-time collection, we’re here to help you enjoy every step. Explore our selection of premium Amaryllis and trusted garden supplies to get started on your next stunning winter display.