Amaryllis Lily Flower Bulbs Caring and Growing

Amaryllis bulbs are popular for their large, vibrant blooms and relatively easy growth process. If you want to grow amaryllis from bulbs and ensure successful germination, here are some tips:

1. Choosing the Right Bulb
Select firm, healthy bulbs that are large and free from soft spots or mold. Larger bulbs tend to produce bigger flowers.
Choose a bulb that is already showing signs of sprouting (a small green shoot is a good sign).

2. Potting and Soil
Container: Choose a pot that is about 1–2 inches wider than the bulb and has drainage holes. Amaryllis roots don’t like to sit in water.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix. A mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite works well.
Depth: Plant the bulb with about one-third of it sticking above the soil surface. Do not bury the entire bulb.

3. Watering
Initial watering: Water the bulb thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Then let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
Once the flower stalk begins to emerge, increase the frequency of watering, but avoid waterlogging.

4. Light and Temperature
Before sprouting: Place the pot in a warm, sunny location (65-75°F or 18-24°C). Indirect sunlight is fine at this stage.
After sprouting: Once the stalk appears, place it in bright, indirect sunlight to encourage flower development. A south or west-facing window is ideal.

5. Feeding
Once the leaves emerge, start feeding the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2–4 weeks. Reduce feeding once the plant starts blooming.

6. Supporting the Stalk
Amaryllis flower stalks can grow quite tall and may become top-heavy. Use a stake or support to prevent the flower stalk from tipping over as it grows.

7. Resting Phase
After the flowers fade, cut back the flower stalk (but not the leaves) to about 1–2 inches from the bulb. Allow the leaves to continue growing to store energy for the next season.
In the fall, reduce watering and allow the leaves to yellow and die back naturally. This signals the bulb to enter dormancy for about 8-10 weeks.

Once dormant, you can either leave the bulb in its pot or store it in a cool, dark place. Replant and water the bulb after the dormancy period for another bloom cycle.