How do I get my amaryllis bulb to bloom year after year?

The trick to using the same bulb year after year is creating a yearly cycle.

After Growing Season – When the amaryllis’ bloom has died, and you’ve cut off all of the stalks, keep your amaryllis indoors and continue watering regularly. You’ll see more leaves continue to grow. This is a sure sign that the bulb is bulking up for next year. Placing the potted plant in front of a sunny window will help this process even more.

Spring/Summer – Once spring arrives and there is no chance of frost, move your amaryllis outdoors into a sunny location. If you choose to plant it in the ground, keep the bulb in its original pot. Continue to water regularly, but avoid getting the portion of the bulb above the soil wet. NOTE: Some leaves may die during this time. Do not worry; new leaves will grow back.

Before Growing Season (The Dormancy Period) – Before the frost begins to hit (usually between mid- August and late October), and for it to bloom again in time for the holidays, you’ll want to bring your amaryllis back indoors. During this period of time, you will not water the plant. Instead, remove the bulb from the pot, wash, and store in a cool, dry place for 6-8 weeks. During this time, you’ll notice the leaves will begin to die. This is necessary for the bulb to reach complete dormancy. As the dormancy period comes to an end, you will notice a new stalk forming. It’s time to repot and start the process all over again.

Click here to learn how to appropriately plant and water your amaryllis bulb.

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