How to care for amaryllis bulb…

Amaryllis bulbs are relatively easy to care for, and with the right conditions, they can produce beautiful blooms year after year. Here’s a guide to help you care for your amaryllis bulb:

1. Planting the Bulb

• Container: Choose a pot slightly larger than the bulb with drainage holes. A snug fit (1–2 inches wider than the bulb) is ideal.

• Soil: Use well-draining potting soil. Place the bulb so that about one-third of it is above the soil line.

• Watering: Water the soil lightly after planting and keep it barely moist until the bulb shows growth.

2. Light and Temperature

• Light: Place the pot in a sunny window with indirect light to help it grow.

• Temperature: During growth, keep it in a warm spot (65–75°F). Once blooming, cooler temperatures (60–65°F) help extend the life of the flowers.

3. Watering and Fertilizing

• Watering: Water moderately as the stem and leaves grow. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid letting the bulb sit in water to prevent rot.

• Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer every 2–4 weeks once growth starts, stopping once it blooms.

4. After Bloom Care

• Deadheading: After the flowers fade, cut off the flower stalk about 1 inch above the bulb but keep the leaves, as they help store energy.

• Light and Water: Keep the plant in a sunny location and water regularly to keep the leaves healthy. Fertilize monthly through the summer.

5. Resting Period for Reblooming

• Reducing Water: In late summer or early fall, reduce watering and allow the leaves to die back naturally.

• Dormancy: Once leaves are dry, stop watering completely. Move the bulb to a cool, dark place (50–55°F) for 8–10 weeks.

• Replanting: After the rest period, bring the bulb back to warmth and light, and start watering lightly to initiate the next bloom cycle.

With proper care, your amaryllis bulb can bloom beautifully each winter!