Amaryllis Bulbs

Amaryllis Bulbs from K. van Bourgondien

Amaryllis flowers are the perfect display of holiday cheer in any setting. Amaryllis bulbs can easily be forced indoors, and are perfect as a holiday gift for clients, family, and friends. Long-lasting amaryllis, or hippeastrum, add a colorful touch of style to any décor.

How to Plant Amaryllis Bulbs

Because amaryllis are tender bulbs and not cold hardy, they're often grown as a houseplant and forced into bloom indoors during the winter months. However, you may plant the amaryllis bulbs in your garden after the last frost.

When to Plant Amaryllis Bulbs

Simply magnificent during the winter months, Amaryllis bulbs will bloom about 6-8 weeks after planting. For Christmas blooms, plant the amaryllis bulbs around the end of October to early November; for Thanksgiving blooms, plant the bulbs around the beginning of October. To stagger planting and blooming, store Amaryllis bulbs at about 50°F.

How to Store Amaryllis Bulbs

Store Amaryllis in a cool, dark place with no water or fertilizer until you are ready to plant them. The best places for the cool period are in the refrigerator (not the crisper drawer), basement or in a garage at about 50°F.

How to Force Amaryllis Bulbs

Amaryllis bulbs thrive when they are pot bound. Choose a deep pot that is not more than 2" wider than the bulb. Using good potting soil, plant the bulb so that the upper 1⁄3 of the bulb is above the soil level. Water thoroughly, then place in full sun at room temperature (65-70° F). Water only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Amaryllis will bloom within about 6-8 weeks. After the flower fades, cut down the flower stalk. Continue to water. Fertilize once a month. During the summer, plant the pot and bulb in the garden.

When to Plant Amaryllis Outside

After the last frost date, you may plant amaryllis bulbs in your garden. Choose a sunny, well-drained location for your Amaryllis bulbs. Dig to a depth of 12-15" and enrich the soil with organic matter. Replace about 9" of soil and plant the bulbs 4-6" apart. In zones 9-10, plant bulbs only 1-2" deep. Amaryllis do not like to be disturbed once planted. They grow about 18" tall and are hardy in zones 8-10.

How to Care for Amaryllis Bulbs

Amaryllis are a magnificent flower to display and brighten up any setting. For tips on how to care for them both indoors and outdoors, read our blog on How to Care for Amaryllis.