Overview of the Blooming Amaryllis
At Logee’s, we sell all our Amaryllis around the holidays and then we don’t see them again until next year. However, last week I was in our greenhouses and found lots of new varieties that were in bloom, out of bloom, and other various stages of growth. Many of these Amaryllis are still in the testing phase (are the blooms big enough, do they hold on well, do they grow to the desired height, etc) but the plant care remains the same. Take a look at what to do with your Amaryllis after the bloom.
Amaryllis 'Aphrodite', a new variety that is being tested. Notice the flower stem that is almost finished blooming. It will need to be trimmed. Remove dead flowers from the stem as each blossom passes. Once all buds have bloomed and flowering is complete, cut the entire stem one to tow inches above the bulb. Leaves should be left on the plant until they turn yellow as they provide nutrients for the bulb so it will rebloom the next year.
Amaryllis can be grown and cared for like any other tropical plant. They can be moved outside in the summer and back inside in the winter. There are many different thoughts on how to re-bloom them. Some say, grow the plant until fall and then take the bulb out of the pot and store it in the refrigerator for 6 weeks. Finally, take the refrigerated bulb out about 6-8 weeks before you want it to flower and start the potting process and flowering process all over again.
It’s important to give your plant a dormancy period for about 6-8 week. Place the plant (bulb in the pot) in a cool ( 55 degree F), dimly lit area and don’t water. A cool north room works well. In November (or after your designated time) move your plant into a warm sunny window and water accurately (don’t over water) until your leaves appear. Flowers should bloom in time for the holidays.