What do I do with my potted amaryllis after it blooms?

Amaryllis are tropical-looking blooms that grow from a bulb. These potted bulbs are often found at local stores during the holiday season and make great gifts. They bloom beautifully in red, pink, salmon, cream or white, often just in time for Christmas. Some are picotee, bicolor or even striped. With such striking, diverse appearances, amaryllis are a holiday tradition for many.

You might be wondering, what should I do with my amaryllis after it is done blooming? Can I get it to rebloom next year? They truly are the gift that keeps on giving when properly treated and cared for. They can rebloom next year, and for several years after that, without too much effort. And as the bulb grows bigger and bigger, it will usually produce more flowering stems each year. Some can even produce up to six stems with four or more flowers per stem!

It is important to note that amaryllis bulbs that are grown in water or are encased in wax are not worth saving. They have not been able to grow healthy roots and are not meant to be kept after blooming. Discard these once flowers have faded.

To get potted amaryllis to rebloom, follow these steps:

1. Remove the flowering stem(s) once blooms have faded by cutting it about an inch above the bulb. Leave the long, straplike leaves in place to continue to grow. These will photosynthesize and produce stored food in the bulb for the next bloom cycle.
2. Treat amaryllis like a houseplant, watering about once a week as needed. Do not let the soil get soggy; they do not like to be overwatered. Leave it in a warm, bright spot and fertilize just as you would any indoor plant.
3. Once all danger of frost has passed and outside temperatures have warmed, you can put your plant outside. Let it acclimate and eventually place it where it gets at least 6 hours of sun per day. Keep it watered and fertilized. If needed, bury the pot in the ground to help keep it protected during heat spells.
4. Amaryllis may eventually rebloom again on its own timetable, but to ensure holiday blooms you will want to force dormancy. When the temperature starts to cool in late August, stop watering and bring your potted bulb inside. Put it in a cool (45-50° is ideal), dark location and do not water. Remove leaves after they wither and dry. After two to three months, bring your potted bulb out and repot if necessary. Water and set it in a warm bright spot. In 4-6 weeks, buds should form and ideally you will have blooming Amaryllis for the holidays.