The beautiful Amaryllis that once brightened your home is not merely a one-time wonder. This resilient bulb has the potential to bloom again. With a little patience and a few simple steps, you can enjoy stunning flowers year after year.
The initial and most crucial stage is post-bloom nourishment. After the flowers have faded, remove the spent blooms, but leave the flower stalk until it naturally yellows and withers. It is vital not to cut the strap-like leaves, as they serve as essential nutrient factories for the plant. Treat your Amaryllis like a typical houseplant: place it in a bright, sunny window and water it regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between watering. Fertilise monthly with a balanced liquid houseplant food, particularly during the spring and summer. This period of active growth is essential for the bulb to store the energy required for flowering. Once the risk of frost has passed, consider moving the pot outdoors for a summer break, placing it in a location with morning sun or dappled light to avoid direct sunlight exposure.
Next is the essential dormancy period—the plant’s winter rest. Around late summer or early autumn (August/September), watering and feeding should be stopped. If the plant is outside, bring it indoors before the first frost occurs. The leaves naturally start to yellow and die back as the plant enters its dormant period. Once they are fully yellow, they are cut off. The potted bulb should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry location, such as a shed or cool cupboard, without watering for a minimum of 8–12 weeks.
After the dormancy period the pot can be removed from storage and the bulb repotted in fresh potting compost, ensuring that the top third of the bulb remains exposed. Water it thoroughly and place it in a warm, bright, and sunny spot. Water sparingly until a new flower stalk begins to emerge, then resume regular watering. If you have been diligent during the active growth phase, your Amaryllis will reward you with a magnificent second bloom in 6-8 weeks time.
