Gardens

Force Amaryllis Bulbs to Bloom

Add a little color and beauty to your surroundings this winter by forcing amaryllis bulbs to bloom.

By Shelley Wigglesworth|Dec 05 2011| Print icon

Add a little color and beauty to your surroundings this winter by forcing amaryllis bulbs to bloom. A holiday tradition and stunning centerpiece, amaryllis flowers come in fiery red, creamy white and pink. The pink flowers are a cross between red and white plants and sometimes bloom with faint red and white streaks or blotches, that can add visual interest.

Force Amaryllis Bulbs to Bloom

Credit: Pixabay
Force Amaryllis Bulbs to Bloom
Credit: Pixabay Choose the area you wish to display your amaryllis plant ahead of time and go with the flower color that will look best with the colors and tones of the room before purchasing bulbs. You may want to choose a display container ahead of time as well, although a simple plant pot or decorative vase will work just fine.
A black watering can, two flower pots (one white and one orange), small stones, and a turnip with roots are arranged on a green surface.

Amaryllis Supplies

Credit: Shelley Wigglesworth
Amaryllis Supplies
Credit: Shelley Wigglesworth

Amaryllis Bulb Supplies

Amaryllis bulb or bulbs A decorative or festive pot or vase slightly larger than the grouping of bulbs Potting mix Drainage pebbles Wooden stake for support

Instructions to Force Amaryllis Bulbs to Bloom

1. Choose healthy bulbs. Bulbs that are firm and still have some roots at the base are the best choice. Avoid withered, wrinkled and spongy bulbs. Florists and garden centers sell bulbs individually and department stores sell amaryllis kits with all the supplies included for growing in a box priced at around $6.99. Note: you may not be able to inspect the bulbs in the kits if the boxes are sealed.
A hand holds a large bulb with roots and a sprout against a textured teal background. The person is wearing a gold watch.

Bulbs that are firm and still have some roots at the base are the best choice.

Credit: Shelley Wigglesworth
Bulbs that are firm and still have some roots at the base are the best choice.
Credit: Shelley Wigglesworth 2. Line a plant pot or vase with up to two inches of drainage rocks, then fill the container half way with potting mix. 3. Place the bulbs roots down into the soil. Loosely cover the bulbs with a bit more soil, leaving the tops of the bulbs exposed.
A potted bulb partially covered with soil in a white ceramic planter, placed on a textured green surface.

Loosely cover the bulbs with a bit more soil, leaving the tops of the bulbs exposed.

Credit: Shelley Wigglesworth
Loosely cover the bulbs with a bit more soil, leaving the tops of the bulbs exposed.
Credit: Shelley Wigglesworth 4. Insert a support stick in the container along side the bulb. The flowers of the amaryllis are top heavy and it is best to have the support in place before the plant flowers. 5. Water enough to keep the soil moist. 6. Place the pot in bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist, but not wet.

Maintenance for Amaryllis Bulbs

In approximately two weeks, the stalks of the bulbs will begin to grow. Flower buds will follow. Turn the pot every few days to allow for even light exposure on all sides of the plant. Once the flowers bloom, they will remain beautiful and fresh for up to two weeks. When the blooms have passed their peak, cut the plant back to just above the bulb. Keep the soil moist and plant outside if desired after the danger of a frost in the spring. Soon your amaryllis will once again bloom for you to enjoy. Dig up the bulbs in September and store in a cool dry place until the next holiday season when you can start the cycle all over again.

Shelley Wigglesworth

Shelley (Fleming) Wigglesworth is an award-winning freelance journalist from Maine and a certified Maine Master Gardener who writes gardening articles on a regular basis for NewEngland.com. Her work can be found in the following publications: The Village Magazine, York County Coast Star, Yankee Magazine (online), National Fisherman Magazine, Commercial Fisheries News, Points East Magazine, Coastal Angler Magazine and The Maine Lobstermen's Association's "Landings."

More by Shelley Wigglesworth

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