Amaryllis Care Guide

Amaryllis Care – Quick Facts

Light Exposure	Bright indirect light indoors; filtered shade or morning sun outdoors
Watering Needs	Low during dormancy; moderate when growing
Mature Size	Up to 2 feet tall
Growth Rate	Moderate to fast after sprouting
Maintenance Level	Low to medium
Blooming Season	Late fall to early spring (indoors); varies in outdoor settings
Cold Hardiness (USDA Zone)	Zones 9–11 (protect from frost)
Soil Type	Well-draining, organic-rich soil (e.g., Black Gold potting mix)

With its tall stems and vibrant, trumpet-shaped blooms, the amaryllis flower brings a dramatic splash of color to indoor and outdoor spaces alike. Whether you’re growing bulbs for winter cheer or adding bold accents to your garden, this stunning plant is surprisingly easy to grow with the right care.

Planting

Indoor/Potted Planting Instructions

The amaryllis is often grown indoors for its dramatic, showy blooms. Start your amaryllis care by choosing a pot that’s about one inch wider than the bulb. Ensure it has a drainage hole at the bottom to prevent standing water. Plant the bulb with the top third left above the soil line. Use a balanced, high-quality mix such as Black Gold, which supports healthy root development and moisture balance. Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect sunlight.

Outdoor/Grounded Planting Instructions

If you’re growing the amaryllis flower outdoors in Tucson or a similarly warm climate, make sure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Choose a location with filtered shade or gentle morning sun. Plant the bulb just deep enough to leave the upper third exposed, and mulch lightly if needed. Outdoor amaryllis should be protected from freezing temperatures—either by lifting the bulbs and bringing them inside or using frost cloth if borderline hardy.

Watering

During dormancy, the amaryllis prefers dry conditions. Begin watering only after signs of new foliage appear. Once it starts growing, keep the soil evenly moist—but not soggy. Overwatering is a common mistake in amaryllis care and can lead to bulb rot. Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water.

Fertilizing

After flower buds begin to emerge, feed your amaryllis flower every two weeks with a phosphorus-rich fertilizer. A product like Schultz Bloom Plus 10-60-10 encourages large, vibrant blooms. Continue fertilizing throughout the bloom cycle and into the early foliage growth stage.

Growth Habits & Amaryllis Plant Life Cycle

Amaryllis plants follow a distinct rhythm of growth and rest. After flowering, the foliage should be allowed to grow and store energy for the next blooming cycle. Even after the amaryllis flower fades, resist the urge to cut back the leaves immediately. Only trim once they have yellowed and dried naturally.

Once the leaves die back, stop watering and allow the bulb to rest in a cool, dry place. The dormant period typically lasts 6–8 weeks. To restart the cycle, repot the bulb in fresh soil and return it to bright light in early November. With the right amaryllis care, you can expect a new bloom year after year.

Starting a new garden this season? Check out our Garden Calendar for more tips on seasonal planting! We also have additional info on specific plant types and planting setups in our Featured Articles; take a look!

More on Amaryllis Care

Routine Maintenance

• Rotate the pot regularly to prevent the tall amaryllis flower stalk from leaning toward the light.
• Remove faded amaryllis flowers promptly, along with any developing seed pods, to redirect energy back to the bulb.
• Provide stable temperatures, avoiding cold drafts and direct heat sources.

Care Tips

• Indoors, keep the plant away from direct afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.
• Outdoors, consider planting in decorative containers that can be moved inside as the seasons change.
• Always use fresh potting mix when restarting growth to avoid soil-borne pathogens.

Final Thoughts on the Amaryllis

Whether grown as a stunning indoor centerpiece or a resilient outdoor bloomer, the amaryllis flower is surprisingly easy to care for with a little attention. Its large, trumpet-shaped blooms and dramatic height make it a favorite during the winter months. With proper care, your amaryllis will provide beautiful blooms year after year—perfect for brightening your home or garden.

Ready to Bring the Beauty of Amaryllis Home? At Harlow Gardens, we carry premium amaryllis bulbs, rich potting soils, and the specialty fertilizers your plants need to thrive. Whether you’re creating a seasonal indoor display or adding vibrant blooms to your Tucson garden, our team is here to help. Stop by the nursery or give us a call—we’d love to help you grow something beautiful.