Hey plant lovers! I’ve been growing amaryllis for over 10 years now, and let me tell ya – watering these beautiful bulbs can be tricky! After killing a few bulbs early on (oops!), I’ve learned exactly what these stunning plants need. Let me share my tried-and-tested tips for watering amaryllis bulbs properly.
Quick Answer
Water your amaryllis bulb when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry For most indoor environments, this means watering about once per week Never water during dormancy (usually 2-3 months), and start watering again when you see new growth.
When to Start Watering Your Amaryllis Bulb
Got a new amaryllis bulb? Here’s what ya need to know
- First week after planting: Don’t water at all! Let those roots get established
- When you see sprouts: Time to start your watering routine
- During dormancy: No water needed for 2-3 months
- After dormancy: If no growth after 2-3 months, a bit of water can wake it up
The Right Way to Water
Here’s my foolproof method for watering amaryllis:
- Water from the top: Unlike some other plants, amaryllis prefers top watering
- Use the finger test: Stick your finger about 2 cm into the soil
- If soil sticks to your finger = still moist
- If finger comes out clean = time to water
- Keep soil moist but not soggy: Overwatering is a bulb killer!
How Often Should You Water?
The general rule is once per week, but honestly, it depends on:
- Your home’s temperature
- Pot size
- Growth stage
- Humidity levels
Watering Schedule by Growth Stage:
| Growth Stage | Watering Frequency |
|---|---|
| Dormant Bulb | No water |
| New Sprouts | Light watering when top soil dries |
| Active Growth | Weekly or when top soil dries |
| Flowering | Regular weekly watering |
| Post-bloom | Reduce gradually |
Special Case: Water-Grown Amaryllis
Some folks grow amaryllis in water with pebbles. If that’s your thing:
- Keep water level 1″ below bulb bottom
- Change water every 2-3 days
- Add flower food to water
- BUT – I don’t recommend this method cuz these bulbs usually only last one season
Common Watering Mistakes to Avoid
Trust me, I’ve made all these mistakes so you don’t have to!
- ❌ Overwatering during dormancy
- ❌ Letting bulb sit in waterlogged soil
- ❌ Not checking soil moisture before watering
- ❌ Using a pot without drainage holes
- ❌ Bottom-watering (yep, that’s a no-no for amaryllis!)
My Top Tips for Success
After years of growing these beauties, here’s what works best:
- Get to know YOUR plant – every home environment is different
- When in doubt, underwater rather than overwater
- Use well-draining potting mix
- Always empty drainage tray after watering
- Adjust watering based on season and growth stage
After-Bloom Care
Once your amaryllis has finished blooming
- Cut off spent flower stalks
- Keep watering and feeding while leaves are green
- Reduce water late summer
- Stop completely when leaves yellow
- Resume watering when new growth appears
Well, there ya have it! Everything I’ve learned about watering amaryllis bulbs over the years. Remember, these plants are pretty forgiving once you get the basics down. Just keep an eye on that soil moisture and you’ll do great!
Got questions about watering your amaryllis? Drop ’em in the comments below – I love helping fellow plant parents!
Amaryllis Watering Frequency After Blooming
Remove faded blooms and cut back the stems but allow the leaves to continue to grow. Keep watering enough to keep the soil moist and feed with a bulb fertilizer. In the summer, you can move the amaryllis to a sunny spot outside. In late summer, bring the bulb indoors and reduce watering, allowing the bulb to dry out. Remove the shriveled leaves and move the pot to a cool dark place such as a basement or closet for 8 weeks. Then move it back to a warm, sunny spot and start watering again. Your amaryllis will bloom again in 6 – 8 weeks.
Learn About Amaryllis Watering for the Most Magnificent Blooms You Can Grow
Bold and beautiful, the amaryllis is one of the most popular fall planted flower bulbs to grow indoors. Amaryllis are very easy to grow and quick to bloom, cheering the winter months with flamboyant color.
When you first receive your amaryllis bulb, plant it in a pot that fits it snugly – amaryllis like to be cramped. Add a little soil to the pot and set the bulb on it then add more soil so that the top inch of the bulb is still visible above the surface. Water lightly and place the pot in a warm bright room, and a stem with a bud will soon appear. Keep the soil just moist; too much watering will cause the bulb to rot. Your amaryllis will bloom within 6 – 8 weeks after planting.
How to Grow Amaryllis Over Water // How To Rebloom An Amaryllis That Was Grown In Water
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