Introduction

Amaryllis is a beautiful flowering plant that thrives in the summer and adds charm to any indoor or outdoor space. But once the summer season passes, many plant owners are unsure of what to do with their potted amaryllis. In this article, we will guide you on how to care for your amaryllis and what to do with it once the summer is over.

Caring for Amaryllis in Summer

Summer is the prime growing season for amaryllis, and they require a little bit of extra attention during this time. Here are some tips for caring for your amaryllis during the summer:

Keep the plant in bright, indirect sunlight.

Water the plant thoroughly and keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.

Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.

Remove any yellow or dying leaves and spent flowers.

Provide support for the tall flower stalks.

Dormancy Period

Once the summer growing season comes to an end, your amaryllis will need a period of dormancy to prepare for the next growing cycle. During this time, the plant will stop producing new foliage and flowers and will focus on building up energy in the bulb. Here's how to care for your amaryllis during its dormancy period:

Stop watering the plant and allow the soil to dry out completely.

Remove the foliage once it turns yellow or brown and dies back.

Store the plant in a cool, dark place with a temperature of around 50-60°F (10-15°C).

Do not fertilize the plant during this time.

Preparing for the Next Season

In the spring, once the danger of frost has passed, it's time to prepare your amaryllis for the next growing season. Here's what you need to do:

Remove the bulb from its cool, dark storage place.

Inspect the bulb for any signs of damage or rot and discard any that are damaged.

Plant the bulb in fresh soil, leaving about a third of it above the surface.

Water the plant thoroughly and keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.

Put the plant in a bright, sunny location, but not in direct sunlight.

In Conclusion

Amaryllis is an easy and rewarding plant to care for, as long as you follow the right steps. Keep your plant healthy and happy during the summer months, and remember to give it a period of dormancy in the fall. With a little bit of care, your amaryllis can continue to brighten up your home or garden year after year!