Can You Plant Amaryllis in Water?

Amaryllis is a beautiful flowering plant that is commonly grown in gardens, homes, and offices. It produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers that come in various colors, making it an ideal plant for both indoor and outdoor décor. When planting amaryllis, most people choose to use soil. But have you ever wondered if it's possible to plant amaryllis in water?

The Short Answer

The short answer is yes; you can plant amaryllis in water. However, there are some things to keep in mind if you decide to go this route. Amaryllis is a bulb plant, which means it needs specific conditions to thrive. Planting it in water requires the right amount of water, sunlight, and nutrients for the plant to grow and produce flowers successfully.

How to Plant Amaryllis in Water

When planting amaryllis in water, there are a few steps to follow:

Start by selecting a large, clear glass vase that's at least six inches in diameter and tall enough to accommodate the roots and the bulb.

Fill the vase with enough water to submerge the roots but not the bulb. Before placing the bulb in the water, make sure to rinse it thoroughly and remove any dead or dry scales.

Place the bulb on top of the vase and make sure the base of the bulb is barely touching the water. Avoid submerging the bulb in water as it may rot.

Place the vase in a sunny location and maintain a temperature of around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep the water level consistent by adding water when it gets low.

Once the roots have grown to about three inches, you can add some liquid plant food to the water. Use a weak solution and change the water every two weeks to avoid stagnant water.

Within three to six weeks after planting, you should see the amaryllis bulb start to sprout and develop leaves. It will take about 6 to 8 weeks for the plant to bloom. Once the flowers have bloomed, you can cut them off and enjoy your beautiful amaryllis!

Tips for Growing Amaryllis in Water

Here are some tips to keep in mind when growing amaryllis in water:

Use distilled water or rainwater to plant your amaryllis as tap water contains mineral salts that can harm the bulb.

Keep an eye on the water level in the vase and make sure it doesn't go below the roots.

Place the vase in a sunny location, but avoid direct sunlight as the water can become too hot and harm the plant.

If you notice algae growth in the vase, change the water and add some activated charcoal or a few drops of hydrogen peroxide to the water to control the algae.

Once the blooming season is over, you can move the plant to soil by carefully removing it from the water and planting it in a pot with well-draining soil.

Conclusion

While amaryllis is traditionally grown in soil, planting it in water is a great way to experiment with its growth and add an interesting touch to your décor. Follow the steps above for planting and caring for amaryllis in water, and you'll be rewarded with a gorgeous plant for years to come.