Amaryllis Bulb Storage: A Guide to Overwintering Amaryllis Bulbs
Amaryllis bulbs are popular early-blooming bulbs that produce big, dramatic splashes of color in the dead of winter. Once those impressive blossoms have faded, however, don’t despair! Storing amaryllis bulbs over the winter is an easy and effective way to get recurring blooms for years to come.
Why Store Amaryllis Bulbs?
Storing amaryllis bulbs over the winter allows the bulbs to rest and replenish their energy stores. This process is essential for ensuring that the bulbs will produce healthy blooms the following year.
When to Store Amaryllis Bulbs
The best time to store amaryllis bulbs is after the flowers have faded and the foliage has started to die back. This typically occurs in late winter or early spring.
How to Store Amaryllis Bulbs
To store amaryllis bulbs, follow these steps:
- Cut back the flower stalks. Once the flowers have faded, cut back the flower stalks to 1/2 an inch (1.5 cm) above the bulb.
- Allow the foliage to die back. Do not cut the leaves yet! The bulb needs the leaves to gather energy for the winter. If possible, move the plant to a sunny spot to help it gather even more energy.
- Dig up the bulb. When the foliage has started to die back naturally, cut it back to 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) above the bulb. Dig up the bulb and shake off any excess soil.
- Store the bulb. Store the bulb in a cool, dry, dark place, such as a basement or garage. The ideal storage temperature is between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit (4-10 degrees Celsius).
- Check the bulb periodically. During storage, check the bulb periodically for any signs of rot or mold. If you find any, remove the affected area and treat the bulb with a fungicide.
How to Overwinter Amaryllis Bulbs
To overwinter amaryllis bulbs, follow these steps:
- Keep the bulbs dry. Amaryllis bulbs are susceptible to rot if they are kept wet. Make sure to store the bulbs in a dry place and do not water them.
- Keep the bulbs cool. Amaryllis bulbs prefer to be stored in a cool environment. The ideal storage temperature is between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit (4-10 degrees Celsius).
- Keep the bulbs dark. Amaryllis bulbs need darkness to rest. Store the bulbs in a dark place, such as a basement or garage.
How to Plant Amaryllis Bulbs After Storage
To plant amaryllis bulbs after storage, follow these steps:
- Prepare the pot. Choose a pot that is not much bigger than the bulb, with drainage holes in the bottom. Fill the pot with a well-draining potting mix.
- Plant the bulb. Place the bulb in the pot with its shoulders above the soil. Do not cover the bulb completely with soil.
- Water the bulb. Give the bulb one good drink of water.
- Place the pot in a warm, sunny spot. The bulb will start to grow within a few weeks.
Tips for Storing Amaryllis Bulbs
- If you are storing amaryllis bulbs in a pot, make sure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent the bulbs from rotting.
- If you are storing amaryllis bulbs in a basement or garage, make sure that the area is well-ventilated to prevent the bulbs from molding.
- If you find any mold or rot on your amaryllis bulbs, remove the affected area and treat the bulb with a fungicide.
- Amaryllis bulbs can be stored for up to 12 weeks. However, the sooner you plant them, the better the chance that they will produce blooms the following year.
