Amaryllis Through the Seasons: How to Care for This Flower Indoors and Outdoors

Amaryllis is a stunning flower known for its bold, trumpet-shaped blooms and easy maintenance. Whether grown indoors as a winter houseplant or outdoors in a garden, proper seasonal care ensures vibrant flowers year after year. Understanding how to nurture amaryllis through each season will help you enjoy its beauty in any setting.

Spring: Transitioning from Bloom to Growth

After blooming, amaryllis enters a growth phase. If grown indoors, remove spent flowers but leave the stalks until they yellow, allowing the plant to store energy. Move potted plants outdoors when temperatures consistently stay above 50°F (10°C). For garden-grown amaryllis, apply a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to encourage healthy leaf growth.

Summer: Strengthening the Bulb

During summer, amaryllis focuses on strengthening its bulb for the next bloom cycle. Water regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Keep outdoor amaryllis in a sunny spot with some afternoon shade. If kept in pots, rotate them periodically to promote even growth. This is the ideal time to repot overcrowded bulbs and provide fresh soil.

Autumn: Preparing for Dormancy

In early fall, gradually reduce watering to allow the plant to enter dormancy. If growing outdoors, dig up bulbs before the first frost and store them in a cool, dry place. For potted amaryllis, trim back yellowing leaves and place the bulbs in a dark area with temperatures around 50°F (10°C) for 8–10 weeks. This resting period is essential for future blooming.

Winter: Encouraging Blooms Indoors

To encourage winter blooms, bring dormant bulbs back into a warm, bright environment. Replant in fresh soil, water sparingly at first, and gradually increase watering as new growth emerges. Place the pot in a sunny window with indirect light, and expect vibrant flowers to appear within 6–8 weeks. Rotating the pot occasionally helps keep the stems upright.

Conclusion

Caring for amaryllis throughout the seasons ensures healthy growth and spectacular blooms year after year. By adjusting care routines based on seasonal needs, you can enjoy this elegant flower both indoors and outdoors. Whether brightening up a winter windowsill or adding color to a summer garden, amaryllis remains a showstopper in every season.