Amaryllis Care Tips: How to Store Amaryllis Bulbs after Blooming

Storing amaryllis bulbs after blooming is essential to ensure they remain healthy and can produce beautiful blooms again the following year. Here's how to store amaryllis bulbs after blooming:

1. Deadhead the flowers: Once the amaryllis flowers have wilted and died, remove them from the stem. This will prevent the plant from wasting energy on seed production.
2. Allow the foliage to die back naturally: The leaves of the amaryllis plant should be allowed to die back naturally. This process allows the bulb to store nutrients for future growth.
3. Cut back the foliage: After the leaves have turned yellow and dried out, cut them back to about 2 inches above the bulb.
4. Lift the bulb: Carefully lift the bulb from the soil, taking care not to damage it.
5. Clean the bulb: Gently brush off any soil and remove any dead or damaged scales from the bulb.
6. Store the bulb: Store the bulb in a cool, dry, and dark place for at least 6-8 weeks. Ideal storage temperatures are between 40-50°F (4-10°C). A paper bag or mesh bag is an ideal container for storage.
7. Replant the bulb: After the storage period, replant the bulb in fresh soil in a well-draining pot or container. Water the bulb thoroughly and place it in a bright, warm location to stimulate growth.

By following these steps, you can store your amaryllis bulbs after blooming and ensure they remain healthy for the next blooming season.