What can I do with my Amaryllis bulb now that it is done blooming?

Amaryllis flowers are low maintenance and a beautiful addition to any office or home space. Most people tend to discard their amaryllis when it is done blooming. However, it is possible to save it and force it to flower again next year! Rather than tossing an amaryllis after the holidays, keep it outdoors for the spring and summer. These flowers, which are natives of tropical and subtropical Central and South America, can live outdoors year-round in warmer climates like Florida.

What to do Once Blooms Fade

1. After the flowers colors have faded, cut off the flower stalk with a sharp knife.  
2. Make a cut 1 to 2 inches above the bulb. Don't damage the foliage.  In order for the bulb to bloom again next season, the plant must replenish its depleted food reserves.  The strap-like leaves manufacture food for the plant.  
3. Move the container to a cool, dry place like a garage (the temperature should be around 55 degrees)
4. Stop watering while the bulb is dormant, whether it is planted inside or out.

How to Force Blooms Again  

In order to bloom, amaryllis bulbs must be exposed to temperatures of 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit for a minimum of 8 to 10 weeks.  This can be accomplished by inducing the plant to go dormant and then storing the dormant bulb at a temperature of 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit.  

1. To induce dormancy, place the plant in cool, semi-dark location in late September and withhold water.  
2. Cut off the foliage when the leaves turn brown. 
3. Place the dormant bulb in a 50 to 55 degree Fahrenheit location for at least 8 to 10 weeks.  
4. After the cool requirement has been met, start the growth cycle again by watering the bulb and placing it in a well-lit, 70 to 75 degree Fahrenheit location.  
5. Keep the potting soil moist, but not wet, until growth appears.  

Forcing Blooms if you Live in Zones 9 - 11

Once the flowers are spent, cut off the flower stalks without damaging the foliage. Keep the bulb planted in its container, and continue to give it regular water and bright light. After the last frost, move the amaryllis outdoors. The bulbs can stay in containers or be transplanted into the ground if you live in USDA Zones 9–11. Plant the amaryllis in a well-drained area, with the top of the bulb poking out above the soil, and water well. 

Amaryllis plants should be located in full sun to part shade, appreciating afternoon protection from the sun in hotter areas. In general, these plants are from arid climates and should be watered sparingly to avoid rot—keeping in mind that potted plants often need more water than plants in the ground. Fertilize them with time-release granules in late spring and summer. If temperatures unexpectedly drop (as they usually do during springtime in the South), bring containers indoors until it warms back up.