With their massive, colorful blooms, Amaryllis are the ultimate way to add a pop of elegance to those gloomy winter months. But don’t think you’re limited to just potted plants—these “Knight’s Stars” make absolutely stunning cut flowers, too! With a few simple pro tips, you can keep your bouquet looking exotic and fresh for over two weeks. Here is everything you need to know to make those blooms last.
Prepping Your Amaryllis Like a Pro
If you want your cut flowers to go the distance in a vase, a quick trim isn’t going to cut it. You need a few extra tricks up your sleeve to get the best results.
Here’s how to prep them:
- First things first: pop on some gardening gloves. The sap is toxic and can irritate your skin, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Using a sharp kitchen knife, cut about 1.5 to 2 inches (4 cm) off the bottom of the stem.
- Since the stems are hollow, gently slide a thin wooden skewer or a piece of florist wire inside for extra support.
- Finally, wrap a little bit of clear tape or a rubber band around the very bottom of the stem.
Amaryllis stems have a habit of splitting and curling at the bottom. While it doesn’t necessarily kill the flower, it can look a bit messy. Plus, those giant blossoms are heavy! Adding that internal support ensures the stems won’t buckle under the weight of the gorgeous blooms.
Caring for Your Cut Amaryllis
Standard tap water works just fine, but you can turn it into a “power drink” for your flowers by adding a little packet of flower food. Always use room-temperature water—never ice cold! Since Amaryllis can actually absorb moisture through the sides of their stems, make sure to fill your vase at least halfway.
Follow these steps for a happy bouquet:
- Find a bright spot for your vase where the temperature stays around 68°F (20°C).
- Change the water every three days to keep things fresh and prevent bacteria buildup.
- If the bottom of the stems start looking brown or mushy, give them a fresh trim.
Usually, the buds won’t all open at once. As the older flowers start to fade, go ahead and pinch them off. This gives the newer buds more room (and energy) to open up and shine.
Decorating Tips
You can create a breathtaking holiday centerpiece in no time by mixing different Amaryllis varieties. I personally love the deep, moody red of ‘Benfica,’ the classic bright red ‘Ferrari,’ or the soft, romantic ‘Rosalie.’ For an extra festive touch, try setting your vase on a runner of golden tulle—it really makes those colors pop!
