If you want to see those stunning, elegant blooms, getting your Amaryllis off to a good start is all about how you plant the bulb. These subtropical beauties are actually pretty sensitive to moisture, so you’ll want to take a few precautions to keep the bulb from rotting. Here’s the lowdown on the best care tips and tricks to get your “Knight’s Star” blooming like a pro.
The Best Soil for Your Amaryllis
If you’re thinking about just grabbing a bag of standard potting soil from the grocery store, hold that thought! Your Amaryllis won’t be very happy in it. Because of their South American roots, these plants prefer soil that isn’t too rich in organic matter (humus) and has plenty of mineral components.
Here are a few “recipes” that work wonders:
- Mix one part cactus soil with one part standard potting soil, then toss in a handful of perlite for extra breathability.
- Try a blend of seedling starter soil and potting soil, enriched with a bit of lava granulate.
- You can even plant the bulb in pure coconut coir.
Just remember: too much organic matter holds onto water, which is a one-way ticket to bulb rot. Keep it airy!
How to Plant Your Bulb the Right Way
First, pick a pot that leaves about two inches of space between the bulb and the rim. It’s super important that your pot has drainage holes at the bottom. Start by adding a drainage layer of clay shards or expanded clay pebbles, and cover that with a piece of landscape fleece to keep the soil from washing out.
Here’s your step-by-step guide:
- Put on some gloves! Amaryllis bulbs are actually toxic, so it’s better to be safe.
- Fill your pot about two-thirds full with your soil mix.
- Carefully place the bulb in the center with the pointy end facing up.
- Add more soil around it, but make sure the top half of the bulb is still sticking out of the dirt.
- Press the soil down firmly and find a bright, warm spot for your new friend.
If you keep the room around 68°F (20°C), you won’t have to wait long for that gorgeous floral show. One pro tip: always water from the bottom. Fill the saucer with lukewarm water, let it sit for about 15 minutes, and then pour out any leftover water. This lets the plant soak up exactly what it needs through capillary action while keeping the bulb safe from soggy feet.
