How to Plant and Grow Amaryllis Indoors

Amaryllis, also known as Hippeastrum, are tender bulbs that can’t tolerate frost, which makes them perfect for indoor displays. With the right care, they’ll reward you with huge, show-stopping blooms that brighten your home through the winter months.

When to plant:

The ideal time to plant amaryllis bulbs is from October through December. Choose a sturdy pot that’s just a little wider than the bulb—about 3 cm of space around the sides is perfect. Make sure the pot has a drainage hole at the base and place it on a saucer or tray to catch excess water.

Planting your bulb:

Position the bulb so that the “neck” (the top part of the bulb) will sit above the rim once filled. Backfill carefully with compost around the sides of the bulb, pressing gently to keep it secure. The bulb should be buried up to its neck, but never fully covered.

Watering:

After planting, water the bulb thoroughly to help it settle. Going forward, keep the compost lightly moist by watering whenever the top layer of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as amaryllis bulbs dislike sitting in soggy soil.

Where to place your amaryllis:

Put the pot in a warm, sunny spot indoors—such as a bright windowsill in your kitchen or living room. A temperature of around 18–22°C (65–72°F) encourages strong growth and flowering. With proper care, you can expect dramatic trumpet-shaped flowers to appear in 6–10 weeks, making amaryllis one of the easiest and most rewarding bulbs to grow indoors.

Aftercare & Reblooming:

Once the flowers have faded, snip off the spent blooms but leave the flower stalk to die back naturally. Continue watering and feeding the plant every 2–3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer—this helps the bulb recharge for next year. When the foliage eventually yellows and withers, reduce watering and let the bulb go dormant. Store the pot in a cool, dark place for at least 8–10 weeks. In autumn, repot the bulb in fresh compost and begin watering again to trigger another stunning display. With the right aftercare, amaryllis bulbs can flower year after year.