How do I care for a waxed amaryllis bulb?

Question:

How do I care for a waxed amaryllis bulb?

Answer:

Waxed Amaryllis BulbAmaryllis bulbs coated in colorful and decorative wax are available in many catalogs, stores, and garden centers.  Waxed amaryllis bulbs are easy to care for and grow as they require no water or soil.  Simply place the bulb in bright, indirect light.  Flower stalks emerge in 4 to 6 weeks (sometimes less) utilizing the stored carbohydrates in the large bulb.  Rotate the bulb every few days to keep the stalk growing straight.  Often two, sometimes three or four, flower stalks will grow producing blooms for up to three weeks.  Remove each flower stalk as the last bloom on it fades. 

Avoid purchasing waxed bulbs that have started to bloom or have spent flower stalks.  These bulbs may not bloom in your home or will have a greatly reduced length of bloom.

Waxed bulbs are intended to be grown as single-use bulbs.  When flowering is done, discard the bulb.  Remove the wax before composting as some waxes, as well as the glitter that is frequently embedded in the wax, may not readily break down in your compost pile.  

While they are not intended for saving from year to year, adventurous gardeners can try to keep them for reblooming.  Learn more in this article: Can I Get My Waxed Amaryllis Bulb to Rebloom?

Learn more in this article: All About Amaryllis

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Last updated on
January 3, 2025