The amaryllis is similar in appearance to the lily and makes for a beautiful piece of indoor decor.
The colors vary from white to red, and as one of the easiest flower bulbs to care for, it’s popular among plant-enthusiasts and novice gardeners alike.
Amaryllis bulbs do not require a huge pot, but as they grow, you will inevitably have to replant them to accommodate.
However, with a few tips and a little observation, you’ll know precisely when to transplant amaryllis for the best results.
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When to Transplant Amaryllis
The perfect time to replant amaryllis is in the Fall, right at the beginning of the growth cycle. The time is right to do so when its leaves have begun to brown and crisp, and you see a bit of new growth coming from the bulb.
How to Replant Amaryllis Correctly
When the time comes to move your amaryllis bulb to a new pot, it’s crucial to the plant’s survival to make sure you’re repotting it correctly.
It would help if you began by considering the current size of the bulb.
Amaryllis thrives when root-bound, and you’ll need to transplant only in the event that the bulb is getting close to the edges of the existing container.
If you’re confident it’s time for a replant, remove the bulb from the pot and trim the roots as needed to fit inside its new planter.
Next, you’ll set the bulb in water up to the roots, allowing the amaryllis to soak for 12 to 14 hours.
Once the root-soaking is completed, you can plant the amaryllis bulb, leaving one-third of it exposed.
Tend to the amaryllis as usual. It will undoubtedly take root and grow, leaving you to enjoy new winter blooms in no time!
When Not to Transplant Amaryllis
Though it’s a relatively easy bulb to care for, amaryllis can be tricky when it comes to appearance.
Many amaryllis owners have thrown out excellent bulbs because they think they’re dying.
In contrast, others have replanted bulbs that will no longer bloom because they are confident it is just part of the amaryllis growth cycle.
So how can you tell if you should replant your brown or droopy amaryllis or toss it into the compost heap? It’s easier than you may think.
First, we’ll note that when the leaves droop on amaryllis, the issue is typically fixable.
So don’t let this keep you from replanting. A few factors causing droopy leaves include the following:
Water Issues
Amaryllis needs plenty of water but also excellent soil drainage. The bulb cannot sit in idle water all day, or it will rot.
Instead, you’ll want to water your amaryllis when the soil feels dry to the touch. A rotted bulb should never be transplanted.
Improper Sunlight
When amaryllis blooms fade, the plant stores as much energy as possible in the bulb to successfully return to dormancy.
A lack of sunlight for extended periods will undoubtedly cause the leaves to droop. Place your amaryllis in a well-lit room immediately.
Poorly Timed Fertilization
Amaryllis owners that fertilize the plant before dormancy will stimulate the bulb for new growth.
However, this situation is not ideal, as the bulb needs to rest during dormancy to bloom again. Therefore, Pre-dormancy is not the time to transplant amaryllis.
Dormancy Stage
Many people don’t realize that Amaryllis goes through a time of dormancy. Leaves will turn yellow and droop.
Let them dry before removing them, and do not replant at this time.
Take the time to understand whether your amaryllis is actually dying or simply in need of a little extra care.
Then, modifying your routine can be the difference between killing the plant and helping it flourish.
Planting Amaryllis Together
If you’re considering a replant and have more than one amaryllis in your home, you might be curious about whether or not you can plant them together.
Well, you can!
Because amaryllis love to be root-bound, you can keep several bulbs in one pot without worrying about overcrowding leading to malnourished and dying plants.
When replanting, choose a planter that will give your amaryllis the perfect amount of space, about one inch of space on either side of the bulb.
Frequently Asked Questions about When to Transplant Amaryllis
Why set the amaryllis bulb in water before transplanting it?
Placing the amaryllis bulb in water before a replant will speed up the blooming process. Make sure you soak your roots for the recommended amount of time.
How often does Amaryllis need repotting?
The frequency at which you replant your amaryllis depends on the side of the plant. Typically, amaryllis will need replanting every 3 to 4 years.
When is the best time to replant amaryllis?
The amaryllis must enter dormancy before you transplant it so the bulb can gain energy. Once the dormant phase has ended and new growth appears, you can begin the repotting process.
Do I discard my amaryllis after it’s done blooming?
Never! Your amaryllis will bloom again. Hang onto it and replant it as needed.
Conclusion
Various factors come into play concerning when to transplant amaryllis, as well as ensuring that the replant is successful.
However, with careful consideration of the growth cycle, amaryllis enthusiasts will be able to help their plants thrive and bloom for years to come.
Therefore, knowing the perfect time to execute a replant is a crucial component.
Daniel has been a plant enthusiast for over 20 years. He owns hundreds of houseplants and prepares for the chili growing seasons yearly with great anticipation. His favorite plants are plant species in the Araceae family, such as Monstera, Philodendron, and Anthurium. He also loves gardening and is growing hot peppers, tomatoes, and many more vegetables.