Amaryllis is as popular a holiday gift plant as poinsettia and Christmas cactus. Once the attractive blooms fade, though, we’re left wondering what to do next. Even though a lot of people choose to keep the plant indoors, you might be happy to learn that you can also plant amaryllis outside in the garden in warmer climates, up to USDA zone 7b. Read on to learn more about growing amaryllis in gardens.
You can grow amaryllis bulbs inside, or you can do the same thing in your garden if you live in the right area. They make great specimens outdoors. They perform well in beds, borders, or containers outside. You can also scatter them throughout the landscape in naturalized areas.
These plants look exceptionally attractive when planted in groups. Best of all, amaryllis bulbs are deemed resistant to both deer and many rodents. It’s important to know when the best time is to plant the bulbs or move forced plants.
Typically, new bulbs are planted with other spring bloomers – in fall. Plants you bought or were given can go outside in the spring after the risk of frost has passed. Wait until the plants have finished blooming too. Prior to moving these plants outside, however, you’ll want to gradually acclimate them to their new environment.
Amaryllis bulbs produce showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that can brighten up any garden. Their bold colors and impressive size make them stand out in borders, flower beds or containers. While amaryllis bulbs are commonly grown as houseplants and forced to bloom indoors, did you know that they can also be planted directly in the ground?
In this article, we’ll explore when and where you can plant amaryllis bulbs outdoors. We’ll also discuss how to properly plant and care for amaryllis so you can enjoy their striking blooms in your garden year after year.
Where Can Amaryllis Be Grown Outside?
Amaryllis bulbs are native to tropical regions and are not cold hardy. They can only be grown outdoors year-round in zones 8-10 where winter temperatures do not drop below 10°F. In zone 7, you can plant cold-tolerant amaryllis species in the spring after the threat of frost has passed.
If you live in zones 4-6, you can still grow amaryllis outside, but the bulbs must be dug up and overwintered indoors before the first frost They can be replanted outside the following spring
- Zones 8-10: Amaryllis can be grown outside year-round
- Zone 7: Some species can be planted in spring
- Zones 4-6: Bulbs must be dug up in fall and overwintered indoors
When choosing a planting site, pick a location that receives full sun for at least 6-8 hours per day. Amaryllis prefer sandy, well-drained soil and will rot if they sit in wet conditions.
How Deep Should You Plant Amaryllis Bulbs?
When planting amaryllis bulbs in the ground, dig holes that are about 6-8 inches deep. Place 1 bulb in each hole with the top 1/3 of the bulb sticking out above the soil surface. Space bulbs 12-15 inches apart.
Backfill the holes with soil, firming it around the bulbs. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the bulbs to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
When Should You Plant Amaryllis Outdoors?
Spring is the best time to plant amaryllis bulbs outside in most regions. Wait until daytime temperatures are consistently above 60°F and nighttime lows stay above 50°F before planting. This will reduce the risk of bulb rot.
In zone 7, plant cold-tolerant amaryllis species in early to mid spring once the threat of frost has passed. In zones 8-10, bulbs can be planted in fall or early winter. Stagger planting over several weeks for a continuous bloom.
Potted amaryllis should be planted outdoors after they finish flowering. Gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions first before transplanting into the garden.
Caring for Amaryllis Planted in the Ground
Proper care is required to keep amaryllis healthy and blooming year after year:
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Water regularly during the growing season, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in fall.
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Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly in spring and summer. Discontinue fertilizing in September.
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Remove spent flower stalks after blooms fade using a sharp knife. Leave the foliage intact.
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Allow foliage to die back naturally in fall as bulbs enter dormancy.
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Mulch bulbs with 2-3 inches of bark chips, leaves, or other organic material in late fall.
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Divide overcrowded bulbs every 2-3 years in fall after foliage dies back. Replant bulbs immediately.
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Lift and store bulbs indoors if you live in zones 4-6 before first frost.
Common Problems with Amaryllis Planted Outdoors
While amaryllis bulbs are relatively carefree when planted properly, they can encounter a few problems:
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Rotting bulbs – Caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Allow soil to dry between waterings and plant in well-draining areas.
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Leaf scorch – Leaves turn brown along edges when exposed to intense sun and heat. Provide afternoon shade in hot climates.
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Pests & diseases – Slugs, snails, aphids and viruses may attack plants. Remove pests by hand and destroy diseased foliage.
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Failure to bloom – Usually due to inadequate sunlight, overcrowding, improper planting depth or nutrient deficiencies.
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Foliage dying prematurely – Can be caused by under watering, overwatering, diseases or nutrient deficiencies.
Quick diagnosis and treatment of any issues will keep your amaryllis vigorous and flowering season after season. Be sure to plant bulbs at the proper depth in a sunny, well-drained spot for the best results.
Final Thoughts on Growing Amaryllis Outdoors
Amaryllis bulbs are an easy way to add dramatic color to the garden that looks exotic but requires minimal care. When planted properly and given adequate growing conditions, these beauties willaturalize and provide striking blooms year after year.
Even if you don’t live in an ideal climate, you can still enjoy amaryllis outdoors for part of the year by overwintering the bulbs indoors. With their huge flower heads in brilliant shades of red, pink, white and orange, amaryllis bulbs are sure to be a showstopper in any outdoor space.
How to Grow Amaryllis in the Garden
Once amaryllis plants are ready to be planted, you’ll have to decide where to put them. First, consider light, since those being acclimated will need to slowly be introduced to more light anyway.
Amaryllis can handle some sun or shade, but it usually does better in the middle, like in partial shade. Too much sunlight can lead to leaf burn, while flowering may be limited in too much shade. Next, consider the soil in the area you want to grow amaryllis.
These bulbs prefer well-draining soil. Raised beds or just adding some organic matter, like peat or compost, can help the soil drain better. Amended soil will also provide amaryllis with nutrients for healthy growth. When planting amaryllis outside, it’s pretty much the same as when you plant it in a pot: neck deep, with the top third of the bulb sticking out above the soil.
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FAQ
Can indoor amaryllis be planted outside?
Can amaryllis bulbs be left in the ground over winter?
Do amaryllis come back every year?
When can I transplant amaryllis in the ground?
How do you plant Amaryllis?
Amaryllis will do best when planted in a location that receives partial shade and in well-draining soil. Plant similar to indoors, neck deep, leaving the top 1/3 of the bulb sticking up out of the soil. Water well at planting and keep moist through the growing season. Somewhat drought tolerant once established.
Can I grow Amaryllis outside?
Yes, you can grow Amaryllis outside in suitable regions.According to gardeningknowhow.com, Amaryllis bulbs are easy to grow in the garden and make great specimens outdoors.They perform well in beds, borders,
Are Amaryllis easy to grow?
Of all flowering bulbs, amaryllis is the easiest to bring to bloom. Because of this, they’re an incredibly popular choice of plant for the beginner gardener. The amaryllis comes in many beautiful colors including various shades of red, white, pink, salmon, and orange.
Can I plant amaryllis bulbs in a pot?
But amaryllis bulbs are often purchased to grow as potted plants for holiday bloom, which is only possible if you plant the dormant bulbs at precisely the right time: about 10 to 12 weeks before desired bloom time.