Instructions for Using Fertilizer for Amaryllis

Overview

Amaryllis is one of several plants classified as a Christmas plant. The bulbs of this red or white lily-like flower are often forced in pots for holiday displays and centerpieces. Amaryllis also thrives outside in warm areas that have mild winters, usually blooming in mid- to late-summer instead of over the winter holidays. Fertilizing an amaryllis plant correctly helps ensure continued growth and blooming year after year, whether it is grown in the garden or forced indoors.

Potted Amaryllis

Step 1

Fertilize the amaryllis once it has broken dormancy in fall and grown its first leaves. Apply a general-purpose, liquid-soluble potted plant food every two weeks at the rate recommended on the fertilizer package.

Step 2

Water the amaryllis plant after each fertilizer treatment. Watering forced the fertilizer down to the root-zone of the pot where the plant can benefit from the added nutrients.

Step 3

Fertilize once monthly after the amaryllis is done blooming. Stop fertilizing once the leaves begin to yellow and die back, signaling that the plant is entering dormancy.

Garden Amaryllis

Step 1

Lay 1 pound of 5-10-10 analysis fertilizer per every 100 square feet of amaryllis garden prior to planting. Till the fertilizer into the top 8 to 10 inches of the soil with a hoe or power tiller.

Step 2

Fertilize a second time at the same rate with 5-10-10 fertilizer when the amaryllis begins growing leaves. Spread the fertilizer between the rows and work it into the soil, taking care not to get fertilizer on the amaryllis leaves or roots, as this can damage them.

Step 3

Fertilize again when the flower stalks of the amaryllis are 8 inches tall, using the same rate and method when applying the 5-10-10. Fertilize a final time after the flowers finish blooming and begin wilting.