How to Force Amaryllis Bulbs

Overview

The amaryllis is a tropical flower. The tender bulb can be easily forced to yield flowers during the cold winter months. The best time to begin the forcing process is the first part of October. The amaryllis requires only minimal care and a bright, sunlit window for large blooms to erect from a tall flower stalk. After the amaryllis has bloomed, the bulb can be regenerated to give a spring bloom as well.

Step 1

Select a pot that will be slightly larger than the amaryllis bulb. There should be approximately 1 inch of space between the amaryllis bulb and the edge of the container.

Step 2

Fill the pot with quality potting soil within 1 inch from the top rim. The potting soil should contain 1 part topsoil and 1 part peat moss.

Step 3

Set the bulb in the center of the pot so at least 1/3 to 1/2 of the bulb is exposed above the soil. Place only one bulb per container.

Step 4

Water the bulb and soil. Set in sunny location with a temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep the soil moist. Flowering will begin in approximately six to eight weeks.

Step 5

Fertilize the amaryllis plant as the main flower stalk begins to appear. The flowering stalk will be round in shape as opposed to the flat leaves of the plant. Add a complete flowering fertilizer in liquid form every two to three weeks during flower stalk growth.