How to Grow Amaryllis in Zone 8

Overview

Amaryllis is a large lily with flowers up to 6 inches across. Also known as Bella Donna lilies, amaryllis is available in red, white, pink, magenta and yellow. It originated in the Andes Mountains and is a tropical, frost-sensitive plant. The bulb will not survive freezing temperatures. Grow amaryllis in the garden in USDA Hardiness Zone 8 and store inside before the first frost.

Step 1

Select a sunny location that gets afternoon shade. Dig the area and add compost and other necessary soil amendments depending on the soil type. Amaryllis prefers rich, well-drained soils. Add one part sand and one part organic matter to one part soil if the soil is clay-like.

Step 2

Trim brown and dry roots off the bottom of the bulb.

Step 3

Plant the bulb so that the bottom 2/3 is under ground and the rest is above ground. Space the bulbs 3 to 4 inches apart.

Step 4

Water and feed as you would other flowers. Ensure that the bulb gets about 1 inch of water per week. Fertilize once a month with water soluble plant food per package directions.

Step 5

Remove the flower stalk after it has bloomed, if desired. Allow the leaves to remain on the plant until they have completely yellowed.

Step 6

Dig up the bulb several weeks before the last frost in Zone 8. Contact the closest university agricultural extension or talk a nursery staff member for the dates. Store the bulb in a cool, dark place until spring.

Step 7

Replant the next spring when the days are warm and it's above 60 degrees F at night.