From our perspective as Amaryllis plants (Hippeastrum spp.), proper fertilization is not a luxury; it is the fundamental fuel that powers our magnificent, show-stopping blooms. We store energy in our large bulbs, but to replenish that spent energy and to grow strong and healthy for years to come, we rely on you to provide the right nutrients at the right time. Here is what we need.
Our entire year is a cycle of growth, blooming, and rest. Fertilizing us out of sync with this cycle is confusing and can be harmful. Please follow this natural rhythm. Feed us only when we are in active growth, which is after we have finished flowering and when we are producing leaves. This is our period of rebuilding. Do not fertilize us while we are in bloom, as this can shorten the flower's life, and never fertilize us during our dormant period, as our roots are inactive and the salts can burn them, causing severe damage.
We have specific dietary needs to support our large blooms and bulb health. We require a balanced fertilizer that promotes both vegetative growth and flowering. Look for a water-soluble fertilizer with a balanced ratio, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. The first number (Nitrogen) supports the growth of our strong, green, photosynthesizing leaves. The middle number (Phosphorus) is crucial for developing our massive flower stalks and vibrant blooms. The third number (Potassium) is vital for overall cell function and, most importantly, for building a strong, healthy, and plump bulb—our energy bank for the future.
How you feed us is as important as what you feed us. Always apply fertilizer to moist soil. Applying fertilizer to dry soil can lead to a concentration of salts that will damage our delicate root system. We prefer a "weekly, weakly" approach during our active growing season (typically from the end of flowering through late summer). Dilute the fertilizer to half or a quarter of the recommended strength on the package and apply it every time you water. This provides us with a steady, gentle supply of nutrients that we can absorb efficiently without the risk of root burn from a strong, infrequent dose.
As autumn approaches and our growth begins to slow, you must help us prepare for our essential dormant period. In late summer or early autumn, typically about 6-8 weeks before you want us to go dormant, you must completely stop fertilizing us. This signals to our system that the growth period is over and allows us to begin the natural process of withdrawing energy into our bulb. Continuing to feed us during this time encourages weak, soft growth that is vulnerable to disease and depletes our energy reserves instead of conserving them for next year's spectacular floral display.
