# Amaryllis Care & Planting
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Container
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Clay flower pots retain moisture well. Amaryllis flowers require sturdy containers when planted indoors, as their stalks get very top-heavy when in bloom. It is essential that the container have drainage holes and a drip tray to catch excess water. Select a container that is 7 to 8 inches deep and wide enough to allow the amaryllis bulb to have 2 inches of space between the sides of the pot and the bulb. A clay pot is an excellent choice, as it retains moisture longer than plastic or ceramic pots.
Bulb Selection
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Plant only healthy amaryllis bulbs. Purchase only large non-potted amaryllis bulbs that are solid and have not begun to sprout. Examine the bulbs for any damage, disease, mildew or mold. Healthy bulbs produce healthy amaryllis plants and flowers. Larger bulbs usually produce larger flowers and will also grow two flower stalks. Prior to planting your amaryllis bulbs, soak them in lukewarm water for an hour or two.
Potting Soil
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Amaryllis thrive in nutrient-rich potting soil. Amaryllis bulbs prefer well-drained, nutrient-rich potting soil without any pine bark. There are many excellent premixed potting soils available to purchase in garden centers or plant nurseries. Amaryllis will thrive best in a mixture that is half perlite and half peat. Place the amount of potting soil you need to fill your pot into a small container of warm water. Leave the potting soil in the water just long enough to moisten the soil, and then remove it from the water.
Planting
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Amaryllis in full bloom are stunning. Fill your pot halfway with the moist potting soil. Place the amaryllis bulb in the center of the pot, making sure the root end sits on the soil. Carefully add additional potting soil all around the roots and the bulb. Continue to add soil until just the top one-third of the bulb is left above the soil. Water the bulb lightly, and then gently tap the soil all around with your hand to remove any air pockets. Set the planted amaryllis bulb in a sunny location that is between 70 to 80 degrees F. Water periodically, but only when the top inch of the soil feels dry. You may need to water more frequently after the bulb sprouts and the stalk begins to grow. Your amaryllis bulb should sprout within two weeks and flower within four to six weeks.
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