Can You Separate Amaryllis Bulbs When Sprouting?

Significance

• According to "An Encyclopedia of Garden Plants," digging up bulbs every 3 to 5 years in the fall and replanting encourages development of singular large bulbs. Removing the small bulb offsets allows them to grow larger and produce flowers sooner.

Time Frame

• Amaryllis plants retain their matrix of roots year-round and resent root disturbance. That is why the general rule of digging and separating bulbs and offsets is best scheduled for fall when the year's foliage naturally withers and the plant goes dormant.

Effects

• Digging and separating bulbs once the foliage sprouts or the flower bud starts to emerge can cause abortion of leaves or flowers or the disruption of seasonal timing. Use a delicate hand to preserve as many roots intact as possible and replant immediately at a similar depth. Do not bruise or inflict cut wound on the bulbs.