The Best Temperatures for Growing Amaryllis Plants

Flowering Temperatures

• Amaryllis flowers best at cooler temperatures around 65 degrees. This temperature extends the life of the blooms, allowing you to enjoy the flowers for a month or more before they begin fading. While the flower blooms best in cool temperatures, avoid placing it in areas prone to frequent cold drafts from doors or windows. Avoid areas near heat, as the warm, dry area causes premature flower drop.

After-Bloom Temperatures

• After blooming, the amaryllis foliage remains green and growing. Bright sunlight and warmer temperatures allow the plant to collect and store nutrients in the bulb so they can bloom again the following year. Set the amaryllis in a brightly lit window in a room with warm temperatures between 70 and 75 degrees. Transfer the pot outdoors to a warm, sunny area after all frost danger is past in spring, if you desire, but bring in the plant before nighttime temperatures drop below 65 degrees.

Dormancy Temperatures

• The amaryllis must spend eight to 10 weeks in a dormant state before it flowers again. During this time, give the plant no water or fertilizer. Allow the foliage to die back completely. Store the bulb in its pot in a dark, cool room where temperatures remain around 55 degrees but do not drop below freezing. Check the bulb regularly during the latter half of storage, and move it to a sunny window in a 70 to 75 degree area once new growth begins and until the flower buds begin to open. Resume watering and fertilization to encourage the plant to grow.