What is the proper care for amaryllis bulbs in fall?
Plants that are outdoors should be brought indoors in mid-September. In order to bloom, amaryllis bulbs must be exposed to temperatures of 50 to 55 F for a minimum of 8 to 10 weeks. This can be accomplished by inducing the plants to go dormant and then storing the dormant bulbs at a temperature of 50 to 55 F. To induce dormancy, place the plants in a cool, semi-dark location in late September and withhold water. Cut off the foliage when the leaves turn brown. Then place the dormant bulbs in a 50 to 55 F location for at least 8 to 10 weeks. After the cool requirement has been met, start the growth cycle again by watering the bulbs and placing them in a well-lighted, 70 to 75 F location. Keep the potting soil moist, but not wet, until growth appears. The other option is to place the plants in a well-lighted, 50 to 55 F location in fall. Maintain the amaryllises as green plants from fall to early to mid-winter. After the cool requirement has been met, move the plants to a warmer (70 to 75
