How to Deal with Amaryllis after Flowering
When the brilliant flowers of the amaryllis gradually fade, many flower enthusiasts become puzzled—does this colorful finale mean the end of cultivation? In fact, this is a crucial period that determines whether it will rebloom next year. Properly handling the plant after flowering not only helps the bulb recover its vitality but also accumulates energy for the next year's bloom.
Scientific Pruning Methods
Pruning Tips without Seed Saving
When the petals start to wilt, use a sterilized scissor to cut the flower stem diagonally 2 cm away from the base. Retain healthy leaves for photosynthesis, but promptly clear away withered and old leaves. Be particularly careful not to touch the new leaf buds, as the protective waxy layer covering these tender leaves is the plant's natural barrier.
Seed Saving and Pollination Techniques
Perform artificial pollination on a sunny morning, gently touching the stigma of the pistil with the pollen from the stamens three times or more. Successfully pollinated flowers will gradually swell to form a fruit, which can be harvested 45 days later when the fruit skin turns yellow and cracks. It is necessary to retain the entire flower stem of the pollinated flowers to ensure a smooth nutrient supply channel.
Nutritional Supplement Plan after Flowering
Precision Fertilization Strategy
Start applying a balanced slow-release fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium 7 days after flowering, combined with a seaweed acid solution灌溉 (root watering) every two weeks. It is recommended to use a 1:1500 diluted fermented fish protein fertilizer, which supplements amino acids while improving soil structure. Fertilization should be paused during the high-temperature summer months to avoid root burn.
Timing for Medium Transition
Change pots when the night temperature stabilizes above 18°C, retaining 1/3 of the protective soil and transplanting into a breathable red pottery pot. When transitioning from hydroponics to soil culture, wrap the roots in vermiculite for 7 days first, then move them into the cultivation substrate after new roots have emerged. During the winter dormancy period, maintain the water temperature between 12-15°C for hydroponically grown plants.
Key Management Points during Dormancy
Environmental Control Details
Gradually reduce watering from mid-October to force the plant into dormancy. Move the potted plant to an environment with a day-night temperature difference of more than 8°C and ensure good air circulation. Regularly rotate the pot to evenly expose the bulb to diffused light, avoiding one-sided lighting that could cause the bulb to deform.
Disease Prevention Measures
Immediately apply charcoal powder to the wounds after pruning to prevent the invasion of pathogens. Spray the back of the leaves with garlic extract solution once a month, which contains natural antibacterial components that can effectively prevent red spider mites. When softening of the bulb is detected, promptly treat with a suspension of carbendazim.
Through scientific post-flowering care, the amaryllis bulb will gradually accumulate sufficient nutrients. When the circumference of the bulb increases by 1/3 and new root points appear, it means the plant is fully prepared for the next year's bloom. Remember to gradually increase sunlight when spring warms up, waiting for the surprise of a new flowering season.