How to Preserve an Amaryllis Bulb:
After Blooming:
If you have an Amaryllis bulb in wax, once the flower has withered, carefully peel off the wax from the bulb and free the roots. Remove the faded flowers, but leave the stems and leaves on the plant. The leaves contribute to photosynthesis, allowing the bulb to store nutrients for the next season. When the stems turn brown and dry, you can remove them from the bulb.
Post-Blooming Care:
Place the Amaryllis in a pot with nutrient-rich potting soil. Ensure good drainage, for example, with a layer of hydrogranules or a piece of broken pot at the bottom of the pot so that it never remains too wet. Position the pot in a bright location, keeping the soil consistently slightly moist, and provide regular plant food. Within a few weeks, the bulb will form new roots.
Summer Dormancy:
In May/June, stop watering and let the leaves wither. From late July/August, remove the bulb from the pot and store the dry bulb in a cool, dark place, such as a cellar or cupboard, for 8 to 10 weeks.
Replanting & Care:
In October, plant the bulb in a pot with nutrient-rich potting soil, allowing the top of the bulb to protrude above the ground. Place the planted bulb in the living room, and with a bit of luck, it will bloom again. Ensure the plant receives regular water during the growth period and place it in a sunny location to encourage flowering. It may take some time for the Amaryllis to bloom again, so be patient. The process can vary depending on the specific conditions and the type of Amaryllis you have.