Knowledgebase

Waxed Amaryllis #940286

Asked July 23, 2026, 11:31 AM EDT

Phone caller received a Waxed Amaryllis for Christmas and is wondering how to care for it now. It currently has a few leaves coming out of the top of the waxed bulb.

Montgomery County Tennessee

Expert Response

Dear Betty,

Thank you for contacting the UNH Extension info-line.  It was very nice speaking with you today.

Waxed Amaryllises are typically meant to be single-season plants. That being said you may be able to remove the way and replant the bulb. Carefully remove the wax coating and ensure that you do not damage any new roots that might have started to grow beneath the wax.  Inspect the bulb for signs of rot or disease.  The bulb should be firm and solid. Pot the bulb in well-draining soil, with the top third of the bulb above the soil line. The bulb needs a period of dormancy to flower again.  Move the plant outdoors in the summer, and once the leaves die back in early fall, bring it inside and stop watering. After about 8 weeks of rest in a cool, dry area, resume watering to begin the next growth cycle. 

I've attached two links that should be helpful.

https://newhanover.ces.ncsu.edu/news/what-to-do-with-your-wax-dipped-amaryllis-after-the-holidays/

https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/canr/news/2022/january/prep-your-waxed-amaryllis-to-rebloom-next-year/

I hope you have new blooms this Christmas!


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