Flowers

Amaryllis: A gift that keeps on giving!

12.02.12

Amaryllis: A gift that keeps on giving!

Amaryllis bulbs are extremely easy and fun to grow, making them a wonderful gift for gardeners of all ages and experience levels. Bulbs purchased and potted now will bloom in three to six weeks, but the enjoyment does not end after the flowers fade. Amaryllis are hardy bulbs in our area, which means they can be planted outside in the landscape in spring, to multiply and bloom for years to come.

Purchasing Amaryllis Bulbs

Growing Amaryllis Bulbs

Growing amaryllis bulbs at home is simple. Containers used to grow amaryllis do not have to be much larger than the bulbs themselves. To pot an amaryllis bulb, fill the bottom part of the container with potting soil and place the bulb inside so that the top third of the bulb will stick up above soil level once the pot is filled. Water plants in well to begin with and then only water when the potting soil appears dry. Also, make sure the container has drainage holes in the bottom — amaryllis do not like to grow in continuously wet soil. If you have a dish under your container to collect extra water pour it out after each watering rather than allowing the container to sit in water all the time. It will usually take three to six weeks for amaryllis to flower when grown in a bright, sunny spot. Ideally, grow plants indoors at 65 to 75 degrees. Warmer temperatures encourage faster growth and earlier blooming. Place the plant in a cooler location once flowers appear to help blossoms last longer. While growing, be sure to rotate by a half turn each day to encourage the flower spike to grow straight rather than leaning toward the light.

Source: The Topsail Advertiser