Flowers

Amaryllis offers no-fail winter color

10.02.12

If you are looking for a no-fail, spectacular show of winter color, the amaryllis cannot be beat. Getting the dormant bulbs to bloom is a simple matter. Each bulb produces one to three 18-inch flower stalks holding giant lily-like blossoms, some up to 6 inches in diameter. Colors include red, white, pink and salmon. Some are two-toned and others, known as picotees, are edged in a contrasting color. A number of interesting, smaller species can also be found through mail order.

Amaryllis are tender, bulbous plants native to tropical America. Flower stalks are produced before the long, strap-like leaves. They have been in cultivation for several hundred years, with newer hybrids sporting larger and showier blossoms than the old-fashioned varieties.

Dormant bulbs can be purchased at local garden centers usually from September until January. As with other bulbs, earlier purchasing ensures fresher stock.

Bulbs should be potted up in a container only 2 to 3 inches larger than the diameter of the bulb. Good drainage is essential. I would recommend that the potting mix you use to pot up the amaryllis bulb contain soil. While the bulbs will grow fine in soilless mix, the large blossoms tend to make the plant top heavy, so the heft of the soil gives the potted plant a bit more stability. You might also want to use a heavier clay or ceramic pot. I generally add about 1 teaspoon of limestone and 1 teaspoon of 10-10-10 to each pot before setting the bulb in.

Source: Reminder Newspapers