There is nothing more festive than several amaryllis plants contributing their rich burst of bloom in your home during the holidays.
Amaryllis looks exotic, but the bulbs are easy to grow. The flowers are large and trumpet-shaped and come in beautiful shades ranging from white and apple-blossom pink to scarlet. Some cultivars such as 'Nymph', even attractive striped petals.
An amaryllis bulb kit, complete with the planting of container and potting soil, makes a nice hostess gift.
Amaryllis care - step-by-step:
When you buy an amaryllis bulb, looking for a big, plump one with attached a number of roots. With the aid of a pot which is slightly larger in diameter than the sphere, in the plant soil, so that the "shoulders" - the top three of the lamp - are exposed.
Keep the soil moist but not wet, and temperatures above 64 º F (18 º C) - optimal temperatures are between 68 to 77 º F (20 to 25 º C).
Place the bulb in bright light and look for growth to begin. You will see a flower bud appears after a few weeks. Turn the pot regularly so the flower stalk will not lean in one direction.
Sometimes you need to support the stem with a thin bamboo stake and raffia ties.
Once the flower is ready, cut the stem just above the bulb nose. Give amaryllis bright light on a sunny windowsill or under plant lights.
Continue to feed and water. Apply a standard water-soluble houseplant fertilizer at half the recommended strength every two weeks.
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