Tips for Planting Amaryllis Bulbs
The amaryllis bulbs are one of the easiest flowering bulbs to plant and bloom. They bloom both in the house and out in the garden. The amaryllis flower comes in a wide array of colors from, pink, white, red, coral, orange, striped and multicolored.
To plant your amaryllis bulb, choose a pot that is larger than your bulb. It should be a close fit. The best soil to use has plenty of organic compost and good drainage. Before planting your bulb, soak the bulb in warm water for half an hour. After soaking, place the bulb in the soil, but do not bury it. Allow the top third of the bulb to stay above the soil line.
The amaryllis plant likes warm temperatures and lots of sunlight. The best temperature to keep it is about 70 degrees F. Water only occasionally until the plant's stem appears and as the plant continues to grow, slowly begin to water more. Be careful not to over water. After 7 to 10 weeks, the amaryllis will begin to flower. This flowering period will be longer in winter months, so try and plant your bulbs in the late fall to early spring. The amaryllis can be grown and planted outdoors if it is in an area without frost. If you are growing your plant in a colder area, just remove the bulbs from the ground before winter and replant them in the spring. Store bulb in a cool place (between 40 and 50 degrees F).
Tips
- For a continuously blooming flower, plant your bulbs in increments of 2 weeks.
- Do not cut the plant back if you see yellowing leaves. The reason for this is if the plant is allowed to grow to the point of yellow leaves, the bulb itself will be able to bloom again for years following. The bulb stores energy for the following season this way.
- You can hand pollinate the flower and promote new growth by harvesting the seed head of the flower after the plant dies. Dry the seeds by opening them up before storing.
