The bulbs of the Amaryllis are large and easy to grow.

Amaryllis

Amaryllis never fail to break the gloom of winter with their vibrant, trumpet-shaped blooms standing high above the shiny green foliage.

These plants originate from the tropical areas of South America and are mainly grown commercially for the Christmas trade.

Some varieties are fragrant, the white being the best. The larger the bulb, the more expensive, but the better, bigger and more flowers you are likely to get for your money.

Flowering stems can reach a height of 60cm (2ft), the plant growing fast in normal room temperatures, but if too high the flowers will fade rapidly. Around 17c (64f) is best.

The leaves can be up to 30-50cm (1-2ft) long, appearing after the bulbs have finished flowering. the plants require plenty of sun and need feeding regularly after flowering to give the plant energy to flower the following year.

October to April

Plant bulbs in a rich potting mixture in a pot with drainage holes. Choose a pot that will give 2.5cm (1") space around the bulb, covering the bottom hole with a piece of broken pot.

Cover half the bulb with the potting mixture and press the mixture around the bulb to make sure that it is firm. Keep in a warm spot in bright light in a temperature of 21-23c (70-73f).

Water sparingly until the flower stalk appears, and then increase. After flowering feed with a liquid fertilizer every week.

May to September

Reduce both watering and feeding around August. The leaves will die down and the bulb should be stored in a cool, dark place in the pot. A temperature of 16-17c (61-64f) is required. In January you begin the planting cycle again.

General Care

You can buy your amaryllis bulbs new each year, but if you feed them, give it sunlight and provide it with a dormant period of 3 months, it will last for many years. Cut off the old flower stalks so that growth will be concentrated on next year’s bulb.

When watering just keep the compost moist after planting, increasing the amount of water as the plants grows, feeding frequently during this growing period. Lots of light is needed during the period of growth.

The plant can be stood outside after flowering in the summer months, but don't forget to keep well watered and fed until the leaves start to turn yellow.

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