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I cannot walk into a nursery or florist in late fall without taking home a holiday plant or two. An amaryllis bulb falls high on my list. I also usually include a poinsettia, paperwhites, and other favorites. I feel like holiday blooms are festive necessities like the retro decorations I’ve had since I was a kid. There are a few tips to consider when planting and shopping for an amaryllis bulb to ensure it flowers for you.
Some years, I plant my amaryllis from a bulb, but others I opt for one that has already been potted. I look for a straight stem and promising green growth. Look for straight, sturdy green stems. Take a close look to inspect for any plant pests. I’ve seen fungas gnats flying around a potted amaryllis in a shop.
Amaryllis varieties
There are so many varieties of amaryllis bulbs to choose from. If you find an online bulb retailer, you’ll find a wider breadth of varieties than you would likely find at a retail store. However there are gems to be found. I’ve had great luck sourcing bulbs at my local garden center.
Planting an amaryllis bulb
If you bring an amaryllis bulb home to plant yourself, here are some planting tips.
- Soak the bulb’s roots in lukewarm water for a few hours.
- Plant the bulb in a container that’s only an inch or so larger than the bulb itself, using a lightweight potting soil. When planted, the top third of the bulb should remain above the soil.
- Place the pot in a warm spot in direct light, and only water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Once the bud and leaves appear, begin to water it more thoroughly.
- It takes about six to 10 weeks for an amaryllis to bloom.
Displaying your amaryllis
There are so many different ways to display an amaryllis. You can pot one up on its own or plant it in a container with holiday greenery and other holiday houseplants. I have a container that looks like it’s wrapped in birch bark that I pull out each year. The idea of dipping the amaryllis bulb in wax, as demonstrated on The Art of Doing Stuff’s website, is also something I’d like to try.
I’m planning to give Blooming Amaryllis for Christmas gifts this year. Having a hard time finding the vases a a low price. The bulbs already cost plenty. Any source for the right vase at the right price?
Maybe Ikea or a Dollar Store?
My Red Lion was amazing last year and is beginning to sprout again now…I think I need another Amaryllis to keep it company. A white one or a few pink ones maybe?