Your Amaryllis bulb takes approximately 5 to 8 weeks to bloom after planting, depending on the time of the year (shorter in the spring) and temperature. If you do not want to pot your bulb right away when you purchase it, keep it in a cool place at about 50º. Choose a firm bulb when buying and the larger the bulb, the more flowers it will produce!
To plant, place the bulb with its base and roots in lukewarm water for a few hours. Choose a pot large and heavy enough to keep the pot from tipping over when the plant reaches its full height with a hole in the bottom, providing good drainage. Use good potting soil and place the bulb up to its neck in soil, being careful not to damage the roots. The nose of the bulb should be above the pot’s rim, with its shoulders protruding above the soil surface. After planting, water well and firm down soil again. Roots and bulb should be planted firmly with good drainage provided.
Place the potted bulb in a warm place with direct light, heat is essential for the development of the stems. Any room with a normal home temperature of around 68º is ideal. Water sparingly until the stem appears. As the bud and leaves become visible, gradually increase water, but take care not to over water. The stem is very fast growing and sometimes can be measured in inches overnight which makes the plant interesting to watch for children. As the floral stalk lengthens, rotate the pot a half turn everyday or so to keep it from bending (growing) towards the light source.
My Amaryllis Stopped Blooming
Once the Amaryllis bulb has stopped flowering, it’s not necessary to discard it. With some care, it will flower again next year. After flowering, cut the old flowers from the stem and allow the leaves to grow. Water regularly and add some houseplant fertilizer to the water. In early September, gradually reduce watering and stop altogether in October. Cut off the foliage and allow the bulb to rest in a cool, dark place, (48-55º) either in the pot or out for two-three months. Repeat planting process as before, and in 8-10 weeks your bulb is ready to bloom again!
Platt Hill Nursery es el principal centro de jardinería y vivero de Chicago.