A colorful amaryllis will last through many winters if nurtured properly.
The colorful amaryllis, Hippeastrum, is one of the most popular flowering houseplants of the winter season. There are many varieties available in shops, in a variety of colors, from white to pink, tangerine and red.
Amaryllis usually start flowering in late December or early January, so ideally you can enjoy the funnel-shaped blooms of this beautiful bulbous plant over the holidays, but at the latest by the beginning of the New Year.
Caring for potted amaryllis
Usually, 1-3 stems of amaryllis will sprout from the bulb of the plant, which will produce 4-8 star-shaped funnel flowers, followed by the emergence of broad green leaves.
With proper care, this winter ornamental plant can show its full splendor year after year.
Plant the amaryllis in a large pot in loose-textured soil, making to place it in a sunny and warm spot. Water once a week and keep the soil moist at all times. To keep the stems straight, rotate the pot several degrees from time to time; it usually takes 4-8 weeks for this beautiful ornamental plant ton start blooming.
After it has flowered, cut the stems off by 3 to 5 centimeters, leaving about 15 centimeters above the ground. Avoid damaging the leaves when cutting as the flower needs them to photosynthesize and grow.
As the weather gets warmer, move the potted amaryllis to an outdoor location in filtered sunlight. Water regularly until September, making sure that the bulb stems do not get waterlogged.
When the cold season arrives, bring the plant indoors, prune the leaves and store it in a cool, dark place such as a cupboard or cellar to let it go dormant. In December, move it back inside to a sunny spot, and keep the soil moist. Again, remember to rotate the pot occasionally to keep the stems straight.
If you look after your amaryllis properly, you can enjoy its beauty for many winters.