Every year around early fall, Amaryllis (Hippeastrum) bulbs begin showing up at retail outlets throughout the country. These bulbs are generally packaged as gift ideas for the Christmas Holidays. With the right care and attention, these easy to grow Amaryllis bulbs can bring years of enjoyment.

To plant the amaryllis bulb, use a planter that is 1 to 2 inches wider than the bulb. Any type of container may be used, as long as it has drainage holes in the bottom. Add a small amount of potting soil to the bottom of the pot, place the bulb in the center, then continue adding potting soil, making sure it is firm around the roots and the bulb. When you are finished potting the bulb, make sure that the top half of the bulb is above the soil surface. Sometimes, these Amaryllis bulbs are pre-potted, if so, check to make sure it has been planted using the directions above.

After the initial watering, allow the soil to dry somewhat before watering again. Keep the soil moist, but not wet. When growth appears, move the plant to a sunny window and start applying a water-soluble fertilizer every 2 to 4 weeks.

When the flower stalk begins to grow, turn the pot each day to keep the stalk growing straight. Flowering usually occurs about 6 to 8 weeks after potting. After the amaryllis begins to bloom, move the plant to a 65 to 70ºF location which does not receive direct sun, this will help to prolong the life of the flowers.

These easy to grow bulbs should offer brillliant color and joy when added to your holiday decorating.

Unforgettable living gifts, from Jackson & Perkins.

It would be a shame not to enjoy the beautiful amaryllis year after year. Following these simple steps, will help insure that your Amaryllis will be around for years to come.

Once the flowers have faded, cut the stalk 1 to 2 inches above the bulb. Do not damage any of the foliage. The foliage is what will regenerate next seasons flowers. Generally, it takes about 5 healthy leaves for your bulb to reproduce flowers the next fall. Keep the soil damp, fertilize regularly with fertilizer for houseplants. Place container in a location where it will receive sunlight.

In order to bloom, amaryllis bulbs must be exposed to temperatures of 50 to 55ºF for a minimum of 8 to 10 weeks. Place the plant in a well-lighted, 50 to 55ºF location in fall. Continue to water the amaryllis. Keep the potting soil slightly moist. The amaryllis foliage will remain green during this period. After the cool period, move the plant to a warmer 70 to 75ºF location, then repeat the force process above.

This lovely white Amaryllis is one of the tallest and most fragrent variety of Amaryllis.

The Christmas blooming amaryllis are the most common and popular of the Amaryllis family.

Amaryllis Picotee

If you appreciate a beautiful garnish - perfect chocolate curls on the top of a layer cake or fragrant, ripe strawberries fanned along side a stack of fresh hotcakes - this graceful amaryllis was created for you. Pure white, accented with a vivid red cloisonné edge and contrasting green throat. Exquisite.