Amaryllis is the easiest bulb to bring to bloom. The amaryllis originated in South America’s tropical regions and has the botanical name HIPPEASTRUM. The large flowers and ease with which they can be brought to bloom make amaryllis popular and in demand worldwide. The amaryllis comes in many beautiful varieties including various shades of red,white, pink, salmon, and orange. There are also many striped and multicolored varieties, usually combining shades of pink or red with white.

QUICK TIPS:
Planting period: October until the end of April
Flowering period: Late December until the end of June
Flowering time: 6-8 weeks
Larger bulbs produce more flowers.
Always store un-planted bulbs in a cool place, between 40-50 Degrees F.

PREPARATION FOR PLANTING
The base and roots of the bulb should be placed in lukewarm water for a few hours. Remember, if you cannot plant the bulbs immediately after receiving them; store them at a cool temperature, between 40 – 50 degrees F.

PLACEMENT AND WATERING
Plant the bulb, or place the potted bulb in a warm place with direct light, since heat is necessary for the development of the stems. The ideal temperature is 68-70 degrees F. Water sparingly until the stem appears, then as the bud and leaves appear, gradually water more. At this point, the stem will grow rapidly and flowers will develop after it has reached full growth.

FLOWERING PERIOD
Bulbs will flower in 6-8 weeks as a general rule. In winter the flowering time will be longer than in the spring. Set up your planting schedule between October and April with this in mind. To achieve continuous bloom, plant at intervals of 2 weeks for stunning color in your home and garden.

AFTER-BLOOM CARE
After the amaryllis has stopped flowering, it can be made to flower again. Cut the old flowers from the stem after flowering and when the stem starts to sag. Cut it back to the top of the bulb. Continue to water and fertilize as normal, doing this until the leaves begin to show some yellow. At this point, cut the leaves back to about 2 inches from the top of the bulb, and remove the bulb from the soil. Clean the bulb and place it in a cool (40-50 degree F.), dark place such as the crisper of your fridge for a MINIMUM OF 6 WEEKS.