Now that most of our outdoor plants have died or gone to sleep for the winter, it is time to focus on bringing some greenery and flowers indoors. There are some common "holiday plants" that do well indoors and are almost guaranteed to bring a smile.
One of the biggest and brightest of these "holiday plants" is the Amaryllis. The blooms are huge and beautiful. When purchasing the bulb, look for one that is at least 2 &1/2 inches in diameter. The larger the bulb, the more blooms you may get. Bulbs should be firm with no soft spots or discoloration. The container for the plant should be at least 2 inches bigger than the diameter of the bulb. It should have good drainage and be planted in a mix of perlite and peat moss. Using equal parts of each will work well. One third of the bulb should be left above soil level. Water thoroughly after planting and then keep soil consistantly moist, not saturated. Do not water over the nose of the bulb as it may rot.
Amaryllis should be kept in temperatures from 70 to 75 degrees as the flower buds are forming. Flowers should appear 6 to 8 weeks after planting. Reduce heat to 65 degrees to prolong flowering. Keep the plant in indirect light. Fertilize with a complete fertilizer every two to three weeks. As each flower fades, cut off flower. When all flowers are gone, remove flower stalks. Do not remove leaves. The leaf foliage feeds the bulb.
During warm weather plant the whole pot outside. In late summer reduce watering so leaves die down. When completely dead, cut off all foliage. Store bulb in its container in 50 degree temperatures for eight to ten weeks, then bring into warm room and start over. Next time we will talk about Cyclamens, Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter Cactus and Paper Whites. Until then remember in even Chicagoland, we can garden all year round!
Carol De Jong
University of Illinois Extension, Master Gardener
