The amaryllis, also known as the Brazilian lily or tulip, is a plant that enchants with its exuberant and colorful flowers. In this post, I will share with you everything I have learned about growing this wonderful plant, from planting to how to stimulate new blooms.
If you've ever wondered what to do when amaryllis goes dormant or how plant your bulbs efficiently, you've come to the right place! Let's explore together the best practices for having a blooming and lively garden.
Growing Amaryllis: Step by Step
Choosing Bulbs
Amaryllis bulbs are key to successful growing. Be sure to choose healthy bulbs that are free of mold or rot. Larger bulbs tend to produce more vigorous flowers, so pay attention to size as well.
Planting and Substrate
To plant your bulbs, use a substrate rich in organic matter and with good drainage. Mix topsoil, worm castings and coarse sand to ensure that water passes through easily, preventing waterlogging. The recommended ratio is one part topsoil, one part worm castings and one part coarse sand.
Ideal Vase
Choose clay pots, which are heavier and more stable. The pot does not need to be very deep, since the amaryllis roots are not long. A drainage layer at the bottom of the pot is essential to prevent water from accumulating. Place a layer of expanded clay or small pebbles at the bottom of the pot to ensure good drainage.
Planting Bulbs
When planting bulbs, leave the tops slightly exposed. Plant the bulbs with the pointed side up and cover with potting mix, leaving the top of the bulb exposed. This helps prevent rot and allows the plant to breathe better.
Care During Dormancy
After flowering, amaryllis goes dormant, a period in which it loses its leaves and flowers. During this phase, reduce watering and keep the bulb in a cool, dry place. It is not necessary to remove the bulb from the soil unless you prefer to do so. If you choose to remove it, store the bulbs in a dark, ventilated place until the next growing season.
Stimulate New Blooms
To encourage new blooms, place your amaryllis in a location that receives at least four hours of sunlight daily. If you live in a very hot region, morning sun is best. It is also important to provide the plant with nutrients during the growing season. Use a balanced flower fertilizer every two weeks.
Pest Prevention
Caterpillars can be a problem for amaryllis. Use biological control or specific products to combat these pests and protect your plants. plants. Watch for signs of infestation, such as chewed leaves or the presence of caterpillars. Inspect your plants regularly and manually remove pests when possible.
Additional Tips and Suggestions
- Combine with Other Plants: Planting verbenas next to amaryllis bulbs can add a touch of beauty to your pot while the plant is not in bloom. Verbena plants are groundcovers that help to retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing.
- Remove the Pistil: To increase the lifespan of your flowers, remove the pistil, the yellow pollen in the center of the flower. This helps prevent the flower from wilting prematurely.
- Cut the Wilted Flowers: Remove old flowers to keep the plant healthy and encourage new blooms. Use clean pruning shears to prevent the spread of disease.
Amaryllis Varieties
There are several species and varieties of amaryllis, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most popular:
- Star Amaryllis: It has red petals with a white star in the center.
- Amaryllis Bingo: It has white folded petals with red edges.
- Amaryllis Double King: It has folded petals in an intense shade of red.
- Amaryllis Intucase: Completely white, ideal for more classic decorations.
- Amaryllis Sydney: Mixed red with white, with folded petals.
- Amaryllis Fla: Mixed red and white, with folded petals and wavy edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can amaryllis be grown in any region of Brazil?
Yes, amaryllis is native to the Americas and can be grown in all regions of Brazil. Just adjust the care with sun exposure and watering according to the local climate.
2. Is it necessary to remove the bulb from the soil after flowering?
No, it is optional. You can leave the bulb in the soil during dormancy. If you prefer, remove it and store it in a cool, dark place until the next planting season.
3. How to prevent the bulb from rotting?
Use a well-draining potting mix and avoid overwatering. Make sure the pot has good drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
4. How to protect amaryllis from pests?
Use biological control or specific products for caterpillars. Regularly inspect your plants and manually remove pests when necessary.
5. When should I plant amaryllis bulbs?
Bulbs can be planted at any time of year, preferably within four months of packaging. Plant them soon after purchase for best results.
6. How to stimulate new blooms?
Ensure that the amaryllis receives at least four hours of sunlight per day and keep the substrate rich in organic matter. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Did you like this amazing tip? If so, share it with your friends and on your social networks. Leave your comment below and your suggestions. Receive it daily here on our website. Blog of ideas and tips free and follow us on Google News too. Thank you!
