The amaryllis is such a beautiful and cheerful welcome to see during the winter! Watching the stem and flowers emerge a bit each day (while turning the planter near a direct light window to get “even sunlight”) is a treat for every gardener.

I have purchased them through the years from White Flower Farm, local garden nurseries, and from Home Depot and Lowes and have never had a failure. Frankly, I don’t think you can fail! From a bulb to gorgeous blooms in 7-to-10 weeks. And, if you purchase a few of them, start in early October and then plant the bulbs every 2 weeks.

The box they come in with usually has a growing medium that expands when added to warm water. If not, add to a few inches of soil or potting compost in a container that is wide and tall enough for the bulb. Push down on the soil to make sure it is solidly planted but leave the top of the bulb uncovered. I have only had to “steady the stem” by using marshmallow skewers a few times.

Ideally, keep the pot where it gets direct sun, but I have never had them in the “recommended temperature of 68 to 70 degrees F.” This 1890 house is kept at 60-61 degrees and all three photos prove they do just fine!

Add some warm water to keep the soil moist and as the stem, bud, and leaves grow, add some more. The flowers will appear when the stem and leaves finish growing. After the amaryllis flowers all fade, cut them off the stem them cut it at the base when it starts falling over. Keep in or by a window and water and fertilize it for about 6 months. When you see the leaves turning brown, cut them down to about an inch, pull the bulb out, brush off the soil, and store in a cool dark place for 6-7 weeks then plant again!

My Christmastime favorite – Red Lion.

A note on pots: amaryllises grow fine using decorative bowls and containers without drainage holes. I have used marbles, pebbles, and just nothing but soil – taking care not to let the planting medium get too wet. I fill the soil just up to the fattest part of the bulb. Some friends add houseplant fertilizer and swear that it increases flower size. I have never done it.