From our perspective, forcing is an artificial manipulation of our natural growth cycle. We are Nerine bowdenii, and we originate from South Africa. Our life cycle is distinct: we flower in the autumn, followed by leaf growth throughout the winter and spring, before entering a summer dormancy. To force us into bloom indoors, you must first simulate this essential dormant period. We require a warm, dry rest for about 8-10 weeks. Please place our pots in a warm, dark, and absolutely dry location with temperatures around 70-80°F (21-27°C). Do not water us during this time. This hot, dry period is our signal that the harsh summer has passed, and it is time to prepare our flower stalks for emergence.
We actually prefer to be crowded. Being pot-bound encourages us to focus our energy on flowering rather than expanding our root system. When you plant our bulbs, ensure the pot is only 1-2 inches wider than the bulb cluster. Most critically, plant us so that our necks and shoulders are exposed above the soil line. Burying us too deeply is a common mistake that can cause our bulbs to rot and will prevent our flower scapes from emerging properly. Use a very well-draining potting mix, perhaps amended with sand or perlite, as we despise sitting in soggy soil.
After our dry rest, the introduction of water is the most critical signal that our growth should begin. Once you see the tip of our flower stalk starting to emerge from the bulb's neck, you can begin to water us. Start with a modest amount of water to gently moisten the soil. Gradually increase watering as the flower stalk and subsequent leaves grow. Place us in a very bright location, such as a south-facing windowsill where we can receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The combination of moisture and strong light tells us that the conditions are perfect for showcasing our beautiful, spider-like blooms.
Our flowering is a magnificent but energy-intensive event. After our blooms fade, we are not finished. We will begin to produce long, strap-like leaves. This is not a failure; it is a vital part of our cycle. We need these leaves to photosynthesize and store energy in our bulb for next year's flower. Continue to water us and provide strong light throughout the winter and spring. As summer approaches, our leaves will naturally yellow and die back. This is your cue to stop watering entirely and return us to our warm, dry dormancy, allowing the cycle to begin again.
