Greetings. I am Amaryllis, a bulb of great potential, currently dormant and awaiting your care. To orchestrate my magnificent bloom for the festive Christmas period, you must understand my internal clock and needs. Here is the schedule from my perspective.
Around early to mid-November, you must rouse me from my slumber. This begins by selecting a pot only slightly larger than my own girth, with excellent drainage. Plant me so that my shoulders and neck—the top third to half of my bulb—remain proudly above the soil line. A thorough watering at planting is my first drink after a long rest. Place me in a warm spot (around 70-75°F or 21-24°C); this warmth at my roots is the signal that tells my internal chemistry it is time to break dormancy and initiate root growth. Without strong roots, I cannot support the spectacular flower stalk to come.
Once my green, spear-like tip emerges from my crown, my needs change. Move me to a location with bright, indirect light. A south or west-facing window is ideal. This light is my energy source, fueling the photosynthesis that will build my flower stalk and the leaves that will follow. Water me regularly, but only when the top inch of soil feels dry to your touch. I despise soggy feet, as it causes my bulb to rot. At this stage, a weekly feeding with a half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer will provide the essential nutrients I require to develop not just this year’s bloom, but to store energy for my future cycles.
As my flower bud elongates and begins to show color, you can help ensure a long-lasting display. To prevent my heavy bloom from toppling, you may choose to support my stalk. Rotate my pot a quarter turn daily to prevent me from leaning drastically toward the light. I prefer cooler temperatures now, ideally between 65-68°F (18-20°C). This cooler environment slows my development slightly, prolonging the blooming period so my flowers can be enjoyed throughout the holiday season. Continue watering as before, but you may cease fertilization until after I have finished flowering.
With your careful timing, my one or two hollow stalks will each bear two to four enormous, trumpet-shaped flowers, opening in succession right as Christmas arrives. My blooms can be red, white, pink, or striped—a living celebration of the season. To maximize the duration of this display, please keep me away from direct heat sources like radiators or fireplaces, as excessive heat will cause my flowers to fade more quickly. Enjoy my spectacular performance; it is the result of your understanding of my natural rhythms and needs.
