Before you begin, it is crucial to understand that what you call a "bulb" is, for us, a rhizome. We are not true bulb plants like tulips. A rhizome is a modified underground stem that stores energy and sends out roots and shoots from its growth points, or "eyes." When selecting us for planting, choose rhizomes that are firm, plump, and have at least one visible eye. A healthy, dormant rhizome is your key to a thriving plant, as it contains all the stored energy we need to initiate our growth cycle indoors, away from our natural seasonal cues.
We require a specific environment to break our dormancy and flourish. Plant our rhizomes in a deep pot, at least 6-8 inches, with adequate drainage holes. Soggy conditions will cause us to rot. Use a well-draining, high-quality potting mix. Position us with the eyes (the bumpy growth points) facing upward, and cover us with just 1-2 inches of soil. Do not bury us too deeply, as this can suffocate our new shoots and delay growth. After planting, water us thoroughly to settle the soil around our form, but then allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again until you see active growth.
We are triggered to grow by warmth. Place our pot in a warm location where the temperature is consistently between 65-75°F (18-24°C). At this stage, before green growth appears, we do not require intense light. However, once our spear-like shoots emerge from the soil, our needs change dramatically. We must then be moved to a very bright location, such as a south or west-facing window where we can receive several hours of bright, indirect sunlight daily. Without sufficient light, our stems will become weak and leggy as we strain toward the light source, and we may not have the energy to produce our distinctive flowers.
Our water needs change throughout our growth cycle. As we begin active growth, we desire consistently moist soil. Water us when the top inch of soil feels dry, providing a thorough watering until it drains from the bottom of the pot. We despise sitting in water, so always empty the drainage saucer. Once our flower spathe appears and throughout our growth period, we benefit from regular nourishment. Feed us with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength every two to three weeks. This provides the essential nutrients we need to support our lush foliage and develop strong, long-lasting flowers.
After we have finished flowering, our leaves will naturally begin to yellow and wither. This is not a sign of failure but a critical part of our life cycle. We are entering a period of dormancy to rest and replenish our energy stores within the rhizome. Cease fertilizing and gradually reduce watering until the foliage has died back completely. You may then remove the dead leaves. Store our pot in a cool, dark, and dry place for a minimum of two to three months. This period of rest is non-negotiable; without it, we will not have the strength to regrow and bloom again in the next season.
