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Amaryllis
Amaryllis (pictured above) can be purchased in full bloom or in bulb form. Either way, they both are grown originally from bulbs. Most amaryllis will produce two or more flowers at a time that are roughly 8-9” in diameter and rest on long 2” thick stems.
Care Instructions
When planting a bulb, make sure that 1/3 of the bulb is above the soil, the bulb is 2” from pot edge, and water thoroughly after planting. It is important to reduce watering so that the soil is barely moist until a sprout appears. After sprouting, water and fertilize regularly.
Place in a warm location (70-75 F). Once sprouting begins, you can expect to see flowers in 6-8 weeks, followed by attractive foliage. Make sure to rotate your amaryllis on a regular basis to encourage straight stem growth as it will grow toward the sun. Once your amaryllis begins to open it is wise to move it to a slightly cooler location (65 F). By doing this, the life-span of the flower may be extended. When the flowers begin to fade, cut off the stem to encourage new growth.
After Season Care
To enjoy your amaryllis next year - simply follow these easy instructions: Continue to water and fertilize through summer. During this time, your amaryllis will produce nice looking foliage that will be it source of strength for next year’s growth. Around September, the leaves will begin to yellow letting you know it needs to go dormant. Cut the leaves back to the neck of the bulb and store it in a cool place like your basement or garage. You can plant your amaryllis November - February in a rich sandy mix and start all over again.
Cyclamen
The cyclamen is an ever-popular holiday favorite that has butterfly-like blossoms on slender stems. You can choose from a variety of colors, including white, pinks and reds. You may also choose between variegated, solid or shaded blooms as well as ruffled or smooth edges. The heart-shaped leaves contrast nicely with the flowers as they are a silvery-green to maroon in color.
Cyclamen Care
Cyclamen prefer bright light, so placement near an east or south-facing window is ideal. This way, it gets both the bright light it needs during the day as well as the cool temps at night (make sure to keep away from drafts). It is important to note that cyclamen can tolerate temps as low as 35 degrees F without damage, though they prefer temps between fifty and seventy degrees F.
Make certain to keep the potting mixture moist, but do not let your cyclamen set in water. Fertilize monthly to encourage blooming. If it becomes too large for the pot it is in, repot it using a well aerated potting mixture that contains at least 50% organic matter. If the buds and flowers begin to drop, raise the humidity (at least 25% or more) of the environment. You can do so by placing on a moistened pebble tray. If your cyclamen becomes leggy, move it to an area that has brighter light.
As a tuberous plant, the cyclamen requires an early summer dormancy after blooming. To prepare your cyclamen for its dormant period, do the following:
After flowering stops, the leaves will die down. Gradually reduce the waterings and let the soil dry out. When all top growth is finished, dig up corm (make sure it is dry) and replant. To prevent crown rot, make sure the corm is halfway out of the potting mix. Water thoroughly and place in an area that is well-lit. Second year cyclamens will have smaller, yet more abundant flowers.
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