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How to grow Hippeastrum hybrids - Amaryllis

How to look after your Hippeastrum Amaryllis.

The Plant: Most people will be familiar with these as the huge bulbs are sold in late autumn and winter. The Amaryllis then grows at a prodigious rate forming a spear-shaped shoot which then produces a rather spectacular trumpet-shaped flower, or even several flowers. Flowers may be deep red, scarlet, pink, white or striped pink/red and white.

Its needs: A good, free-draining, potting mix is required, and warmth is required to promote growth, but the flowers will last longer in a cooler room. Normal humidity and good light even a little morning sun tolerated.

Care: Plant the bulb as soon as reasonably possible, burying the bottom half of the bulb in the potting compost and leaving the top half exposed. If the bulb looks particularly dried out soak it for a couple of hours in cool water prior to planting. A room temperature of around 21 C (70 F) is required to initiate growth.



Amaryllis or Hippeastrum flower for indoorsWater moderately during growing period but do not feed until leaves start growing. Use a cane to support the flower stem as the flowers are quite heavy. Once flowering is finished, cut back flower stalks, and put the Hippeastrum in a frost-free place for the summer. Reduce watering in late summer to almost nil. In mid autumn resume watering to activate the bulb. Watch for scale pest and mealy bug.

  • Southern Blight: Southern blight is a lethal disease caused by the fungus Sclerotium rolfsii. It can affect hundreds of types of plants, including Amaryllis1.
  • Nematodes: Microscopic, transparent, wormlike animals called nematodes can feed on the roots of Amaryllis and cause disintegration of the basal2.
  • Thrips: These tiny, cigar-shaped insects can damage Amaryllis flowers by sucking their juice3.
  • Red Blotch: Also known as leaf scorch or red fire, this disease is caused by the fungus Stagonospora curtisii. It leads to red streaks and patches on Hippeastrum bulbs45.
  • Bulb or Root Rot, Powdery Mildew, Leaf-Spot Disease, and Botrytis Petal Blight: These common diseases are often caused by excess moisture in the soil6.
  • Hippeastrum Mosaic Virus (HiMV): Formerly known as Amaryllis Mosaic Virus, HiMV is one of the principal viruses affecting Amaryllis7.

To prevent these issues, ensure proper watering to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to fungal diseases. Regularly inspect your plants for pests and diseases, and isolate affected plants to prevent the spread of infestations or infections.



Good for: The Amaryllis makes an excellent and popular Christmas gift as it is easily gift-wrapped. The plant then grows almost daily then producing wonderful cheerful trumpet-like flowers before producing foliage. Whilst the bulb can be kept for several years enjoyment many people see this as a one season plant to be disposed of after flowering. Good for winter colour and cheer.

Detailed Guide on Growing Hippeastrum Hybrids (Amaryllis) Indoors

Ideal Growing Conditions:
  • Temperature: Amaryllis prefers temperatures in the range of 60-75°F (15-24°C). Cooler temperatures can delay growth, while warmer temperatures can speed up the process.
  • Soil: A well-draining potting mix is ideal for Amaryllis bulbs. You can create your own by mixing equal parts of standard potting soil, peat moss, and perlite or sharp sand.
  • Watering: Water thoroughly after planting, then wait until the top inch of soil dries out before watering again. Overwatering can cause bulb rot.
  • Light: Amaryllis needs bright, indirect light to grow well. A south-facing window is usually the best location.
  • Fertilizer: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks once the bulb starts to sprout.



Step-by-Step Guide from Planting to Blooming:
  • Plant the Bulb: Choose a pot that's about 1-2 inches wider than the bulb. Fill it halfway with potting mix, place the bulb in the center with the pointed end facing up, and fill in around the bulb, leaving its top third exposed.
  • Water: Water thoroughly and place the pot in a warm location with bright, indirect light.
  • Wait for Growth: In 2-8 weeks, depending on the variety and conditions, a flower stalk should emerge. Rotate the pot regularly for even growth.
  • Blooming: Once the flowers start to open, move the plant out of direct sunlight to prolong the blooming period. Deadhead spent flowers but leave the stalk until it yellows.
Common Pitfalls and Solutions:
  • Failure to Bloom: This can be due to overwatering, insufficient light, or a pot that's too large. Ensure the bulb has appropriate conditions and a snug pot.
  • Leaf Growth but No Flowers: This often happens when the bulb has been over-fertilized. Hold off on fertilizing until the bulb starts to sprout.
  • Bulb Rot: Overwatering can lead to bulb rot. Let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings.



Fun Facts and Special Cultivars:

The name "Hippeastrum" comes from the Greek words for "horseman" and "star," reflecting the flower's star-like shape. Despite its common name, Amaryllis, true Amaryllis refers to a different genus native to South Africa.

There are many stunning cultivars of Hippeastrum hybrids, such as 'Red Lion' with its vibrant red flowers, 'Apple Blossom' with pink-tinged white blooms, and 'Black Pearl' that boasts deep burgundy flowers.

Growing Amaryllis indoors can bring a touch of spring to your home in the middle of winter, making it a popular choice for holiday decorating. With proper care, these dramatic, trumpet-shaped flowers can bloom year after year!

Comprehensive Guide on Propagating Hippeastrum Hybrids (Amaryllis)

Required Tools and Materials:
  • Container: A pot that's just a bit larger than the bulb, with drain holes.
  • Soil: A well-draining soil mix, such as a blend of two parts peat to one part perlite or sand.
  • Compost: Well-rotted compost or a slow-release granular fertilizer.
Preparing the Bulbs for Planting:

Before planting, soak the bulb's roots in lukewarm water for a few hours to rehydrate them. If there are any dried-out or damaged scales, gently remove them, but be careful not to damage the fleshy parts of the bulb.

Planting Technique and Timing:

The best time to plant Amaryllis bulbs is in late fall or early winter.

  1. Fill your pot about halfway with the soil mixture.
  2. Place the bulb in the center of the pot, with the pointed end facing upwards.
  3. Add more soil, leaving the top third of the bulb exposed.
  4. Water thoroughly, then add a layer of compost or sprinkle some slow-release fertilizer around the bulb, keeping it off the bulb itself.
Post-Planting Maintenance:

After planting, place the pot in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Water sparingly until you see about 2 inches of new growth, then water regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Feed every 2-3 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting:
  • Failure to Bloom: This can occur if the bulb has been overwatered, if there's insufficient light, or if the bulb is too small. Ensure proper watering and light, and remember that smaller bulbs may need a year or two of growth before they're ready to bloom.
  • Bulb Rot: Overwatering can lead to bulb rot. Water sparingly until growth appears, and ensure the pot has good drainage.
  • Leaf Tips Turning Yellow or Brown: This may indicate too much sun, over-fertilization, or a potassium deficiency. Move the plant out of direct sunlight, reduce fertilization, and if necessary, apply a potassium supplement.
Keeping Your Amaryllis Blooming Year After Year:

After the flowers fade, cut the flower stalk back to about an inch above the bulb, leaving the leaves intact. Continue to water and feed the plant until the leaves turn yellow in late summer or early fall, then gradually reduce watering. Store the dormant bulb in a cool, dark place for at least 6-8 weeks before bringing it back into the light and warmth to start the growing cycle again.

With a little care and attention, Amaryllis can provide a stunning display of blooms year after year. Happy gardening!

An Informative Guide on Lifting and Storing Amaryllis Bulbs

Amaryllis bulbs, with their stunning, trumpet-like flowers, can be a fantastic addition to any garden. But to ensure they bloom year after year, it's essential to lift and store them correctly. Here's how:

Best Time for Lifting Amaryllis Bulbs:

The best time to lift amaryllis bulbs is in the late summer or early fall, once the foliage has yellowed and died back.

Steps for Safely Removing the Bulbs:
  1. Wait for the Right Time: After the Amaryllis has stopped flowering, allow the leaves to die back naturally. The leaves generate energy for next year's blooms.
  2. Dig Up the Bulbs: Carefully dig around the bulb with a trowel or spade, taking care not to cut into the bulb. Lift the bulb out of the ground.
  3. Clean and Dry: Remove excess soil from the bulbs and let them dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight for about a week.
Storing the Bulbs:
  1. Trim Roots and Foliage: Once dried, trim the roots back to about an inch and cut off the dried foliage.
  2. Inspect for Damage: Check each bulb for signs of disease or damage. Discard any bulbs that are soft or show signs of rot.
  3. Store Properly: Place the bulbs in a paper bag or wrap them in newspaper. Store them in a cool (50-60°F, or 10-15°C), dark, well-ventilated location. Avoid storing in plastic, as this can retain moisture and cause rot.
Monitoring and Treating Issues During Storage:

Check your bulbs periodically during storage for signs of mold or pests. If you notice mold, remove it with a dry cloth. If the bulb is soft and mushy, it may be rotting and should be discarded.

For pest issues, consider treating your bulbs with a gentle insecticide before storing them. If pests appear during storage, isolate the affected bulbs to prevent the pests from spreading.

Additional Tips for Maximizing Longevity and Vitality:
  1. Rehydration: About 6-8 weeks before you plan to plant them, rehydrate the bulbs by soaking their roots in lukewarm water for a few hours.
  2. Healthy Start: At the start of the growing season, feed your bulbs with a slow-release bulb fertilizer to give them a nutrient boost.

Remember, the key to successful amaryllis bulb storage is keeping them cool and dry. With these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of your amaryllis blooms year after year.



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