Flowers Archives | Amaral Farm

When do Daffodils bloom?

Daffodils, famously referred to as either narcissus or jonquils, embody a ray of hope and the promise of rejuvenation.

As the dreary winter vista is enlivened with their vibrant yellow flowers, they stand as a harbinger of the approaching spring season.

However, despite their widespread popularity, garden enthusiasts often ponder over the precise timing of the daffodil bloom and the optimal methods for their cultivation.

This article delves into the intricacies of daffodil blooming, the diversity of daffodil varieties, and offers practical advice for ensuring their flourishing growth.

plant daffodils

When do Daffodils Bloom?

The intricate timing of daffodil blooms, as it so happens, is contingent upon a multitude of factors, including the variety of daffodil and its geographical location.

With regards to a general timeline, the bloom of most daffodils can be expected to unfold between the latter half of February and the beginning of May. 

However, the variation in climates, such as in warmer climates, often results in an earlier period of blooms. Conversely, the cooler regions may see blooms that are delayed in time.

The UK, for instance, usually witnesses the bloom of daffodils from the end of March to the start of April. In contrast, New Zealand experiences the bloom of these beautiful flowers from September to November.

type of daffodil

A Bouquet of Beauty: The Various Forms of Daffodils

The world of daffodils is a kaleidoscope of diversity, each blossom unique in its own way, showcasing a blooming pattern and distinct features.

As the winter draws to a close, and the air is filled with the sweet fragrance of these marvels, it’s time to explore the many faces of this flower.

Starting the parade of bloomers, the Trumpet or Large-cupped daffodils take center stage, flowering as early as March, setting the tone for the daffodil season.

Following close behind are the Small-cupped and Double varieties, which usually make their appearance in late spring (April). The final act is performed by the Poeticus and Narcissus Tazetta, gracing gardens with their presence as late as May or June.

The Trumpet, the most beloved type of daffodil, boasts large, trumpet-shaped blooms, and is available in a spectrum of colors, including yellow, white, pink, and even orange! While the Large-cupped shares similarities with the Trumpet, it boasts larger, cup-shaped blooms, As its name suggests, the Small-cupped

As its name suggests, the Small-cupped has smaller cup-shaped blooms, but it more than makes up for it in variety, available in the same range of colors as the other varieties. The Double, on the other hand, is distinctive due to its double row of petals, again available in a rainbow of colors.

The Poeticus, a rare beauty, is known for its small blooms and sweet fragrance. It is typically white with a pale yellow cup. Meanwhile, the Narcissus Tazetta is a fragrant sensation, with its small, clustered blooms, available in a range of colors, including yellow, orange, pink, and white petals.

multiple blooms

Selecting the Appropriate Daffodil Bulb for Your Garden

For avid gardeners, choosing the ideal daffodil bulbs to cultivate is a task that requires contemplation and astuteness. There are several aspects to consider, from bloom time to the color of the flower.

In the realm of bloom time, daffodils come in an array of choices, with early, mid, and late-season varieties, allowing you to pick the one that will bloom during your preferred time.

Then, there’s the consideration of size and shape. Daffodils offer a vast range of possibilities, from petite, single or double-flowered stems, to grand, large-cupped specimens that can reach towering heights of up to 18 inches. Decide which will complement your garden the best.

Adding to the complexity of the decision-making process, daffodils boast a spectrum of hues, including yellow, white, orange, pink, and bicolored varieties.

It’s crucial to choose the colors that will harmonize with your garden’s overall aesthetic. Finally, the hardiness zone in your area must not be overlooked. Ensure that the bulbs you select are suitable for your region, as some daffodils may not be able to withstand the climate in your area.

In conclusion, selecting the perfect daffodil bulbs requires a well-thought-out approach, considering bloom time, size and shape, color, and regional compatibility.

With careful consideration and attention to detail, you’ll be sure to choose bulbs that will bring vibrant, long-lasting beauty to your garden.

bulbs in the fall

How to Plant Daffodils

For a flourishing garden, planting daffodils is a must-do! Before diving into the task, it’s crucial to select a spot that basks in the sunshine and boasts soil that’s not dense and easily retains water.

As the autumn chill settles in and the first frost approaches, it’s time to put your green thumb to work and get the bulbs planted. The key to successful planting is to ensure that the soil is well-drained.

If you notice that the soil in your garden is heavy or has a clay-like texture, consider mixing in some sand or compost for optimal growing conditions.

Follow these steps to plant your daffodil bulbs and bring a burst of spring color to your garden:

  1. Dig a hole that’s twice the depth of the bulb.
  2. Place the bulb with the pointy end up in the hole.
  3. Fill the hole with soil, tamping down gently to secure the bulb in place.
  4. Give the newly-planted bulb a generous watering to help it settle into its new home.

With a little bit of care and attention, your daffodils will bloom beautifully in no time!

Many daffodils

How Daffodils Bloom

Daffodils, a symbol of renewal and hope, embark on their journey to bloom as winter wanes and spring sets in.

The bulbs, nestled underground, stir to life as they reach out with roots and shoots, yearning for sustenance to fuel their growth.

As temperatures rise, the shoots break free from the earth and stretch towards the sky, eagerly basking in the warmth of the sun.

Their leaves, elongated and slender, shoot up first, offering sustenance to the rest of the plant and ensuring the blooming of its stunning beauty.

When the leaves have reached a critical mass, the stem begins to elongate and the flower buds come into being. And, as the buds mature, the blooming commences, revealing the radiant yellow petals of the daffodil, gracefully encircling the central cup-like structure, the corona.

This process of blooming lasts for several weeks, as the flowers bask in the sun, gradually fading, eventually falling off as the plant redirects its energy towards storing it for the upcoming growing season.

Daffodil bloom times

Caring for the Radiant Beauty of Daffodils and their Flowering Bulbs

Spring is an enchanting time of the year, with its colorful displays of flora and fauna. Among the earliest to grace our gardens with their vibrant presence are the cheerful daffodils.

But, to maintain their glory throughout the season, a little TLC is necessary. Here are some tips to keep your daffodils shining bright.But, to maintain their glory throughout the season, a little TLC is necessary. Here are some tips to keep your daffodils shining bright.

Hydration is key, especially during parched spells. Drench their roots once or twice a week with ample water, avoiding just dampening the leaves. Additionally, give them a gentle misting of water during their blooming phase to keep the petals looking fresh.

Come fall, provide a blanket of mulch to shield the plants from the harsh winter months.

Fertilization is crucial to foster healthy growth and an abundance of blooms. Choose a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, and apply as directed. For optimal results, fertilize your daffodils every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing phase.

Once the blooms have withered away, let the leaves die back naturally, as they are vital in producing food for the next year’s flowers. Cut the stem just an inch below the bloom and place it in a vase with fresh water, changing the water and recutting the stem as needed.

To maximize the longevity of your daffodils, keep them out of direct sunlight. And, don’t forget the art of deadheading, or removing the spent blooms, as it not only tidies up the plant but also spurs the emergence of new blooms. Simply snip off the flower stalk at the base, being mindful not to damage the leaves.

When the blooms have faded, remove the entire plant from its pot and store it in a cool, dry place until next spring.

Daffodils thrive in sunlight and can flourish in both full sun (at least 6 hours of daily sunlight) and partial shade. With proper care, your daffodils can last for several weeks, spreading happiness with their bright yellow blooms, a welcome sight after a long winter. So, treat them with care and relish their radiance for many seasons to come.

caring for daffodils

Daffodil FAQ

Do Daffodils Spread?

Daffodils spread through rhizomes, which are thickened underground stems that store energy.

Rhizomes enable the plant to rapidly multiply and produce large numbers of offsets, or small plants that develop from the parent plant. This is how daffodils readily naturalize in areas where they are planted.

Are Daffodils Poisonous to Cats?

The deceptively beautiful daffodil plant harbors a dark secret: it is highly toxic to our feline friends. From its petals to its bulbs, every aspect of this plant poses a threat to cats who may ingest it, leading to a range of unpleasant symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and even seizures in severe cases.

A swift call to either a trusted veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center can be the difference between life and death for a feline in peril. Don’t wait – act fast to protect your furry companion.

Are Daffodils Poisonous to Dogs?

Beware pet owners! Those cheerful, yellow daffodils you admire in your home may spell danger for your furry companions. Despite their innocent appearance, these blooms are potent carriers of the toxic substance lycorine, present in every part of the plant.

Lycorine poisoning in dogs can have a catastrophic impact, with symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to abdominal pain, drooling, and weakness. Even the smallest exposure to daffodils can be life-threatening, making swift veterinary intervention imperative.

What Month do Daffodils Flower?

Daffodils typically bloom in the late winter to early spring months. Depending on where you live, they may start to flower as early as February or as late as April.

Can you Leave Daffodil Bulbs in the Ground All Year?

Yes, you can leave daffodil bulbs in the ground all year. In fact, leaving them in the ground is the best option for daffodil bulbs as it allows them to receive the necessary nutrients and moisture for optimal growth.

However, it is important to keep in mind that daffodil bulbs are susceptible to disease and pests, so it is a good idea to clean up any dead foliage from the previous year to reduce the risk of infestation.

Additionally, it is recommended to divide and replant the bulbs every few years to keep them healthy and to ensure that they continue to bloom.

type of daffodil

Final Thoughts

As we come to a close, it’s time to contemplate the delightful charm that daffodils bring to our gardens and flower beds. These radiant blooms offer a captivating burst of color to the outdoor vista during the lively spring months, leaving a lasting impression on all who behold them.

The consistency and longevity of daffodil blooms make them a coveted commodity among discerning gardeners. With their ability to thrive in diverse soil conditions and weather patterns, it’s no wonder that daffodils are a popular choice for adding a touch of allure to one’s garden.

The optimal period for planting daffodil bulbs is during the crisp autumn months, providing the ideal conditions for their magnificent display come spring.

So, why not elevate the aesthetic of your garden and imbue it with a touch of sophistication by incorporating these magnificent spring bulbs into your landscape this year?

The outcome will undoubtedly be a breathtaking display of beauty and glory that will be treasured for seasons to come.

The Ultimate Guide To Growing Tulips

These iconic spring bulbs sprout up and deliver our gardens a much needed pop of color and are one of the oldest cultivated plants around. There are thousands of types of tulips in various shapes, sizes and colors all with varying blooming dates, from early spring to late summer, that allows you to enjoy tulips all growing season long. Some even have a very soft, subtle scent. With so many desirable qualities, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that tulips are one of the classic flowering bulbs of springtime gardens and one of the most popular cut flowers on the market.

The Ultimate Guide To Growing Tulips 2

As with most plants, pests and disease are unfortunately things we must deal with, but not without hope. In most cases, if you take preventative measures you can avoid the heartbreak of dealing with the loss of your tulips in the first place.

What Are the Easiest Succulents to Grow?

When you hear of the word “succulent” what comes to mind? You may conjure up an image of something that is tender, ripe, and often delicious, but do your thoughts go to the zebra-patterned leaves of the succulent haworthia or the magenta-flowered spectacle of the mammillaria? The thick, fleshy, and eye-catching leaves of a succulent plant are all the rage, and best of all, you don’t have to be an expert botanist to enjoy their charm.

These garden varieties have gained popularity in recent years not only for their interesting shapes, hues, and textures but also for their reputation for being one of the easiest plants to keep alive (and thriving). There are so many interesting succulents out there that it might be a little overwhelming to know which one to start with. We’re sharing the lowdown on the easiest succulents to grow, even if you weren’t born with a green thumb.

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How Tall Does A Mexican Heather Plant Get?

With its delicate-looking flowers and rich foliage, Mexican heather is perhaps the most common Cuphea species grown in U.S. gardens. It’s typically grown as a heat-loving perennial in the south and summer-specific annual in the north because of its tenderness to frost. But with the right care, this beautiful bloom can survive winter climates across the U.S. – you might just need to bring it indoors once the weather turns cool.

How Tall Does A Mexican Heather Plant Get?

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Can I Leave Tulip Bulbs in Pots After Flowering?

Tulips are some of the most colorful, versatile flowers and are a favorite of gardeners. These flowers come in dozens of varieties, require little maintenance compared to other plants, and bloom beautifully after you plant them. However, many people wonder if you can eave tulip bulbs in pots and keep them there or if they need to replant tulips in the ground eventually.

Tulip Bulbs Overview

If you’re considering planting tulip bulbs, you will want to know the ins and outs of these cup-shaped flowers before beginning your planting process. With a little knowledge, you can ensure that your flower bulbs stay healthy throughout the summer with great success. Read on to learn more about how to plant tulip bulbs.

How To Plant Tulip Bulbs: Frequently Asked Questions

Tulips are relatively easy to grow compared to other popular flower varieties. Tulips are perennials, but most grow them as annuals, only having them bloom once in the spring. They are originally from central Asia and were brought to Europe in the 1600s. They do best in well-drained soil as the bulb is susceptible to root rot.

It will take more care and attention to grow them in hotter climates as their natural habitat is mountainous areas with cooler temperatures throughout the growing spring season. Many gardeners plant them in the ground in the early fall for early spring bloomers. As tulips grow, they often will produce baby bulbs that grow off the mother bulb and will flower in a few years with care.

Can You Leave Tulip Bulbs in Pots After Flowering?

Many people decide to start off their bulbs in a pot before transferring them to the ground after they bloom. However, if you live in an apartment or a residence without a yard, you may not have any other choice but to keep your plants and flowers in pots.

Thankfully, your bulbs will be just fine to stay in your flower pot after they begin to bloom. Tulips are hardy plants that do not need too much space to take root after they grow. As a result, keeping your bulbs in a spacious pot will give them plenty of room to thrive after they begin flowering.

First Bloom

After you notice the first blooms in your pot, we recommend adding some new soil to the pot to provide additional nutrients and fertilizer for your flower. Many garden centers recommend adding bone meal or well-rotted organic matter, but this is not necessary. The new soil will keep the blooms looking healthy and bright throughout their lifespan.

What Type of Soil Should I Plant Tulips In?

While tulips can grow in nearly any type of soil, these flowers thrive in loose, crumbly soil that offers superior drainage. Unfortunately, bulbs often rot in soil that remains too damp, making it essential that the pot that you keep your tulips in has decent drainage holes to let out excess moisture after watering.

You can create an ideal soil mixture for your tulips by mixing traditional potting soil with sand. Sand will create optimal drainage within the soil, ensuring that the planting mix does not remain wet for too long after you water your tulips. Plant tulips en masse for a breathtaking display of color and texture.

What Size Container Can I Plant Tulips In?

If you plan to keep your tulips in a pot or container throughout their lifespan, you will need a large container that gives your flowers room to grow. How much space will usually be relative to the size and age of the bulb, but plan to look for containers with a minimum diameter of 18 inches and a minimum height of 15 inches.

Unfortunately, if your container is too small, your bulbs may not survive planting. Giving your tulips plenty of room will ensure that they thrive in your pot. 

What Time of Year Should I Plant Tulips? 

Late autumn is the best time of year to plant your new bulbs in pots. This means September for colder climates, October for transitional climates, and November or December for warmer climates.

Planting your bulbs in the fall will give your tulips plenty of time to flower once spring rolls around the following year. Freezing temperatures are not ideal for planting bulbs.

Potted Tulips and Pests

When you plant tulip bulbs, especially potted bulbs, the concern for pests is increased. Unfortunately, pests such as slugs can easily ruin your precious tulips.

Be sure to check for pests regularly and add horticultural grit to the topsoil if you find any. It’s also important to make sure that the soil for planted bulbs is free of weeds, as many pests will hide in them.

Storing Tulip Bulbs

Because they are spring flowers, in the winter you can store potted tulips in an unheated garage. If you have bulbs that you want to plant in the future, but it’s not time, place your bulbs in a paper bag and a cool place like the refrigerator. Be careful not to place them next to fruits and vegetables as they give off ethylene gas as they ripen.

Will Potted Bulbs Bloom Again? 

Unfortunately, potted tulips typically usually do not bloom again. At the end of the season, you should take your bulbs out of the pot and use them for multi-purpose compost, then buy tulip bulbs for the following year.

Alternatively, after the foliage has turned yellow, dry the best bulbs out and replant them next season. The next season you should plant them in the ground in a sunny spot if you want to have any chance of success.

tulip flower heads, wild tulips

Other Ways to Grow Tulips 

There are several methods of planting tulips that give them an excellent opportunity to grow and thrive all summer long. If you’d rather not plant your tulips in a pot, you can try one of these methods instead.

Planting Tulip Bulbs In the Ground

Growing tulips in the ground is typically a more reliable method than planting them in a pot. While tulips can survive in a pot with the right conditions and care, they tend to thrive more in the ground.

This is because the ground does not hold moisture as much as pots do, ensuring that the bulbs do not sit in excess water between waterings. Additionally, the ground gives the plant’s roots more space to expand, creating a firmer foundation for the elongated flowers.

Ground Tips

If you would like to plant your tulips in the ground, you should first plant bulbs in the fall to produce flower heads in early spring. Be sure to pick a spot in your yard or garden that has well-draining soil and gets at least partial sun.

You should plant the spring bulbs at least 4 to 5 inches apart from each other and position them around the same depth of between 5 and 7 inches deep. Alternatively, some gardeners choose to soak tulip bulbs before planting in the spring, but this is not necessary.

Tulips in Window Boxes

If you’d like to dress up your home or apartment’s curb appeal without planting the tulips in the ground, you can also grow them in a window box. To do so, simply use potted bulbs in the window box in direct sunlight with at least three to four inches of soil covering them.

We recommend using a mixture of tall and short tulips in several different colors to create a visual contrast within your window box. You can also throw some pansies, primroses, and daisies into the box.

Growing Tulips in Water

Did you know you can grow tulips in water instead of soil? You can simply plant your bulbs in a glass bowl or vase and half-fill with water, glass beads or stones, and a waterproof filler. Be sure only to add enough water to cover the bulb’s roots.

Using this method, you shouldn’t need to add any nutrients or fertilizer to the water, as the bulbs already contain all of the growing aids your tulips need. They will, however, need to be in a sunny position.

Do Tulips Multiply?

Yes, they do! Tulips are one of the easiest bulbs to multiply. You can do it by digging up the bulbs in late summer or early fall and separating them. As the tulips spread naturally out and gain energy, they produce smaller bulbs as an offshoot of the mother bulb. Tulips multiply through asexual reproduction.

This is true of wild tulips as well as non-hybrid varieties, with a few exceptions. Each bulb will usually have several “offsets,” or small bulblets, attached to it. These small bulbs are carefully pulled apart and replanted to grow more tulips. You can also divide larger clumps of tulips that have become overcrowded. Just dig up the entire clump, divide it into smaller sections, and replant.

Other Spring Bulbs to Plant in Containers

You can try planting any other flowers in pots or containers, but some strains do better than others in these confining vessels. We recommend planting shorter varieties, such as princess Irene, double exotic emperor, and miniature bright gem tulips in pots.

Princess Irene Tulips

Princess Irene tulips are beautiful tulip varieties that show off a mixture of pink and orange petals, creating an almost ombre effect with their coloring. These tulip varieties thrive in pots, and they can add visual interest to your indoor or outdoor space.

Orange Emperor

Planting Tulip Bulbs

One of the favorites of the Netherlands, this species of tulip is an early bloomer with orange petals. They really have that wow factor that you are looking for, making their appearance in the spring a very welcomed site.

Golden Appledorn

This is one of the darwin hybrids that produce longer tulips of about two feet in height. They have planting depths of six to eight inches deep. These yellow-colored plants will bloom in mid-spring.

Double Tulip Exotic Emperor

Double exotic emperor tulips are a unique tulip variety that has a flatter, rounder base than traditional tulips. These tulips feature large, fluffy white blooms and green embellishments, giving them the royal appearance of an emperor.

Black Parrot

The tulip black parrot gets its name from its bold dark color. Starting off as green shoots, you can mix them with double early to make for a beautiful bouquet.

Miniature Tulip Bright Gem

Bright gem tulips are typically yellow in color and feature a star-shaped, rounded petal design. These charming tulips will add a pop of color to your window box or pot. 

So yes, you can leave tulip bulbs in pots after they flower! When spring arrives, just dig out any remaining roots, cut off the old stems close to the garden soil level, and put the fresh potting mix into your container before re-planting with new tulips (or other spring flowers). Subscribe to Amaral Farms today for seasonal gardening expert tips like these delivered straight to your inbox each month!

Do You Plant Sunflower Seeds Pointed Up or Down?

Sunflowers are just about the epitome of sunshine and summertime. Bright and sunny, they seem to be smiling as they track the sun with their tall heads. Sunflowers are so easy to grow. Their is so much about Sunflowers to them, from creating privacy in the garden to enticing birds or providing a beautiful bouquet of cut flowers. Anyone can plant sunflower seeds and enjoy the benefits of this wonderful plant. We’ll tell you everything you need to know.

How To Plant Sunflower Seeds

Pointed Down

Sunflower seeds will sprout best if you plant them with the narrow pointed seed-end facing down. While it isn’t strictly necessary to do this, it does give the sunflowers the best possible start in life. And why wouldn’t we want to give them that? They’re going to repay us with beautiful blooms and nutritious seeds after all. The narrow end of the seed is where roots will emerge, so putting this end down saves the plant from having to right itself in the ground.

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What Do You Do With Amaryllis Bulbs After They Bloom?

Amaryllis are large, trumpet-shaped flowers that bring a punch of color to any home or garden. Gardeners typically start with amaryllis bulbs, which look similar to an onion. These dormant bulbs will then sprout long, thin leaves and the iconic blooms. Amaryllis flowers come in eye-catching colors, can be over twelve inches wide, and can last for over seven weeks! But after that first flower starts to fade, many will ask: what do you do with amaryllis after they bloom?

How Long Do Amaryllis Blooms Last

In optimum growing conditions, the amaryllis flower can endure for two to three weeks per stem. They can bloom for up to many weeks if they are grown in a cool room temperature, out of direct sunshine, and with at least one weekly watering when in active growth. Some Amaryllis stems can bloom for up to three weeks if they are utilized as cut flowers, selected at the point of ripe bud development, and maintained in the vase.

The Basics of Re-Blooming an Amaryllis bulb

Amaryllis thrives in an environment with a nine-month wet period and a three-month dry period. By mimicking this cycle, you can encourage your plant to re-bloom after a forced dry or dormant period. Removing all foliage before the dormant period allows the bulb to retain vital nutrients and energy stores. Most importantly for all plants, provide your amaryllis with all the water and fertilizer it needs while it is growing. If you take your amaryllis indoors to store them, make sure you store the dormant bulb in a cool dry place. Or you can put them in your fridge to trigger dormancy, preparing them for the next growing season. This will keep the bare bulbs from attempting to regrow.

When to Cut Back Amaryllis Leaves

Once your faded flowers begin to whither, it is best to cut off your amaryllis flowers after they bloom before they start to form seeds. Creating seeds pulls vital nutrients and energy away from the rest of the plant. Keeping your amaryllis bulb healthy and full of available energy is the best way to promote re-flowering.

As the flower stalk dries out and starts to turn brown, cut back amaryllis leaves down within an inch of the bulb. Green leaves and stems should be left to continue photosynthesis, the process in which plants convert carbon dioxide and water into energy utilizing sunlight. By allowing photosynthesis to continue, your plant will build stores of nutrients and energy needed for the next re-blooming period.

Replanting Your Amaryllis Bulbs

If your amaryllis needs to be replanted, the best time to do so is when it is not in bloom. The plants prefer to be in a small pot with very little extra room (“pot-bound”). The pot should only be approximately one inch wider than the amaryllis bulb, but deep enough for the roots to have space to grow.

Loosely add a well-draining soil below and around your bulb, with one-third of the bulb remaining visible. Ideally, the top of the bulb should be above the edge of your container. Your pot must have drainage holes on the bottom to prevent mold and root rot.

 potted amaryllis,  amaryllis plants

Continuous Blooming

Unlike other bulb species, such as hyacinth and tulip, amaryllis bulbs do not require a chilling or dormant period to bloom. Some gardeners do this to time their next amaryllis blooming with Christmas. With the right environment and care, your plant can continuously re-bloom after it stores enough nutrients and creates enough energy.

In areas where frost is not an issue, amaryllis can be grown outdoors year-round. Otherwise, they will need to be inside during the cold months and inside or outside during the warm months. Keeping your amaryllis in full sun (or as much sun as possible) will allow it to synthesize the energy needed to bloom again as soon as possible.

Forced Dormancy

If you live in an area with freezing winter temperatures, or would just like to control when your amaryllis blooms, you can force your plant into a dormant period. During the dormant period, your plant remains alive but it is using very little energy and nutrients. By saving energy, the bulb will be ready to grow when the appropriate conditions are met (warm and sunny).

Once your blooms have died and been trimmed off, bring your plant inside to a dark, dry location, like a closet or basement. Ideally, the temperature would be between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the stems and leaves dry out and die off naturally before trimming down to the bulb. You can also remove the bulb from the soil to save space and allow it to rest as-is during this period.

Do not water or fertilize during dormancy, but check the amaryllis periodically for mold or other issues. After two to three months, you can move your plant to a sunny location and begin watering and fertilizing as normal. This forced dormancy will allow you to try to schedule your blooms around certain times of year or holidays.

The Holiday Amaryllis

The amaryllis has become a holiday staple in many homes, with pre-planted bulbs in fresh potting soil, and in decorative pots planters, they are available for purchase a couple of months before the winter holiday season. If you would like to have your existing plant bloom for the holidays, stop fertilizing the plant in August.

In September, move your amaryllis into its dormant location and stop watering. Cut back the foliage down to the bulb as it starts to dry out. Follow the dormancy procedures until early November, when you can put your bulb back into a warm weather with sunlight and water as normal. Keep the potting soil barely moist so as not to damage the bulbs.

In the Garden

If you live in hardiness zones 8-10 (frost-free), your amaryllis bulbs can be planted outdoors directly in your garden. Garden amaryllis bloom once in spring and will go dormant over winter if it is cool enough. In a warm enough location, it is possible for the plants to re-bloom more times throughout the year.

Like with potted amaryllis, water when needed. Fertilizer is only needed before the plant putting up its flower stalk during the growth period. Trim off leaves and stems as they begin to turn yellow and die off.

what do you do with amaryllis bulbs after they bloom
What do you do with amaryllis bulbs after they bloom

Picking Your Amaryllis

Amaryllis has many varieties that differ in flower color and size. You can pick the best one for your needs or preferences. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • “Cherry Nymph” will produce multiple smaller blooms with bright red flowers on two stalks 
  • “Clown” has eight-inch wide blooms of striped red and white petals
  • “Evergreen” is a vibrant, light-green hue that can add a tropical feel to your home
  • “Rilona” has subtle, apricot orange petals, an unusual color for amaryllis
  • “Ferrari Amaryllis” will wow everyone with vibrant red blooms that are over twelve inches wide 
  • “Dancing Queen” a great variety for zones 8-10, a great fit for Florida it has beautiful white & red striped large flower pedals

Once you have your amaryllis bulb and the right pot for it, place the plant in a sunny spot that is between 65 and 75 degrees.

Why Do I See Waxed Amaryllis Bulbs

Waxing amaryllis bulbs is just another way for growers and marketers of bulbed flowers to sell these beauties. Without pots they are much lighter and easier to pack. Selling them individually also keeps the cost down, as amaryllis plants can get very expensive compared to other flowering bulbs. Your waxed amaryllis bulbs have everything they need already in the bulb to fully flower. No ruther watering or fertilizer is needed. Just make sure they get some sun light and if they do get a bit wilty simply spray a bit of water on them.

Optimal Amaryllis Care

Once you have your amaryllis bulb and the right pot for it, place the plant in a well-lit area that is between 65 and 75 degrees. If your flower stalks grow too large and start to become floppy, you can stake them or simply cut back the leaves.

Outdoors, your amaryllis can handle partial shade, indirect sun to full sun. Once blooms are present, the plant prefers some shade to allow the flowers to stay bright as long as possible. Indoors, it is best to place your bulbs in a sunny window, southern exposure being ideal, during the growth period.

After you first plant your bulb, water sparingly until you see a couple of inches of growth out of the top, then water frequently. The amaryllis bulb will contain everything the plant needs nutrient-wise for the first flowers, but when attempting to get your plant to re-bloom, use a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to rebuild nutrient stores.

For the best flowers, turn your pot every couple of days as the flower stalk is growing. This will keep the stalk growing straight for the tallest blooms. If the bud is too heavy, a support stake can help keep it upright. Once the flower starts to open, keep the plant out of direct sunlight to prolong its life of the flower. Having a plan on what to do with your amaryllis after they bloom is a necessary step to ensuring you have beautiful flowers year after year.

By giving your plant the best opportunity to store nutrients and energy throughout the year, your amaryllis will continue to provide you with beautiful blooms.

How Do You Prune Orchid Plants?

Orchids are essentially indoor plants. They might seem relatively easy to take care of but the pruning step of planting these fairly little plants is a bit technical. Great care is required while pruning them. Some of the simple steps could be followed, to make it a healthy plant inside your garden. So, grasp your scissors. I will tell you when you need to prune and how to do it perfectly. 

Benefits 

Pruning is necessary for your orchids, it keeps them fresh and healthy. It also provides you a chance to detect unfolding problems. Another important benefit of pruning is that you remove or cut the diseased tissue. This tissue may be the habitat of disease-causing fungi, bacteria, or viruses. The most important benefit of Orchid pruning is that more buds and flowers appear after pruning. 

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Flower Bulbs to Plant in Fall

Flowering bulbs are the plant most closely associated with Spring. Not sure of that statement? Easter is celebrated after the Spring equinox and the white lily is the traditional Easter flower. If your goal is to have a yard full of flowering bulbs in the Spring, you’ll need to get started in late fall. Where to get them? There are many places online where you can buy bulbing plants easy enough, some sites even specialize in bulbing plants alone. However if you have a bulbing flower, they generally propagate themselves quite easily. Taking them out of their pot and separating them out is an easy way to grow the number you have for next year. In a future blog we will discuss doing this and storing them for next year. For this blog we want to introduce you to a list of bulbs you might want to plant yourself.

Bluebells (Hyacinthoides spp.) 

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