There’s something magical about the holidays. Maybe it’s all the twinkling lights, or maybe it’s because this time of year makes us feel more grateful and hopeful. Perhaps it is simply because we are spending time with people we care about and love. Or maybe it’s just because Christmas time also means holiday plants! Think of those beautiful amaryllis that you see in the florist shops around December. Their red and yellow petals are a sign that winter is coming — or has already arrived, if you live in colder regions where these plants prefer to grow. Regardless of where you live, keeping your amaryllis alive for the holidays is not as impossible as one might think. In fact, there are many simple steps that you can follow to prolong its life post-Christmas. Before reading on how to keep your Amaryllis alive for the holidays, take note of a few things first:
Amaryllis Care Basics
Amaryllis are tropical plants that like warm temperatures, as well as lots of light. These plants prefer to be in a pot with soil that only dries out slightly between waterings. That being said, you do not want the soil to be completely dry, or the plant will wilt. The best way to know when to water your Amaryllis is by feeling the soil with your fingers. The top of the soil should be slightly damp to the touch. Amaryllis plants prefer soil that has been enriched with compost or other organic fertilizer. You can also use a liquid fertilizer, applied at half-strength every time you water the plant.
Step One: The Right Environment
Since amaryllis are tropical plants, they need warm temperatures to thrive. If you live in a warmer climate, you can keep your plant outside. Otherwise, you can move your plant to a warmer location inside. If your plant is in a pot, you can put it on the inside of your windowsill or in another warm area of your house. If your plant is in a decorative container that can’t be moved, like a ceramic pot, you can warm the container by putting it in a warm oven. Turn off the oven and open the door once the container has heated up. Christmas Amaryllis
Step Two: Watering
Amaryllis should be watered thoroughly, but not drenched with water, as this can cause root rot. The best way to water your Amaryllis is to pour water into the planter until it begins to overflow. Let the excess water drain out of the bottom of the planter, then pour more water in. Keep in mind that you don’t have to water your plant every day. In fact, you should water your plant less during the winter, as the cooler temperatures will cause it to lose moisture more quickly. Your plant should receive less water during the winter, as the cooler temperatures will cause it to lose moisture more quickly. Check the soil for dryness less often during the winter.
Step Three: Fertilizing
Amaryllis should be fertilized every two weeks. Use a fertilizer that has a high-nitrogen content, such as fish emulsion or liquid houseplant fertilizer, especially if your plant is potted. Fertilize your plant every two weeks, beginning two weeks after you first put it into bloom. Amaryllis should be fertilized when in full bloom, even if the florist tells you not to. The people who work in the florist shops usually have experience with the flowers, but they don’t know your particular plant.
Step Four: Repotting
Amaryllis should be repotted every one to two years. Begin repotting your plant in early fall, before the leaves have wilted. If your plant is in a decorative pot that you can’t move, you can simply add a few inches of new soil to the existing container.
Step Five: Conclusion
Amaryllis are easy to care for, provided you follow the right guidelines. These plants prefer to be kept in warm temperatures, in soil that dries out slightly between waterings. Amaryllis should be repotted every one to two years, and fertilized two weeks after the plant has begun to bloom. Keep these tips in mind if you want to keep your amaryllis alive for the holidays. These beautiful flowers are a sign that winter is coming — or has already arrived, if you live in colder regions where these plants prefer to grow.
This article is provided by https://www.bomagardencentre.co.uk/christmas-trees-gifts-christmas-plants-flowers
