| There's nothing more festive than several | | | | the top third of the bulb - exposed. |
| amaryllis plants contributing their rich burst of | | | | 2. Keep the soil moist but not wet, and the |
| bloom to your house during the holiday season. | | | | temperatures above 64ºF (18ºC) - |
| Amaryllis may look exotic, but the bulbs are easy | | | | optimal temperatures are between 68 to |
| to grow. The flowers are large and | | | | 77ºF (20 to 25ºC). |
| trumpet-shaped and come in lovely shades | | | | 3. Place the bulb in bright light and watch for |
| ranging from white and apple-blossom pink to | | | | growth to start. You should see a flower bud |
| scarlet. Some cultivars, such as 'Nymph', even | | | | appear after a couple of weeks. Turn the pot |
| have attractive striped petals. | | | | regularly so the flower stalk won't lean in one |
| An amaryllis bulb kit, complete with planting | | | | direction. |
| container and potting soil, makes a lovely hostess | | | | 4. Sometimes you'll need to support the stalk with |
| gift. | | | | a slim bamboo stake and raffia ties. |
| Amaryllis care - step-by-step: | | | | 5. Once the flower is finished, cut off the stem |
| | | | just above the bulb nose. Give amaryllis bright light |
| 1. When you buy an amaryllis bulb, look for a | | | | on a sunny windowsill or under plant lights. |
| large, plump one with some roots attached. Using | | | | 6. Continue to feed and water. Apply a standard |
| a pot that's slightly larger in diameter than the | | | | water-soluble houseplant fertilizer at half the |
| bulb, plant it in potting soil, leaving the "shoulders" - | | | | recommended strength every two weeks. |