From Bulbs to Holiday Blooms
AMARYLLIS & PAPERWHITES
Looking for an easy way to add color and fragrance to your holiday decorating? Look no further than planting Amaryllis or Paperwhites. These easy-to-plant bulbs will fill your home with the Christmas spirit.
Amaryllis
Of all flowering bulbs, Amaryllis are the easiest to bring to bloom. The large, striking flowers and bold colors make this a must-have, holiday classic! Amaryllis bulbs are available in so many beautiful varieties including various shades of red, white, pink, salmon and even orange. There are also striped and multicolored varieties, usually combining shades of pink or red with white.
Paperwhites
Another favorite holiday bulb is a member of the daffodil family, but looks much more delicate than the big yellow trumpet daffodils you see in spring. These are the most fragrant of the daffodil family, with a distinctive sweet smell that will permeate your home throughout the season.
To get started, you’ll need:
- 3 to 4 Bulbs (either Paperwhites or Amaryllis)
- Nutritious potting compost or stones/pebbles
- Decorative Container
Planting Instructions:
- Amaryllis:Plant bulbs in potting compost. Plant the bulb up to its neck in the potting compost, being careful not to damage the roots. Press the soil down firmly to set the bulb securely in place after planting.
- Paperwhite: You do not need any soil; just set them in a shallow dish with some pebbles, or even some nicely-colored marbles. Let the bulbs stand, flat side down, in the pebbles, so the pebbles cover about half the bulb.
Place your potted bulbs in a warm place with direct light since heat is necessary for the development of the stems. The ideal temperature is 68 to 70 degrees F. Water sparingly until the stem appears, then, as the bud and leaves appear, gradually water more. At this point, the stem will grow rapidly and flowers will develop after it has reached full growth. Bulbs will flower in 7-10 weeks as a general rule.
If you’re left wondering when to plant these bulbs in order to have them holiday-ready, we’ve got you covered. Use these handy bloom calendars as a guide:
