Guide To Gifting & Growing Amaryllis

Amaryllis Benfica

The holidays are the perfect time to add some cheer to your home.  Houseplants are the perfect addition to every room.  I enjoy going to my local market and buying fresh cut flowers, but they are harder to come by in the winter months.  Not only that, they don't last very long and can be pricey.  Forcing bulbs indoors is an easy, fun indoor activity for all ages.  Once they flower, they can provide gorgeous blooms and stunning color for almost a month!  

Some of my favorite gifts to give during the winter season are Amaryllis bulbs.  It's a thoughtful present that everyone can enjoy!  I'm excited to share with you a little about this amazing flower along with a list of my top varieties to give as gifts.  Make sure you scroll to the bottom of this post and enter to win your very own winter bulb gift kit from Longfield Gardens!

About Amaryllis

Amaryllis Red Lion

Amaryllis Hippeastrum is an indoor flowering bulb that blooms during the winter months.  It is native to subtropical regions like Mexico and the Caribbean.  These bulbs can be planted in pots indoors and placed in a warm, well-lit environment.  They can also be planted outdoors as perennials in zone 8b to 10.  If these flower bulbs are stored correctly, they can last over 70 years!  That is a lifetime of blooms!  

They require well-drained soil, so they do not need constant watering.   They are known for their showy, dramatic blooms that can reach an extraordinary size.  There are over 600 different varieties to choose from.  The most popular colors sold are red, pink and white.  The blooms are a unique and eye catching trumpet shape that makes for the perfect conversation piece.  

"A bulb filled with a bouquet of blooms!"

Planting Bulbs

Amaryllis Denver

If you are looking for a kit that has everything you need, look no further!  Longfield Gardens has you covered with their Winter Bulb Gift Kits!  These perfect kits include the planter of your choice, soil, decorative moss and bulbs!  

These bulbs are very easy to grow!  You can even grow them with no soil.  You can fill vase with stones, rocks or pebbles.  Place your bulbs on top of those stones, then fill up with water until it's barely touching the bottom of the bulb.  Add more stones to make sure your bulb is anchored with the tip poking out.  As long as you keep the water level where it needs to be, your plant will grow strong.   It's easier to keep an eye on the level with a clear vase! 

Growing Tips & Tricks

- Do put your flowers in a sunny location.
- Do rotate your container frequently so those sturdy stalks grow straight. 
- Don't overwater and let your bulbs get moldy. 
- Do invest in something to support your plant, like stakes so it won't topple over. 
- Do make sure it is growing in an environment that is 60°F or above. (70-80°F is ideal)
- Don't throw out your plant once the first flowers have faded.  
- Do have fun and enjoy your gorgeous blossoms!
- Do try storing your bulb and allowing it to rebloom. 
- Don't be afraid to give them a little snip and enjoy them as cut flowers

Are you growing or planning on growing Amaryllis this winter?  What is your favorite flower variety to grow?  Feel free to share in the comment section below, or show me pictures by tweeting me @thefreckledrose.  These plants really do brighten my days and help me get through that long stretch of cold right before spring.  If you are looking for more information about growing amaryllis you can read this blog post by Longfield Gardens here.  Wishing you all beautiful blooms and a happy holidays! 

In case you missed it - 'Tis The Season To Stay Tidy

Disclaimer: Longfield Gardens was kind enough to provide a Round Birch Gift Kit with Apple Blossom amaryllis bulbs for this giveaway.  I only promote companies I enjoy and love and all opinions are my own!

Thank you so much for the fabulous flower feature Fantasy Art and Tree Chatter of Aquariann