Amaryllis: A Guide to Varieties and Growing Tips
Amaryllis is a stunning bulb that produces showy flowers in a wide range of colors and shapes. These winter-blooming beauties are a popular choice for gardeners of all levels, and there are many different varieties to choose from.
Choosing the Right Amaryllis Variety
With so many different types of amaryllis available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. Here are a few things to consider:
- Size: Amaryllis flowers can range in size from small to large. Choose a size that will fit well in the space you have available.
- Shape: Amaryllis flowers come in a variety of shapes, including single, double, and exotic. Single flowers have one layer of petals, while double flowers have multiple layers. Exotic flowers have unusual shapes and colors.
- Color: Amaryllis flowers come in a wide range of colors, including white, pink, red, orange, and yellow. Choose a color that will complement your existing décor or garden.
- Bloom time: Amaryllis flowers typically bloom in the winter, but some varieties bloom in the spring or summer. Choose a variety that will bloom when you want to enjoy it most.
Popular Amaryllis Varieties
Here are a few of the most popular amaryllis varieties:
Large Flowering Amaryllis Varieties:
- Clown: Pure white petals with bright red stripes
- Picotee: Large white flowers with a slender band of red on the edges
- Ruby Star: Pointy, star-shaped blooms with burgundy petals and a white throat
- Desire: Warm shade of sunset orange
- Apple blossom: White petals with blushes of soft pink
Double Flowering Varieties of Amaryllis:
- Red Peacock: Deep red blooms with accents of narrow white stripes
- Dancing Queen: Frilly double variety with layers of pure white petals and red candy stripes
- Snow Drift: Multi-petaled variety with billowy, pure white flowers
- Nymph: Snowy white cultivar with subtle streaks of salmon
Exotic Amaryllis Varieties:
- Chico: Slender, spidery petals of creamy ivory with markings of reddish purple and pale green
- Santiago: Snow-white, trumpet-shaped blooms with ruby red stripes and a lime green throat
- Misty: Broad, white, trumpet-shaped flowers with blushes of rosy pink
- Papillio Butterfly: Reddish purple stripes with a hint of green against white petals, giving it a butterfly-like appearance
Growing Amaryllis
Amaryllis are relatively easy to grow, but there are a few things you need to know to ensure success.
Planting: Amaryllis bulbs should be planted in the fall, about 6-8 weeks before you want them to bloom. Plant the bulbs in well-drained soil, with the尖端just above the soil surface. Water the bulbs well and place them in a warm, sunny location.
Watering: Amaryllis need regular watering, but be careful not to overwater. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Fertilizing: Amaryllis should be fertilized every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Light: Amaryllis need bright light to bloom well. Place them in a sunny location, or provide them with supplemental lighting.
Temperature: Amaryllis prefer warm temperatures, between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Troubleshooting Common Amaryllis Problems
Here are a few common problems that you may encounter when growing amaryllis:
- Yellowing leaves: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering or underwatering. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
- Bud blast: Bud blast occurs when the flower buds fall off before they open. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, pests, or diseases.
- Pests: Amaryllis are susceptible to a few common pests, including aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Treat infestations with an appropriate insecticide.
With proper care, amaryllis are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any garden or home.
