Easter is all around, just look at the lovely flowers in bloom and you can tell it is that time of the year!
Shades of yellow, pink, salmon, blue, white, red and purple are blooming everywhere.
Flowers are beloved for their beauty. They are simply gorgeous. Today, we will speak about Amaryllis.
The botanical name for Amaryllis is Hippeastrum. Amaryllis is Greek for ‘sparkling’ and it symbolizes radiant beauty and love.
A native of the tropical region of South America, there are approximately 70 species of Amaryllis that grow wild in the southern hemisphere. However, most of the Amaryllis plants sold on the market are hybrids.
Amaryllis hybrids have been produced both in the USA and Europe, particularly in Holland, which remains the largest producer. These hybrids have impressively large flowers, approximately 3-6 flowers per cluster. These clusters are trumpet-like and bloom in shades of salmon, pink, red and white. In Brazil there is a blue variety. Amaryllis grows and blooms profusely in Barbados.
Plant Amaryllis bulbs in well drained soil. Set the bulb so the neck with half of the bulb above the surface of the soil. Press soil firmly around the base of the bulb and water lightly. Remember to keep the soil slightly moist until bulb starts to grow. Fertilise with Miracle Gro All Purpose once every two weeks. It takes approximately 7 to 10 weeks to bloom. My Amaryllis plants have just finished blooming and more blooms are coming. Happy Easter!
Until next week, Happy Gardening!
