While the holidays have bountiful trees and wreaths, there are other types of plants that help add to the vibrancy and cheeriness of the season. One plant in particular, the Amaryllis provides beautiful accents when cared for properly. Here’s a breakdown of Amaryllis plant care to keep it thriving through the winter and beyond.
Background: Hailing from South Africa, the Amaryllis comes in a variety of colors and can be double or single bloom. Larger bulbs generally give more blooms. Depending on the onset of the rainy season, naturally-occurring Amaryllis can grow their leaves during autumn and early spring. Bulbs remain dormant until late summer.
Lighting: Direct sunlight, but avoid hot afternoon sun
Amaryllis Plant Care & Watering: If starting with an Amaryllis bulb, first soak it in water for 1-2 hours. Keep lightly moist until the bulb blooms. After it blooms, water once a week or whenever the top 2 inches of soil dries out. You may want to hire an office plant service to keep these plants alive if you take a holiday or winter vacation since they will die without consistent watering.
Toxicity: Amaryllis is toxic to both pets and humans. Ingestion can cause abdominal pain, cardiac arrhythmias, and convulsions.
