It’s naptime for the Giant Amaryllis, those behemoth bulbs properly known as Hippeastrum. After a long, hot summer on the sun porch, your Amaryllis are cranky and tired; bring them indoors, lay their plump potted selves on their sides in cool, dark place, and leave them to snooze unmolested for about two months. Reveille for the tubby tubers should happen in November. At that time, get out your nippers and cut back dead or dying leaves close to the top of the bulb, being careful not to nip the tips of any new growth. Then replace all (or just the top inch or so) of soil with fresh stuff, water well and place your refreshed “Hippie” in a warm spot. Don’t water it again until you see some new growth (or unless the soil really dries out).

As soon as the Hippeastrum resprouts, place it near a sunny, warm window (too dim a spot and its flower stalk won’t grow as quickly, or as erectly!) When its buds open, move your potted plumpster to a cool, bright spot so the flowers will last, then settle down and enjoy your own nap.

Note well: Hippeastrum bulbs, ranging in size from huge to jumbo (26/28 to 34 cm in circumference) are for sale in the nursery in November, along with jillions of other bulbs. Stop by and pick up a free copy of our catalogue!

–Margaret      

Gardening Suggestions November/December 2000