However, not all amaryllis bulbs are created equal! A good quality bulb is a must if you want a spectacular show. Generally, the larger the bulb, the larger the flowers, the more flowers per stem, and the more stems per bulb. If properly cared for, these bulbs can last year after year.
Large amaryllis bulbs (32/34+ cm) will produce 2-4 stems each and as many as 6 flowers per stem (up to 20 flowers total) creating a show of blooms that will last for months! Smaller sized bulbs will produce fewer stems, often only one and sometimes none at all! When you purchase amaryllis bulbs try to buy only those that you can actually see. Often, when you buy bulbs in the attractive boxes with the beautiful pictures on the outside, you will be disappointed with a small, inferior bulb on the inside.
The higher quality bulbs are graded, evaluated, and tested to ensure that they have excellent stem production and viable flower buds. During the evaluation process, many amaryllis bulbs are dissected by cutting and peeling away the fleshy scales (similar to an onion) to reveal the stem and flower buds inside. There is usually a bud found between about every 7 scales which is why the larger bulbs have the potential to produce more flowering stems. Sometimes, as seen in the photo to the right, this process reveals dead or rotten buds which will not produce a flowering stem.
Good quality large size amaryllis bulbs (32/34+ cm) from a reputable grower or garden center are truly worth the extra money you might pay. They will generally produce at least 2 flowering stems and often 3 or more. Each stem will produce between 4 and 6 huge flowers!
Critical to success in stem and flower production, is the harvesting and drying process that the bulb undergoes after digging. If the bulbs are not dried properly (at the right temperature and over the correct time period), the buds and/or part of the interior of the bulb can begin to rot.
Once you have chosen a good quality amaryllis bulb, plant it in a container that is at least 6" wide. The top third of the bulb should show above the soil and it is important that you try to keep this upper portion of the bulb dry when you water. Place your amaryllis bulb in a warm, sunny location while the flower stalk is growing, but as soon as the first flower opens, move the plant to a cooler location out of direct sunlight. This will prolong the life to the flowers. Keep the soil moist throughout it's bloom cycle.
Click here for more tips on growing amaryllis, how to treat them after the holidays, and how to get them to rebloom year after year.