Jolly Lane Greenhouse recommends planting amaryllis bulbs now for upcoming holiday season

Oct. 27, 2011 - PRLog -- RAPID CITY – Planting amaryllis bulbs now will result in beautiful blooming flowers by the Christmas season.

Either standing alone or as part of an arrangement, amaryllis blooms make wonderful holiday decorations.

“With amaryllis bulbs, it’s wise to plan ahead and plant now. These bulbs will flower in about seven to 10 weeks as a general rule, depending on the type of amaryllis, storage conditions of the bulb, and temperature of their environment,” said Tim Sime, owner of Jolly Lane Greenhouse in Rapid City.

Rapid City nursery Jolly Lane typically stocks amaryllis bulbs in late October and November. Bulbs which produce red and white flowers, such as United Nations and Clown, are ideal for the Christmas season.

“Amaryllis bulbs should be planted in containers with holes in the bottom and watered when planted. They should be potted with about one-third to one-half of the bulb above the growing medium surface,” advised Sime.

Once the bulbs have bloomed, holiday-colored tissue paper can be wrapped around the pot and tied with a wide ribbon to add creative flair. Decorative containers can also be purchased at craft and discount stores. Flower pots can also be slipped down into small wicker baskets or brass pots.

According to Sime, after each bulb finishes blooming, it can be planted outside after all threat of frost has passed. Amaryllis will bloom annually if properly cared for.
Amaryllis planting tips from amaryllis.com include:

•   Planting Period: October until the end of April.
•   Flowering Period: Late December until the end of June.
•   Flowering time is 7-10 weeks.
•   Larger bulbs produce more flowers.
•   Always store un-planted bulbs in a cool place between 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Jolly Lane Greenhouse also sells paper-white bulbs, another good choice for a plant which can be planted now for blooming around the Christmas holiday.

Come see Jolly Lane’s entire selection at their holiday open house, planned for Nov. 18 and 19 in Rapid City.

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About Jolly Lane Greenhouse

Jolly Lane Greenhouse is open all year, providing novice gardeners and experienced green thumbs alike with high-quality seasonal plants, trees, and herbs, seasonal decorations, and expert advice on landscape design and plant care. For more information about the Rapid City garden center, visit http://www.jollylane.com/greenhouse/.