Indoor Bulbs to Brighten the Season
Contributed by Jolene Ottosen for the Chaparral Green Thumbs
When it comes to plant-based Christmas decorations, Christmas trees, poinsettias, and perhaps even yule logs likely come to mind first. While these—especially Christmas trees—tend to take centre stage, don’t overlook the charm of seasonal bulbs. If started now, these bulbs can make a beautiful addition to your holiday décor.
Paperwhites
A close relative of the daffodil, paperwhites are perfect for those looking for blooms that require minimal effort. Kits containing bulbs and pots are often available this time of year. While the provided pots are typically plastic, some more durable than others, you can always place the plastic pot inside something more decorative.
Once planted, bulbs should be kept in a cool, dark space—around 18°C—for a few weeks to allow the roots to develop, although many kits bypass this step. After about four to six weeks, tall stems will shoot up, followed by delicate white blooms. Some kits suggest you can transplant them outdoors in the spring, but in our cold climate, paperwhites won’t survive the winter.
These plants typically grow to 12 to 18 inches and can become droopy. A trick to prevent this is to water them with a 5% alcohol solution (mix one part clear 40% alcohol with seven parts water). This is said to allow the flowers to bloom fully while reducing their height by about one-third. However, I have not personally tried this method.
Amaryllis
Amaryllis is another seasonal favourite, known for its dramatic, lily-like blooms, often in vibrant red. Bulb kits are widely available and, like paperwhites, do not require a cooling period. If you buy bulbs separately, plant them with the pointed end up, leaving about one-third of the bulb exposed above the soil. Ensure the pot has proper drainage, as these plants dislike sitting in water. Tall blooms may require support as they can be quite heavy.
Place the potted bulb in a bright location and water sparingly until about two inches of growth appears. After that, increase watering to about once or twice a week. Turn the pot periodically to ensure straight growth. Blooms should appear within five to eight weeks and last longest when kept out of direct sunlight.
To enjoy amaryllis blooms again next year, follow these simple steps: after the blooms have faded, cut off the stems, but continue watering and fertilizing the plant. Throughout spring and summer, the plant will grow long leaves that store energy in the bulb. In August, stop watering and allow the foliage to die back naturally. Store the dried bulb in a cool, dark place for at least eight weeks before replanting in fresh soil.
For an even simpler option, waxed amaryllis bulbs don’t need soil or water. They look striking and are perfect for low-maintenance décor, though they’re a one-time bloom. Some people have had success removing the wax after the bloom and saving the bulb for reuse.
There are many other ways to incorporate plants into your holiday décor, from succulent wreaths to Christmas cacti. Whatever your preference, now is the perfect time to start planning!
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