A Detailed Guide to the Latest Methods for Planting Amaryllis Seeds
Amaryllis is also known as zhu ding hong, gu ting hua, hua zhou lan, etc. It originated in Brazil and prefers a warm, humid climate. Its optimum growing temperature is 18-25°C. It dislikes extreme heat, and sunlight should not be too intense. It fears waterlogging. During the winter dormant period, it prefers sandy loam rich in humus and well-drained. Now let's take a look at how to plant amaryllis seeds!
Preparation Before Sowing
For sowing amaryllis, the recommended soil mix is peat + perlite at a ratio of 1:1, which is very beneficial for amaryllis sowing and growth within half a year. If using other soils, pay attention to air permeability and moisture retention. The seeds usually received are quite dry. If sown directly, insufficient water absorption will affect the germination rate. It is recommended to float them in water for 2-3 days before proceeding to the next step. Flower pots should be arranged according to the amount of seeds. It is recommended to use a pot with a diameter of 20-25 cm and a depth of about 20 cm for 30 seeds. The soil should fill 80% of the pot. Use a transparent food-grade plastic bag with a diameter of 35 cm for the freshness bag.
Sowing Method
First, place the received seeds in a container and float them in water for 2-3 days, with a water depth of about 3 cm. Fill the pot with the mixed soil to 75% of the pot's capacity, spray it moist and set aside (humidity above 70%). Then distribute the seeds evenly on the surface of the soil with the patience of embroidery, keeping at least 1 cm between seeds. Then place dry mixed soil on top of the seeds, adding about 1 cm of thickness, then spray it moist (use a sprayer, do not pour water, otherwise the seeds will float on top of the soil). After spraying, cover with a freshness bag and seal it (it does not matter if it is not breathable), then place it in a semi-shaded area where direct sunlight cannot reach but there is light.
Growing Management
1. Soil: Amaryllis requires loose, fertile sandy loam soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. Waterlogging must be avoided. The potting soil can be prepared by mixing 2 parts decomposed manure soil, 6 parts leaf mold, and 2 parts sandy soil.
2. Watering: Amaryllis needs to be kept moist, and watering should be thorough. However, excessive water and poor drainage should be avoided. Generally, indoor air humidity is sufficient.
3. Sunlight: Amaryllis likes sunlight and can receive a moderate amount of direct sunlight, but not for too long. It should be placed by a window with bright light and good ventilation, without intense direct light.
4. Temperature: Amaryllis prefers warmth and is not cold-tolerant. In summer, it should be kept cool, with the temperature ideally at 18-22°C. During the winter dormant period, it requires a cool and dry environment, and the temperature must not be lower than 5°C.
5. Fertilizing: Amaryllis likes fertilizer. When the leaves grow to 5-6 cm long, start applying top dressing. Generally, apply decomposed cake fertilizer water once every half a month. After flowering, change to applying it once every 20 days or so to promote bulb enlargement and the production of new bulbs.
6. Pests and diseases: To make amaryllis grow vigorously and bloom early, pest and disease control should be carried out. Spray pesticide once a month. Spraying should be done on sunny days at around 9 AM and 4 PM. Do not spray under the midday sun to prevent pesticide damage.
7. Pruning: Amaryllis grows quickly, and its leaves are long and dense. When repotting and changing soil, remove withered leaves, dead roots, and roots and leaves affected by pests and diseases, leaving vigorous leaves.