How to grow amaryllis from seed? A detailed guide to the planting method

Amaryllis is also known as zhu ding hong, gu ting hua, and hua zhou lan. It originates from Brazil and prefers a warm, humid climate, with an optimal growing temperature of 18-25°C. It does not like extreme heat, should not be exposed to overly intense sunlight, and fears waterlogging. During its winter dormancy period, it likes a sandy loam rich in humus and with good drainage. Now let us take a look at how to grow amaryllis from seed!

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 you want to use other soil, pay attention to air permeability and moisture retention. Usually the seeds received are relatively dry; if sown directly, they will not absorb enough water, which affects the germination rate. It is recommended to float them in water for 2-3 days, then proceed to the next step. Flower pots should be arranged according to the amount of seeds. It is recommended that 30 seeds use a pot with a diameter of 20-25 cm and a depth of about 20 cm. The soil should fill 80% of the pot. The plastic bag should be a transparent food bag with a diameter of 35 cm.

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 it aside (humidity above 70%). Then distribute the seeds evenly over the surface of the soil, doing this with embroidery-like patience, with at least 1 cm between seeds. Then place dry mixed soil on top of the seeds, adding about 1 cm in thickness, and then spray it moist (use a sprayer, do not pour water, otherwise the seeds will float on top of the soil). After spraying, seal it with a plastic bag (it does not matter if it is not breathable), then place it in a semi-shaded area where direct sunlight cannot reach it, but where there is light.

Care and management

1. Soil: Amaryllis requires loose, fertile sandy loam for planting, with a pH of 5.5-6.5, and must never be waterlogged. The potting soil can be prepared by mixing 2 parts decomposed manure soil, 6 parts leaf mold, and 2 parts sandy soil evenly.

2. Watering: Amaryllis needs to be kept moist, and watering should be thorough. But avoid excessive water and poor drainage. Generally, the indoor air humidity is sufficient.

3. Sunlight: Amaryllis likes sunlight and can take a moderate amount of direct sunlight, but not for too long. It should be placed by a window with bright light, good ventilation, and no strong direct sunlight.

4. Temperature: Amaryllis likes warmth and cannot tolerate cold. In summer it prefers cool conditions, with a temperature of 18-22°C being suitable. During the winter dormancy 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 topdressing. Generally, apply decomposed cake fertilizer water once every half a month. After flowering, switch to applying it once about every 20 days to promote bulb enlargement and the production of new bulbs.

6. Pests: To make amaryllis grow vigorously and bloom early, pest and disease control should be carried out, spraying pesticide once a month. Spraying should be done on clear days at around 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Do not spray under the strong midday sun to prevent pesticide damage.

7. Pruning: Amaryllis grows quickly, and its leaves are long and dense. When repotting and changing the soil, cut off withered leaves, dead roots, and roots and leaves affected by pests and diseases, leaving the vigorous leaves.