When speaking of growing bulbs indoors, I prefer to use the word “coaxing” instead of “forcing.” All bulbs try to bloom — it’s their nature. They just need a little encouragement to flower early indoors.

It’s part of my job to supply plants for catalog photography. I always seem to be working on a schedule that’s directly opposed to nature. The greenhouse comes in handy for coaxing some plants, but bulbs are a different breed because they need a chilling period in order to bloom. Bulbs in containers do not necessarily grow as they would in a garden, either.

With most amaryllis, and certainly J&P bulbs, you won’t have to worry about chilling. They’re ready to get growing as soon as you receive them – they’ve been pre-chilled. Place your amaryllis in a bright, warm place to start, then move to a cooler, indirectly lit area to ensure the blooms last longer.

Our amaryllis are amazingly vigorous. The bulbs measure several centimeters larger than what you find at chain stores. That means they’ll produce more blooms. Our amaryllis send up two, sometimes three, flower stalks, in succession over 2-3 months.  Plus they’re grown in the southern hemisphere, so their true growing season is the same as when you force them. There’s almost nothing you can do to keep them from flowering! I’ve heard stories around here of bulbs blooming in desk drawers, on cabinet tops, in our compost area. Anyone can bring these gorgeous plants into bloom. They’re practically foolproof, and that’s why I like them so much.

They’re also a tremendous value: unlike many other bulbs, they’ll bloom reliably for many years. Just water the plants occasionally after they finish blooming. The leaves will eventually wither. Stop watering at that point and gently remove the dead leaves. Your amaryllis bulbs are ready to hibernate for a few months. Store them either right in the pots or in brown paper bags. The best place for amaryllis hibernation is a cool, dark location such as a basement.

Some gardeners I know also plant their amaryllis bulbs outdoors for the summer. The sunshine and soil nutrients help the bulbs bulk up for winter flowering. At summer’s end, they dig them up and store them dry for a few months.

Amaryllis are big, bright, cheerful, and very versatile. They’re a big part of our holiday decorating around here just for that reason. I heartily recommend you try them this year!