CARING FOR AMARYLLIS

HORTICULTURE TOPIC: Caring for Amaryllis

​Nancy Percivall, Committee Chair for Horticulture, shared helpful insights with members on how to care for amaryllis, a popular flowering bulb known for its showy, trumpet-shaped blooms. Amaryllis are especially loved for their ability to brighten up indoor spaces during the winter months and are often grown for holiday displays. Nancy walked members through the basics of amaryllis care—from planting and watering to sunlight needs and post-bloom care to encourage reblooming the following year.

One particularly fascinating tip she shared was how to prevent tall amaryllis plants from flopping over as they grow. The trick? A little alcohol! Once the flower stalk is a few inches tall, watering the plant with a diluted solution of alcohol—such as gin, vodka, or rubbing alcohol—can reduce the overall height of the plant while still allowing the flowers to develop at full size. The alcohol works by slightly stressing the plant and reducing the amount of water the stem absorbs, which results in shorter, sturdier growth. The ideal mix is one part alcohol to seven parts water for spirits, or one part alcohol to ten parts water for rubbing alcohol. This technique produces a compact plant with full-sized blooms that won’t tip over under their own weight.
​
Nancy’s tip was met with curiosity and enthusiasm, and several members were excited to try the alcohol method with their own amaryllis plants at home. Her practical advice and horticultural knowledge continue to help members cultivate successful, vibrant gardens both indoors and out.