A gift of an Amaryllis

I received a boxed Amaryllis bulb before Christmas and planted it. In photographs, I've chronicled its progress.

Week 3

                                                     

   Week 4

Week 5

Week 6

Week 7

At Week 8, the flower stem is 17 inches long. The leaves have separated from the stem. The swelling flower bud should be blooming soon. I am adding a small amount of water anytime the potting medium is dry.

Week 8

The plant is changing very quickly now as it prepares to bloom. I'll take photos as frequently as I can.

The images above and below were taken a day apart during week 8.

The plant is getting ready to bloom and changing on an hourly basis. The next photos represent rapid changes leading up to a bloom.

These were taken during week 8 day 4.

Week 8 Day 5 (a morning,afternoon, and evening photo)

Week 8 Day 6 (2 morning photos and 2 afternoon photos)

Week 8 Day 7 (morning and afternoon photos)

Week 9 (morning and afternoon photos)

At 9 weeks all four flowers are in bloom. Beautiful!

Care of Amaryllis after Blooming

The instructions that accompanied the Amaryllis bulb are:

1. Remove flowers and stems. Continue watering and add liquid fertilizer.

2. In September, remove the bulb from the pot, cut away any leaves, and remove excess soil gently. Store bulb in a cool, dry place.

3. In November, replant bulb to start a new flowering cycle.

I'll follow these instructions and report back on the results.