LONGER LASTING CUT AMARYLLIS
Amaryllis are such a fabulous flower to have in the home around the holidays. They are big, bold and beautiful. Often in festive reds or ivory, or statement or subtle pinks.
They can be a little temperamental, but with a little TLC they will last far longer and look nicer. Here are some of my top tips for caring for your amaryllis.
Tip 1
remove the Pollen
As soon as your amaryllis starts to open, carefully remove the pollen anthers. You can do this with a tissue, or your fingers.
If you skip this step, the pollen will become looser and will discolour the petals, and any fabric it comes into contact with.
It can also be toxic to pets if it transfers onto their fur, which no pet owner wants.
Tip 2
stop stems from splitting & curling
Amaryllis stems are thick and hollow which can cause them to split vertically and start to curl. If this happens, you can dry the stem and place a small rubber band or piece of clear waterproof sticky tape around it, just above the split.
Give the stem a trim, removing the curled sections before putting your flower back in clean water for a good drink.
Tip 3
Stake your stems
Another problem that can arise due to the flower’s hollow stem is that it can bend and snap.
This happens because of the amaryllis’ beautiful big flower head. The weight of the bloom puts pressure on the stem where it sits on the rim of a vase.
This can be prevented by staking your amaryllis stem. Any stick will do that will fit inside the cavity of the hollow stem. You can use a slim piece of gardening bamboo, a florist’s stake, a stick from an old orchid plant, or even a straight twig from the garden.
Simply trim your amaryllis to length, carefully insert the stick into the stem, cut the stick to the same length as the flower stem and put it in water being careful to not let the stick fall out.
Tip 4
prevent slimy stems
To prevent the stems from becoming slimy change the water every few days. If there are any signs the ends are mushy give them a trim, trimming the stick if need be.
Tip 5
blooms in a hurry
Part of the joy of a flower like the amaryllis is watching them go from buds to blooms. However sometimes we need an open flower in a hurry, for example if we’re using them for weddings or events.
If this is the case you can encourage an amaryllis to open quicker by putting them in warm water and in a warmer room.
Shop the floristry edit
If you’re a budding florist I’ve curated a selection of my favourite tools and books to get you started, over on my ShopMy page.
Please note, some are affiliate links.
