Amaryllis Blooms: Transform Your Garden This Spring with Expert Tips

URGENT UPDATE: Gardening enthusiasts are buzzing about the possibility of planting amaryllis outdoors this spring, following an inspiring revelation shared by local gardener Mike L. from the Twin Cities. With winter fast approaching, now is the time to prepare for an explosion of color in your garden come spring.

New reports confirm that amaryllis, known for their stunning trumpet-shaped flowers in vibrant shades of red, pink, white, and more, can thrive outdoors with just a bit of winter care. These bulbs, often associated with indoor holiday decor, can be planted in landscapes to create beautiful outdoor displays. Mike has successfully cultivated over 80 bulbs, receiving numerous compliments from neighbors, and now he’s inspiring others to do the same.

To achieve this, follow Mike’s method: dig up the bulbs before the fall frost, let them dry in your garage, and store them over winter at around 50 degrees F. Once the danger of frost passes in late spring, you can plant them outdoors for a spectacular show. This technique allows for staggered planting, leading to continuous blooms throughout the season, reminiscent of the planting strategy used for gladiolus.

Mike’s experience highlights that these flowers can provide over two weeks of breathtaking blooms, similar to traditional flowering bulbs like tulips and daffodils. His success story serves as a reminder that with a little effort, amaryllis can be more than just an indoor plant — they can be a centerpiece of your garden.

In addition to amaryllis, there are pressing concerns for gardeners storing winter vegetables. An urgent message for those keeping potatoes in garages: ensure they are stored in darkness and at the correct temperature of around 40-41 degrees Fahrenheit. Light exposure can lead to greening, which produces potentially harmful compounds. Monitoring the temperature with an inexpensive thermometer is crucial for maintaining the right conditions.

Gardeners should also remember to keep potatoes covered to maintain high humidity levels, ideally around 90%, to extend their storage life. This advice is essential as winter approaches, ensuring your harvest remains fresh and ready for use.

Lastly, there’s a fascinating distinction between Christmas and Thanksgiving cactuses. Many are sold as holiday cacti, yet they are different species. The Christmas cactus features smoothly rounded pad joints, while the Thanksgiving cactus has distinct tooth-like prongs. This knowledge is crucial for gardeners who want to celebrate the right plant during the holiday season.

For more tips and personalized advice, reach out to Don Kinzler at the NDSU Extension-Cass County. As always, we’re all in this together, and sharing knowledge like Mike’s helps us cultivate not just gardens but communities.

Stay tuned for more updates and tips to make the most of your gardening efforts this spring!