Laura
Not a dumb question! I am sure a lot never even thought to ask. The bulbs I am getting are all harvested for commercial growing for christmas or other holidays. It depends on the bulb where it comes from (Brazillian,southafrica, or holand) and my list comes from all. the instructions for forced for christmas are the same but not for valentines or easter. I am going to get technical and give you the instructions that are for "professional"....
"COMMERCIAL GROWING INSTRUCTIONS
Location for Growing
Amaryllis may be forced in any well ventilated and well heated area. Maintain a CONSTANT temperature day and
night of 26° C to 28° C (79° F to 82° F) for optimal results - bottom heating is preferred. During the forcing period the temperature
should never fall below 22° C (72° F) or rise above 30° C (86° F). Ensure that the area is well ventilated and that the relative
humidity of the air remains as low as possible. A greenhouse in which the above requirements can be maintained is ideal but
Hippeastrums may be forced in full light as well as in darkness (until stage 2) as long as the above guidelines as to
temperature, ventilation and humidity are followed. If the bulbs have been forced in the dark until stage 2, the plants will need
from 4 to 7 days in medium light intensity to form chlorophyll. Rotate pots through 180° (a half turn) every few days if the light
source is oblique from one side. Low light conditions and lower temperatures during forcing will result in taller stems at
flowering. High light conditions and higher temperatures during forcing will promote shorter stems at flowering
Timing
To delay the flowering, place pots at 9° C (48° F) at stage 2 (before opening of the first bud). At this temperature growth will
virtually come to a halt and the plants may be kept at this temperature for up to 10 days. To make the plants resume growth,
move the pots to a warmer area. No water should be administered while the plants are 9° C (48° F). To ACCELERATE growth,
increase the temperature in the greenhouse, always ensuring an even, constant temperature day and night. Do not exceed
30° C (86° F)."
now this sounds like when i pot mine water it and keep it in my house that remains around 75 deg. and low humididty dont over water. if you want it to grow faster put in warmer area slower cooler area and if it starts to lean turn it! I notice that you live in Il i used to live in chicago and i might just have to move closer(cooler)or farther(warmer) from the window.that technical stuff up top is copied from the supplier and im buying as a business that is starting for selling in stores so i have to time very well so they dont bloom to early and not to late
how do you force your bulbs?
mike.
