I agree that with Amaryllis (and really most plants) there's lot of trial and error as well as microclimates. I kept my Amaryllis bulbs in pots outside all summer in pretty deep shade. But we had a really hot summer. They're inside now altho we're actually having very pleasant winter so far. As far as the woman I mentioned, I doubt if cost came into play because she owns a nursery.
A few of you might remember my experiences last year with the grocery store kit I called my non-white Little Debbie. The label said white but bloom was red. And the brand was 'debi lilly' which I irreverently referred to as Little Debbie in honor of the little snack some of us ate when we were kids.
Ok. So now I have an update. I saw the same box kit labeled White at the same grocery store and it was on sale. I couldn't resist and bought it. First, the box said that Debi Lilly is a woman owned business. (thumbs up from me) Next was a bigger surprise. I had waited a few or more days before I took it out of the box. It was actually planted and just waiting for water. When I lifted the pot I saw some small roots starting to poke out. I didn't remove the bulb (tempted to) but as I was feeling around it seems to be a really big bulb. Maybe the company has changed. Last year it came with the plastic pot and a hockey puck disk of coir. Time will tell but I have a good feeling. Cross fingers. I may owe Debi Lilly an apology.
