HELLO and thank you for your purchase!
Hi there! I'm Sarah Peschel, and my passion for gardening and plants has been a part of me for as long as I can remember. One of my earliest and fondest memories is when I was just three years old, sowing vegetable seeds for our summer garden. That experience sparked a lifelong love for growing plants. I have a special fondness for Amaryllis and Paperwhite bulbs. There's something truly magical about watching them grow, especially during the colder months when everything else seems dormant. They not only bring joy to my heart but also add a burst of color, igniting my excitement for the upcoming growing season.
The unique arrangements of Paperwhites and Amaryllises you see here are lovingly potted in various containers that I've discovered in thrift stores or repurposed with care. I take great joy in sustainably gathering rocks, greens, pinecones, poppy seed heads, milkweed pods, moss, and more from nature. This not only allows me to create these beautiful arrangements but also gives me precious time to connect with the great outdoors.
Below, you'll find some simple care instructions to help you nurture your Amaryllis or Paperwhite. I'm so excited that you've decided to take one of thesev beauties home! I would absolutely love it if you shared your blooming journey with me. Feel free to reach out via email at sarah@goodtastecreative.com or drop me a message on Instagram at @22speschel. Let's grow together! 🌱🌸
AMARYLLIS CARE
Immediate Care: Once you bring your amaryllis arrangement home, place it in a well-lit area, but avoid direct sunlight. The ideal temperature should be between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C).
Watering: Water the arrangement lightly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Be careful not to waterlog the soil, as this can lead to bulb rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. I like to use a waterbottle to spray the arrangement.
Light Requirements: Amaryllis prefers bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can hinder bloom development.
Fertilizing: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two to three weeks. This will help the plant maintain its energy for blooming. Don’t worry if you don’t have any fertilizer on hand to do this step. These bulbs are great producers and should be fine without additional nutrition, but it may aid in the production of additional blooms.
Blooming Care: As the blooms open, you may need to provide support for the stems if they become top-heavy. You can do this by gently staking the stem. In most arrangements, I have built the support into the design.
CARE FOR REBLOOMING (optional)
Post-Blooming Care: After the blooms have faded, cut off the flower stalks close to the bulb but leave the foliage intact. The leaves will continue to photosynthesize and provide energy for the bulb.
Dormancy: Once the leaves begin to yellow, usually in late summer or fall, gradually reduce watering. Allow the bulb to rest by storing it in a cool, dark place for at least 8 weeks. This dormancy period is crucial for future blooming.
Replanting: If the bulb outgrows its container or the soil becomes depleted, repot it in fresh soil, ensuring that the top third of the bulb is above the soil surface.
Regular Checks: Regularly check for signs of pests or disease. Healthy amaryllis plants are less susceptible to problems, but early detection is key to managing any issues.
Remember, care may vary slightly depending on the specific variety and the conditions in your home. Adjust care as needed to suit your amaryllis arrangement.
PAPERWHITE CARE
Lighting: Place the arrangement in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can be too intense and harm the delicate blooms.
Temperature: Paperwhites thrive in cooler temperatures, ideally between 60°F to 65°F (15°C to 18°C). Warmer temperatures may cause the stems to grow too quickly and become leggy.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. If your arrangement is in a container without drainage, be especially cautious with watering to prevent root rot. I like to use a water bottle filled with water to spray the entire arrangement regularly. This prevents overwatering.
Blooming Period: During the blooming period, which typically lasts about 2-4 weeks, you can extend the life of the flowers by keeping the arrangement away from heat sources and drafts.
Supporting the Stems: As the paperwhites grow, their stems may need support to prevent them from falling over. Gently insert small stakes or bamboo skewers and tie the stems loosely if necessary.
After Blooming: You can remove the spent blooms once the flowers have faded. However, the foliage should be left intact. Continue to water and provide light until the foliage begins to yellow, indicating the end of the growing season.
Rest Period: After the foliage dies back, you can stop watering and allow the bulbs to dry out. Paperwhite bulbs are generally treated as annuals when forced indoors, so they may not rebloom if planted again.
Disposal or Composting: Once the bulbs have completed their cycle, they can be composted. Unlike some other bulbs, paperwhites typically do not perform well if replanted after forcing.
Environmental Conditions: Monitor for any signs of pests or disease, though paperwhites are generally resistant if cared for properly.
Enjoying the Fragrance: One of the key features of paperwhites is their strong, sweet fragrance. Place them in an area where you can enjoy their scent, such as a living room or kitchen.
Remember, each arrangement and home environment is unique, so observe your paperwhites and adjust care as needed. They are relatively easy to care for and make a delightful addition to any indoor setting during their blooming period.