A giant bulb that produces equally large trumpet shaped flowers is the Amaryllis. For me an amaryllis in full bloom over the holiday season is one thing I look forward to every year. Even before the flowers appear it is fascinating to watch the plant grow. You can almost see the stem move as it grows so quickly. By planting a succession of the bulbs it is possible to have flowers from December to May as Sandie Bailey an Adams County Master Gardener explains.

The calmness of a monochromatic color scheme and the sculptural aspect of deciduous trees and shrubs are the gifts of winter. I appreciate this season for the respite it brings from arduous work in the garden and the time it affords for planning all those projects that will make me tired next year.
As sure as May 15 is the last frost date for Adams County, after the holiday decorations come down, I will be LONGING for something beautiful and colorful. Modern types of Dutch hybrid amaryllis make a wonderful show. They come in flower colors including white, red, pink, orange, salmon and bi-colors. The time to begin planting for this mid-winter flower show is now.
By staggering the potting dates of bulbs, you can extend the flowering period from December to May. You can force bulbs to flower in six to eight weeks inside at nearly any time of year. Start with clean, heavy pots with holes sufficient for drainage. Use 6-inch pots for large bulbs and 5-inch pots for smaller ones. Choose a planting media that will also provide significant weight.

 
Read the rest at The Master Gardeners
Image source: A Yee