An amaryllis – contributed photo.
Spring may start indoors for some area gardeners. Horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreatch, say now is a good time to force bulbs indoors. When amaryllis have finished blooming, cut off th eflower stalk with a knife about two inches above the bulb without damaging the foliage. For the bulb to bloom again, it must replenish its food reserves, which is done in the leaves and stored in the bulb. Place the plant in a sunny window and water the soil when the surface is nearly dry. Also, fertilize it every two to four weeks. Amaryllis can be moved outdoors in late May and bring it back indoors in mid-September.
On the other hand, paper white narcissus cannot be forced again and should be discarded after flowering. Also, tulips and hyacinths are usually discarded after forcing, but daffodils may do well for years to come. Daffodil bulbs can be forced successfully and planted outdoors.