The Great Amaryllis Experiment continues happily so far, albeit very slowly.  In the last week several of the seedlings have produced a second leaf, surely a good sign that they are healthy.

 

They’re getting plenty of sun for now, spending several hours most days out on our deck in the bright sunlight.  I started slowly getting them used to the direct sun but they are certainly tough little sprouts – unlike most seedlings it seems they can take all I can give them in the sun department.  It is making me worry a bit that they won’t be happy this winter in the dark depths of February.  May have to look into some grow lights!

I’ve also gotten a bit concerned about mineral buildup.  We have pretty good water here but the shallow trays and hot sun can dry them out quickly so I’d be going through a lot of water with them, forcing a much quicker buildup that a normal houseplant.  Therefore I’ve switched over to distilled water for them at least during this hot and sunny spell.

All nine of the initial seedlings are doing fine, though only four so far have produced a second leaf.  The individual seedlings sprouted over a period of about two weeks so I’m not worried about the laggards.

Additional news: Their mother, happily growing in the garden with their father right next to them, are busily producing a second growth of nice rich green leaves – and two side bulblets as well!  By winter I’m going to have to find a home for nine separate seedlings, two bulblets and the parents, and we have very little windowsill space.  Could be a challenge!