Hippeastrum 'Star of Holland'

Cultivation

Pot newly purchased bulbs from October to January, large bulbs in a 15cm container, smaller ones in a 10cm container, planting so that two-thirds of the bulb remains above the surface and watering in well. The appearance of leaves will signify that root activity has started and regular watering can begin. A good supply of water is required as soon as growth becomes vigorous. A warm buoyant atmosphere with a temperature ideally in the region of 15-18°C and a sunny position are desirable for good growth. Exposure to the sun should be avoided only in the hottest part of summer.

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown as fresh as possible in a temperature of 16-18°C. Seeds can be started in peat-free seed compost and seedlings potted on using peat-free John Innes No 2 with the addition of extra sharp sand or grit. Grow in individual small pots, potting on periodically during the spring-summer season of vigorous growth into slightly larger pots as the young plants develop or each time the pot becomes well filled with roots. Keep plants growing actively, in moderate warmth, allowing no periods of dormancy. Cultivars will not come true from seed; an alternative method of propagation is to remove offsets in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types

• Patio and container plants

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to bulb scale mite, large narcissus bulb fly and slugs and snails throughout the summer months

Diseases

Generally disease-free