Q. Can amaryllis bulbs be planted outside and left there? How should they be planted?

Norma, e-mail


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Yes, amaryllis (like the giant flowers you see in greenhouses at Christmas time) is a cold-hardy perennial in gardens in Hampton Roads. In spring or fall, plant the bulb in organic-rich soil with good drainage; bulbs do not like to sit in water. Give it morning sun and afternoon shade. Place the bulb just below the soil's surface, and mulch generously. Cut the foliage back to the ground after it yellows and dies, just like you do with daffodils, so the plant creates food to make next year's flower. It will return year after year, gifting you with pretty flowers.