Expert: Long Island Gardener - 3/19/2008

Question
QUESTION: I received a gift of 2 large amyrilis bulbs for xmas.The leaves started to come up brown and then withered away.It never bloomed. should I save the bulbs until next year ? should I water them or let them dry out ?  Thanks  Gale

ANSWER: Before laying these to rest for ever, I would like to know a few things, Gale.

Did you water these bulbs?  Was there any growth noted when you received them?  What were they growing in -- or were they gifted out of the pot?  Any light for these?  Did you plant them together?

Thanks for writing.  rsvp,

L.I.G.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The bulbs were a xmas gift.They were potted in wood chips in a large plastic container.I watered sparingly,but the chips at the bottom of the container seemed damp/not wet.I had them in direct sunlight (indoors for new England winter) for at least 3-4 hours daily

Answer
You didn't mention drainage holes -- if water does not drain out at the bottom, it becomes stagnant and breeds Bacteria, which cause damage.  Check to make sure the container has holes in it to promote drainage.  It should dry out between waterings.

Did you notice any foul odor around the Bulbs?