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The "Blue Amaryllis"
Growing medium -- The best medium is porous rock such as scoria or other volcanic rock. It lets the roots drain fast, yet it holds on to some moisture in its pores. A small amount of organic material can be added to retain extra moisture and nutrients, like coco husks or fine-grade orchid bark. No soil should be used. I use Dyna-rok II, because it holds a large amount of moisture. You should be able to get it through most local hydroponics stores. If not, check Google. The plant you receive is currently growing in the Fine grade of Dyna-rok. I would transplant your plant to a 50-50 mix of Fine and Medium, along with 10-20% fine-grade orchid bark.
Transplant to a 6-8" tall pot, leaving the upper part of the bulb exposed. The pot should have ample drainage holes at the bottom. I grow young plants in clear pots, so i can monitor the root growth and tell when the plants need repotting.
Transplant gently to avoid damaging the roots, and give shade the first month.
Watering & feeding -- Water once a day, using enough so that water freely runs out the bottom of the pot. Once or twice a week, i submerge the pot in a bucket of water, to "recharge" the rocks with moisture. I prefer to feed every second or third watering using a dilute nutrient solution. Most high quality, general-purpose fertilizer or bulb fertilizer should work. I use General Hydroponics "Flora" series of nutrients, at 1 teaspoon per gallon for each of the 3 bottles. You can buy them at hydroponics shops, or online.
It's normal for an older leaf to occasionally turn yellow and die, but if it seems excessive, try increasing the nitrogen (if using General Hydroponics, use more of the "Micro" bottle). Yellowing leaves may also indicate a need for more frequent watering.
Sunlight & climate -- Transplanting can be stressful for the plant, so do not give direct sun for 3 weeks after transplanting it. Give your plant bright shade, then move it into 10% direct sun, with protection from strong afternoon sun. Every 2 weeks, increase the sun by 10% until it gets at least full morning sun. In warmer areas, it may need afternoon shade.
It does not mind temperatures in the 40s, but bring the plant indoors when the temperature drops below 35 degrees. Over 40% humidity is recommended.
Good luck with it!
Jeff
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