November is a good month to look ahead for holiday blooms. These plants can be used to decorate your home or give as gifts. One favorite is Amarylis. These bulbs are relatively inexpensive, are easy to grow, and are nontoxic. Amarylis can be purchased at local stores such as Home Depot. There are many choices available. I usually choose some white, deep red, and pink to start at 6 week intervals to have blooms all winter. I use three red amaryllis as the centerpiece for my Christmas table. I surround these with natural greens and colored Christmas balls. Amarylis can be displayed almost anywhere since it doesn’t require too much light once the flower is open. To keep the plant at its best, place in indirect light and at about 60 degrees or at as low a temperature as possible. When you plant the bulb, place a stake in the pot with the bulb. Water sparingly until greenery appears, then water regularly when the soil looks dry. Be sure to keep in full sun and rotate to the light source because the plant will lean and grow crookedly.

If you intend to give an amaryllis as a gift, begin it about 6 weeks before the gift date. You may also give one in boxed form as long as the pot and soil are included for easy handling. Amarylis bulbs may be saved after blooming. Cut back all dead leaves and cease watering. Try to repeat the original process when you wish to have a flower and hopefully the bulb will rebloom.

Another winter favorite to force is paper white narcissus. I take a decorative bowl that is large enough to accommodate several bulbs and small rocks or gravel. Decorative stones or marbles are also attractive. Place the narcissus in the bottom of the bowl, roots down and surround with gravel. Add water to the top level of the gravel. Place the bowl in indirect sunlight and wait. Replenish the water as needed. Some people find this very fragrant bulb lovely, but for others, it is too strong. If this is the case, the same procedure can be followed with daffodils, crocus and hyacinths. Be sure to buy bulbs that are ready to be forced. They have to have been kept cold for 40 to 60 days to simulate normal growing conditions. I sometimes give a “Do it yourself” package or begin bulbs for a friend. In either case, having spring flowers bloom early is always a welcome treat.

Happy gardening!!!!

Gardens by Judy,

If you have any remedies or products that have worked for you, and that you would like to share, email me at gardensbyjudy@townedigest.com

Have your garden questions answered by Judy. Questions and answers will be included in the monthly column. Send an e-mail to: gardensbyjudy@townedigest.com

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About the author: Judy is a certified Master Gardener with Cornell Cooperative Extension who loves sharing the joys of gardening with others. She helps garden hobbyists solve their problems and is happy to provide information and suggestions about garden planning and maintenance.

Gardens by Judy prides itself in helping the home owner and garden enthusiast plan and maintain that special garden. Judy works cooperatively with the gardener. She evaluates each garden visited and consults with the gardener about his/her goals. She helps in the design of new gardens and in the re-creation and improvement of present gardens. Judy also creates beautiful container gardens to enhance decks, porches and landscapes.