I am always amazed that I am still working in the garden at this time of year… But, you can still turn the soil, plant spring bulbs, and mix in compost and mulch until the ground freezes. Also you can save some of this year’s seeds for next year’s flowers   Be sure to mark them and save them in paper or cardboard containers so they won’t mold or mildew. I keep mine in envelopes in a cool dark place. 

Then it is time to turn to the houseplants and the Christmas Tree. Christmas cacti are available in multiple colors including white, pink, fuchsia, and red. Poinsettias as well. Amaryllis is one of my favorites. You can plant them anytime between October and April. Prior to planting, place the bulb with its base and roots in lukewarm water for a few hours. Use a nutritious potting mixture, firmly pressing down on the soil so the bulb is securely fixed in place. Place the potted bulb in a warm place with direct light, as heat is essential for the development of stems. 68 degrees is ideal. Water sparingly until the stem appears. Those planted in October will bloom in December, etc. (6–10 weeks) 

Many of my houseplants spent a good deal of time outside this year and are looking scraggly. They need to get trimmed up and bathed before the holidays. Those that go dormant for the winter, I put in the back of my walk-in closet where it is cool, dark, and dry where they can rest and build strength for the spring to come. Those that spend the warmer part of the year outside need to be within about three feet of a sunny window. Do not overwater or fertilize in the winter. Resume regular feeding and watering in March. 

If you haven’t got those daffodils and tulips in the ground yet, you still have time!  Happy Holidays!