Focus On Flowers
In December, there are varied types of evergreen foliage that can be used to contrast form, color and texture in vases and centerpieces.
The fall is a good time to plant trees and shrubs, and it is fun to cruise the aisles of stores and nurseries to see if there are good deals available.
Fall is a good time to plant new shrubs that will improve the winter landscape. Some shrub genera include both evergreen and deciduous species.
All tropical plants must be kept from freezing and stored in a state of dormancy. Lack of warmth inhibits growth, which is why cool temperatures are best.
Jasmine's latin name, "jasmine polyanthum", meaning "many flowers", is telling of this plant's variety. This vine is known for its fragrance and its history.
Those of us who live in cold climates love houseplants that will flower indoors in winter, and one with great appeal is the cyclamen.
If you still have an amaryllis plant that flowered last winter, putting the bulb into dormancy will make it flower again this season.
Paper White Narcissus bulbs are easy to grow indoors and provide clusters of highly perfumed white flowers.
Winterberry produces a grand display of bright red berries that persist and light up its branches long after all of the leaves have fallen.
Ruth Arthur wrote a poem about the juxtaposition of the last vestiges of winter and the optimistic signs of spring. Read it on this Focus on Flowers.
Moya Andrews is a Master Gardener and a member of the Bloomington Garden Club in Bloomington, Indiana. Learn more »
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