Gardening In The Low Desert December 2000

Use ivy of various kinds for topiary and as miniature Christmas trees by using a simple wire frame. Another interesting idea is to use your wire tomato cages, turned upside down, anchored in pots and woven with grapevines, honeysuckle vines or any such material and decorated with tiny lights. Great by the front door.

Most of us buy or receive as gifts, lovely houseplants of all kinds - the most famous of which is the poinsettia - so many colors of them have been developed. Keep them in a well-lit room and avoid drafts and excess heat. A temperature range of 60 - 72 F is best. Water thoroughly when soil is dry to the touch and discard water which seeps into the saucer. Keep these plants away from pets and children as they are toxic. Those gift plants rated as easy to rebloom include: African Violets - place plants in an east-facing window or under grow lights and keep soil evenly moist and humidity high, perhaps by setting pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Avoid over-watering and prevent exposure to drafts. Holiday Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii or S. truncata) - place where it will have a half-day of bright, indirect sunlight or curtain-filtered direct window light. Keep soil moist and provide high humidity. Those plants rated as moderately easy to rebloom are cyclamen, gardenias, amaryllis, and azalea. Those rated difficult are poinsettia and kalanchoe. All these plants need good light and careful watering - adequate water but not standing in water. Perennials and winter vegetables can still be planted as well as trees - fruit trees and ornamentals. Also, in late Dec. and early Jan., plant the cane fruits, grapes and currants. When planting seeds this month you may want to use a frost or germination blanket. Designed to allow light to permeate its surface, these hold in heat to protect seeds. Use slow-release fertilizer with watering. Remember, plants and garden related gifts are great for your gardening friends. And give yourself the gift of time and enjoyment in this marvelous holiday season. Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah!

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