I practice what I preach. I make sure I have plants to help get me through the winter.
In fact, that pot of narcissus was in my last post about cabin fever.Flowers Now, and More Flowers Later
Yes, that is the same red dragonwing begonia from last winter. Last winter I brought a fairly big pot of it inside. This year I took cuttings before frost and rooted them in water, then potted them up. It makes for a smaller pot, thus more room for other plants. I plan to cut it back in March, and root those cuttings. Between the current cuttings and the ones I plan to take, I should have enough for a really full, large container, and probably some extras to give to friends. I am wintering over the coleus so I can take cuttings of it, too. Wintering over plants accomplishes two things: provides beauty and interest to help me get through the winter, and provides a source of free plants for the following growing season.
Forcing Hyacinths: Still Learning
I started chilling my hyacinths earlier this year than I had in previous years, on September 30th. It seemed like last winter the flowers barely emerged from the leaves, and I thought that might be from not chilling long enough. Since I started chilling them that early, I could have started one on December 9th and it would have had ten weeks of chilling. And I would have had a hyacinth blooming sooner. Next year I will mark on the calendar when to take the first one out. It was always my plan to bring them out sequentially, so I would always have one blooming. But I seem to be giving many away, and why not? The promise of an early spring is a very fine thing to give away.The Promise of Spring
Speaking of the promise of spring, the January thaw that we have been enjoying revealed this:
A Little Too Much Is Never Enough
And the hunger for beauty never ceases. Look what hopped into my grocery cart today:
My Christmas cactus has a couple of blooms on it, too.Inspired by the words of Elizabeth Lawrence, “We can have flowers nearly every month of the year,” Carol of May Dreams Gardens started Garden Bloggers Bloom Day. On the 15th of every month, garden bloggers from all over the world publish what is currently blooming in their gardens, and leave a link in Mr. Linky and the comments of May Dreams Gardens.
It is a blast of January. Loved the last one. Yellow flower rocks and of-course you would have won the place because of it.
you certainly know your stuff Kathy, you inspire me.
I like the way you put the flowers in the pot.
Pot is very attractive and more beautiful flowers.
How would we ever get through the winter if not for the indoor blooming plants? Enjoyed the photos very much. My orchid that bloomed last December is now about to bloom again.
I bring in the favorites as well! Some of the prized begonias never go out, but many live under garden furniture and enjoy their days in the sun. But now is indoors waiting for warmer days – just like me! Love to take cuttings – makes the Winter go by more quickly!
Love the photos, they serve to brighten my day and give me hope that Spring is coming soon.
“Phalaenopsis” fae la o nop sis (or close)
Love these guys. I have one blooming for the SECOND time! Joy.
Your picture of the Snow Drops got me hoping for an early spring. I’ll have to check around in my yard as well.
Looking lovely…I do want to learn to force bulbs, grow orchids and try to bring in my begonias to overwinter and take cuttings..thx for the idea Kathy!
We have snowdrops up as well, and they are much closer to blooming. However, only the ones in a protected but sunny spot have emerged.
I’m trying to post this comment from my phone. I wish I were better at it. I love what jumped in your grocery cart. Also love how you keep your begonia alive throughout the seasons. We must do what we need to to take care of ourselves in the winter. It sounds like you figured it out. Happy Bloom Day!
It looks so bright and cheerful at your place, Kathy! I love the color on the orchid, too. Watch out, you might get drawn into the addiction of Orchid Fever! Happy GBBD, my friend.
There are lots of pretty blooms there for you to enjoy, cold climate or not. Happy Bloom Day!
That Phalaenopsis is gorgeous! You are generous to share your hyacinths …. what a lovely way to think of it!