Interior Gardening

Start bulbs in containers for indoor forcing. These take several weeks to develop and need a period of dark and cold in order to mature. For example, paperwhites (narcissus), if started at the beginning of November, should bloom by Christmas.

During November and the following winter months, do not feed houseplants more often than every six weeks. Make sure they are near windows with adequate light, and away from cold drafts and heat registers. Check frequently for dryness, but don't over-water. Stick your finger in the soil. If it feels moist at about an inch deep, don't water. If it feels dry, water.

If you brought in patio containers and the plants are starting to look stringy and leggy, cut them back to force new growth at the base of the plant. Do not feed and don't over-water. Make sure they have good light, since most of these plants have been accustomed to outdoor conditions. If they are faltering, place them under a grow light or put them in your indoor greenhouse for a couple of weeks.

Plants that have been brought inside should be checked for insects, such as aphids and spider mites. Apply controls where needed.

If you are caring for a poinsettia, remember to keep moving it into a dark closet each night, and then back to sunlight during the day. Poinsettias need at least 14 hours of nearly complete darkness each night in order to produce their colors in time for Christmas.