A. Mulching-Keeping a mulch layer around all trees, shrubs and perennials stabilizes the soil temperatures and conserves moisture. This is very important here on the western slope where our air temperatures can vary greatly over short periods and our natural moisture is low. Fall and/or early winter is a very good time to replenish this layer because winter is when our air temperature variance is greatest.

A. Pruning-When trees and shrubs are dormant (winter) is usually the best time to prune with a couple of exceptions. Be careful not to prune too early in fall, you don’t want to encourage new growth at this time. Shrubs that bloom early spring before leaf break have set their flower buds in fall, therefore don’t prune until after blooming in late spring or early summer.

Q. What do I do with my Amaryllis for best bloom and to rebloom next year?

A. Growing Amaryllis-Amaryllis is one of the easiest bulbs to grow and bloom indoors. Plant the bulb in a pot only a couple of inches larger in diameter than the bulb. Water well when planted then sparingly until bulb begins to grow. Water and fertilize regularly through the summer. The bulb will bloom in 6-8 weeks if kept in a warm sunny spot. Cut off flower stalks after blooming but leave the leaves until August. Allow the bulb to dry out in early fall, cut leaves and store in a cool dark place for 8-12 weeks. Repot bulb and bring back into the light to start all over again.