This column was written by Marsha Overton, University of Illinois Extension, Coles County Master Gardener.

We have to be in the Christmas spirit after the" snow event "we experienced last week-end. Right? It was so beautiful–we are so lucky to be inside looking out–for sure. As the weather has gone–we have been very lucky when it come to having "bad weather".

If you are like me –I still have a few "slots" that I need to fill to complete my Christmas shopping. So, for those of you who still need some gift ideas –how about some indoor plants. If not for someone else–consider these plants for yourself.

One such plant is an Amaryllis plant. This plant is a very showy one. The amaryllis is a tender bulb that can't survive outdoors even in the mildest of Midwestern winters. It can be grown indoors to provide a dramatic show of color during dreary winter months. The showy flowers range from crimson, scarlet and rose to lavender, white or bi-colored combinations. Although each plant may only produce one cluster of two to four blooms, individual blossoms can reach up to 8 inches in diameter at their peak. The flowers are borne on a tall, stout stem about 2 feet tall. If time is short and you want the plant to be in bloom in time for a certain holiday, buy one that is already in bud or just beginning to flower. The blooms will last longer if you keep the plant in a cool location, around 65 degrees F. If kept in warmer environments, the flower stalks may become weak and require staking to support the weight of the blossoms.

If you opt instead for an amaryllis bulb kit, you need to allow 6 to 8 weeks from planting to bloom. Bulbs should be potted in containers that are only a little larger in diameter that the bulbs themselves. Be sure containers provide drainage so excess water can escape. Pour a layer of good quality potting soil mix into the bottom of the container, and then place the bulb so that the pointed end is facing up. Water thoroughly to establish good bulb-to-soil contact. Place in a sunny window in cool location, preferably 55-65 degrees F. After the flower fades, you can cut the flower stalk off. However, the plant's health is important to consider now if reblooming is desired. Water and fertilize as you would other houseplants and place near a sunny window.

After the danger of frost is past in the spring, you can plunge the pot into the soil outdoors in an east-or-west facing location. Late in summer as the leaves begin to yellow, gradually cut back on watering until the leaves fade completely and the soil is dry. It's now time to dig the pot out of the ground and bring it back indoors. The bulb will be dormant and should be left in the pot and stored in a cool, dark location at about 45-55 degrees F. Amaryllis do not require as much of a chilling period as do many other flowering bulbs, but they do require a period of cool, dry dormancy. After about two months of rest, water the soil and set the pot in a sunny window and resume normal care.

Another plant that is very popular this time of year is the Poinsettia. Some poinsettias are tropical; they must be protected from cold temperatures. You need to remove any protective sleeve from your plant. Place it in a bright sunny spot in the house, taking care to avoid drafty locations. So do not allow them to touch cold glass windowpanes. Keep your plant away from radiators and other heat sources. Poinsettias will do best in daytime temperatures of 65-70 degrees and night temps around 55 degrees. High temp tend to shorten the plant's life. Proper watering is a must. Check the plant's soil daily. You might try sticking a new sharpened pencil into the soil. Stick the pencil in about half its length, and about 2 inches from the pot's rim. If the sharpened end comes out dry, water is needed. If it comes out wet, then the soil needs to be dried out. When watering, water till the water runs out the bottom. Wait a few minutes and water again. Pour excess water out of the saucer the pot is sitting upon after 10 minutes. Never let you plants sit in the water too long or root damage may result. Cool temps help to reduce transpiration-water loss from the plant. Setting the plant on the floor next to an outside wall at night will help stretch the blooming time. I happened to get a poinsettia plant this year–and it is gorgeous. I have so many indoor plants that I really didn't need to add anymore--but that was short lived.

I brought home also a Norfolk Pine. This plant is really attractive. It can go in either high or low light. It has very lush green twigs of soft needles which can provide a lovely backdrop for merry seasonal celebrations. Use as an accent décor to add a festive flair to your home. It can even be transplanted outside when the weather gets warmer. I will keep you posted on how mine progresses.

So–here are few ideas for you –and before long we will be planning our spring gardens. Merry Christmas to all of you.

If you have any horticulture questions, call the local U of I Extension office Monday through Friday at 345-7034. Volunteer Master Gardeners are not in the office this time of year–they will return your call.

This column is based on information and materials available at the University of Illinois Extension office, located at 707 Windsor Road, Suite A., Charleston, 61920; phone 345-7034; or web site: http://coles.extension.uiuc.edu/.