By the time you get around to reading this article–the famous groundhog Punxsutawney Phil will have either seen or not seen his shadow. February 2 has been celebrated with "Phil" for over 120 years. On this date he comes out of his burrow on Gobbler's Knob–in front of thousands of followers from all over the world–to predict the weather for the rest of the winter. According to legend, if he sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter. If he does not see his shadow, there will be an early spring.

The celebration of Groundhog Day started with Pennsylvania's earliest settlers. Punxsutawney held its first Groundhog Day in the 1800's. The first official trek to Gobbler's Knob was made on February 2, 1887. A groundhog's life span is normally 6 to 8 years. Phil receives a drink of magical punch every summer during the annual Groundhog picnic, which gives 7 more years of life.

Groundhogs are one of the few animals that really hibernate. Hibernation is not just a deep sleep. It is actually a deep coma, where the body temperature drops to a few degrees above freezing, the heart barely beats, the blood scarcely flows, and breathing nearly stops. Insects do not bother groundhogs and germs pretty much leave them alone. They are resistant to the plagues that periodically wipe out large numbers of wild animals. One reason for this is their cleanliness. It really doesn't seem to matter because it seems we usually end up having 6 more weeks of winter anyway.

Besides, so many of our perennials need the cold temps in order for them to good a good job in the spring. I actually have some perennial outside that are still green–we have had a good winter so far.

You might mark this on your calendar–February 23^rdand March 1 from 9 till 11 a.m. Master Gardeners are going to be conducting two "Winter Garden Workshops, Getting Ready for Spring" sessions at the Douglas Hart Nature Center. Sign up by calling the Nature Center (235-4644) and reserving a spot. Session 1 will be getting started–a crash course on designing or redesigning your garden space and what to consider when making your plans. A) The Bare Bones. B) Making a list and checking it twice. C) The Back Bones. D) Design Consideration. E) Make a Map.

Session 2–The Plants. A) Things to consider when selecting plants. B) The Back Bones: Trees and Shrubs, etc. C) The Little Bones: Annuals, Perennials, etc. This will be a nice jump-start to getting ready for spring.

Even though this might be a little bit early to be talking about Valentine's Day–I'd like to go over some tips for preserving those roses you might be receiving. There always seems to be so many questions about taking care of these beautiful flowers.

Did you know that the different color of roses have different meanings? The language of flowers started in the Victorian era and still has meaning today. The red rose has always signified love and passion. As a gift for men, a red rose can also mean courage and respect, according to Diane Noland, University of Illinois Horticulturist. The white rose signifies innocence and purity; and is frequently used at weddings. White and red roses combined, or a white rose with red tips, can mean unity and deep love. While a single rose can say "I Love You", two roses in a vase signify two people joining together–an ideal gift for an engagement.

Roses should last five to seven days if they are cared for properly. Add a package of floral preservative to a clean vase or water pitcher, and then add luke-warm water–about the temperature you would use for a baby's bath. Place roses in a tub of warm water, or in the sink, (if they are not already arranged that is.) Cut one-half inch off the end if each rose before arranging them in a vase. Cutting the stems under water (not just under running water from the faucet) helps to keep air from entering the stem while removing the bacteria on the stem end. Air and bacteria can clog the stem, allowing the flower to wilt prematurely.

Aspirin and table sugar have been incorrectly used to lengthen the life of cut flowers. Commercial preservatives contain sugar, an acidifying agent and a bactericide. Roses that wilt or are wilted when they arrive can, sometimes be revived. Re-cut the stems of wilted roses under warm water and lay the entire rose out flat in a pan or tub of water. They should be revived in 20 minutes to an hour. Keep your roses out of direct sunlight and away from sources of heat. After you have enjoyed the beauty of your roses, you can hang them up-side down and let them dry. They can then be used in dried arrangements or maybe you could try making some potpourri. Anyway way you look at it; roses have been and probably always will be the number one favorite when it comes to Valentine's Day.

Even though we cannot do that much outside yet–there are some projects we can do that are very interesting. Though not a true gardening project it is fun to feed the birds. Pinecones coated with peanut butter and then rolled in birdseed make great bird feeders. Have the kids keep track of all the different types of birds that visit your backyard and what date each was first spotted.

Another fun project you and your family might consider doing now is trying your hand at forcing branches to bloom indoors. There are several different kinds of branches you can use such as, forsythia, pussy willow; quince, Spiraea, and dogwood just to name a few. Select branches loaded with plump flower buds. Branches with curves or bends create an interesting blooming arrangement. Make long slanted cuts when collecting the branches. Submerge the branches overnight in a deep pail or tub of water (60 to70 degrees is best.), or wrap them in a plastic bag for a few days. This moistening and soaking loosens the bud scales and helps them to readily fall away. Change the water every four days. Blooms should emerge within 3 weeks.

Another project you can do is planting some bulbs in a container inside your home–now. Some suggestions are crocus, hyacinth, or daffodils (another name for this plant is narcissus), tulips would be great also.

So, I've given you some tips on how you can enjoy "gardening" with or without your family inside your home. Why not give one or more of them a try!

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/.