Christmas Trees
South Carolina has a vibrant Christmas tree growers association that grows hundreds of thousands of trees. There is nothing like the experience of taking the family out to a tree farm and choosing your own tree for Christmas.

Wherever you choose to buy your tree, make sure the end is freshly cut to help the tree absorb water.  Without making a fresh cut, the will not be able to absorb water and will dry out very quickly. 

You will be surprised how quickly the tree takes up water so be  sure to keep the reservoir filled everyday. 

Bulbs
Paperwhites and amaryllis make great gifts.  Both of these bulbs need indirect sunlight and to be kept evenly moist. Amaryllis can also be planted in the garden after winter is over.  They usually will be a perennial favorite for years. Daffodils can be great gift items that will be faithful flowers for more seasons to come. Remember that tulips are beautiful but hear in the south generally will not come back another season.  Think of them as annual bulbs in SC.

Amaryllis	Daffodils

Pansies
Linda Koon of Stacy’s Greenhouse says that pansies planted this December will do very well. Pansies are heavy feeders so make sure to a soluble fertilizer when you water such as Peter’s or Miracle Grow.

Pansies

The South Carolina Nursery and Landscape Association has many experts who can assist you with choosing the right plant for the right spot. Be sure to consult with one of our qualified members as you go through the process of getting your residential landscape in shape. A list of these individuals who reside nearest to you can be found in the membership section on this web site. You may also view past articles here.

Next month we will be highlighting shade trees in the landscape.