Maybe you think of poinsettias as just Christmas flowers. Mine are still blooming away. Last year they lasted clear into March. The “secret” if such it can be called is moisture, light and not too much dry heat. In case you missed the article on carrying poinsettias over from year to year; when they stop blooming, lay them on their sides in a cool, dark place.

Let them dry out, but spray the branches occasionally to keep them from completely withering. Bury pot up to rim in partial shade outdoors when weather is thoroughly warm. Water them regularly. Bring in before nights get too cool and give plenty of light. If you wish additional plants, by July you can take cuttings 3 to 5 inches long and root them.

The days are getting longer now, but there are still possibilities for some good snows. Yes, I said “good” snows. Folks travel clear to the Alps for snowy scenic splendor. But here is our own “do it yourself” travelog setting: it is five oclock in the morning. Inside lights are out, but the garden spotlight in the gable is turned on. Sit in your favorite chair in front of the window sipping HOT coffee. Large, fluffy, fast-falling flakes of snow float, flit and swirl in an ever-changing pattern.