Amaryllis

Start saving your pennies now for an amaryllis bulb.

Sure, it’s still hot and we think fall will never come, let alone winter.

But in that dank season, you will be sorry if you have not assured yourself the pleasure of seeing what looks like an overgrown onion turn into a magnificent floral display, enough to gladden anyone’s heart.

Amaryllis plants come in lots of colors and both single and double blooms. Pick any of them and you will not be disappointed.

My “Dancing Queen” of last winter amazed me with multiple and repeated blooms and it was spring before I knew it.

You can get pricey (but very reliable) ones by mail order at White Flower Farm or cheap ones at Drug Fair and other mass outlets. Either way, you are in for a treat when winter winds are howling and you have a spectacular sight on your windowsill. The Smith & Hawken store in Westfield also usually has a selection.

Go for it! Your winter will be a lot happier for having an amaryllis in your apartment or house.

--Bernice Paglia