Create an indoor winter garden

DENVER — If you’re like me, you’re sick and tired of winter. It’s too early to clean up the garden because we don’t want to disturb butterfly cocoons or ladybug nests. I’ve poked around in the garden looking for the first crocus and snowdrops. But alas, there are none.

I need to see some flowers. So it’s off to shop at the nursery. Many winter-blooming plants are available. These include fragrant lilies, Easter cactus, bromeliads, kalanchoe, anthurium, cyclamen, and ‘Sinetti’ cineraria. 

My favorite way to display these plants is in a “winter garden.” I use large but shallow wicker baskets. A big round one I picked up at a yard sale is ideal. I line it with plastic and group the plants inside. 

Once it’s “planted,” I use damp moss to disguise the pots. Moss can be used over and over and reconstituted by soaking it. The moss has a faint, earthy fragrance. As the moisture evaporates, it provides humidity for the plants. Spray the moss and plants frequently to keep them fresh.

Many plants that bloom in winter can be used as long-term houseplants or be taken outside during summer. Lilies are hardy and should be planted in the ground in May. 

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