Give plants this year

Sunset, Dec, 2004 by Jim McCausland, Jil Peters

30 minutes/$20 or less per gift

AMARYLLIS

Buy plant in a 6-inch container. Assemble a box (available at mailing centers and craft stores) that's 1 or 2 inches larger than the plant container, then add ribbon. Line with tissue paper, then slip in plant. Water sparingly; temperatures of 60[degrees] or so prolong flower life.

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KALANCHOE

Comes in various sizes and flower colors: bright red, yellow, orange, salmon, hot pink, white. A houseplant in all but frost-free climates; give bright light. In summer can be moved outdoors to a partly shaded patio.

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EVERGREENS

Dwarf conifers come with gold, chartreuse, or deep green needles. Look for 4- or 6-inch pots of Canada hemlock, false or Monterey cypress, and juniper. Place outside after the holidays.

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SALAD GREENS

Sold in a standard cell-pack, ready to plant. Fits in an 8-inch square box edged with tissue paper. In mild-winter areas, can be transplanted into the garden after a few days on a sheltered patio; in cold climates, plant in wide pots on a frost-free porch.

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY THOMAS J. STORY