HOME & GARDEN Plant Dutch amaryllis now GOOD THINGS come in small packages ... but better things come in even larger packages. At least that’s the case with the stunning Dutch amaryilis. This bulb flower, one of the world’s largest flowering house-plants, grows from a very large bulb that is from 24 cm (10 inches) to 32 cm (13 inches) in circumference. The bigger the bulb, the more flowers you can expect. From this bulb several very tall (iZ2 to 24 inches) flower stalks grow, each adorned with dramatic trumpet-shaped blooms which complement any decor. Although Dutch amaryllis — properly calied Hippeastrum -- originated in South America, par- ticularly in Brazil, Peru and Chile, this bulb flower has undergone so many cross-breedings it is im- possible to trace the botanical species that make up its family tree. We do know, however, that from this extensive hybridization, a beautiful flower, unusual in shape and available in many shades of pink, red, salmon, orange, white and, red and white _Striped, has been cultivated. Two, three or four flowers may grow from the hollow stalks, pro- Seminars “THE SOCIETY Promoting En- * vironmental Conservation (SPEC), with the financial assistance of BC Hydre’s Power Smart program, =will be hosting a series of seminars on home inspections and renova- tions. The objective of this series is to help consumers make wise energy choices when it comes to buying or renovating a home, » The seminars will be conducted - by. Ed Witske, one of B.C.’s ‘foremost -authorities on home _ energy efficiency and home. in- , “spections. . : @' ‘Inspecting a Townhouse, Apariment or Condominium’’: What do you need to know about energy use in a multiple dwelling? How do you judge an ducing an attractive picture. Offered in the marketplace from September until March, this bulb flower is becoming more and more popular as people discover its beauty as an addition to their own homes, or as a gift at Christmas time. When placed in a basket with a large ribbon, one of these ‘*ready-to-grow’’ bulbs (which can be bought at most garden cencres) makes a lovely gift. Dutch amaryliis is very easy to grow but it is important to start with a bulb that has a healthy root system. Untangle and soak the roots in tepid water for three to four hours, then place in a pot approx- imately twice the diameter of the bulb. Line the bottom of the pot with gravel, broken crockery or mar- bles to allow for drainage and add rich, porous soil covering two- thirds of the bulb, so that the soil is one inch below the rim of the pot, Until the bulb starts to grow, keep it out of direct sunlight at room temperature. Water sparing- ly. As it grows, increase the water and within six to eight weeks this larger-than-usual bulb package will produce a_ breathtaking flower, or two or three. By following a few basic steps, the amaryllis can be enjoyed the following year, too. After the blooming stops, cut the old flowers from the stem (about two inches above the bulb), allowing the leaves to continue to absorb nutrients from the light and soil. Add potted-piant fertilizer from time to time. During the hottest part of the summer, these flowers in their pots can be placed ‘‘as is’’ outdoors in the garden. As the foliage withers, reduce watering and, when it is dead, stop watering altogether and store the bulb in a cool, dry, well-ven- tilated area for about three months to satisfy its need for a dormant period. At the end of three months, remove the dead foliage, and re- pot the Dutch amaryllis to enable it 10 bloom for another season. Some of the best-known cultivars include ‘‘Apple Blossom Minerva’’ and ‘‘Orange Sovereign,’’ which prove that great things can come in large packages. offer renovation tips apartment for energy efficiency? What makes a condominium a wise long-term investment? How do you calculate the ‘‘Energy Sav- ings Dividend?”’ Date: Tuesday, 7-10 p.m. Cost: $30 @ “Smart Renovation’’: What do you look for before you start renovating? What pro- ducts and materials will help you cut costs and improve energy effi- ciency? How do you choose a professional renovator? What cre cost-effective ways for a home to grow? Date: Thursday, Nov. 26, 7-10 p.m. Cast: $30 @ “Working at Home’’: Nov. - £7, How do you create an office for a home-based business? How do you upgrade lighting, heating and electrical? Which room will make the best office? What are the costs and benefits of working at home? Date: Wednesday, Dec. 2, 7-10 p.m. Cost: $30 if you are buying, selling or even improving your home, you can benefi t from attending any of these seminars. The entire series will be held at the Vancouver Environmental In- formation Centre at 2150 Mapie St. in Vancouver. To pre-register, phone SPEC at 736-7732. For more information phone Ed Witske at 327-0262. _ Read “Mr. Home improvement” Shell Busey every Sunday in your North Shore News. You'll find Mr Busey’s column titled “Discover Your Home” on the Home Services page in our Classified section. if you have a question concerning _ your home, write: Shell Busey -8221-120th Street ‘ Delta, B.C. V4C 6R1 or Fax 597-5601 Shell Busey every Sunday in “Home Services” Ted ONES. OF NORTH AN WEST WANCOUVER SUNDAY © WEONESOAY + FRIDAY tt any way tha Ech my f furniture 4 aa nit all down, restrain oF is there any other method of ref rbishing cUF furniture? 9 at always necessa! o ‘finish your wooden iE eeets or other furniwuse. We would come a ¢o you ae the wooden surface fine stec! hinges from cabinets with super a clean, wool. This olish and f Farniture, cupbo new antique ards etc. Briv as ze) Que Green Planet Recipes for a Cleaner, healthier environment Nicotine Spray Ingredients l cup of water 2 cups of Ciaarette butts i teaspoon of dish soap = fee, end 1075 Roosevelt Crescent North Vanccuve OPEN DAILY Fri. 9-9, Sun. 12-4 (2 blocks Sehind the Avalon Hotel). In “Touch with Tomorrow If you have a problem with neighborhood Cats aid dag> destroyng your garden, try thio nicotine spray. Put the cigarette butts and the @& water into a jar and let stand for a day. Strain the solution mte a spray pottie and add the lauid ash soap. Spray the areas that the cats and dog> like Lo visit, Caution: Concentrated nicotme 1S poison OUS and should be heat away from children and pets. Tip: Plant catrp in areas away from your garden to attract cats, ‘-POSTUREPEDIC “$328! 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