(Audio 12/27/10) Garden catalogs arrive in mailboxes during December and January. They contain beautiful pictures that tempt gardeners to try new plants. Be sure and purchase plants suited for Louisiana's climate. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/27/10) People often force amaryllis bulbs to bloom at Christmas time. This is easy to do. Then the bulb can be planted in your yard during spring. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/27/10) Tulip and hyacinth bulbs need to chill in the vegetable bin of a refrigerator for about eight weeks before they can be planted into the ground. If you chilled bulbs earlier in the fall, you can plant them in late December or early January. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/27/10) Indoor plants add a lot to our home environment. Houseplants need proper care to thrive, including adequate sunlight and water. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/20/10) The Christmas cactus is a great plant for the holidays and can be used year after year. After one finishes blooming, move it to a bright window and water it every few days. When the weather warms during spring, bring the plant outside. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/20/10) Tropical plants are common in Louisiana landscapes. These plants can be damaged by winter freezes. Herbaceous tropical plants can be pruned within a week or so. For woody plants, wait until spring to see where the damage has occurred. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/20/10) Roses continue to bloom well into December in Louisiana. If there is going to be a hard freeze, cut any open flowers and enjoy them indoors. Also, cut faded flowers to keep the plants attractive. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/20/10) Leafy vegetables are great in the winter garden. With some leafy greens such as heading and semi-heading lettuce, the entire plant is harvested. With others, only the oldest outer leaves are harvested. This allows for an extended harvest. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/20/10) It's common for leaves on deciduous trees to change color and drop from the trees. Evergreen plants also may change color this time of year, although they will hold onto their leaves. This isn't cause for concern, and the leaves will green up once spring arrives. (Runtime: 60 seconds)

(Audio 12/13/10) Many gardeners save seeds. This is a good idea when you buy seeds and have some left over or when you want to save seeds from plants you have grown. Make sure you dry them and store them properly. (Runtime: 60 seconds)