Q: I have been looking to buy spider lily bulbs for about a year now. Can you tell me where I might find them and at what time of year do you plant them?

A: Red spider lilies (Lycoris radiata) emerge from seemingly barren spots in fall. Unlike most bulbs, their foliage appears after the blooms. Lycoris squamigera, a close cousin, is named surprise lily for its similarly sudden autumn emergence. Check the Farmers and Consumers Market Bulletin classified ads (404-656-3722). Also try Old House Garden Bulbs plus Brent and Becky’s Bulbs