Teleflora's Flower Blog - February 2008

february 2008

February 29, 2008 | out and about

Philadelphia Flower Show: By the numbers

The Philly Flower Show, theflowershow.com, is one of the biggest in the world. This year’s New Orleans-themed edition opens to the general public on Sunday and runs for a week.

I’ll be there next Thursday! I look forward to meeting other flower people and sharing what I learn.

In the meantime, here are 10 numerical facts about the show:

$30 million
Money generated in one week for restaurants, hotels, shops, other businesses, and cultural attractions.

$1 million
Raised for Philadelphia Green, the largest urban greening program in the country.

250,000
Visitors expected.

1827
Year the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society was formed, the nation’s first horticultural society.

150
Vendors from across the U.S. and abroad.

35
Height (in feet) of Edith Bogue Magnolia featured in the “Reflections” exhibit by Stoney Bank Nurseries.

20
Tractor-trailer loads of mulch used in more than 50 exhibits from landscape designers, including orchids on the bayou and a juke joint in the woods. Educational exhibits will focus on sustainability.
13
Bromeliad varieties (1600 individual bromeliads) to be featured at the show. The show will highlight tropical flowers and Southern-style gardening.

10
Acres of plants, floral designs, gardens and related products.

9
Topiary dogs, made from ivy and other plants, staged on grass, complete with fire hydrant!

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February 28, 2008 | out and about

Take a leaf out of Kathleen Turner’s book: Send yourself roses, remember you’re special

by Jacqueline

On Valentine’s Day, I wrote about the release of actress Kathleen Turner’s book: “Send Yourself Roses: Thoughts on My Life, Love and Leading Roles,” amazon.com, co-written with Gloria Feldt.

In the book, Turner talks about her childhood and family, her 20-year marriage and recent separation, motherhood, activism and giving back, her struggle with rheumatoid arthritis, alcohol-dependency, and relaunching her stage career after decades in the movies.

She also reveals what is was like to work with Jack Nicholson, Michael Douglas, William Hurt, Steve Martin, Francis Ford Coppola, John Huston, John Waters and Edward Albee.

Here’s an excerpt and some good advice from Turner:

“Before an opening performance, when I am feeling like I really need an affirmation, I’ll send myself a big bouquet of roses. Why not? Why should I wait around and hope that someone else will send me roses? If someone does, that’s delightful, and I will receive them with pleasure. But if no one does, I won’t have to be blue. I will provide for my emotional needs just as I provide for my material needs. If I don’t treat myself well, if I don’t show my belief in myself, how can I expect anyone else to? …

Cajun Sunrise Rose

"I always try to do something nice for myself after I finish a play or a film. I’d like to share some of the ways I have learned through experience to make my life as rich and full as possible.

"Sometimes solitude is the greatest gift I can give myself. The quietness, the space and the time to be with my thoughts, or just to be have become quite precious. My days get eaten up with busy-ness if I let them. I have to consciously plan to give myself the gift of solitude. Time alone recharges my spirit and mind. Time away from the usual fray is even better. …

"I like to do silly things alone, too, like walking around [New York City], watching people, just being part of it. I like to stop in at little restaurants I have never seen before. And I love to read at a meal. So I go off alone with a book and read and eat someplace I’ve never eaten before. … Even when I was young and poor and just starting out in New York, I’d find some way to give myself a gift once a week, like taking a cab instead of the bus, or buying a single rose even when I couldn’t afford the whole bouquet.

"It doesn’t have to be a big expensive thing. Just something to make sure you remember that you’re special, because you can get pretty downtrodden. You have to celebrate yourself. And giving yourself a little affirmation helps you shake off the many slings and arrows we all get from our critics every day."

(The Cajun Sunrise Rose, shown above, is courtesy of the American Rose Society.)

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February 27, 2008 | out and about

Prince Charles, Sir Paul, Oscar-winner Glen Hansard tap power of flowers

by Jacqueline

Maybe it’s because flowers are bursting out of spring fashion. Maybe it’s because there were 80,000 flowers at the Oscars, not even counting the parties. Maybe it’s because spring is just around the corner, but flowers keep making headlines among the rich and famous.

• England’s Prince Charles reportedly told singer Lily Allen last week that she should get a Japanese peace flower to cheer her up when she’s feeling down. Prince Charles has long been an advocate of banter with blooms. Maybe she told him: "Everything's Just Wonderful." (Love that song!) The pair met at the London premiere of “The Other Boleyn Girl,” starring Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson.

• Sir Paul McCartney sent a bouquet of flowers, lilies to be exact, to Heather Mills just before they were due to appear in divorce court, mirror.co.uk. The flowers were accompanied by a kind note and a reminder that no matter what the outcome, their daughter should come first. Sir Paul also sent Mills flowers prior to her appearance on “Dancing with the Stars” to wish her good luck.

• Irish musician Glen Hansard used a flower analogy to express his amazement at the success of his song “Falling Slowly” from the movie “Once.” (Hansard and his girlfriend Marketa Irglova won the Oscar for their work.) “I feel a bit like a plumber at a flower show,” he told RTE Radio, after the big event in Los Angeles.

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February 26, 2008 | floral calendar

Azaleas in spotlight at Chicago conservatory

by Jacqueline

Age of Azaleas Spring Flower Show
Help celebrate Garfield Park Conservatory's 100 birthday with yearlong events themed CHICAGOASIS: The Greenest Show on Earth. The Age of Azaleas, through May 11, will highlight a changing selection of spring blooming plants, including more than 5,000 bulbs.

When: Through May 11, 2008
Open every day from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Thursdays until 8 p.m.
Where: Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago
Price: Free
Contact: 312-742-7529, chicagoparkdistrict.com

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February 26, 2008 | floral calendar

‘Rhapsody in Green’ at Boston flower show

by Jacqueline

New England Spring Flower Show
A symbol of spring and one of Boston’s most enduring traditions, the New England Spring Flower Show is now in its 137th year and has grown to be the third-largest flower show in the world.

When: March 8-16, 2008
10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturdays, weekdays and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sundays (Extended hours for members)
Where: Bayside Expo Center, 200 Mount Vernon St., Dorchester, MA
Price: $20 (discounts available)
Contact: www.masshort.org

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February 25, 2008 | out and about

Flowers favored by Oscar fashionistas

by Jacqueline

As predicted in Friday’s post, flowers made an appearance at the Oscars red carpet in more ways than one. There were the fresh blooms lining the walkway, natch.

The floral color scheme was yellow, cream, white and green, which is extremely photogenic, says Rich Salvaggio, who works on the event in conjunction with Charisma Floats and Designs charismafloats.com. Red flowers, conversely, show up much darker, almost black, on TV.

Flowers at the Oscars

Also photogenic were the celebrities who scored high marks for style in their flower-motif dresses.

Hilary Swank looked stunning in a black, one-shoulder Versace gown with delicate flower detailing. Lots of ladies chose red – Katherine Heigl, Miley Cyrus, Heidi Klum, Helen Mirren, Ruby Dee – but our fave was Anne Hathaway’s one-shoulder Marchesa creation with a sash of fabric red roses draping her elegant frame.

Also striking and inspired by nature was best actress winner Marion Cotillard’s ivory fishscale dress by Jean Paul Gaultier. (She won for her portrayal of singer Edith Piaf in “La Vie En Rose.”)

The topic of flowers even came up in red-carpet chit-chat. First, fashion designer and TV commentator Randolph Duke pointed out that at a packed, high-profile event such as the Oscars, a bright color like red pops, just as a flower does. “It’s a good day to be a flower!” he laughed.

Tilda Swinton, winner of the best supporting actress Oscar for her role in “Michael Clayton,” compared the red carpet to a flower bed. “But I don’t often stand in a flower bed in high heels,” she said.

This was, of course, before she snagged her statuette. Afterward, according to the Associated Press, she was so surprised by her win that all she could say was “wow, wow” as she left the stage.

As for post-show flower power, the Vanity Fair party was cancelled, but there were flowers galore at the Governors Ball, thanks to Mark's Garden marksgarden.net in Sherman Oaks, CA. The color scheme was simple: red and gold. Red roses (15 different kinds) and gold orchids from Thailand were the featured blooms. For a full report, visit yumsugar.com/1058444.

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February 22, 2008 | out and about

Flowers out in full force at the Oscars

by Jacqueline

Flowers were featured so prominently in spring fashion collections, it seems a good bet that we’ll see some floral accents at the Oscars on Sunday – perhaps a fresh bloom behind the ear of Keira Knightley or twice-nominated Cate Blanchett? Or maybe even Johnny Depp, definitely a risk-taker on the fashion front!

But even if they don’t, there will be flowers galore on the red carpet and everywhere else. This year, the color scheme is TV-friendly (I can’t say any more than that) so they should look just as pretty to viewers around the world as they do to the lucky few who see the ceremony in person.

I checked in with Rich Salvaggio (pictured above), who helps direct the massive project with Charisma Floats and Designs charismafloats.com. Specifically, he coordinates the efforts of 21 floral designers from around the country who come in to lend their talents.

Between 70,000 and 80,000 stems are used for the Oscars, including roses, lilies, carnations, alstroemeria, freesia, hydrangea, mini cala lilies, orchids, mums, sunflowers, snapdragon, French tulips, fresh wheat, ferns and ivy.

Most of the flowers arrived on Tuesday, which gives them time to open. The designers will be super busy right up until 11 a.m. Sunday, their final deadline.

In addition to decorating high-traffic areas – like the arrivals tent, artists’ entrance and the red carpet, just to name a few – there are 100 VIP arrangements to be made as well as bouquets for the dressing rooms. And new this year: special flowers for the winners’ walkway that only those clutching their awards will get to experience!

The stars, the gowns, the flowers, Jon Stewart – is it Sunday night yet?

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February 21, 2008 | floral calendar

Portland Flower Show offers urban retreat

by Jacqueline

Portland Flower Show
An annual rite of spring in Portland, Maine.

When: March 6-9, 2008
10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday
Where: Portland Company Complex
Price: $15 at the door, discounts available
Contact: 207-775-4403 or portlandcompany.com/flower/

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February 21, 2008 | teleflora news

Flowers for your favorite mom and (maybe) 15 minutes of fame

by Jacqueline

Did you know that 2008 is the 100-year anniversary of Mother's Day? That's a big deal and a great time to celebrate all the good times you have with your family.

So, Teleflora is presenting a contest called America’s Favorite Mom. Your fave mom could win serious cash and prizes, and might get the chance to star in a primetime special on NBC! There are lots of other ways to win and even more ways to make this year's Mother's Day the best ever.

Check out these prizes:

• $25,000 grand prize for Most Popular Mom online contest
• $5,000 prize for Most Humorous Mom online contest
• $5,000 prize for Most Inspiring Mom online contest
• 15 chances to appear on the “Today” show
• 5 chances to star in NBC’s prime-time special on Mother’s Day (Sunday, May, 11)
• 17 chances to win free flowers for a year
• 85 chances to win $100 cash in a weekly sweepstakes

All you have to do is nominate a mom (yours or someone else’s).

For more information, go to americasfavoritemom.com.

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February 20, 2008 | out and about

Growing great roses is easier than you think

by Jacqueline

Roses, lovely as they are in a bouquet, can be intimidating to gardeners.

But beautiful back-yard roses really don’t deserve their high-maintenance reputation. So says Steve Jones, president of the American Rose Society. “Generally speaking, roses are very easy to grow, despite what people think. They’re resilient plants.”

Just be aware of what disease problems you might face, depending on what part of the country you live in. If you deal with East Coast and Midwest humidity, your roses might be prone to black-spot fungus. On the West Coast, mildew on the leaves causes them to be white as well as distorted and curled.

So, before you plant, make sure you choose the best variety for your soil and climate. That way, your roses are less likely to depend on fungicide or pesticide to stay healthy and look good.

“There are so many types of roses – you can find one for almost any color and size in your yard,” he says, adding that there are about 40,000 rose varieties worldwide.

For more information about choosing, growing and pruning roses, to find out about an upcoming rose show or to become a member of the American Rose Society, visit ars.org.

On a personal note, Jones’ passion for roses runs in his family. His grandmother’s first name was Rose and his mom’s middle name was Rose. “She liked roses,” he says of his mother, “so we always did rosy things.”

(Rose photo courtesy of the American Rose Society.)

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February 19, 2008 | floral trends

Get your gardening groove on with tropical flowers, cascading blooms and less fuss

by Jacqueline

“Gardening is my zen,” a friend of mine said over the weekend. He’s right, it’s a great way to relax.

And it’s a hobby that’s increasingly hip, having gained popularity among 20- and 30something city dwellers. They may not have vast lawns, but they want to create their own little patch of urban green.

Baby Boomers garden as well, but they tend to have multiple hobbies and don’t have the time or energy to maintain large-scale gardens like their parents did.

People may have less space and time to tend to a garden, but they still seek the benefits – aesthetic, environmental and atmospheric.

To see what else is new, I checked in with Charlie Nardozzi, a horticulturist with the National Gardening Association garden.org in South Burlington, VT.

He shared these trends on the gardening front:

Container gardening (flower pots, boxes, baskets, etc., on small decks or patios), which started in the 1990s, is continuing to grow and thrive. “Plant breeders are responding by breeding smaller plants,” says Nardozzi.

Less fuss. He adds that some new breeds, for example petunia, require less cleaning and maintenance, ideal for the time-crunched gardener. “People are looking for easy and effective ways to garden,” he says.

Also popular: cascading blooms such as scaevola or calibrachoa (aka million bells) that work well in a hanging basket or window box. Speaking of cascading, water – in the form of fountains or brooks, often at varying levels – is another big feature in contemporary gardens.

Tapping the tropics. People in colder climates are finding ways to mix and match tropical plants like bougainvillea (shown above), bananas and angel’s trumpet with more common plants to create a lush, exotic effect. Bright colors, both in plants and accessories, are big in gardening now.

From garden to plate. Edibles are on the rise. “People want to get more connected to the food they eat,” says Nardozzi, referring to increased concern about our food supply and what’s sprayed on it. Also, the influence of international menus is reaching beyond the kitchen. Tried lemon grass at a Thai restaurant or while visiting Thailand? You can grow your own in the back yard.

Going greener: People want more information about organic gardening and are taking steps to make their cities greener by planting trees and improving parks.

Re-thinking the family room. Families are looking at large decks, patios or other outdoor spots as an extension of a room. They’re creating the space and planning the décor to accommodate multiple functions – entertaining, cooking/serving meals, relaxing, kids’ activities – so they might have furniture, grills, fire pits and hot tubs in addition to the blooms. “There are reasons to be there besides the garden,” Nardozzi says.

Sitting in a hot tub with a nice cold drink gazing at bougainvillea sounds just about perfect right now …

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February 18, 2008 | out and about

Flowers in the movies: These blooms have star power! Take our quiz and see for yourself

by Jacqueline

Flowers keep popping up in movies, new and old. Most obviously they mean romance, but they can set a darker tone as well. Just look at the greenhouse scene in the ’40s classic, “The Big Sleep,” starring Bogie and Bacall.

With the Oscars less than a week away, jog your memory with this quiz and let me know your favorite flowers on film.

Lily

1. In the Oscar-nominated love story “Atonement,” when James McAvoy and Keira Knightley meet at the fountain, she is carrying an armful of freshly picked flowers and a vase. She is also wearing a floral-print blouse. True or False?

2. Which 1946 film noir starred Alan Ladd and blonde bombshell Veronica Lake? (Raymond Chandler wrote the original screenplay.)
A. “Black Orchids”
B. “The Blue Dahlia”
C. “The Black Dahlia”
D. “The Blue Gardenia”

3. “Steel Magnolias” was a major role for Julia Roberts in 1990. Name the upcoming movie she’ll be producing and starring in.
A. “Flower Shop”
B. “Bouquets All the Way”
C. “Cactus Flower”
D. “Hothouse Flowers”

4. The petals of which flower cover Mena Suvari in 1999’s “American Beauty,” winner of five Oscars? If you need a hint, check out playboy.com/blog where Teleflora was recently featured.
A. Magnolia
B. Orchid
C. Rose
D. Jasmine

5. In “Bread and Tulips,” from 2000, Licia Maglietta’s character loves flowers and applies for a job in a flower shop in which Italian city?
A. Venice
B. Florence
C. Rome
D. Naples

6. If you watched “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1945) over the holidays, you’ll remember the significance of ZuZu’s petals. But what flower shields Mary (Donna Reed) when her bathrobe comes loose?
A. Lilacs
B. Hydrangea
C. Hyacinth
D. Lily of the Valley

Extra credit: What flower-themed song does Uncle Billy (Thomas Mitchell) sing about?

ANSWERS
1. True
2. B. “The Blue Dahlia” was their third film together.
3. D. “Hothouse Flowers” a novel by Margot Berwin.
4. C. Rose
5. A. Venice
6. B. Hydrangea

Extra Credit: “My Wild Irish Rose”

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February 15, 2008 | floral calendar

100,000 expected at Toronto flower fest

by Jacqueline

Toronto Flower & Garden Festival
Six acres of feature gardens, 250 exhibitors as well as speakers, demos and talks from gardening pros.

When: March 12-16
Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre, South Building
Price: $18, with discounts available
Contact: 416-447-8655, canadablooms.com

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February 14, 2008 | out and about

Roses? Romance? Must be Valentine’s Day!

by Jacqueline

I won't keep you long on Valentine's – I know you're probably busy enjoying your bouquets. I hope some of you will send in your stories and pictures of how you spent the day.

Meanwhile, here are a few fast tidbits.

• Today was the release for Kathleen Turner's book: "Send Yourself Roses: Thoughts on My Life, Love, and Leading Roles" (co-authored with Gloria Feldt). I love Kathleen Turner –particularly her break-out role in 1981's "Body Heat" co-starring William Hurt and more recently on stage in "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" I can't wait to get my copy.

• Jennifer Aniston reportedly has received red roses every day this month from a secret admirer, who may or may not be "Entourage" star Kevin Connolly. Fyi, her b'day is Feb. 11 so apparently this romantic sender, whoever he is, decided to make the most of the month!

• The color scheme for the flowers at the Oscars (Feb. 24) sounds like it will be stunning. I'm sworn to secrecy on the color front, but I will be sharing other details closer to the big day.

• Remember that Teleflora’s Diamonds and Roses sweepstakes runs through February 29.

Coded game piece are included in the Diamonds and Roses Bouquet, $59.95, shown left, and the Diamond Cut Bouquet, $99.95.

Customers will be directed to DiamondsandRoses.com where they can find out if they have instantly won one of 1,000 diamond pendant necklaces, valued at $149 from Zales Jewelers. All registrants are then automatically entered into the grand prize drawing for a beautiful pair of white-gold, round-cut diamond earrings, with a retail value of $50,000. The winner will be contacted via phone on or around March 15.

For more information on Teleflora’s Diamonds and Roses sweepstakes, please visit DiamondsandRoses.com or call 310-966-8328.

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February 13, 2008 | out and about

Buying flowers/ Cupid’s bow/ business savvy

by Jacqueline

With Valentine’s falling on a Thursday, many of us will receive flowers at the office. That’s a good thing, whether it’s a holiday or not because flowers are known to de-stress us and improve our moods. I know it works for me! :)

OK, back to Valentine’s. I checked in with Barbara Pachter, a business etiquette expert in Cherry Hill, N.J., pachter.com, about our work and personal lives overlapping on this romantic day. Pachter, who is the author of New Rules @ Work, echoed something I’ve been droning on about for the last few weeks. Think ahead!

Decide whether it’s best to send flowers to your sweetie’s home or work. A home delivery means more privacy and the bouquet won’t have to be carried back from the office. If you are dating someone from the office, definitely send the flowers to his/her home.

Still, if there’s no one to sign for the flowers, the office is likely the best bet. Senders, be careful about what you put on the card – there can be lots of opportunities for people other than the recipient to read it.

Also be aware of the meaning of flowers. Pachter says that over the holidays she received red roses from a male business associate. They were beautiful, but not a hit with her husband! For a quick guide to flower meaning, see my post from Monday: www.teleflora.com/FLOWERBLOG/post/Flowers-More-to-meaning-than-meets-the-eye.aspx.

What about handling questions from co-workers when you have a tower of flowers on your desk? As Pachter acknowledges: “In some offices, people really like to know people’s business.” Remember that you don’t have to answer every question. Or you could say: It’s from my secret Valentine. Or: “It’s from someone who cares about me.”

Similarly, the romantic/funny/charming story behind your bouquet needs to be short and sweet at the office. You can tell your peeps all the details another time.

Don’t think you’ll be getting flowers on Thursday? You could bring in your own plant, send flowers to yourself or enjoy your co-workers’ floral bounty.

And if a co-worker (aka Mr. or Ms. Insensitive) asks why you don’t have flowers in your cube, Pachter offers this great suggestion, which answers the question without really saying anything. Just reply: “You should see my house.”

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February 12, 2008 | flower facts

5 quick tips to make the most of fresh flowers

by Jacqueline

For flower lovers, Valentine’s Day can’t come too soon. Fresh blooms will be just about everywhere you look on Thursday!

Want to prolong the life of your bouquet? Here are 5 easy ways.

R&R. Yes, flowers need it, too. But instead of rest and relaxation, they require recutting and rewatering. This is the most important step you can take to extend flowers’ lives. Cut stems at an angle and replace all the water in the vase. (Don’t just add a splash more.)

Change and rearrange. If some of the flowers fade faster than others, regroup the ones you have left. Pick fun containers that you already have on hand and don’t usually use for flowers – like a teacup, jug, jar or bottle. A single bloom with a long stem or even floating in water, sans stem, can be simply stunning.

Fortify! Keep the same vase and add a new floral layer. It’s really easy: Just take some inexpensive flowers, like mums or carnations, cut the stems short enough so that the flower sits just above the top of the vase, and dot them around the taller stems. It’s a look that lots of floral designers are using right now.

Trendify! Add some new flowers that are the same color as your original bouquet. Same color/different flowers is a very cool, richly textured look.

Petal power. Red roses don’t give up easily – that’s why we love them. As the flowers fade, the petals retain their vibrant color. A small bowl filled with dried rose petals will look pretty for months to come.

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February 11, 2008 | out and about

Flowers: More to meaning than meets the eye

by Jacqueline

Since ancient times, flowers have held symbolic significance for many cultures around the world. One of the most famous spins on communicating with flowers came with the Victorians.

They were the brains behind “floriography” – a code that used flowers to send messages. While many of those nuanced meanings are now lost to history, several basic elements remain.

So that you can truly appreciate giving or receiving bouquets this Valentine’s Day, here’s a sampling of what flowers say in contemporary times …

Red roses = Intense love or attraction

Orange roses = Desire

Purple roses, purple lilacs = Love at first sight

Yellow roses = Friendship

Pink roses = Gratitude, appreciation, admiration

White roses = Purity

White roses in square glass vase with stones

White roses in square glass vase with stones

Daisy = Innocence

Tulip = Passion

Bird of Paradise = Joy

Peonies = Happiness in marriage

Pink alstroemeria = Devotion

Pink stargazer lilies = Prosperity

Ivy = Faithfulness

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February 08, 2008 | flower facts

The rose: A flower with a secret history

by Jacqueline

Red roses are the ultimate flower for romance. More than any other bloom, they represent Valentine’s Day.

But why roses? To find out, I talked to Professor Frank McDonough, botanical information consultant at the L.A. County Arboretum & Botanic Garden in Arcadia, arboretum.org.

First, McDonough clarified: Roses are revered in the West, yes, but less so in places like China and Japan, where camellias and peonies are highly prized.

Roses’ roots go way back. The Chinese cultivated them as long as 5,000 years ago and roses were used in pagan fertility rites.

But they really took center stage in Roman times. “They were the flower for the Romans,” says McDonough. “Any Roman street would smell of roses.”

Used for cooking, flavoring and religious ceremonies, they were also the first real deodorant. Rose water was used in fountains and baths, helping to keep a dense population fresh-smelling.

Additionally, the bloom symbolized secrecy (hence the phrase “sub rosa”) because its petals hid the sexual parts. Who knew?!

Pale pink rose

The rose's popularity fell along with the Roman empire. Still, it continued to hold its own – for example, rose windows in cathedrals and it was the flower associated with the Virgin Mary.

In the Renaissance, with the flourishing of the arts and allusions to romantic and sexual love, roses rebounded as a symbol of these emotions.

The always-proper Victorians invented a whole vocabulary based on the color of roses. “You could make a real faux pas with roses back then,” explains McDonough. “If a lady gave a man a dried white rose, he didn’t stand a chance!”

And, of course, economics played a role in building the rose’s reputation. The introduction of tea roses in the 1860s meant the flowers kept their petals longer and, when greenhouse glass became cheaper, it lowered the cost of growing long-stem roses. By the turn of the century, the industry was off and running.

Fast-forward to the 1980s for two more market developments: air-freight and plastic glass for greenhouses.

Phew! That’s a lot of ground and a lot of lore re: roses. But now you know why roses reign when it comes to romance.

Meanwhile, yesterday, I asked if you knew, off the top of your head, Dr. Phil’s last name: It’s McGraw.

And Britney Spears’ middle name: Jean.

Have a good weekend, flower lovers!

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February 07, 2008 | teleflora news

Get really real with Dr. Phil this Friday

by Jacqueline

Despite the bad press Dr. Phil received for his recent visit with Britney Spears, the plain-talkin’ Texan does know a thang or two ’bout guys and gals.

He’ll be sharing his knowledge Friday, February 8, about the importance of romance in relationships. Specifically, he’ll be giving Valentine’s tips and featuring products like Teleflora’s Diamonds & Roses Bouquet. Yeehaw!

The show is syndicated so it airs at different times all over the country, though many markets air the show between 3-5 p.m. EST/PST. In some markets “Dr. Phil” airs twice a day – for example, it’s on in LA at 4 p.m. on KCBS-TV and at 7 p.m. on KCAL-TV.

With 7.5 million daily viewers and a web site that garners 40 million visitors a month, most everybody knows this guy. But, off the top of your head, do you know what Dr. Phil’s last name is?

And for extra credit: What is Britney Spears’ middle name?

I’ll give the answers tomorrow, not that you can’t find out sooner if you’re itching to know! :)

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February 07, 2008 | floral calendar

Albuquerque heats up winter flower show

by Jacqueline

Winter Fire Colors Flower Show
A colorful display – hot reds, yellows, oranges, hot pinks and purples – in the Mediterranean Conservatory of the Rio Grande Botanic Garden.

When: Through Feb. 29, 2008
Where: Rio Grande Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. NW at the intersection of Central and New York Avenues, Albuquerque, NM
Price: $3-$7
Contact: 505-768-2000, cabq.gov/biopark/common/januaryevents.html#fire

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February 06, 2008 | out and about

Top 10 things NOT to do on Valentine’s Day

by Jacqueline

I’ve really had Valentine’s Day on the brain (surprise, surprise) in the last few weeks. I’ve written about what to do, how to get what you want, giving flowers to men, caring for roses and Teleflora's cool Diamonds & Roses bouquets. Diamonds and Roses bouquet

Today it occurs me that what NOT to do is equally important. So, read on to learn what to skip on Feb. 14.

10. Book a table for one. Look, No. 10 had to be a no-brainer, right? :) Anyway, avoid buying into the myth that only twosomes can celebrate. This is VD, not Noah’s Ark! If you’re in between relationships, band together with other singles and plan a fun night for a group.

9. Wait and see. Don’t wait around for one of the above-mentioned friends to organize an evening. What about hosting a chocolate pot-luck?

8. Forget your faves. VD celebrates all kinds of love – romantic, platonic, maternal, paternal, peternal (cats, dogs, etc.). So if you’ve been out of touch with parents, friends, sibs and such, this is an ideal time to reconnect.

7. Lower your standards. Tempted to hook up with an old flame just to have company on VD? Understandable, but stay strong. Otherwise, you’ll probably regret it later.

6. Diss yourself. Don’t have second thoughts re: buying yourself flowers. Think of all the other stuff you buy – for yourself. VD is a special day, you deserve a special treat. Ain’t nothin’ wrong with that.

5. Bring up flaws, faults and foibles. If you’re with your sweetie, have fun! There’s never a good time for it, but VD is not the day to discuss what needs fixing in your relationship. Duh!

4. Complain. ’Nuff said.

3. Discuss data. At least not the latest study from University of Michigan's Institute for Social Research, which found that couples see each other as more annoying the longer they're together. See the full story (AFTER 2-14!) on www.livescience.com/health or www.yahoo.com.

2. Be unrealistic. If VD is important to you, take the lead on creating a romantic, memorable day. Or decide that you’ll do it together – maybe agree that you’ll each find a surprise for the other?

1. Put off planning. Waiting until the last minute to plan the night and buy flowers or other gifts is setting yourself up for a stress-fest. However you choose to spend it, act now so you can relax and enjoy the day.

What is your favorite Valentine's memory? Drop me a note with the details & maybe you'll inspire someone else.

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February 05, 2008 | flower facts

Flower care secrets: Tips from the pros to make your Valentine’s roses last longer

by Jacqueline

Before I tell you the secrets, I’d like to ask: Has anyone noticed that gorgeous, fresh-cut flowers are a bit like a really nice meal?

The other night I took a friend out for a birthday dinner at an Italian restaurant in our neighborhood. I had the most delicious fish, beautifully presented – Dover sole covered with paper-thin slices of potato, green & yellow zucchini, cherry tomatoes and a few crumbles of Parmesan cheese. The cheerful color and layered texture created a visual riff on the fish, which I promptly gobbled down.

It was a splurge, yes, but so delightful and the stuff good memories are made of. That’s how I feel about flowers, especially roses. Perfect form, stunning color, fragrance nothing short of divine. And it isn’t just pretty petals sitting in a vase – it’s the enjoyment of giving or receiving a little work of art – just like that Italian dinner.

Anyway… now I’ll cut to the chase, and share some tips for prolonging the life of these dazzling blooms.

Red flowers outside

Snacks for the stems. Myths abound re: giving flowers perk-ups from your kitchen cupboards: crushed aspirin, soda, putting a penny in the vase. One of the Teleflora experts tells me: “Most florists deliver their arrangements in pre-treated water, which stays fresh for about 1-2 days.” After that, commercial flower food can help nourish hungry bouquets.

Cut! And rewater. She adds that: “The best thing to do when caring for an arrangement is to recut the stems every few days and to put fresh water in the vase daily. Not just top it off, but completely change the water every day.” Thoroughly clean the container, add fresh, room-temperature water and, if you have it, fresh food. Cut the stems at an angle.

Draw the line. Make sure there is no foliage below the water line. This will prevent bacteria from growing and help keep flowers fresher, longer.

Beat the heat. Keep them away from heating vents or windows that have direct sunlight. Don’t put them on top of televisions or radiators. Most flowers prefer temperatures between 65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 22 degrees Celsius).

Opening up. Roses last longer in a cool area, but if you want blooms to open quickly, temporarily put them in a warmer spot (not hotter than 80 degrees Fahrenheit.)

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February 04, 2008 | floral horoscopes

Floral horoscopes for February

by Jacqueline

Welcome to the horoscope page, where each month you can read a fun take on the future and see the flower associated with your sign.

Capricorn: Dec. 22-Jan. 20 / Flower: African violet

As you await a decision about a business venture, the tension is considerable. Keep your fingers crossed, but don’t blame yourself if the outcome isn’t what you’d hoped for. Additionally, that difficult family member is still, um, difficult. Don’t give into manipulation tactics.

Aquarius: Jan. 21-Feb. 19 / Flower: Orchid
Orchid
Do you and your partner still hold hands and laugh at each other’s jokes? If yes, cherish that lovely blessing. If no, see if you can find time for a special date. Singletons, remember that you’re better off on your own than with the wrong person.

Pisces: Feb. 20-March 20 / Flower: Alstroemeria

This is an excellent time to put your creative energy into painting, songwriting or even that novel you’ve always longed to pen. It may seem intimidating, but if you allow yourself to make mistakes, you will make progress. Fresh flowers are known to inspire artists of every kind.

Aries: March 21-April 20 / Flower: Tulip
Tulip
Aries gals like to speak their minds – a charming trait most of the time. But this month, especially around the 21st, you’d be wise to bite your tongue, both at home and at work. And that steam coming out of your ears? A deep breath is much better. So take a 5-15 minute walk (or at least count to 10).

Taurus: April 21-May 21 / Flower: Lily
Lily
By this summer, your life will change in a BIG way. This new adventure will bring you great joy and some stress. For the next few months, take extra special care of yourself, especially your diet. And don’t blow off going to the doctor or dentist – your hands will be very full before you know it.

Gemini: May 22-June 21 / Flower: Rose
Rose
Planning your Valentine’s Day? Don’t forget that men like flowers too. In between love-interests? Hey, that’s the perfect time to give yourself a beautiful bouquet of roses – your birth flower. You'll receive an important letter or email by month’s end, related to your career. Take time to mull it over.

Cancer: June 22-July 22 / Flower: Delphinium

You’ve recently acquired a new group of friends and you may notice a rivalry coming to the fore. Your natural sensitivity and diplomacy will cement your standing in the gang. On the financial front, the last week of February is rich with opportunity.

Leo: July 23- Aug. 22 / Flower: Sunflower

Leos love the limelight. This month your natural magnetism means you’ll have a whirlwind of parties, outings and events. Consider reciprocating this hospitality – maybe hosting an Oscars party or organizing a girls’ night out on Valentine’s if you and your gang are happily unattached?

Virgo: Aug. 23-Sept. 23 / Flower: Daisy
Daisy
After the15th, you will glean a juicy piece of information that’s tempting to share. Before you do, remember that it could come back to bite you. Meanwhile, you never know when you might meet that special guy or stellar business contact – doing errands, on an airplane. Be open, and smile!

Libra: Sept. 24-Oct. 23 / Flower: Hydrangea

The first two weeks of February may feel discouraging, especially when it comes to your romantic life. Bumps happen. But, girl, you have so much going for you, hold out for the best – you deserve it. Remember that the best relationships do NOT have drama and hand-wringing.

Scorpio: Oct. 24-Nov. 22 / Flower: Peony
Peony
If weight loss was one of your New Year’s resolutions, one way to keep on track is to pick an exercise buddy. When you’re part of a duo, it’s harder to make excuses for not taking that walk, tempting as it is to curl up inside, away from the wind and cold.

Sagittarius: Nov. 23-Dec. 21 / Flower: Carnation

Looking for a mentor? Extrovert that you are, you may be tempted to ask someone outright. Unless you know the person fairly well, you’re better off cultivating a relationship first. Otherwise, it’s sort of like asking someone to be your friend.

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February 01, 2008 | out and about

Flowers for men? Go ahead, make his day

by Jacqueline

Buying gifts for men ... ah the agony.

Let's see, there are ties, aftershaves, gift certificates. And did I mention ties? But here's some good news if you're stumped for what to buy your guy for Valentine's Day. Research shows that receiving flowers makes men happy. (Just another thing women have known all along.)

Hey, anything to cut down on aimless wandering of store aisles is a good thing in my book. And if you're wondering which blooms are best suited to his personality, here's a handy guide to find the perfect bunch.

Guy's guy
• Occasionally gruff, but secretly a Teddy bear
• Considering giving up his day job to run fantasy football league
• Fave movies: "Casino Royale," "Die Hard" and "Dirty Harry"
BEST FLOWER BET: Rubber tree plant or cactus

Metrosexual / Hipster
• Cufflinks are a must, as are natural fibers
• Better than Zagat to find trendy restaurants
• Has strict skincare routine; reminds you to use toner and sunblock
BEST FLOWER BET: Orchid

Urban philosopher
• Has the vibe of an absent-minded professor
• Living room lined with cloth-bound books, no paperbacks allowed
• Can't talk re: his "fashion sense" with a straight face
BEST FLOWER BET: Bird of Paradise

Well-rounded man
• Likes sports, current events, subtitled movies and can cook you dinner
• Sometimes sarcastic, sometimes goofy, but always makes you laugh
• On his Ipod: The Decemberists, The Killers, Fall Out Boy and The Rolling Stones
BEST FLOWER BET: Orange roses, esp since they signify desire!