flower blog

A sure sign of winter, the appearance of poinsettias on storefront windows is a momentary spectacle, readily abandoned along with the holiday decor. Few may know, however, that these Christmas-season icons hail from tropical climes. Giving them a chance to flower through the months following the holiday season can bring unexpected rewards for those willing to make the effort! ... Read More

A classic summer flower, the sunflower is a great bloom to use in summer bouquets or to grow in your garden ... Read More

Tomorrow is Canada’s celebration of their country and their culture – to highlight this, we thought we’d highlight Canada through their floral emblems ... Read More

Using a few handy tips, you can find flowers and plants that will both look beautiful and also help keep your outdoor living more enjoyable this summer. ... Read More

Gardeners have always known something that took science some time to figure out ... Read More

Today, I'd like to introduce you to a flower that you may know by looks, but not by name ... Read More

Mother's Day is celebrated around the world, but the traditions and details are varied. ... Read More

While spring is the season of flowers, there are certain blooms ... Read More

Our pets are part of our families, and they tend to be curious ... Read More

For those who saw the movie “Love Happens” and were wondering about the reference to “phlangium,” ... Read More

Whenever I have a free moment, I love to flip through the pretty pages of Sally Page's book, The Flower Shop: A Year in the Life of a Country Flower Shop.

Besides the gorgeous flower pix, she also has a series of flower-shop secrets, which always inspire me to get creative with flowers over the weekend. Here's some that might inspire you:

* Before the summer gets away from us and your garden moves indoors, look for fresh ways to spice up your bouquets. If you're a foodie, try using mint, flowering oregano, bay, rosemary or thyme. Mmm. Or sort herbs into bunches, then wire them onto a light circular metal frame. Add a little ribbon and you've just made a kitchen wreath.

* If you're struggling to decide which flowers to choose for a gift, stick to one kind of flower or choose flowers all the same color. One combination that always looks good is to mix white and cream flowers together with interesting foliage.

Don't be afraid to cut your roses short.

* Roses: As a rule of thumb, the longer the stem, the fatter the head of the rose. So when you pay more or a long-stemmed rose, don't be afraid to cut it down if you want to. You're not wasting money by discarding the stem, your money has also been spent on the larger bloom.

* Standing a hurricane lamp in a wreath of flowers is a simple way to create a centerpiece. It looks good outside and doesn't need masses of flowers.

* Want a fragrant bouquet? Try hyacinths, freesia, stock, lilies or tuberose.

Living in France was a wonderful way for legendary chef Julia Child to indulge her love of food and flowers. With that in mind, I prepared this little quiz on French floral-related history and customs. See how much you know and then have something lovely to eat!

1. Decorating flowers with delicate beads has been popular in France for centuries. But it is thought to have started in another country. Is it:
A. Switzerland
B. Italy
C. Portugal
D. England

2. French tulips are known for their elegance. Why should you be careful when combining them (or any cut flower) with members of the narcissus family, such as daffodils?
A. Daffodils release sap that is harmful to other cut flowers so the daffs need to be “cleansed” by leaving them in water for 24 hours before combining with other blooms.
B. Daffodil pollen can be harmful to tulips.
C. Daffodils need to have water changed only once a week whereas tulips require a daily change.
D. Daffodils require shade and tulips don’t.

3. Paris is known for its flower markets. One of the most famous is in Place de la Madeleine, site of the classically inspired L’église de la Madeleine (Madeleine Church). Which arrondissement is that in?
A. 8th
B. 2nd
C. 9th
D. 10th


White flowers are often seen at French weddings. Is hydrangea a common choice?

4. The fleur-de-lis (a stylized lily) is a symbol of France, particularly French monarchs. With which city is it also associated?
A. Milan
B. Brussels
C. New Orleans
D. Florence

5. The acclaimed and hugely popular 1986 movie “Jean de Florette” (directed by Claude Berri, from the novel by Marcel Pagnol) is set in Provence. The character of Ugolin (Daniel Auteuil) plans to make money by selling which flower at the local market?
A. Roses
B. Daisies
C. Carnations
D. Sunflowers

6. Claude Monet (1840-1926) bought the land for his gardens (a flower garden and the Japanese-style water garden) in Giverny http://giverny.org/gardens in what year?
A. 1883
B. 1890
C. 1917
D. 1925

7. According to the Produce Marketing Association, France is the third-largest market for cut flowers in the European Union, and the fourth-largest EU importer of cut flowers and foliage. True or False?

8. In France, there is a tradition of guests bringing flowers to a wedding. In addition to roses, what is a popular floral choice of French brides?
A. Orchids
B. Hydrangea
C. Water lilies
D. Orange blossoms

ANSWERS

1. B. Italy, specifically Venice. The beads were often made of glass and were used in a variety of floral arrangements.
2. A. And, btw, tulips are thirsty flowers and need a daily water change, but all blooms benefit from having their water changed every 1-2 days.
3. A. The 8th arrondissement (administrative district).
4. D. Florence
5. C. Carnations
6. B. 1890
7. True. Major imports include roses (the most popular cut flower in France), tulips, orchids, chrysanthemums and carnations. The main suppliers are the Netherlands, followed by Italy and Spain.
8. D. Orange blossoms

You’ve probably played Charades or Twenty Questions but what about Wink Murder, The Minister’s Cat or Are You There Moriarty?

Theses are all Victorian parlor games. And given that Victorians were huge fans both of flowers and flower symbolism, it’s not surprising that some games had references to flowers. Snapdragon, popular on Christmas Eve, required players to pluck raisins out of brandy that had been set alight.

In The Flower Game, drawing a daisy from a mixed bouquet meant your future sweetheart would be an early riser.

Other games were both figurative and literal. In his book, Women of Flowers: A Tribute to Victorian Women Illustrators, author Jack Kramer shares the rules of The Flower Game.

Have a large bouquet ready; let each person draw from it a flower, and the meaning attached to it will typify the future consort’s character. For example, say your bouquet for spring consists of violets, hyacinths, primroses, daisies, hawthorn, daffodils, then the characters would be:

Violet: Modest
Hyacinth: Playful
Primrose: Simple
Daisy: An Early Riser
Hawthorn: Hopeful
Daffodil: Daring

Of course, the persons who draw the flowers are supposed to be ignorant of their meaning; or they may draw blindfolded.

In winter, this game may be played with painted flower cards; painting a pack would be a pleasant home amusement; or dried flowers gummed on cards would answer perfectly well. The players then draw a card instead of a flower.

From The Language of Flowers, Anonymous, Published by Frederick Warne & Co., Undated

Whether your Fourth of July plans include BBQs, fireworks and parades or just some R&R, remember that flowers are quick and convenient way to spruce up any room, patio or porch. And if travel is first on the agenda, remember that sending flowers ahead of time as a host/hostess gift means one less thing to pack and take through security.

If you're at home, try mixing it up a bit. Blend some bamboo or branches in with your flower arrangements or use seashells as vases for single flowers.

Roses are typically cheaper in the summertime so why not experiment with some new looks? For instance: place a few hot-colored roses in square skinny vases, anchored with dark stones or glass pieces on the bottom of the vase. Trim the roses so they are just a half-inch above the rim of the vase. This looks chic and sculptural. When the roses start to droop, lose the stems completely and float them in a bowl of water.

Whatever you do, have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Flowers, and particularly roses, have a pretty extensive vocabulary.

For instance, a bouquet of rosebuds tells the recipient “you’re youthful and beautiful.”

A rose without thorns says “love at first sight.” 

A tea rose conveys the sentiment that “you'll be remembered forever.”

A dozen roses is flowerspeak for "Be mine." And orange represents desire and enthusiasm.

And there's more. The number of roses you choose also communicates feelings. Just do the math:

* A grouping of three roses is traditional gift for a one-month anniversary.

* Reward a loyal pal with 13 roses. That means you want to be friends for life.

* Ooops! Mistakes happen and if you're tired of saying sorry again and again, the floral way to go is to send 15 roses.

* A bouquet of 20 roses = sincerity. Really & truly.

* Smitten with your sweetie? Then 36 roses will make your case. (Guess you didn't really need me to tell you that 3 dozen roses will get you noticed!)

* To express limitless love, 50 roses will do the trick and create a lifelong memory.

To read more, visit http://www.teleflora.com/rose_numbers.asp?topnav=Flower%20Guides.

That's because it's National Rose Month! Perhaps the most recognized of all flowers, the rose is the official floral symbol of the United States and of England. George Washington himself was said to be a fan. It's also the official state flower of New York, North Dakota, Georgia, Iowa and the District of Columbia.

Other claims to fame: The rose is the 15th wedding anniversary flower and the June birth flower.

With 40,000 varieties around the world, we're spoiled for choice in terms of color, shape, size and fragrance.

Adoration for these lovely blooms dates back to Greek and Roman times. Love goddesses Aphrodite and Venus were honored with roses and, in Rome, a rose on a door was the equivalent of a "Do Not Enter" sign.

White roses lend a clean, elegant feeling to any room or gathering.

A quick guide to rose color is:
red roses = romantic love
yellow roses = friendship
pink roses = admiration
orange roses = desire
white roses = innocence and fresh starts
purple roses = love at first sight

For information about growing roses or to become a member of the American Rose Society, visit ars.org.

Additionally, the number of roses you send can convey a message. Tune in tomorrow for more on that and in the meantime if you need a birthday gift this month, look no further! :)

Cymbidium orchids are the star of this bouquet by Teleflora.

Q How do I care for orchid plants at home? Is it possible to make them bloom in captivity?
A Actually, the idea of orchids being dainty and delicate isn’t true. They may look that way but in fact they are robust and don’t require kid-glove treatment. Tip No. 1 is to make sure that you are following the right care guidelines for your particular variety of orchid. Meanwhile, some general rules of thumb are:

*Give your orchid good ventilation with partial shade. Keep it away from radiators, AC and drafts.

*Find a way to keep the soil drained. Try setting the planter in a tray of pebbles and water so that the pot sits out of the water. This allows the moisture to circulate and should prevent the roots from rotting. Orchids get their water from humidity in the atmosphere, rather than from the soil.

*Orchids need a dormant period in the winter to bloom again in the spring, so let it rest in a sunny spot and don't water it. Then cross your fingers and hope for the best! ;)

For more info, visit:

The American Orchid Society's web site: http://www.aos.org/

http://www.teleflora.com/FLOWERBLOG/post/Myth-busting-101-Orchids-really-aren't-that-hard-to-grow.aspx  

http://www.teleflora.com/FLOWERBLOG/post/A-reader-offers-2-tricks-for-growing-orchids.aspx  
 

Today's post is from expert florist Matthew McDonald of Bookshelf Florist and Gifts in Gaffney, SC, http://www.bookshelfflorist.com/.  



Color makes our world rich and beautiful, but the range of gorgeous tones we see every day is something that we often take for granted.

And there's more to the story than just being easy on the eye. Colors have strong physiological and psychological effects on people, including the power to stimulate, depress, and even help heal. Growing evidence suggests that different colors trigger a wide range of reactions and feelings in people.

Light therapists say that light is a nutrient to the body just as food is, and that we need light in different intensities and color ranges to regulate our biological clocks. Color studies have long played a role in marketing and product development of everything from fashion to cars.

Next time you're choosing which flowers to buy, try thinking about color and what message you are sending with the hue you choose.

Check out these colors and the meanings they convey.

Red - excitement, passion and aggressiveness, avoid reds for those with high blood pressure.

Yellow – warmth, sunshine, happiness, the best color to send to cheer someone up.

Orange – joy, enthusiasm, can produce an invigorating effect without raising blood pressure.

Green – health and fertility, green is the most restful color to the human eye.

White - the color of purity, elegance and neutrality.

Blue – security, authority, wisdom; often used to represent heaven.

Purple – suggests spirituality; 75 percent of preadolescent children prefer purple to all other colors and is one of the most universally accepted colors of all ages.

Black – embodies power, formality and mystery of death.

Brown – symbolizes the earth, order and dependability.
 

More great tips from expert florist Matthew McDonald of Bookshelf Florist and Gifts in Gaffney, SC, http://www.bookshelfflorist.com/.  

Your florist or floral designer for your wedding should have a checklist of what to ask you, but it never hurts to be prepared.

Have the following ready and you will make life easier for everyone:

1. Who and how many are in the wedding party.

2. What arrangements are needed for the wedding.

3. What arrangements are needed for the reception.

4. Pictures of styles you like and flowers.

It's also important to be open to ideas and to go with the flow. There is always something that can go wrong somewhere and usually it will! It might be that a pianist calls in sick and you get a replacement, an extra flower is needed and was not ordered, or the DJ forgets your names.

Just remember it's how well you glide over the problems to make it seem as if there were none.

As we say in my shop, "We help make the moment a memory." The flowers may wilt and the memories fade, but always keep your love strong and your memories will last a lifetime.
 

The hyacinth, a spring bloom that's bound to delight, is perfect for the sports fans in your life.

In her book, The Flower Shop, author Sally Page offers this secret: "When you trim the bottom of a hyacinth, leave as much of the bulbous stem attached as you can; something within this part of the plant helps the hyacinth stay strong and straight. And, since the fragrance of a hyacinth gets stronger the older it gets, be careful not to throw them away too soon."

I would add to that: be careful when handling the hyacinth -- their stems, though thick & chunky, are more delicate than you may think, a bit like celery. So, if a stem gets bruised or bent, the flower is going to have a hard time standing up in your bouquet. If you are buying them, inspect the stems and, once you purchase, treat them gently. They will not disappoint!
 

Today's post is from expert florist Gerard Toh, AIFD.



In addition to being Teleflora’s Educational Specialist/Industry Relations, Mr. Toh serves as:

*Creative Director, Sherman Oaks Florist, http://www.shermanoaksflorist.com/;  

*Creative Director, Human Resources, Century City Flower Mart, http://www.centurycityflowermart.com/;  

*Special Projects Art Director, Bride and Bloom magazine, http://www.thebrideandbloom.com/.  


It is such a healing and comfortable feeling to have flowers all around the home. We have customers that have a standing order for flowers for their home. They do not have to be expensive.

A few dollars for a seasonal assortment to spread around the house each week goes a long way. I can’t wait to see what each week’s assortment will bring. Now that is fun. It is like a never-ending display of nature.

If you are or hosting an Easter meal, flowers can go in more places than just as a centerpiece for the table. Try creating a gerbera or rose curtain against a wall. Use pearl head pins from your florist on top of each flower head and secure it with some monofilament, thin ribbon or decorative beading wire, depending on the look you want.

Tie the next one on the short stem of the top one. Make several and pin to the ceiling to create your curtain. This can also be used over the party table for a fantastic display.

Here are some other fun ideas to try. Make a tall frame of bamboo, attach to each chair and hang wind chimes accented with flowers and streaming ribbon for an outdoor spring do. Set the table with square boxes paved with daisies interspersed with shoots of grasses.

Or, if you are more ambitious, prepare the boxes with wet cotton sheets and layer with birdseed or beans and let them germinate for a sod effect. You can intersperse with daisy heads for extra color on top of the sheets of sprouts.

There are so many creative ways to spruce up your home or party with flowers. They are so versatile and, in essence, are essential to every facet of our lives. In this time and age, we need to have fun and that fun is flowers.
 

Love green flowers? Next Tuesday is a great excuse to wear green and to send flowers to your o’friends and family. Or if you prefer designing your own bouquets, try mixing in some wild roses, bells of Ireland or fuchsia, all of which are associated with the Emerald Isle because they grow in such abundance there. That said, none of those flowers are native to Ireland.

Green blossoms such as orchids, mums or succulent plants also send a rich and varied message. Depending on their tone, they can convey prosperity, vigor, resilience, renewal and good health. And if you’re planning a party, green and white mums are an easy and budget- friendly way to spruce up your decorations, whether you create a huge shamrock as a centerpiece or simply place a few mugs brimming with mums around your home.

And don’t think the recipient needs to have a brogue to appreciate St. Pat's blooms. Apparently even President Obama can claim Irish ancestry. According to a recent report on Yahoo News, our nation’s leader is 3.1% Irish, based on the fact great-great-great grandfather Falmouth Kearney came to America in 1850 from a village outside of Dublin. Who knew?!
 

Flowers make any event more elegant and festive, and that’s particularly true for weddings. Whether your taste runs to just-picked sunflowers or elaborate bouquets of roses, the fresh and pretty petals remind the bride, groom and guests of the delicate and beautiful bond between the couple.

That’s the easy part. What’s often harder is choosing the right flowers when there are so many that tempt the senses. With many of you planning or helping to plan weddings, I checked in with Atlanta-based florist Amber Schoepp, who runs Flower Bar, http://www.flowerbar.org/, for advice on what to think about when meeting with a florist for your big day.

Photo courtesy of Atlanta-based florist Amber Schoepp of Flower Bar.

Color
It will be better on the budget if you stick to what's in season. White is always available and always beautiful for weddings, but if you want to add color, here are some suggestions for each season.

Spring: light pinks, purples, yellows, blues
Summer: dark pinks, dark purples, reds, peaches
Fall: oranges, greens, peaches, purples
Winter: reds, greens, yellows, browns

Roses vs. No Roses
Most brides want (or don't mind) roses within the mix. An all-rose bridal bouquet would cost probably half of what it would using most other flowers. The key is to use a good florist who will condition the rose over several days so that it is at a perfect full bloom. Rose buds are not as petally and romantic. One other tip about roses is to use a color palette. Combine dark and light oranges with peaches, or a combination of three of four shades of pink.

White flowers are always in season and always beautiful at weddings. Pale pink adds a subtle splash of color.

Table Centerpieces
One of the most important items on your list that will make or break your flower budget, will be your table centerpieces. Most Flower Bar table centerpieces range between $45-$85 per table for low arrangements, and $85-$125+ for tall centerpieces.

There are plenty of ways to substitute different containers or different flowers to get your look on a budget, just ask your florist for suggestions. Flower Bar also rents vases and containers to lower your cost. Also consider whether or not you want your guests to take home your arrangements.

Ceremony Arrangements
Most couples have two or more large ceremony arrangements for the exchanging of vows. Re-purpose those pieces as buffet centerpieces or entryway arrangements, or DJ decor at the reception. Flower Bar also rents urns and columns, or candelabras for your ceremony flowers. We'll move them to your reception if it is in a different location than the ceremony.

To contact Amber directly, call 404-641-0590 or email: flowerbar@gmail.com. And be sure to read her blog at: www.atlantaflowerbar.blogspot.com.  
 

The Philly Flower Show www.theflowershow.com, a favorite and famous harbinger of spring, wraps up this weekend. If you live close enough to visit, it's well worth your time. And elsewhere, it is finally warming up, 65 degrees in the Midwest, no less!

Another classic symbol of spring: the tried and true tulip. I'm planning to send some to my aunt who has a milestone birthday this month.

In honor of warmer weather and the uncommon loveliness of the tulip, here are some fun facts about this flower.

Purple tulips symbolize royalty, making them perfect for the HRM (His/Her Royal Majesty) types in your life. :) 

* Tulips hail from Persia and Turkey, and they get their name from the Turkish word for turban. When tulips bloom, they greatly resemble turbans.

* Tulips arrived in Europe in the 1500s. By the 1600s, tulips had become so popular, especially in the Netherlands, that they cost more than diamonds.

* There are almost 4,000 horticultural varieties of tulips. While you can find purple and midnight black tulips, there is no true blue tulip.

* The tulip is the 11th wedding anniversary flower.

* As for symbolism, the black center of the flower is said to represent a lover's heart, made dark by passion. One legend holds that a Turkish prince, grief-stricken when his beloved died, rode his horse over the edge of a cliff. Scarlet tulips appeared from each drop of his blood. So, like red roses, red tulips are the perfect flower to express an intense love. Yellow tulips convey joy, white mean forgiveness and purple tulips stand for royalty.

Can't decide? Just ask your florist to create a mixed bouquet and you can't go wrong.
 

In Victorian days, flowers had an intricate language all their own. Every shade, each type of flower, even the number of stems held special significance and conveyed a specific message from the sender to the giver.

Today, we have less patience for decoding bouquets, but nevertheless you always make a statement when you send flowers, especially on Valentine's Day. And if you are sending one arrangement to your sweetheart, one to your best friend and one to a fave family member, you'll want to make sure that each expresses the perfect sentiment.

Orange roses are an unexpected way to convey desire.

Take roses, for instance. Each color has a different meaning. So if you are still deciding what to send, this info may help you make up your mind.

Red: OK, this one is easy. This is all-time classic color for lovers. When you send red roses, you are declaring some serious love.

White: Not surprisingly, this means innocence and purity.

Yellow: Fresh and breezy, it signifies fond friendship.

Pink: Gratitude, appreciation and admiration. Pink roses are ideal for good buddies.

Orange: A fresh take on red, this represents desire.

Purple: Love at first sight. Ooh la la!
 

Snow. Windchill. Airport delays. More snow. Soaked boots. Icy roads. Freezing rain. Lost mittens. And did I mention snow?

Nothing like extreme weather to trigger a whole lot of midwinter blues. A quick and colorful cure: Flowers.  Research from Rutgers University shows that, simply put, flowers make us happy.



Specifically, the study found:

* Across all age groups, the reaction to receiving flowers was delight and gratitude.

* Study participants reported feeling less depressed, anxious and agitated after receiving flowers, and demonstrated a higher sense of enjoyment and life satisfaction.

* The presence of flowers led to increased contact with family and friends.

"Common sense tells us that flowers make us happy," says Jeannette Haviland-Jones, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology at Rutgers and lead researcher on the study. “Now, science shows that not only do flowers make us happier than we know, they have strong positive effects on our emotional well being."

To read the full story, visit: aboutflowers.com. With that in mind, I’m highlighting five winter flowers that are a terrific tonic this season.

Poinsettias aren’t just for Christmas. Try some of the pastel varieties, such as cream, light green and pink, for a fresh take on an old favorite. They’re usually sold as plants, true, but try poinsettias as a cut flower too.

Amaryllis, elegant and mysterious, is another great floral choice as a plant or cut flower. Symbolizing pride, determination and radiant beauty, amaryllis is bound to perk you up during this harsh and chilly winter. And white amaryllis is a show stopper.

Carnations are super any time of year, especially if you are watching your spending. They’re relatively inexpensive and they last, last, last with minimal care. (That said, changing the vase water daily and recutting stems extends the life of any flower.)

In the language of flowers, chrysanthemums say optimism and joy. Also long lasting, there are so many fun types to try! My florist friends tell me button mums and spider mums are extra-trendy varieties right now.

Bells of Ireland are the perfect transition from winter to spring, with a white blossom in the center of each small green “bell.” Eye-catching and unusual, their long lines add a lovely feeling of light and air to any bouquet.

Flower Fact of the Day: Bells of Ireland are not, in fact, native to the Emerald Isle. The green color inspired the name and they symbolize good luck, but they are native to Turkey and Syria.
 

Looking for a fresh floral take on ringing in 2009? How about Bells of Ireland?


They're great looking on their own and they add a superb vertical element when mixed with other flowers like hydrangea, roses and orchids.

Slightly rustic with a hint of fragrance they're also a great conversation starter at a party. I tried some out recently and was surprised that no one knew what they were. They usually last 7-10 days.

Other non-traditional blooms include amaryllis, dendrobium orchids and Birds of Paradise. Here are some care tips for these don't-see-everyday delights. To see more care tips for other kinds of flowers visit: teleflora.com/flowercare2.asp.

Amaryllis
Amaryllis may arrive with some of their blooms closed, but with proper care, they will open into large flowers. Their stems need to stay filled with water at all times, so when you refresh the water and re-cut the stems, turn them upside down and fill them with water, plugging the bottom of each stem with a cotton ball or your finger until it is back in the vase. Their stems can be brittle and may bend or break when you refresh them. Keeping them trimmed daily and even wrapping the stem ends in clear tape will help prevent this. As new blooms open, carefully pinch off older, wilting blooms.

Birds of Paradise
Each stem of a bird of paradise usually contains about 4 to 5 flowers. Sometimes only one flower is visible, where others are hidden in another part of the flower. When one exposed flower withers it should be removed. Another one can be pulled out of the flower’s boat shaped bract. If a flower doesn’t emerge, gently ease it out by hand. These exotic blooms are sensitive to temperatures below 50 degrees F, so display them in a warm spot.

Dendrobium orchids
Most orchids are surprisingly  With dendrobium orchids, change their water frequently, recut stems and be aware: they are sensitive to ethylene gas, which can be released by fruits and vegetables. So keep 'em away from the crisper! ;)
 

With one more weekend before Christmas and Hanukkah on Sunday, many of us may be looking for ways to get different looks for parties and get-togethers. So we go through our cupboards and closets, hoping to be wowed by those fabulous finds that we forgot we already had.

Same goes for clothes and that frisson you feel when you realize that behind the ski jacket from 1997 is that stunning brocade jacket or vintage purse that can be called into service once more as part of your glam holiday look.

If you need a quick decor update, just remember it's all about location. In other words, as floral expert Carol Caggiano points out: "We rend to be creatures of habit, but remember that your holiday decorations will take on a completely different personality, depending on where they are placed within your home. Just think a little bit about how you can reposition what you have."

For example, try moving that garland from the mantel and draping it down the staircase. Or remove the red bows from your tree and attach them to your wreath instead. It's a little change but you'll be surprised how different it looks in a different setting.

If you have permanent evergreens on display, fill in with some fresh greens right before the party. You'll still have the lovely fresh fragrance without spending a lot of extra time or money.

Try adding just one new element. For example, add some miniature birds perhaps, or maybe some butterflies or egg-shaped ornaments to the mix. Try attaching a few to a wreath with putty or wire or displaying several with some pinecones in a bowl or on a platter. test it out and if you like it, you're got yourself a brand-new theme for Christmas 09.

And if your main colors are red and green (imagine that!), could you add a tone of raspberry or chartreuse and make your place feel modern and new?

Ribbons as well are a fun, fast way to add interest to a tree, garland or wreath.

You'll be surprised how much you can do with a dozen red roses. Single blooms can brighten just about any place in your house.

And lastly: Bring on the sparkle! "A jar of glitter and glue doesn't cost much," says Carol, adding that you never have enough time, no matter how much you plan ahead.

OK, so it's not just me. ;)

Flower Fact of the Day: Don't put fresh flowers near ripening fruit. It releases tiny amounts of ethylene gas that can age blooms prematurely.
 

As if there weren't quite enough going on this month, next Friday is National Poinsettia Day! I plan to celebrate by sending this cheerful brilliant bloom to friends and family I won't see over the holidays. Native to Mexico, poinsettias were brought to the United States in 1825 by Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico.

Another fun fact: The part of the plant that most people think is the flower is called a “bract,” which is really a colorful modified leaf. The flowers of a poinsettia are the yellow cyathias in the center.

Poinsettias are long lasting. Here's how to give yours proper care:

Light
Place the plant in indirect sunlight for at least six hours per day.

Temperature
Avoid cold drafts or excessive heat. Keep the plant in a warm room with temperatures between 68-70° F. Never put one on a television!
Poinsettias are sensitive to temperatures below 50° F – cold temperatures can cause the bracts to discolor or fall from the plant.

Water
Water a poinsettia when the soil feels dry to the touch. Always remove the plant from decorative pot wrappings or pot covers before watering it in your sink. Allow excess water to drain completely before placing the plant back in its decorative covering.
Health concerns and benefits
Contrary to popular belief, the poinsettia is not poisonous. As with all ornamental plants, poinsettias are not intended for human or animal consumption. Poinsettias, like many indoor plants, are helpful in removing indoor pollutants from the air and producing oxygen for a cleaner environment.

Flower Fact of the Day: Another red flower we associate with the holidays is Amaryllis, named in honor of a nymph. According to legend, the flower gets its color from her blood. Today, the amaryllis represents pride, determination and radiant beauty.
 

Did you know that more than 60 million poinsettias are sold annually? This year I'm going to try something different: poinsettias as cut flowers in an all-red bouquet. This would be fun for a casual dinner party, no? Another fresh twist is using kalanchoe as a cut flower. 

What other flowers should I mix it up with? Well, there are roses and tulips, of course. But amaryllis, one of the most elegant blooms of all, also works really well as a cut flower. Alstroemeria, carnations, chrysanthemums, lilies and some orchids are also easily available. Red berries could also play a part: as an accent. Their texture is still different enough to lend interest.

Any ideas about an all-green bouquet?

Flower Fact of the Day: A writer reflects on the exotic flower buds of his childhood in Pakistan: nytimes.com/2008/11/30/magazine/30lives-t.html.
 

Not good at choosing wine? No time to cook? Not patient standing in line?

Sometimes being a guest and picking the perfect hostess gift is easier said than done.

With hours to go before the holiday, flowers can come to your rescue. Both pretty and practical, a bouquet can brighten up any corner of a house. And with a zero calorie count, there's nothing for anyone to feel guilty about.

Etiquette rules say that of you're presenting to the host or hostess, you should have the flowers already in a vase. Why? With so many last-minute tasks to attend to, your host will probably not have to time to find a vase, recut stems and position the blooms.

That's where Teleflora comes in. All of our bouquets are hand-arranged and hand-delivered. So you look good and your host can actually meet and greet. Oh, and enjoy the flowers!

Flower Fact of the Day: Cabbage might not be the sexiest plant in town but it turned a few heads at the Auckland Flower Show where one of the most popular exhibits was a Cleopatra made completely of veggie materials. Check it out at: stuff.co.nz/stuff/sundaystartimes/auckland/4773691a22695.html.

Also, did you know that ornamental kale, a form of cabbage and a hallmark of many upscale flower bouquets, is edible? Learn more at: nj.com/homegarden/garden/index.ssf/2008/11/ornamental_kale
_brightens_wint.html.  
 

When I checked for Thanksgiving airfares several weeks ago, I was shocked at how expensive they were. So I figured I'd wait until closer to the time and see what I could find. Unfortunately, the prices didn't drop.

But I still want to connect with my family next Thursday, which means the No. 1 item on today's to-do list is ordering a festive bouquet of flowers.

This bouquet has a cheerful charm that seems just right. And it reminds me to be grateful for the bounty of autumn. That and the great deal I got on my Christmas ticket. :)

Flower Fact of the Day: Lilies tend to bruise so handle them gently. Also note that pollen can create stains so be careful where you place your flowers or remove the anthers (the pollen-coated tips) with tissues before you display.
 

Lately I’ve been extolling the virtues of classic fall flowers, such as mums, carnations, hydrangea, sunflowers, daisies, dahlias and calla lilies.

In orange for Halloween, natch. A bouquet lasts longer than candy and it’s calorie-free.

Anyway, if you’re like me you have friends with fall birthdays as well as a few parties to attend. Time to come up with some unexpected blooms and new colors.

Oh, and before you decide that mums and carnations are old hat, be sure to check them out in lush darker colors like magenta.

Browsing around, I found these terrific additions to the list above.

Anthurium: Once you see one, you’ll never forget it. These brilliant red blooms represent hospitality, making them a perfect choice for a hostess gift. And they’re long lasting.

Bouvardia: Named after Charles Bouvard, the personal physician to Louis XIII and the superintendent of the Royal Gardens in Paris. A fragrant, feminine flower that symbolizes enthusiasm.

Goldenrod: A member of the aster family, this bright yellow flowering plant is the state flower of Kentucky and Nebraska as well as the state wildflower for South Carolina.

Marigold: Native to the southwestern United States, Mexico and South America, there are varieties all over the world. In Mexico, it’s used in Day of the Dead celebrations. In India and Thailand, it’s a key part of weddings and festivals. Marigolds are part of the aster family.

Flower Fact of the Day: Pansies are a garden favorite, especially in the South. For tips on growing them, visit: hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20081030/LIFESTYLE/810300310.
 

First grown in Central and South America, sunflowers have been revered for centuries in various cultures around the world.

They are the 3rd wedding anniversary flower and the state flower of Kansas.

Flower Fact of the Day: Don't have a green thumb? Worry not, just go heavy metal. Find out more at: azstarnet.com/allheadlines/263828.  
 

With Halloween falling on a Friday, I know many of you will be hosting parties. Or maybe you’d just like to look festive for trick or treaters. You know you can count on flowers for a colorful and cheerful touch.

For some simple, elegant touches, how about:

* Single orange Gerberas in black bud vases. Or wash and re-use green or brown beer bottles as vases.

* Green or white spider mums sitting atop a mini-pumpkin (slice the top off, clean the pumpkin and use floral foam to hydrate the flowers).

* Paint single branches of curly willow black, green, purple or gold and display in low bowls.

* A plant is a super way to liven up your doorstep on Halloween and for several months afterward.

* Or treat yourself to adorable arrangements designed by the experts at Teleflora. I particulalry love these two Halloween flower bouquets. There are many more to choose from on teleflora.com.  

Meanwhile, in honor of Halloween, I compiled this trivia quiz about the holiday.

1. Halloween was popularized in the 1800s by which immigrant group?
A. German
B. Norwegian
C. Irish
D. Swedish

2. We carve pumpkins in America; when jack-o-lanterns were created in Europe, what vegetable was used?
A. Turnip/Rutabaga
B. Cabbage
C. Beets
D. Extra large potatoes

3. Which Halloween tradition comes from an old Scottish custom?
A. Dressing up in costumes
B. Trick or treating
C. Bobbing for apples
D. Telling ghost stories

4. Halloween is celebrated in Japan. True or False.

5. Which U.S. city holds the biggest Halloween party?
A. New York
B. New Orleans
C. Savannah, Ga.
D. Chicago

6. About $5 billion is spent annually in the U.S. on Halloween costumes. True or False?

ANSWERS
1. C. The holiday comes from an ancient Celtic celebration called Samhain, which took place at the end of the harvest.
2. A.
3. A, B and C. Children would dress in costumes and go door to door, dancing or singing to earn money or sweets. In the U.S. this evolved into trick or treating. They also bobbed, or “dooked,” for apples.
4. True. It is also celebrated in several Latin American countries.
5. A. New York. The Village Halloween Parade started in Greenwich Village in 1973.
6. True. The most popular costume for adults: Witch.

Flower Fact of the Day: If you want gorgeous spring flowers, now is the time to plant bulbs. For ideas and tips, see: http://features.csmonitor.com/gardening/2008/10/29/expert-tips-for-choosing-spring-bulbs-this-fall.
 

Gerbera daisies take center stage in this festive Halloween arrangement.

Did you know:

• Daisies gave rise to the childhood game of “He loves me, he loves me not,” which started with the Victorians.

• Daisies are the flower for the 5th wedding anniversary.

• Daisies are the April birth flower.

• Daisies love water so give them lots. To make your gerberas last, be sure to refresh their water as frequently as you can and clean the vase each time you change the water. Why? Gerbera will droop if they encounter bacteria.

• The Gerbera gets its common name from 18th century German botanist Traugott Gerber.

Flower Fact of the Day: “Even leaves take on a special look when they are mixed in vases alone or with garden vines,” writes Nancy Gmeiner, Penn State master gardener. Read her tips on flower arranging at: eveningsun.com/localcolumns/ci_10689256.
 

If you need a way to brighten your doorstep or are looking for a great hostess gift, a plant is a terrific way to go.

They're fresh and festive, and they'll last all season, maybe longer, especially with proper care. Here are some tips to pamper your plants. Get the light right. Dwarf citrus needs full sun; day lilies need a little shade.

Your plant may come with an FYI on the best light for your plant, whether full sun, partial sun or shade. If there's no info, check online or in a gardening book before you find a spot.

When you receive the plant, water it and allow excess water to run out the bottom of the pot into a sink, bucket or saucer. After that, plan to water 1-2 times per week, more if it's a variety that thrives on moisture.

As a general rule, it's much better to give small drinks on a frequent basis than to drench it sporadically. So, if you can, give the plant half its portion in the AM, the rest later in the day or at night.

Prune leaves or blossoms that have dried out or died. Don't let dropped leaves or debris collect on top of the soil. Otherwise, you may face pests or plant diseases.

Keep your plant clean and shiny by wiping the leaves with a soft, damp cloth.

After you've had your plant a few months, consider repotting into a larger pot. Roots are like limbs, they need room to stretch.

Flower Fact of the Day: A-list designer Tory Burch www.toryburch.com has a fondness for flowers, as reported in Town & Country earlier this year. One of her favorite looks? Simple and elegant groupings of all one flower. 
 

In today's shaky economy, no one is rushing to part with cash.

But if you have a big event coming up, it's also hard to part with flowers.

The solution: Work with your florist to get the most for your money. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always use flowers that are in season. For fall, that would be: carnations, mums, sunflowers, dahlias, hydrangea and calla lilies.

• Get creative with filler. Use branches, wildflowers, leaves or other plants from your back yard to amplify your arrangement. I love lamb's ear, which is extremely soft and has a lovely gray-green shimmer.

• Mono-chromatic bouquets (one color, one or more kind of flower) create visual impact with fewer stems than you'd typically buy for a multi-color bouquet. They're also incredibly elegant. Hydrangeas, particularly, will spread your flower dollar far.

• It may be tempting to buy flowers from a grocery store, but if you go that route, remember that your flowers will be much less likely to last than flowers from a florist. Problem is, you have no way of knowing how long those blooms have been parked near the produce.

• Cut costs by bringing your own vases and containers for your florist to fill. Or use items already in your cupboard, like tea cups and rinsed-out wine bottles. Don't worry if they don't match. Actually, it's cooler that way. And if you enjoy arranging flowers, remember that most florists sell loose-cut flowers.

• Your florist can provide a range of flowers – from single stems to a few bouquets to multiple arrangements for a big event. Getting to know your local Teleflora florist means you'll learn more about living well with flowers. And once your florist has a sense of what you like, he/she may be able to alert you to good deals and work with you to create your signature floral look.

Do you have a tip for saving money on flowers? I'd love to hear it.

Tomorrow, tips for florists: A florist shares strategies for networking, a key element of building her business.

Flower Fact of the Day: Want to winterize your flower gardens? Learn how at: argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081014/LIFE/810140309.  
 

Photos courtesy of Rich Dudley, The Bloomery Florist

Two readers recently wrote to me about how much they love lavender. Just thinking about this flower’s singular scent relaxed and recharged me.

Of course, it also made me pine for the South of France, especially Provence, one of the most magical places in the world, with its seemingly endless purple-daubed fields of this ancient flower.

In case you don’t have a trip planned there (it’s now harvest season for fine lavender) check out the offerings of an entire museum devoted to lavender: thelavendermuseum.com.

Or read more at: usa.loccitane.com/FO/Content/Our_Stories/LavenderHarvest.aspx.

Women appreciate lavender because it’s a true multi-tasker: Naturally, it’s used in fragrance and aromatherapy products. And, in various forms, it can be used as a sleep aid, disinfectant and insect repellant as well as to treat burns, relieve headaches or as an herb in cooking.

Here are a few other trivia tidbits:

• Lavender, along with saffron and cinnamon, appears in the Old Testament's “Song of Solomon” as “nard,” a variation of the Greek name, nardus.

• Lavender belongs to the mint family.

• In the Middle Ages, lavender was thought to fight disease.

• The Roman name comes from the verb lavāre (to wash). Fittingly, it was used in Roman baths to scent the water.

• Around the turn of the century, French washerwomen used it in washtubs.

Note to self: Flowers are a great gambit for getting to the front of a line. At least it worked for me when I joined the queue for coffee Sunday morning in Laurel Canyon.

The man ahead of me took one look at my lovely bouquet of larkspur with a collar of yellow roses and said, "If you have flowers, you've got to go ahead of me." I brought them to say "Happy Sunday" to my friend Lilly.

And before she even saw them, they were getting me special treatment. Awesome! Because the flowers were a complete surprise, Lilly was really pleased.

It was my second floral discovery of the weekend. On Saturday, I decided to buy flowers and make some simple bouquets. Browsing around my local florist, I saw a terrific flower that I'd heard a lot about but never actually seen.


At first I thought it was a wild rose, but it turned out to be lisianthus. It's a little smaller than a rose, has slightly frilly petals and multiple blooms growing from one stem.

Native to Texas and Mexico, it has a bunch of different names: Texas Bluebell, Prairie Gentian, Lira de San Pedro. In the language of flowers, lisianthus symbolizes both an outgoing nature and appreciation.

No matter what you call it, it's an enchanting flower – classically beautiful and slightly exotic. Lisianthus typically comes in white, pink, lavender and purple.

I blended pink lisianthus with white roses, white stock and some white hydrangea I'd bought earlier in the week, topping it off with some foliage called "pitts" that my florist suggested.

In the store, I noticed an exquisite bouquet with a single pink lisianthus bloom, a mauve orchid and a magenta dahlia, set against layers of Casablanca lilies and calla lilies.

Who knows what next weekend will bring?!

Flower Fact of the Day: Why do we go for gold in the garden? Beth Botts, of the Chicago Tribune's Home & Garden section, recently explored the drive to compete in the realm of junipers, succulents, lilies, dahlias and giant pumpkins, et al. Read up at: chicagotribune.com/features/home/chi-garden-competition-0727jul27,0,3337999.story.
 

A general rule of thumb when you bring flowers home and your animals immediately want to investigate: Paws off! Or to be more precise, Jaws off!

Being a cat owner, I know it can be a challenge, but don’t let cats and dogs ingest parts (petals, leaves, roots, etc.) of any plant. Making a point to keep your bouquet in a spot that’s not easily accessible by Fluffy and Fido will make life easier for your entire household.

Another tip: Familiarize yourself with which blooms are safe for pets and which could be toxic.

For that info, I consulted several pages of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' web site aspca.org and compiled the lists below.

For a more extensive list of toxic plants, visit: aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=pro_apcc_toxicplants.  

The nontoxic plant list appears at: aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=pro_apcc_nontoxicplants. And if there is a flower you’re wondering about (ie you don’t see it on either list) check with your vet. Or drop me an e-mail and I will try to find out.

It’s always hard to get back in the groove after a long holiday weekend. If you feel sluggish this week, perk up with flowers. I particularly love delphinium, which is the birth flower for July.

It’s also known as larkspur, lark’s heel, lark’s claw and knight’s spur, but no matter what you call it, this gorgeous blossom will make any bouquet more beautiful. It’s also a favorite with English gardeners.

Dahlias are stars of the summer, so enjoy them while you can. Can't believe it's almost July! Here are some tips on taking care of dahlias as cut flowers, courtesy of Alan Fisher of the American Dahlia Society dahlia.org.

   
Photo courtesy of the American Dahlia Society

1. Dahlias need a lot of water to support their many petals.

2. Their stems are hollow and will clog if there is a lack of fresh water or if the water contains bacteria. So make sure you use a clean vase without any residue.

3. To sterilize the vase, use a bottle brush and soap, rinse it clean and dry it upside down. You may also want to disinfect it using a solution that is 1 part bleach to 10 parts water.

4. Cut-flower food will help the dahlias last. They typically look good for 4-5 days.

5. If you are using a solution of water and food, change it every two days.

6. If the vase contains just plain water, change the water every day. Cut about an inch off the stems of the dahlias before reinserting. You can also take the end of a sharp knife and put a tiny hole into the stem, just under the water line. This will let air out and force the water to go higher.

Flower Fact of the Day: The Chicago Flower & Garden Show will be back on Navy Pier next March 7-15. The show was held on the pier for 10 years before moving to Rosemont for the past two years. Read more at: chicagotribune.com/news/local/chicago/chi-flower-show-returns-bothjun27,0,3955648.story.
 

The dahlia has an allure and mystery like no other flower. After all, it lends its name to Hollywood’s most famous unsolved case: the January 1947 murder of aspiring starlet Beth Short, just 22 years old.

Beth, a Massachusetts native, who was trying make her way in Tinseltown, was known to friends and admirers as the Black Dahlia. Though not much is known for sure about her, it’s clear that she had a fondness for eccentricity. She often dressed in black, wore geisha-like makeup and tucked a flower in her hair.

Beth Short

After “The Blue Dahlia” movie came out in 1946, friends in Long Beach decided that Beth should be dubbed The Black Dahlia. The comparison was both apt and eerie because the movie (starring Alan Ladd and Veronica Lake, and written by Raymond Chandler) is a classic film noir. Beth followed her own doomed path within months of the film’s release.

Chandler got the name “Blue Dahlia” from a Charles Baudelaire prose poem, "Invitation to the Voyage," in which he refers to black roses, blue dahlias and other absurdities, such as loving a woman who would love him back. ;)

That interesting tidbit comes from Black Dahlia aficionado Richard Schave. Richard and his wife Kim Cooper run offbeat bus tours of Los Angeles, retracing the steps of people like Beth Short, Raymond Chandler and many others.

Or as they put it on esotouric.com: “Our tour themes are provocative and complex, but never dry, mixing crime and social history, rock and roll and architecture, literature and film, fine art and urban studies into a simmering stew.”

I recently took the Dahlia Tour and it was both fascinating and fun. Beth Short's murderer was never brought to justice, but theories abound as to the culprit's identity.

Was it a jealous boyfriend or movie mogul? Some have suggested that it was a mafia hit ordered by a wealthy LA businessman. Others argue it was a prominent doctor Beth met through her sister. Still others maintain that a random psychopath was responsible for her grisly death.

It's unlikely that there will ever be definitive answers in the Black Dahlia case. To me, the most intriguing question isn't whodunnit, but rather who was Beth Short and what was she like? 

Flower Fact of the Day: A new flower pot takes in solar power so it can glow at night. It’s pretty cool! See for yourself at: http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/22/solar-powered-glowing-flower-pot-does-just-that.
 

Last week, I released my list of the Top 10 summer flowers only to find that 10 wasn’t enough to cover all the great blooms out there. What about lisianthus, asked a fellow flower lover.

He’s right: lisianthus is gorgeous and can last well over a week as a cut flower.

And I realized I’d neglected another star of the season – the beguiling and mysterious dahlia. “You’re talking about quite a magnificent creation,” says Alan Fisher of the American Dahlia Society, dahlia.org. “They offer a tremendous range of possibilities.”

 
Photo courtesy of the American Dahlia Society

Consider these facts about dahlias:

• There are 50,000 named varieties.

• An individual flower can have up to 300 petals.

• The ADS recognizes 18 classifications of form and 15 different colors or color combinations. (Color is second to form when exhibiting dahlias.)

• There is also great variation in size. The smallest measure less than 2 inches in diameter; the largest are about 18 inches. Bigger isn’t necessarily better, however. Most times, it’s a smaller dahlia that wins best in show at competitions. That’s because as petals get larger, they get less precise.

• Most dahlias have significant depth, ie they are not flat like sunflowers.

• Dahlias were originally found in the mountains of Mexico about 200 years ago. Seeds were brought to Europe and hybrids were produced.

• The name dahlia comes from a Swedish botanist named Anders Dahl (1751 -1789).

• Movie and TV actress Arlene Dahl (born 1928) is a direct descendant of Anders Dahl.

Stay tuned for upcoming posts on caring for dahlias as cut flowers and how the subject of Hollywood’s most famous unsolved crime – the Black Dahlia – acquired her floral nickname.

Flower Fact of the Day: A hybrid geranium has been created for the grande dame of gardening in San Diego’s Balboa Park, Kate Sessions: signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20080621/news_1m21balboa.html.
 

School’s out and so is the sun: summer rocks! Along with vaca, beach days and BBQs, flowers are just waiting to delight our senses. Flowers in the garden, flowers for brides, flowers in every room of my beach cottage … Rats! There goes that fantasy life of mine again. But you know what I mean. Besides boasting an abundance of blooms, summer is the one time of the year when naturally blue flowers come to the fore. 

Savor the season with our list of the top 10 summer flowers:

What’s your favorite kind of tulip? With more than 2,000 varieties around the world, it’s hard to say. But lately, I’ve been coveting French, fringed, Black Parrot and Orange Princess ... classic and exotic, they're a celebration of spring without any hint of cliché.

They’re great for spring birthdays, too; I just sent my friend Ann some over the weekend. She has exquisite taste so I’m always safe with tulips.



Here’s some advice on buying and caring for tulips from “Flower Power" by Rebecca Cole rebeccacoledesign.com:

• Look for tight, closed buds. Avoid petals that are dry or translucent; this can be an indicator that the water stored in the flower is starting to drain and it may already be five or more days old.

• Tulips with tight buds that are drooping badly will come back when treated properly; they just need a good, long drink.

• Leaves that are curling or browning at the tip are sure signs of old age.

• If the ends of the stems are white or shrunken, they likely have been left out of water for some time and then were not recut before they were returned to water. These flowers can be saved if the white part is removed from stems and they are placed in fresh, cold water.

• As soon as you get your tulips home, get a clean bucket of cold water ready to receive them. Remove most of the leaves on the stem, leaving only one or two – and only if they are in perfect condition.

•Make a clean, sharply angled cut at least two inches from the bottom of the stem and place the flower immediately in cold water.

•Keep the flowers in a cool room and away from direct sunlight.

• Allow the tulips to drink for at least one hour prior to arranging them. Tulips drink a lot of water quickly and require daily refills of fresh cold water.

****************************************************************************

To see a chic trend in arranging flowers, visit apartmenttherapy.com/ny/at-europe/at-europe-parisian-flower-arranging-046241.

And for a fun take on urban flowers, check out this photo: http://livejamie.com/post/30891451.

Flower Fact of the Day: Hyères, France, is the largest flower market in France and the fourth largest in Europe. Read about the annual flower fest there and view the photo gallery at: http://french.about.com/b/2008/04/08/flower-festival-hyeres-france.htm.
 

According to the site: "Orchids are far tougher and hardier than most people think, and are, by and large, extremely adaptable. ... There are many rugged, popular, easy-to-grow types that adapt to the temperatures and light conditions found on the average home windowsill."

Just be sure to do a little homework to pick the best orchid variety for your part of the world. NYC orchid fans can get inspired at the New York Botanical Garden Orchid Show, nybg.org. It runs through April 6. And in Atlanta, check out "Orchid Daze, Gargoyles & Grace," atlantabotanicalgarden.org, through March 30. 

On yougrowgirl.com you'll find "A Conversation with Derek Powazek, Apartment Orchid Gardener," yougrowgirl.com/thedirt/2007/12/12/a-conversation-with-derek-powazek-apartment-orchid-gardener. It's a fun and informative read.

Before I sign off, Happy St. Patrick's Day and here are my Flower Facts of the Day: Most orchids need about six hours of light daily. Also, make sure that the soil is properly drained.

And remember: Easter is this Sunday, so if you're shopping online for a bouquet, don't delay! :)
 

Today is National Poinsettia Day. Do you know why?

Poinsettias are a woody shrub native to Mexico and were brought to the United States in 1825 by Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico. Poinsett died Dec. 12, 1851.

Flower shops around the country are filled with these festive blooms, symbols of the Christmas holiday. More than 60 million poinsettia plants are sold annually.

With proper care, a poinsettia can last through the entire holiday season. Here's how to nurture one:

Light
Place the plant in indirect sunlight for at least six hours per day.

Temperature
Avoid cold drafts or excessive heat. Keep the plant in a warm room with temperatures between 68-70° F. Never place one on a television!

Poinsettias are sensitive to temperatures below 50° F – cold temperatures can cause the bracts to discolor or fall from the plant. (The colorful part of the plant that most people think is the flower is called a “bract” which is really a colorful modified leaf. The flowers of a poinsettia are the yellow cyathias in the center.)

Water
Water a poinsettia when the soil feels dry to the touch. Always remove the plant from decorative pot wrappings or pot covers before watering it in your sink. Allow excess water to drain completely before placing the plant back in its decorative covering.
Health concerns and benefits
Contrary to popular belief, the poinsettia is not poisonous. As with all ornamental plants, poinsettias are not intended for human or animal consumption. Poinsettias, like many indoor plants, are helpful in removing indoor pollutants from the air and producing oxygen for a cleaner environment.