Radium Flowers

Blue Roses

2007-01-26T11:41:00.000-08:00

On Mothers' Day thousands of roses will be given to moms all over the country. Valentine's Day and Sweetest Day are no different.

Scientists are working on creating a true blue rose. There are still some problems to be worked out to give us a naturally grown blue rose.

The verse roses are red, violets are blue might one day have to be rewritten as they get closer and closer to making a true blue rose. Maybe it will have to go: Roses are red, Roses are blue? We will leave it up to the poem masters to work this out once the blue rose has been worked out.

Roses can be grown in a lot of different colors such as pink, yellow, peach, and even green but so far blue roses can only be made synthetically. One way to make blue roses is to get fresh cut flowers and put their stems in blue-colored water. However this is not permanent, and does not make a naturally grown true blue rose.

Scientists so far have come up with a liver gene that when inserted in the growing rose plant can create a blue bloom however it also makes the stem of the flower blue spotted. One day you will be able to plant blue roses in your garden as easily as you can red.

Science and Nature Unearth New Insights into Emotional Health Rutgers Behavioral Study Links Flowers and Life Satisfaction

2007-01-26T11:33:00.000-08:00

With today's high-tech and fast-paced lifestyle taking its daily toll on our lives, experts advise exercise and other personal lifestyle changes to relieve stress. According to recent behavioral research conducted at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, nature provides us with a simple way to improve emotional health - flowers. The presence of flowers triggers happy emotions, heightens feelings of life satisfaction and affects social behavior in a positive manner far beyond what is normally believed.

"What's most exciting about this study is that it challenges established scientific beliefs about how people can manage their day-to-day moods in a healthy and natural way," said Jeannette Haviland-Jones, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology at Rutgers and lead researcher on the study.

Research Findings
A team of researchers explored the link between flowers and life satisfaction in a 10-month study of participants' behavioral and emotional responses to receiving flowers. The results show that flowers are a natural and healthful moderator of moods.

Flowers have an immediate impact on happiness. All study participants expressed "true" or "excited" smiles upon receiving flowers, demonstrating extraordinary delight and gratitude. This reaction was universal, occurring in all age groups.

Flowers have a long-term positive effect on moods. Specifically, study participants reported feeling less depressed, anxious and agitated after receiving flowers, and demonstrated a higher sense of enjoyment and life satisfaction.

Flowers make intimate connections. The presence of flowers led to increased contact with family and friends. "Common sense tells us that flowers make us happy," said Dr. Haviland-Jones. "Now, science shows that not only do flowers make us happier than we know, they have strong positive effects on our emotional well being."

Forget the fountain of youth, new scientific research proves flowers help senior citizens cope with the challenges of aging. Click here to find out more.

Sharing Space
The study also explored where in their homes people display flowers. The arrangements were placed in areas of the home that are open to visitors - such as foyers, living rooms and dining rooms - suggesting that flowers are a symbol for sharing.

"Flowers bring about positive emotional feelings in those who enter a room," said Dr. Haviland-Jones. "They make the space more welcoming and create a sharing atmosphere."

Background
The Emotional Impact of Flowers Study was conducted by Jeannette M. Haviland-Jones, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology, Project Director, Human Development Lab at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey. Dr. Haviland-Jones is a psychologist and internationally recognized authority in the role of emotional development in human behavior and nonverbal emotional signals and response.

The research adds a scientific foundation to what many consider to be common knowledge - that flowers have a strong, beneficial impact on those who receive them. The Society of American Florists worked in cooperation with the Rutgers research team, bringing an expertise of flowers to the project.

Flower Superstitions and Flower Folklore

2007-01-26T10:50:00.000-08:00

Being such a part of our lives, from courtship to weddings to funerals to religious celebrations, flowers have accumulated an abundance of superstitions. In most cultures, there are flower superstitions related to different types of flowers, where and when to give flowers, the growing or finding of flowers, and fortune-telling with flowers. Some flower superstitions go back a long way and relate to earlier myths about flowers, while others could relate to medicinal uses of flowers. Many flower superstitions go so far back into the realm of folk ways that their origins are uncertain.

Here are some flower superstitions:

In some places, it is thought bad luck to give someone an even number of flowers, because even numbers of flowers are reserved for the dead.
Speaking of flowers for the dead, don't take flowers off a grave, or you might soon find yourself in one.
If you pick a dandelion that's gone to seed and blow at it, the number of seeds still on the stem will be the number of children you'll have.
If you pick a daisy and count out the petals as you remove them with "he loves me", "he loves me not", you'll find out how the boy you fancy really feels.
If a girl picks a bunch of flowers, especially daisies, with her eyes closed, the number of flowers indicate how many years until her marriage.
Some flowers, such as anemones are used as charms to ward off disease or ill fortune.
Day lilies are believed to alleviate sorrow by causing the wearer to forget her troubles. Poppies have a similar effect.
Don't pick foxgloves or you'll offend the fairies.
It is considered unlucky to have real flowers on stage or to give an actress flowers before a show.
Use artificial flowers on the set and wait until after a performance to give flowers to a performer.

Top Tips for Perfect Wedding Flowers

2006-11-21T03:07:00.000-08:00

Choose your florist carefully "word of mouth" is a florists best form of advertising. Ask your florist to make the bouquet on the day of the wedding a dedicated florist would rather do this than make it up the previous day. Choose flowers that are in season the flowers will be cheaper and of better quality than those forced out of season.

If your dress is plain then an elegant shower bouquet would look stunning but if you have a more ornate decorated dress a simple hand tied design would look more effective i.e. white roses or calla lilies with foliage's.

Check with your florist before ordering flowers through your reception venue they are usually more competitively priced and you know they will match those in the rest of the flowers. One florists idea of cream or ivory may not be the same as someone else's.

Ask your hairdressers advice on head-dresses they are better qualified on suggesting a style of headers to complement your hair.

For younger maids chose e styles that can easily stand down, baskets and handtieds are ideal for little fingers . Flower balls and hoops are much more likely to be played with than held properly.

Check with the flower arrangers at the church. If you make a contribution toward the cost of the flowers they can achieve much larger effective arrangements you may be able to contact other brides getting married on the same day to share the costs. If you creams and white they will compliment everyone's colour theme.

Don't have your flowers delivered to early Two hours before hand is usually adequate. Florists have much better facilities to keep the flowers fresh.

Your florist will usually deliver buttonholes and thank you flowers to alternative addresses
This is usually more efficient that trying to get a guest to do it.

Don't over order buttonholes and corsages just main members of the wedding party Groom Best man Ushers parent and grandparents. Most other guest will expect to get their own.

If you are unsure of any part of your order check and if necessary re-check your florist wants you to be happy with your flowers remember they are floral artists and just like your self want the finished order to be perfect.

Are there really Black Roses?

2006-11-17T20:14:00.000-08:00

Throughout the course of time, black roses have conjured up a variety of symbolic meanings. From unnatural worlds to death, vengeance, farewell or rebirth, the black rose has come to be viewed in a number of different ways depending on the occasion.

Though symbolic meanings may differ, the interesting truth is that black roses do not even exist. What many believe to be black roses are actually dark-red colored roses, which have such a deep color that they appear to be black. Perhaps someday not too far in the future a black rose will exist as many in the field are working with the myriad of rose varieties and colors to come up with the coveted black formula.

In the meantime, there are quite a few roses come which come close. Here are a couple of the more well-known varieties of "black roses" gardened in different climates all over the world:

Black Magic
One of the darkest roses, this rose has black buds before it blooms into velvety garnet flowers.

Black Baccara
Perhaps the darkest, this blackberry colored rose also tends to be blacker before its blooms begin to open into velvety textured petals, growing up to four feet tall with flowers June through August.

Black Beauty
This small flower begins as a burgundy bud and opens into an almost black velvet bloom.

The "black roses" should be grown in sunlight, but be attentive to potential sunburn problems. If you plan to make bouquets from your garden and are looking for something a bit darker, try adding a touch of black dye to the water in your vase.

A Beautiful Rose is Nature's Gift

2006-11-17T20:10:00.000-08:00

Roses are one of natures most beautiful and splendid gifts. Roses come in a variety of colors and scents, from deep, deep red to the brightest yellow. The many pedals on roses offer a texture and fullness to roses that far outshine any other flowers. Black roses, red roses and white roses have all been used in historical writings. Even Sherlock Holmes paused from his busy work while solving the case of "The Naval Treaty" and said, "All other things …are really necessary for our existence…But this rose is an extra. Its smell and its color are an embellishment of life, not a condition of it. It is only goodness which gives extras, and so I say again that we have much to hope from the flowers.

It's interesting that something as beautiful as roses are also equipped with sharp thorns. An interesting play on our concept of taking the good with the bad from nature. The most esteemed of all cultivated plants, are the true roses. Rosa occurs indigenously in the north temperate zone and in tropical mountain areas, usually as erect or climbing shrubs with five-petaled fragrant flowers. The rose has been a favorite flower in many lands since prehistoric times. It appears in the earliest art, poetry, and tradition. It has been used in innumerable ways in decoration. In ancient times it was used medically. But, for many gardeners just being able to grow beautiful roses is reward enough.

You can search all over the web to find some great resources to help. Yellow roses, blue roses or climbing roses can all be found on the internet. Take your time to look around and consider what kind of roses you would like to have blooming in your garden.

5 Tips for Avoid a Wedding Flower Disaster

2006-11-14T19:05:00.000-08:00

1. Preparation

Be prepared - Choose your florist in plenty of time. Many get booked up in advance, and may not be able to arrange your wedding if you leave it too late. Most florists will take a deposit to confirm that you 'are in the diary'.

Arrange all the details of the colour, type and quantity of flowers with your florist early. This will give her plenty of time to order in the correct flowers.

If you or a friend is doing the flowers, allow plenty of time on the morning of the wedding for preparation. Seventeen table arrangements can take a surprisingly long time to make up!

2.Timing is Everything

Even if friends or family are providing the flowers don't let them make up too early. - There is nothing worse than wilting arrangements on your big day. This is a real possibility if you are having a wedding on a hot summers day and the delicate arrangements are not in water.

I've seen reception garlands that have been put up on a Friday, that looked limp and lifeless by the Saturday - and that's before the reception had taken place!

If you are using a good florist, bouquets and room arrangements that are not in water, will be made on the morning of the wedding to reduce this problem. Florists spray their arrangements with a special flower preservative that helps to reduce water loss and therefore reduce wilting.

During the day, you could use a plant mister on the arrangements to help them stay fresh looking. If done sparingly, this will leave small water droplets on the flowers that give a pleasing effect as they catch the light.

3. Care with Lilies

Lilies such as Stargazers, are a popular choice of wedding flower, both for their look and fragrance. But beware of the pollen! If it drops onto your clothes it can leave an orange stain that is extremely difficult to remove. It's the equivalent of smudging your white dress with some vindaloo curry - disaster! Ask your florist to snip off the pollen bearing parts of the flower for you.

4. Overworked Florist?

Check with your chosen florist how many wedding bookings they take on one day. No single wedding florist should have more than 1 or 2 bookings (unless they have an army of staff). How can they dedicate themselves to providing the very best for you if they are organising and delivering to lots of events?

5. Get it in Writing

Make sure you obtain a very detailed quote/contract outlining all your requirements before booking. This should include things like the color names for flowers such as roses. Do this to prevent misunderstandings before they occur. There is nothing worse than having your flowers delivered on the morning of your wedding and the colors are wrong, or the number of arrangements is incorrect. By that time it is too late to correct any mistakes.

Flowers for Men

2006-11-14T18:57:00.000-08:00

Flowers were probably one of the last gifts you would think of sending a gentleman. The truth is, men appreciate flowers as much as women do. It would be a wonderful surprise for him to receive an unexpected bouquet or arrangement! We have a bunch of ideas for when you are selecting and delivering flowers to a man.

1. Stay Bright
Men tend to prefer vibrant colors. An electrifying array of flowers in a bouquet or arrangement can really brighten up your man's mood. We recommend that you chose colors like red, yellow, orange and blue. You can ask your florist for more advice on creating beautiful and colorful flower bouquets and arrangement any man will enjoy for any special occasion.

2. Add Green
If the man you are sending flowers to enjoys gardening or has a "green thumb" combining green plants to your flowers is a great addition. The added touch of green can cool off your vibrant flower colors. If you are unsure about adding green accents, ask your florist. We suggest ruscus as a green plant that will compliment your flowers.

3. Be Unique
When sending flowers to men, you must be different with your choices because women are different then men when it comes to personal choices in flowers. Consider a unique or personally designed flower vase. Another tip is to include tropical flowers in your arrangement or bouquet. These suggestions will definitely get that special man's attention.

Sending flowers to men has been despised for years. Men do enjoy flowers as much as women. Sending flowers a bright and unique gift to a man is an excellent way to express your feelings. Even sending roses to men is an acceptable way to say I love you. Thinking outside the box will definitely impress him. Your florist can also provide other gifts such as balloons, gift baskets, and plants. All of these gifts can be delivered online to your man's home or office. Ask your florist online for more information and ideas for delivering and sending flowers to men.

Flowers Wilting? Tips for making your flowers last longer

2006-11-12T19:22:00.000-08:00

We all know one disadvantage of flowers is that they don't last very long. While they are here they bring happiness and warmth to any dull decorating space. If your flowers are dieing awfully fast, then you may be using poor flower care routines. There are many little things that you can do to lengthen the life span of your flower arrangements and flower bouquets. Many florists and flower shops provide good information on how to care for your specific flower type. Read on for a few extra tidbits of information on expanding the time that you can enjoy your flowers.

A main cause of deterioration in flowers vases is bacteria. Be sure your bowl or vase is clean and your water is pure. Always replace your water after 2-3 days. If any of the leaves lower down the stem are submerged under water, cut them off to prevent the spread of bacteria. Also, floral food provided by your florist should kill harmful bugs and dirt.

To prolong the beauty and life of your flowers, choose a reputable flower outlet. More experienced florists are likely to understand how different types of flowers need different water, fertilizer, etc. When you order flowers, they usually arrive in well wrapped protection. The flower bud will usually be closed or half opened. This ensures that you can view the full time span of your flower. Your plant food for your arrangement or bouquet will encourage the bud to open. Using lukewarm water in your vase will prompt flowers to open faster. Because of lower oxygen levels, it helps the stem to intake water.

Never place your flowers in bright or overheated areas in your home. This breeds bacteria and causes an excess water loss. Use a vase that is in proportion to the size and amount of flowers that you have ordered. This could create even more water loss that you are not aware of.

When ordering flowers online, remember these tips and your flowers will last longer than ever before so you can enjoy the warmth and beauty of nature in your home.

Color Determines The Tone Of Your Flowers Arrangements

2006-11-12T19:09:00.000-08:00

Color is influential in every aspect of our lives. It conveys a warm or cool feeling and can draw you in or divert attention. It can create feelings of cheerfulness, sadness, love or tranquility. In flower arranging knowing how to blend colors together can make or break your design so careful thought should go into your choice of colors before you start.

Flowers come in an astounding number of hues and shades due to continual crossbreeding. This is the most true in roses. There are well over a hundred different types of roses now of every shade imaginable and counting. They have even been bred now to have two or three different shades on the petals and are fast becoming a new favorite for florists and customers alike.

If you are new to arranging or still struggle with how to put color together, take heart, there is help in the form of what's called the color wheel. It is made up of primary colors, secondary colors and intermediate colors. The first thing one needs to understand, is that the primary colors are only three colors, red, blue and yellow. All colors are made from combining these colors but you cannot make red, blue or yellow by combining any colors.

Red is a very hot, passionate and strong color. It creates drama in an arrangement. Red can make you think of Christmas or valentines. Yellow is a happy color and evokes a feeling of anticipation like you experience when spring has arrived and the sun is shinning and things are coming back to life. Birthday arrangements or baby arrangements often have yellow as it does evoke that feeling of cheerfulness.

Blue is a cool color and creates a softer feeling like you may experience when looking at the sky in the summertime.

Combining primary colors together creates secondary colors. Red and yellow make orange, red and blue make purple and yellow and blue make green.

Orange is a dramatic color, not as hot as red but it still has impact. If you want an arrangement to have the autumn feel then you should combine colors such as browns, gold or a bit of yellow and red-orange together. It will make a bold statement.

Purple is a vibrant color but unlike red and orange it has a calming effect. When you combine purple, blues, pinks and a bit of yellow together, you get this luscious vibrant and soothing arrangement.

Green is a universal color that goes with any color of arrangement. In nature all flowers spring up from greens so it is very natural to use them in all arrangements. In fact, I like to put together three different shades and textures of greens together before putting any flowers in my arrangement. It is very effective.

You can take any of these color combinations and put them together in their lighter or darker shades depending on what mood you are trying to create. Also, you do not need to stick to just these color combinations. If you want drama, try mixing together dark red, purple, yellow and a bit of white. Contrast can make quite a bold statement.

Last but not least here is a list of colors on the color wheel starting with yellow:

Yellow orange, orange, red orange, red, red violet, violet, blue violet, blue, blue green, green, and finally yellow green. Of course you could make many more hues but for our purpose here we stick with the color wheel.

Flower care 101

2006-11-09T19:13:00.000-08:00

Many words can be left unsaid when you have a flower to say it all. Among the most remarkable beauties created by God is the creation of splendid and aromatic flowers.
Flowers bloom in innumerous varieties, seasons and at many different places. They are symbolic of love, care and devotion. Flowers are found everywhere on earth and even beneath the deep sea there is existence of flowers. All the countries in all seasons have many species of flower blooming on their land. Flowers are the best way to express emotions they can convey the softest thoughts with utmost ease.

When sending flowers great care needs to be exercised in selecting them. Considering the occasion for sending flowers and the person for whom flowers have been picked up help in deciding the color and size of the bouquet. Bouquets come in varying sizes and prices. Flowers can be arranged in a bunch or on any flat tray or it may be a basket full of flowers. Whatever be the way of presentation flowers are always lovely to give and receive. Some rare species of flowers can be expensive and the state of flowers presented effect the pricing of flowers. Fresh flowers are always more in demand than a day old ones. Most of the florists advertise by promising that they deliver fresh flower bouquets on the same day. Some flowers have a long life and remain fresh for a longer time even after being cut off from the plant. While others have a shorter life span of remaining fresh. Certain rules hold good for most variety of flowers for retaining them in a fresh state. Cutting flowers with a bit long stem and a slant whip and keeping the stem emerged in water promote the fresh look for hours. Most florists promise to deliver of fresh and unique flowers but only some of them expertise in this trade. Keeping flowers fresh for long and selecting the right species and color to suit the occasion perfectly needs a professional expertise. Some of the most experienced ones can actually do the job satisfactorily. Yet at most times a perfect bunch of flower can always be obtained by some endeavor to match the occasion and pocket.

When planting flowers for commercial or decorative uses many aspects of gardening needs to be considered. The season and the soil along with the reasons for planting flowers play and important role in deciding the species that is to be reared. Using appropriate manure and even pesticides to protect flowers from being destroyed is important. Recently development and immense research work in botany has taken flower planting to great heights. Exact species and color of flowers are planted accordingly to suit the coming occasion.

Not only the color but also the aroma of flowers is highly cherished by flower enthusiasts. Among the numerous available colors of flowers there are some specific colors that signify certain emotions and thoughts. Since long a red rose has been a token for love and yellow signifies friendship. Fragrance of flowers is also a contributing factor for the popularity of flowers. Not only as gifts presence of flowers also make a personal space more welcoming and creates a pleasurable ambience to cherish.

How To Check If Cut Flowers Are Fresh

2006-11-09T18:58:00.000-08:00

Fresh flowers should feel crisp or firm. Before you buy, run your hand under the flower heads from stem to petal tip. Proceed gently under the petals so as not to bruise them.

If the flower vendor objects, give them a withering look and enquire in a loud voice, "Are these flowers fresh?"

If the flowers feel soft, cool or damp, don't buy them.

Keep testing the other bunches until you find a good one. Often there are only one or two bunches older than the others. Look and listen. Really fresh flowers will make a soft rustling sound as you stroke them.

As flowers age:

- the foliage will start to yellow from the bottom upwards

- the stems will discolor from the bottom up as bacteria spreads from the cut

- seeds or pollen on the flower head will open and shed spores

- the petals will fade in colour, lose moisture, dehydrate and eventually collapse

Remember:

Change the water daily, recut the stems often and enjoy your flowers longer.

More Than Just Flowers - Fun Garden Accessories

2006-11-09T18:35:00.000-08:00

Flowers and plants are rightly the central attraction of
your garden - but they needn't be the only one. Garden
'accessories' can add character and fun to your garden
as well as serving various useful purposes. From
sculpted row markers and border fences to
fully-functional fountains and ponds, here's what some of
the best-dressed gardens are wearing this spring and
summer.

Borders One of the easiest - and most affordable -
ways to define your garden space is with border fencing
by the foot or yard. There are many styles of borders
available at your local garden and home supply store,
from white wire fences to elaborate plastic sculptured
moldings designed to be pushed into the ground on
garden stakes.

Row Markers and Signs My first garden - courtesy of
my grandmother - had row markers that were made by
the simple expedient of pushing a popsicle stick into the
ground and sliding the seed packet over the top. Not
terribly elegant, or for that matter, durable. Garden
supply and novelty shops feature a huge variety of row
markers and 'Don't Step On The Flowers!' signs in
styles that range from whimsical plastic sculptures of
vegetables to elegantly hand crafted iron markers.

Garden Gnomes and Lawn Toys Okay, so maybe
they're a little tacky, but they sure are fun! Pink
flamingoes, garden gnomes, and grandma fannies are
only a few examples of the silly, playful garden
accessories that can find a home in your garden.
Pinwheels, garden streamers and windsocks all can add
color and whimsy to your gardening. Who said
gardening had to be so serious?

Birdbaths and Pedestals Birdbaths are a great way to
invite birds into your garden. Whether set into the
ground as a small 'pond' or on a pedestal, they can add
a touch of old world elegance to a shrubbery or foliage
garden that will benefit from the pollination efforts of
your feathered friends.

Benches Why have a garden if not to enjoy it? Plan your
garden with benches along the paths or at the center of a
clearing. Garden benches are easy to find at home
supply stores and department stores and can be had for
as little as $29.99. Whether you choose cast iron, resin,
wood, or stone, a garden bench is almost a must-have
accessory for the well-dressed garden.

Trellises Decorative trellises and arches do more than
serve as supports for climbing plants and vines. They
can be a beautiful accent on their own. Whether you
choose a simple iron fan trellis in a corner of the garden,
or build an elaborate arbor or gazebo to support roses
and ivy, they'll add a grace note of natural beauty and
add to the enjoyment of your garden.

Fountains and Ponds The ultimate accessory for any
garden to have has got to be its own pond or fountain.
Even small spaces can sport running water with a
concealed circulating pump and a nearby power source.
A trickling waterfall over rocks or a full-sized pond
complete with Koi can both bring a measure of
satisfaction and serenity to your garden.

Learn All About Growing Tulips

2006-11-08T21:07:00.000-08:00

Tulips are loved and sought-after the world over for their elegance, vibrant colors, frilly petals and ability to naturally multiply in gardens. Also, if you’re growing tulips, you don’t necessarily need to devote much time to tulip care. Tulips need minimal care.

Now, this beautiful flower has a dramatic history to it. Originating as a wild flower in Central Asia and cultivated by the Turks, the tulips were passed into Europe by Ogier de Busbecq, the emissary of the Austrian emperor to Constantinople. Busbecq sent some tulip bulbs to his biologist friend Carolus Clusius of Vienna, through whom the tulips reached Netherlands in 1601. This was the kick-off to the insane "tulipmania" that ensued thereafter. Tulips became popular everywhere, especially in Holland. "Tulipmania" captivated the world in a wild frenzy to purchase tulips as a status symbol or sell it at higher prices. People sold houses, businesses, properties, farm animals, mortgaged homes, pawned jewels and traded land for just a single tulip bulb. Tulip bulbs cost $1200-$4600/bulb at the peak of "tulipmania" in 1634. In 1637, the economy crashed with the historical "tulip crash", when traders released all their stock in the market, thus forcing prices to collapse sharply. Today, one can purchase tulips at something as low as .25 -$1.15/bulb.

The original tulips that grew in Turkey were the lily-flowering tulips, which had petals meeting at a point. But world's biggest producer of tulip bulbs, Holland, produced a variety that was multicolored and round-petaled. When this Dutch type reached Turkey, it raised yet another craze—the "tulip epoch". The Rembrandt/parrot tulips ruled Turkey at that time.

Today, the species tulips (or wild tulips) are preferred more than the hybrids for some benefits. Firstly, small flowers and short stem of the species tulips enhance the look. Their flowers also have impressive color-range - lilac, orange, red, yellow, cream- and leaves range from bluish-green narrow types to banded broad types. Unlike hybrid tulips, species tulips can naturalize and multiply over a long period, growing new bulbs after every spring-bloom. These species or botanical tulips aren't crossbred and hence more natural and perennialize. Some hybrid tulips such as the Darwin hybrids in red, orange, yellow or bicolor perennialize too.

Tips for growing tulips:

Plant bulbs in well-drained soil to avoid bulb rots and fungal diseases.
Water constantly post-planting but don’t allow water to stand.
Sandy soil is best. In other soils, add sand, compost and low-nitrogen fertilizer like well-rotted cow manure.
Plant tulip bulbs in October-November and fertilize in fall or spring.
Plant bulbs deep, depth being 3x the length of the bulb.
After spring flowering, deadhead the tulips, leaving the leaves to die naturally. This ensures stronger bulbs next season.
Transplant bulbs if the plants show signs of over-crowding.
Fresh cut tulips make excellent wedding flowers and look great in vases or small containers.
Tulips are disease-resistant, but sometimes they catch the disease "tulip fire", in which growth is stunted. So gardeners must take proper care of tulips in order to grow the most healthy and stunning of tulips.

Love and Roses

2006-11-08T20:52:00.000-08:00

Representing the Stages of Love and Romance with Roses

The Red Rose represents deep, passionate love and respect. A single red rose can say, "I love you". The red rose characterizes Cupid.

Deep Red Roses symbolize bashfulness in love. The sender of this color rose wants to say, "I love you", but is a little too shy to make this full commitment.

Burgundy Roses represent an unconscious love. Love that is deep down, showing its first appearance to realities surface can be seen by sending this deep hue of burgundy.

Pink Roses in general symbolize perfect happiness. Pink roses are appropriate to send to friends because they also represent friendship and endearment.

Light Pink roses represent gentleness, sweetness, and joy. A perfect color rose for a sweet girl!

Deep Pink roses say, "thank you" from the sender. Someone must have done something very special and wonderful to deserve such a bright, generous thank you!

White roses represent innocence and purity. They are a popular wedding flower for this reason. This color rose also says, "I am Worthy of you" from the sender as he or she tries to gain the love and admiration of someone special. White roses are also associated with secrecy. White roses could be the perfect flowers to send from a secret admirer! In Wales, white roses represent innocence and silence and white roses are placed on the grave sites of children.

Yellow roses are bright and jovial, representing joy and friendship. Sometimes this color rose can represent jealously and a decrease of love, but with its bright, happy color, this rose comes across as more friendly than anything.

Peach roses show modesty and desire. This flower can symbolize a relationship starting out new and fresh, as this flower desires love.

Orange roses show enthusiasm and fascination with a new love attempt.

Lavender roses express love at first sight. The sender sends this color of roses when he or she becomes enchanted with someone new.

Combining two roses together, a red and a white, symbolizes unity, commitment or even an engagement. Presented with an engagement ring, these combined roses could say more than words.

Flower Therapy

2006-11-08T00:21:00.000-08:00

Researchers from Rutgers University determined that the flower recipients in the study experienced an elevation in mood that lasted for days. And Chinese healers - who've long believed in "flower power" - say that it doesn't stop there. They say you can utilize flowers to summon whatever power or emotion you'd like - and that the secret is in the flower's color. Each color creates a different frequency of light waves, they believe, which travel through the retina and down the optic nerve, setting off a chain reaction of responses in the body. Neurotransmitters are then released, inducing the production of calming hormones like melotonin, stimulating hormones like adrenaline, and mood-boosting hormones like serotonin.

Here, how you can enjoy the physical and emotional benefits of flowers:

Increase energy with red roses

Since red has the slowest vibratory rate and and longest wavelength, it stimulates adrenal glands, boosting energy.

Boost confidence with irises

The color indigo stimulates the brain's pineal gland, which is the regulator of sleep patterns. Indigo also helps to free the mind of worries, fear and inhibition.

Enhance alertness with sunflowers

Yellow light waves stimulate the brain, making you alert, clearheaded and decisive. And since we associate yellow with the sun's rays and daylight, it's said to help us feel more optimistic.

Get a good night's sleep with bluebells

Blue triggers the production of melotonin, a brain chemical that helps us relax and sleep soundly. Blue also stimulates the thyroid gland to release thyroxin, a hormone that regulates metabolic rate.

Relax with green zinnias

Green affects the nervous system, making us breathe slowly and deeply, slowing the production of stress hormones and helping the heart relax.

Prevent allergies with orange daisies

Orange strengthens the immune system and the lungs, which can ward off spring allergies. Orange also has a strong beneficial effect on the digestive system and can stimulate the sexual organs.

Relieve stress with lilacs

Violet cools us, alleviating "hot" conditions like heat rash and sunburn, and suppressing hunger and balancing metabolism. It also stimulates the pituitary gland, the part of the brain that releases tension-fighting beta-endorphins.

The Magic of Flowers

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Flowers are natural gifts that beautify our environment.
Whether used in an arrangement to grace the kitchen
table or placed in a vase by the bedside, flowers
provide a sense of invitation and welcome to guests and
offer the sweet fragrances of springtime in the process.
The gift of flowers can brighten anyone's day and bring
an abundance of happiness to those who receive them.

Flowers are Magic

The gift of a single flower is often a reflection of a
romantic intention or some other form of feelings that are
being expressed to another. Such an offering can bring
magic to the moment, if received by a special someone.
More than simply offering a pleasant experience to the
senses, flowers can bring an acute sense of pleasure to
the heart of the recipient.

According to previous studies, a floral aroma can have
an impact on human emotions, in contrast to unpleasant
odors, which can cause irritability and a sense of
discontent. The very color of a flower may have a
profound effect on an individual.

Flowers and Their Meanings

Contrary to what you may have been told, there are no
specific meanings that are associated with flower types
or colors. When giving the gift of flowers, people tend to
personalize the experience by offering the types and/or
colors that carry a significant meaning to the person or
occasion. Due to the widespread belief, however, that
certain meanings are attached to particular flower types,
the Society of American Florists has composed a list of
flower/meaning associations, in accordance with their
histories.

Meanings according to type: Anemone - Fragility; Apple
Blossom - Promise; Baby's Breath - Festivity; Begonia -
Deep Thoughts; Camellia - Graciousness; Daisy -
Innocence; Forget-Me-Not - Eternal Remembrance;
Holly - Domestic Happiness; Lilac - First Love; Orchid
- Delicate Beauty;

Meanings according to color: Pink Rose - Friendship;
Red Rose - Passion; Red & White Rose - Love and
Unity; Yellow Rose - Zeal; Purple Tulip - Royalty;

Cut Flowers. As a result of the mounting global market
and technological advances, an abundance of flower
varieties are available throughout the year. Some of the
most beautiful and diverse arrangements contain a
mixture of fresh cut and other types of flowers or plants.
Contained within this section are some of the more
common varieties that are available through most local
florists.

One of the more classic flowers - the rose - is available
in a variety of genres, including the tea rose, the
sweetheart rose and the spray rose. The nearly 120
arrays of roses that retailers commonly carry contain all
shades of the spectrum, such as those of the red, pink,
purple, orange, coral, peach and white families. The
style of growth, as well as color, may differ from type to
type. For example, tea roses will open from three to
four inches, with stems spanning 12 to 30 inches in
length; whereas the stems of spray roses may contain
several flowers each.

The variety and type of rose will determine its life span,
but most will typically live between four and seven days
after cutting. Due to their delicate nature, stems should
be placed in the vase very gingerly. In order to reduce
the build-up of bacteria, any foliage that is apparent
immediately above the water line should be removed.
For maximum life expectancy, stems should be re-cut
every two to three days.

Lilies may also be referred to by variety, such as in the
case of the Asiatic Lily or Oriental Lily. These flower
types can be recognized by their trumpet-shaped petals
and can reach six inches in diameter. The height of their
stems can reach up to three feet and may sport four to
eight blossoms. Their color varieties include white,
yellow, pink, red and orange.

Due to their poisonous nature - specifically concerning
the members of the feline family - the National Animal
Poison Control Center recommends keeping all forms of
lilies out of the reach of your household pets.

Tulips - known by no specific variety names - grow as
single blossoms, containing six petals each. Variations
include those of the lily-flowering, double flowering,
fringe-petaled and ruffled parrot genres. The color array
includes white, yellow, pink, peach, orange, red,
lavender and purple, as well as a bi-color variety.

The orchid, also known as cymbidium, dendrobium,
oncidium, cattleya and phalaenopsis, are available in a
variety of shapes and sizes - the largest of these being
cymbidiums. Including all varieties, there are currently
over 17,000 species which span the globe.

Personal preference will dictate which flower, color
and/or arrangement is most suitable for that special
someone in your life, as well as which room of the house
in which to display the arrangement.

The Growing Popularity of Wildflowers

While these were once seen as mere weeds, the
misunderstood wildflower has recently gained
popularity, as a result of the botanical education that's
been offered by a variety of gardening experts.
Wildflowers serve a purpose beyond that of simple
beauty, as evidenced by the fact that small country
gardens containing these types of flowers are known to
attract birds and caterpillars. Growing such a garden is
beneficial, both to the senses and to the area wildlife.

Among the more popular wild flowers are honeysuckle,
foxglove, red campion, lesser celandine, herb Robert
and forget-me-not. Certain areas of the world have
developed such an appreciation for wildflowers that the
uprooting of them is illegal. Many people agree with this,
since they tend to think of it in terms of preventing the
removal of the landscape's natural beauty.

Using Flowers to Bring Calm and Prosperity into Your Life

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One of the nice things about summer is the richness of
the colors of flowers that are abounding. Daisies, lilies,
roses, petunias, and so much more. Even the most
cynical among us is touched by the burst of colors.

Many people mistakenly think that plants and flowers
are just something nice to look at. A female thing. If
you're thinking that way, you're missing some of the
most important benefits of plants and flowers.

Studies have shown that lots of green leafy plants help
calm you and help relieve depression. This in turn helps
you focus better and think more clearly. May be it has
to do with the oxygen they give off?

Similar studies show that just looking at flowers reduces
stress. The scent of flowers is also calming. Lavender is
especially known for it's calming qualities.

In Feng Shui, flowers are said to strengthen family
harmony and keep the flow of affection in all directions.
When you get deeper into feng shui, there are different
energies produced by placing certain colors in certain
areas of your home. Green leafy plants in the entryway
draw good energy into the house.

If you have a lot of arguments in your house, you may
have too much chi energy in your home. Feng Shui
suggests putting plants in rich black soil in the south
portion of your home to calm things down.

Bathrooms in the south part of the house are believed to
increase your chances of getting sued. Feng Shui
prescription is to decorate with tall plants and wood.

Yellow flowers are said to have healing qualities in
general. When you place them in the center of your
home they keep you centered and balanced.

For financial harmony, surround yourself with red
flowers. Fruit bearing branches represent abundance
and good fortune. To keep the berries from falling off
longer, scrape the bark off the bottom of the stems
before putting them in water so that more water flows
up to them. One of the hottest decorating trends this
year is to put single

buds in small juice glasses. Place them across a mantle
or shelf, or at everyone's place at the dinner table to
keep things calm. Think that will look good in my
Pokemon Welch's jelly glasses?

Or how about a prosperity centerpiece?

* Place a presoaked floral foam cylinder on a plate. For
a small centerpiece, use a 4 inch cylinder.

* Spread a little of that moss stuff around the bottom
edge, or cover the bottom edge with a piece of yellow
or red ribbon.

* Cut your red or yellow (or combination of both) roses
to 3 inches long. For the small arrangement, you will
need 4 nice sized roses. Push them, evenly spaced, into
the top floral cylinder.

* Now fill in with flowers, leaves, and berry branches.

* Stick a candle in the center.

For best energy results, use fresh flowers. (But Michaels
has a 50% off sale on silk flowers pretty often too.)

If you're looking for some fresh ideas for your gardens
outside- here are more feng shui tips-

* Purple flowers planted in the south part of your garden
increase passion. Petunias are a good low maintenance
choice.

* Deep red flowers planted in the west part of your
Garden bring success in business. I have red lilies, of
course.

* Creamy white flowers planted in the north part of your
garden (not the north side of your house) quiet anxieties.
I like either lilies or fragrant roses.

* Ferns and grasses planted in the east part of the
garden keep you feeling fresh and vitalized. I have
Yucca. Not exactly a fern, actually it's an evergreen, but
I like it.

Next year I want a cutting garden so I can enjoy the
benefits of flowers even more!

And for you men reading this thinking, I don't want to
mess with flowers.... I've known many manly men who
have put together great gardens. My grandfather and my
next door neighbor are two of them. And what about
that funny guy who does the gardening show on HGTV?
I love that show!

Whether indoors or out, and whether you believe in
such things as feng shui, working with plants and flowers
really is therapeutic. It can be as expensive or as
inexpensive as you want. It can be a large project, or a
very small one. It can be in any colors. Get creative!

Gardening is not only a good mental exercise, it's great
physical activity too.

And then kick back in your easy chair with the beverage
of your choice and relax and enjoy the fruits of your
labor.

Decorating with Flowers to Increase Chi (Flowers and Feng Shui)

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Here are some more flowers and plants that attract positive chi:

Spider plant- with its long, cascading leaves, encourages calm and well-being.
African violet- attracts recognition for your work, fame and approval.
Cyclamen- brings romance and passion to your life.
Sunflower- stability and endurance.

Specific colours of flowers or particular types of flowers are best placed in certain locations for the optimum effect. Pink flowers, for example are thought to be a good choice for the bedroom, since they encourage harmony and tenderness. Red tulips encourage romance. Lilies are good for balancing out active areas of the home. Orchids will encourage harmony and peace after arguments. Green round-leafed plants are especially good in areas that have a lot of electronic equipment, such as a home theatre or home office. A wreath of flowers on the door provides protection, especially if reflective ribbons are included.

If you are following the Pa Kua system, and have divided your living space into areas, here are some specific plants that are appropriate for the regions of your home:

Knowledge: lily
Marriage: rose, lotus, orchid
Parents: bamboo
Friends: forget-me-not
Fame: sunflower, lily, red rose

In practising Feng Shui, it is best to stay away from artificial or dried flowers, since these symbolise decay or lifelessness. Instead, buy living plants and deadhead them regularly, clearing away any dead stems or flowers, or fill your home with fresh flowers. This will encourage good energy flow and give you a sense of balance and calmness.

Fun Flower Facts, The Official Provincial Flowers of Canada

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Alberta - Wild Rose
British Columbia - Pacific Dogwood
Manitoba - Prairie Crocus
New Brunswick - Purple Violet
Newfoundland - Pitcher Plant
Northwest Territories - Mountain Avens
Nova Scotia - Mayflower or Trailing Arbutus
Ontario - White Trillium
Prince Edward Island - Lady's Slipper
Quebec - White Garden Lily
Saskatchewan - Prairie Lily
Yukon Territory - Fireweed

There are approximately 1300 species of Begonia and the number of hybrids is estimated between 1000 and 2000. Within the Begonia genus, there are plants which are tiny enough to grow in an egg shell and others which can cover a greenhouse wall.

In heraldry, the rose is used as a mark of cadency for a seventh son.

The first recorded plant collectors were the soldiers in the army of Thothmes III, Pharaoh of Egypt, 3500 years ago. In the Temple of Karnak these soldiers are shown bringing back 300 plants as booty from Syria.

The rose is the emblem of the British royal family. The Wars of the Roses are so named because the Lancastrians whose symbol was a red rose were fighting the Yorkists whose symbol was a white rose.

The fleur-de-lis or white lily was the symbol of the French royal family. It is still the symbol of Quebec.

The florin (an Italian gold coin) was so named because of the fleur-de-lis on the back. The fleur-de-lis was also the badge of Florence.

The cactus family is divided into more than 100 genera. For simplicity North American cacti are placed into five groups: the prickly pears, the saguaro cactus group, the hedgehog cacti, the barrel cacti, and the pin-cushion and fishhook cacti.