Tuesday, September 29, 2009



Bromeliad



Common names: bromeliad, urn plant, flaming sword
Description: These foliage plants have central floral spikes up to 2 feet tall and 8- to 10-inch long spiny-edged leaves that form a cup that can hold water. In some species, the flower has waxy, colored leaves. Other species send up an actual inflorescence. These plants bloom six weeks to four months, depending on variety.
Special care: Drench dry soil and fertilize monthly. Drain excess water. Keep the central cups of foliage filled with water, but change it weekly. Keep plants in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves.


Azalea



Common names: azalea
Description: These low, woody shrubs have leathery, dark green leaves and 3- to 6-inch clusters of red, orange, coral, pink, white or purple flowers. They make excellent blooming plants.
Special care: Check daily. Keep the soil moist but not wet. Apply water directly to the root medium. Keep the foliage and flowers dry to prevent fungal diseases. Do not use fertilizer. Place azaleas in bright, indirect light. Blooming life is two to four weeks or more, depending on cultivar. Leaf drop may be caused by dry soil, intense shade or cool temperatures combined with intense light. Pinch off new, green shoots that extend beyond the flowers.


Areca Palm



Common names: Areca Palm
Description: Can be found in sizes ranging from 3 feet up to 10 feet or taller and is readily available in the marketplace.
Special care: Suitable for bright locations and requires heavy watering to do well.


African Violet



Common names: African violet, violet
Description: A popular blooming plant, African violets have fuzzy heart-shaped leaves with light green or red-violet undersides and some have ruffled, smooth or serrated edges. A few varieties have variegated foliage. Petal variations include single, double and ruffled. Colors include deep purple, lavender, pink, yellow, white, red, and bi-colors.
Special care: Remove old blooms and yellowing leaves. Keep barely moist and fertilize monthly with all-purpose food. Do not let water touch leaves. With plenty of bright, indirect sunlight, or 14 to 16 hours of artificial light, they flower continuously and can last many years. Avoid placing them in a drafty area.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Tulip



Tulip



Common names: tulip
Description: Single flowers have six petals. Flower variations include lily-flowering types, double flowers, fringed petals and ruffly parrot varieties. Colors include white, yellow, pink, peach, orange, red, lavender, purple and bi-colors. Vase life is up to seven days.

Sunflower



Sunflower



Common names: sunflower
Description: These large field-grown flowers have 2- to 8-inch diameters. Short petals surround a large disc. Petal colors are pale or golden yellow, orange, red or bronze; discs are brown, black, or green. Thick stems support single- and double-flower varieties.
Special care: Keep sunflowers hydrated to help stems support heavy head weight. Place sunflowers in tall containers to provide adequate support for their height.

Stock



Stock



Common names: stockDescription: Stocks have single or double flowers with a 1-inch diameter and a pleasing clove-like scent. The romantic beauty of this flower brings texture to garden designs, and its sweet, spicy fragrance is an added attraction.
Colors range from white, cream, yellow, peach, lavender, pink, purple and burgundy.
Vase life is five to eight days.Special care: Change the water frequently and be sure to remove any foliage below the water line.