Peace Rose Plants

Pruning Peace Rose bushes is a simple task, but done wrong, it can produce a weak plant or a plant that will not bloom properly. Most pruning is done in the spring, though pruning for dead and decaying wood and plant matter should be done throughout the growing season.
Pruning Tips for Peace Rose Plants
When pruning, always use a sharp pair of garden shears or pruning shears. Unclean cuts can damage the plants. In the spring, just as the Peace Rose bush sends out buds, cut the stems back to within one-quarter of an inch of the outside buds. Pinching the stem tips in this manner will help the bush to grow outwards, creating a fuller plant.

Think about whether you want a lot of blooms or a few spectacular ones. Severe pruning, removing half of the previous year's growth, will give you larger flowers and make the plant grow larger, but it will also result in fewer flowers and a less bushy plant. For hedging and landscaping, excessive pruning is not ideal.
During the summer, remove spent blooms. You can also prune to retain the shape of the rose bush.
If you live in an area with colder winters, once there has been two or three good frosts, mulch the rose bush to at least an inch above the graft union to protect the graft from the cold. Cut all long canes down to about four feet in height, then tie the canes together. This will protect the rose bush from winter damage. If you live in an area with milder winters, no extra cutting and binding are needed, but you should still mulch over the graft union.
Propagating Peace Rose
The best way to propagate a Peace Rose is through grafting. Grafting should be done in the winter or early spring, while the scion and the rootstock are dormant. Choose the scion from shoots that were grown the previous season. Make sure the scion wood is free of insects and disease, and cut them the same day you plan to graft. At least four scions should be cut, in the event that one or more of the grafting procedures do not take.
Prepare the rootstock by sawing off a clean, smooth cut that is perpendicular to the main axis of the stem that is going to be grafted. Make a cleft through the center of the stock and down about three inches with a clefting wedge. Prepare two scions for each graft. The scions should have three or four good buds. Starting near the base of the lowest bud, make two opposing tapered cuts about two inches long toward the base end of the scion. The side with the bud should be a bit thicker than the other side.
Insert one scion at each end of the cleft. The wider side of the wedge should face outward. Make sure the cambium of each scion makes contact with the cambium of the rootstock. Remove the clefting tool from the rootstock and allow the rootstock to close over the scions. Seal the cut surfaces with grafting wax or grafting paint.

Different Types Of Rose Bushes

If you're selecting rose bushes, it's easy to become overwhelmed with the many types and varieties available. Simplify your selection deciding the function rose bushes will play in your landscape. Are you looking for a rose hedge, a flowering ground cover or a focal point to frame a gate? Will your rose bushes stand alone or climb gently up a wall or fence?
An understanding of the different types of rose bushes will help you match the right plant to your landscape needs.
Rose Bushes Gone Wild
Wild roses are roses that have naturalized in many parts of the world. Many wild roses are the grandparents of modern roses familiar to most gardeners. Wild roses tend to have simpler bloom forms than modern roses and are very hardy in their native climates.

Wild rose bushes are perfect for naturalized or low-maintenance gardens. Rosa Carolina, Rosa Septipoda and Rosa Glauca are popular wild rose varieties.
Old World Rose Bushes
Antique roses are varieties that were cultivated prior to 1867. These heirloom varieties tend to bloom only once with blooms closer to the classic rose form. Some antique roses were the base plants for familiar modern hybrids.
Antique roses work well in formal or Victorian-style gardens. Alba, Hybrid China and Cabbage Roses are examples of antique rose bushes.
Thoroughly Modern Rose Bushes
Developed after 1867, modern rose bushes have became more specialized, allowing them to fill a number of landscaping roles.
Hybrid tea roses are the long stemmed, full flowered type of rose considered "classic" in modern landscaping. Hybrid tea rose bushes grow from 3 to 6 feet high and have an upright, vase-like form. These rose bushes are popular as focal point plants in the landscape. The long stemmed blooms of hybrid tea roses are also perfect for bouquets.
Floribunda roses are bushy plants that continue to produce blooms all season long. These 2 to 5 foot, shrubby rose bushes are perfect for hedges and mass plantings. Floribunda rose bushes tend to be hardier than hybrid tea roses in most zones.
Grandiflora roses form large bushes that are generally over 5 feet tall. Grandilfora rose bushes produce single blooms and have similar growth habits to hybrid tea roses. These stately plants can be effective in the background of a large bed.
Shrub roses come in many forms and colors. These rose bushes tend to be smaller, growing 2 to 3 feet and are perfect for landscaping singly or in mass. Smaller varieties can even be used as a flowering ground cover.
Climbing rose bushes have long canes. These long stems can be trained to grow on upright supports like trellises, arbors or walls. Climbing roses tend to have large single blooms that are formed like hybrid tea roses.

Splendid Beauty

Meaning: Dignity, Splendid Beauty

Magnolia represents a genus consisted of more than 200 evergreen and deductions plants and trees from the family Magnoliaceae.

These attractive species are the inhabitants of eastern North America, South America, Central America, the West Indies, and Southeast Asia. The genus got is name in honor of Pierre Magnolia, a French botanist.

The genus is an ancient including the species discovered millions years ago. For instance, Magnolia acuminate was found about 20 million. It is very notable that the plant has no distinct sepals or petals, it has tepals instead. The magnolia tree may reach the length of 30 m. the average length of the leaves is 10-30 cm.

Depending on the species they may be oval, oblong-ovate, with lobed, toothed or entire margins. The flowers resample a cup, coming in such colors as white, creamy to pink shades. The majority of the species are notable by pleasant scent they spread.

Magnolia is the state flower of Mississippi that is usually called Magnolia State. In addition it was declared to be the official state tree of Mississippi.

Houston, state Texas is sometimes called The Magnolia City with the reference of a great number magnolia species inhabiting along Buffalo Bayou.

Magnolia Blossom

Perhaps inspired by the adoption of a National Garland of Flowers for the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago (World's Columbian Exposition), the "flower or bloom" of the magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) wasn't adopted as Mississippi's state flower until 1952.

The idea for a state flower originated around the turn of the century. In an effort to select an appropriate floral emblem to represent the state, it was determined that the process would be put to a vote of Mississippi school children. The flower election took place in November 1900.

It's recorded that 23,278 children voted and that the magnolia blossom received over half of these votes. The cotton blossom, promoted by the Mississippi Federation of Women's Clubs, placed second and the cape jasmine placed third. Other flowers, including yellow jasmine, received votes as well; a total of 42 varieties received votes. 

• Magnolia blossom - 12,745 votes.
• Cotton blossom - 4,171 votes.
• Cape jasmine - 2,484 votes.
• Other varieties - 3,878 votes among them.

No legislative action was taken as a result of the contest however and though the magnolia blossom was generally considered the state flower by the citizens of the state, it was never made official.

Thirty-five years later, Mississippi's Director of Forestry, initiated a movement to adopt an official state tree to represent the state. Four nominations were offered to the state's school children; the magnolia; oak; pine; and dogwood. Again, the magnolia proved an overwhelming favorite of the children and it won this contest hands down.

On April 1, 1938, the Mississippi Legislature officially approved the magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) as the state tree of Mississippi.

Still, the state had no official state flower. The adoption of the magnolia blossom was to wait for another 14 years.

Finally, on February 26, 1952, the "flower or bloom" of the magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) was approved by the Mississippi Legislature; 52 years after it had been chosen by 12,745 Mississippi school children. One legislator, who shall remain nameless, voted against the adoption!

Photos Of Cherry Blossoms

The cherry trees are starting to bloom in our neighborhood, although exactly which trees in our coastal zone depends on the precise altitude. So the cherry blossoms have come up to within a couple of hundred feet of our house. They make a beautiful and elegant display.
I was out yesterday in the mist and light rain photographing. The sun started to peek out. What great conditions for photographing cherry blossoms and getting close enough to view the anthers!
In the photo above, my favorite of the set, the anthers–the portion of the stamen that produce the pollen–are in focus. The flower itself and water drops are slightly out of focus, with a macro rig and an aperture set to f/16.
In contrast, in this photo anthers and flower are both crisp at f/40:Technically, these photos are a great deal like the water drops on a spider web I photographed a day earlier. The biggest issues are micro focusing and subject motion from the wind. In addition, I had some problem getting high enough on my tripod to be really close to the blossoms.

A human element was that I was out photographing with Julian, who got bored (as any eight year old would have) after a while: “Daddy, you’ve been photographing that one flower for an hour and a half. Can’t we please do something else?”
Neither whining nor wind stopped me from getting this rather unusual view of water drops within the world of the cherry blossom:
In this detail view of the very center of the cherry blossom I was surprised to discover a convex, reflective shape like a cherry dome. The beginnings, I suppose, of the fruit.

Cherry Blossoms,Magic Beauty

Tomorrow is March 26th, which means the official kick off for the National Cherry Blossom Festival, in Washington, DC. This years festival runs from March 26th through April 10th. The festival is full of fun family activities such as parties (A Pink Tie party), parades, music, tours, performances, river cruises and even a kite flying exhibition. Of course, you can’t forget all of the gorgeous cherry blossom trees that you can view as well!

If you can’t make it to Washington, DC this weekend, there are many other cities around the nation that hold their own festivals as well. If you’re local to the Buffalo, NY area, plan your own cherry blossom viewing visit to the Japanese Gardens in Delaware Park. The views there are breathtaking!
Since this is the festival to celebrate the color pink (and really, what could be better?), check out our selection of cherry blossom items, or take it one step further and go all out with the pink! We’ve got lights, trees and pretty Spring wreaths and flowers which can add a splash of color to your home!

OSMANTHUS THE SUNNY GARDEN

A hot southern or western exposure is one of the most challenging spots for growing plants, because of the heat and bright sun exposure. But, the Osmanthus is one of those plants you can depend upon to flourish in such exposures. In fact, this is one plant that can even be planted up against the foundation of the home, where it will get reflected sunlight.
The flowers tend to be small, but prolific and quite fragrant. So this is an ideal shrub to plant near the entry area, patio or sidewalks where the intense fragrance can be fully enjoyed.

Osmanthus foliage varies by variety from rather small , up to some varieties with leaves up to 2 ½ inches long. Foliage color varies by varieties, from deep green to variegated. Growing height also varies by variety, making the plants ideal for use in mid-bed to background planting areas.
This is one plant that is not really very fussy about soil, however, it is a good idea to take time to properly prepare the soil at planting time. The addition of organic humus in the form of peat moss, compost or processed manure is beneficial in getting the plants off to a good start. Mix about one third organic-humus with two-third of your existing soil. Always prepare the planting hole about twice the depth and width of the size of the root ball, of the plant you are planting.
The best time to fertilize Osmanthus is in late winter or late spring. Use a Rhododendron or Evergreen type of fertilizer. Of course, apply according to label instructions. If you use a dry, granular type of fertilizer, be sure to water-in thoroughly after application so there is no chance it burning the new tender feeder roots. These plants grow very well in Northwest soils, so it generally is not necessary to feed them each year.

Osmanthus In Septemper

Osmanthus are known for their very pleasant fragrance; when you encounter one whose latin name means “sweet”, you know you've found one that is quite special. So it is with this particular plant, which can be discovered within the confines of the Asian Garden along the Cox Trail. Highly recommended.
We received this plant from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, collected in the wild via RBGE's 1991 Makalu Expedition in Nepal.

Update: I should have noted that Peter Cox visited UBC Botanical Garden yesterday. Peter is the son of Euan Cox, for whom the Cox Trail is named after (for more information, read the History of Glendoick Gardens).

Some Tips On How To Plant Flowers

Nearly every home owner and gardener loves flowers. Planting and caring for them is easy if you know what to look for and how to do it. The trick is knowing what conditions you have, what the plants enjoy, and how to take advantage of what you have available.
Most flowers fall into one of two categories: annuals and perennials. Annuals grow once and then must be replanted to grow again (meaning you’ll need to buy seeds or new plants every year). Perennials come back year-after-year barring any disastrous situation that kills them (too-early frost, extremely deep freeze, etc).
Another consideration is the flower’s bloom time. Gardeners often plant flowers in series so that there are always blooms during the summer months. Planting flowers that bloom in the spring next to flowers that bloom in the mid-summer and around flowers that bloom all year or only in the fall means always having enjoyable beauty during the spring and summer months.
Once you’ve decided on a design for your flower plantings, knowing how to handle the flowers themselves – between purchase and planting – is important.
When you purchase flowers, they will be in one of several forms: bulbs, seeds, rhizomes, or transplants (growing plants).

Planting Flowers from Bulbs

Bulbs can be purchased most any time and often will store, if kept cool and dry, for months. Many gardeners purchase bulbs in the late winter and wait until mid-spring to plant them (depending on the variety). Bulbs should usually be buried deeply in the soil (6 to 12 inches, depending on the plant) and are usually perennials that will come back year after year. Tulips are an example of a very popular bulb.

Planting Flowers from Seeds

Seeds are similar to bulbs, but can usually be stored longer. Nearly all flowers that are also wildflowers start out as seeds. Seeds should be planted in the spring (exact timing depends on flower type) a few inches underground. They generally sprout within a couple of weeks and grow quickly if cared for. Many gardeners start their seeds in seed beds indoors and transplant the seedlings to the outdoors.

Planting Flowers from Rhizomes

Rhizomes are a sort of combination of plant stems and roots. These are not like seeds or bulbs in that they are living things. If you’ve ever used raw ginger, that is a rhizome. These are planted in a way similar to bulbs, depending on the plant, but will usually germinate and sprout much quicker. They often require warm and ready conditions before planting and do not generally have a long storage life outside of the soil. Some species of Iris, for example, have above-ground rhizomes that should be carefully guarded.

Planting Flowers From Transplants

Transplants are the most common way for most new gardeners to get their flower garden started. These are plants that are already growing and (hopefully) thriving in a small pot or container. They are then put into the ground in their permanent home. Most home and garden centers sell many varieties of transplant flowers. Care should be taken to provide the right conditions for the plants and to properly harden them to their new environment.

When to Plant Flowers

Planting times vary by the plant, but most take place in the early or mid-spring or in late fall. Many perennials do best if planted in the late fall so they can overwinter. The same goes for most bulbs. Rhizomes, transplants, and seeds are most often suited for spring planting, however, and are vulnerable to extreme temperature change or frost.

Some Flowers In My Garden

Plan to plant some special flowers in November so that you will have a beautiful garden earlier in the spring. These flowers will overwinter and then appear the beginning of spring. Planting flowers in November increases your chances of having spring blooms.

Daffodils are an early blooming flower that and one of the first signs of spring. Plant daffodil bulbs in early November. They are also perennials, which means that they will grow back year after year. After 2 or 3 years, divide the bulbs as daffodils will reseed themselves and grow new plants. Till the soil in November and plant the daffodil bulbs with the root end down. Lightly cover the bulbs with soil and water. Covering the bulbs with hay protects them during the cold weather.

Hyacinth is another spring flowering bulb that must be planted in the fall for flowers in the spring. Hyacinths come in a variety of colors including white, pink and purple. These are fragrant flowers that you can cut and bring into your home. Plant the bulbs with the root end down and cover it with soil. Water it at the first planting and then cover it with straw to protect for just the first winter. Covering the bulbs is not necessary for subsequent winters.

Plant tulip bulbs in loose soil your yard in November for spring blooming, or plant them in a pot for indoor growth. If you plant them in a pot, use two or three bulbs evenly spaced apart. Cover them loosely with soil and water. Place the pot in a warm, sunny location to force the bulbs into thinking it is spring.

Plant the seeds in prepared soil in November. Water the seeds and the soil until the ground is well moistened. Covering the area with straw protects the seeds from the winter wind and cold. The seeds go dormant during the winter, and then sprout in early spring.

Pink Rose In The Garden

Roses are universally favorite plants. The bright vibrant hues give gardens a splash of color. You can smell the heady perfume of roses during summer while filling the air. With so many different varieties to choose from rose gardening is a wonderful experience.
While it 's true that there many roses of which you can choose the type is not important. What is important is that you plant them where you can reap the benefits later. Roses are hardy plants. With so many gardeners breeding new hardy varieties, roses can now grow in any type of condition. The difficult problems of soil and garden are no longer a major barrier to the rose gardens.
The key to the rose gardening lies in buying plants that are at least two years, that has been cultivated in the fields and flowers. If your young rose plants are pruned then the heavy stems need to be 1 / 4 inch in diameter at the top. On the one hand if the rose plant is not pruned, then there must be three or more heavy stems that are 18 inches in diameter.
You need to plant your roses in a sunny spot, well-drained soil. You must cut off all bruised and broken stems. In the rose gardening roses needed to be provided on earth. You first dig a hole 6 inches deeper than the rose roots need, then make the hole wide and big all around so the roots do not grow crowded or bent.
The bottom of the hole should have small rocks or pebbles in it. This rock formation will aid in drainage for the roses. After the stones have been placed, mix one tablespoon of fertilizer over the stones. On this good lay fertile ground until the level is where you will plant your rose plant. In the heap of soil make a small hole and carefully plant your rose bush in there. You need to make sure that the hole has room for the roots. Then cover the roots with soil, firming the soil occasionally.
The Rose gardening requires that you feed your roses at regular intervals to ensure healthy growth. The first feeding should therefore be given in early spring before the roses bloom. The second feed will come after they finish the first heavy bloom. Feeding a third is in late summer. If you are lucky might have roses that will bloom until about November. If this is the case, then feed your plants a fourth time around.

While all this care assistance rose gardening, chemical pesticides are necessary to avoid sucking and chewing insects from damaging your roses. This pesticide is also working to reduce the fungus that likes to grow roses.
The Rose gardening is a lovely pleasant smelling hobby to do. If you take care of your plant during the initial days after the flowers will reward you with large, vibrant that are a joy to behold.

Turkish Rose Oil Market

Isparta is the heart of the Turkish Rose Oil industry. This is where Roses are grown and distilled Damascena rose has a deep, rosy, fresh aroma, the color ranges from clear to a pale yellow or greenish tint. It has a lot benefit in large area and are used in our daily life, also has spiritual meaning .it is a symbol for to tell our precious feelings.
It is a small prickly shrub up to two metres high, with perfumed pink flowers. Native to the Orient but widely cultivated in ,Turkey , Morocco ,and Bulgaria…It takes about 120,000 roses to make one kg.of rose oil. Are used a scent source , skin care , body care , foods kinds , cosmetic, hair caring , medicine,etc.

Oil rose is the main source of the rose oil and other materials including concrete, absolute and rose water, the most important commercial products especially in the flavour and fragrance industry. Rose oil is produced by water steam distillation of fresh rose flowers. Concrete is a waxy product extracted from fresh rose flowers with volatile solvents. Absolute and bioabsolute are alcohol extracts of the concretes from fresh and residue flowers, respectively. Rose water is a byproduct obtained during the distillation of rose flowers.
The rose blossoms are picked from very early in the morning (when they open) until 10-11 a.m. Later in the day the oil contained in the rose petals loses its delicate aroma. The amount of rose blossoms collected daily by one worker is about 20-25 kg, 30 kg may only be picked by a very skilled hand. The flowers are gathered by holding the petals with three fingers and gently lifting up the blossom before picking it off. Put in sacks and stored in a shady place, the blossoms are transported to the rose distilleries as quickly as possible in order to obtain a maximum quantity of essential oil.

The distilling installation consists of a still, a steam-leading pipe, a cooling container and vessels for collecting the produce - rose oil and rose water. The overall distillation process takes about two hours. On the average, 3.5 tons of rose blossoms are needed to produce 1 kg of rose oil. Depending on the quality of flowers and the method of distillation, however, yields can vary between 3.0 and 5.0 tons (which equals more than one million flowers) to produce just 1 kg of rose oil. Following the distillation, the droplets of pure rose oil left floating on the surface of the condensed liquid are separated from the rose water using special equipment.

Lotus Blooming time

The lotus flower appeared in legends originating from ancient Egypt. It played an important part in ancient Egyptian religion. The pure white lotus flower, the only plant to fruit and flower simultaneously, emerges from the depths of the muddy swamp. Growing from the mud at the bottom of ponds and streams, the exquisite Lotus flower rises above the water and is usually white or pink with 15 or more oval, spreading petals, and a peculiar, flat seedcase at its center.

Sesen A Lotus Flower. This is a symbol of the sun, of creation and rebirth. Because at night the flower closes and sinks underwater, at dawn it rises and opens again. According to one creation myth it was a giant lotus which first rose out of the watery chaos at the beginning of time. From this giant lotus the sun itself rose on the first day. A symbol of Upper Egypt .The lotus flower played a prominent role in the version of the creation story that originated in Heliopolis. Before the universe came into being, there was an infinite ocean of inert water which constituted the primeval being named Nun. Out of Nun emerged a lotus flower, together with a single mound of dry land. The lotus blossoms opened, and out stepped the self-created sun god, Atum, as a child. A slightly different version of the creation story originated in Hermopolis. In that version, the sun god who formed himself from the chaos of Nun emerged from the lotus petals as Ra. The lotus is a flower which opens and closes each day. His history went on to say that the petals of the lotus blossom enfolded him when he returned to it each night.

The lotus flower has been featured extensively throughout the art of ancient Egypt. In various works of art, you may see it held in the hand of a god or human, serving as a border to outline a section of the artwork, unfolding to reveal various gods or humans, and many other depictions. The ancient Egyptians from the 4th dynasty greatly valued the sacred lotus, in religious ceremonies and funerals.
The ancient Egyptians developed the art of counting to a high degree, but their system of numeration was very crude. For example, the number 1,000 was symbolized by a picture of a lotus flower, and the number 2,000 was symbolized by a picture of two lotus flowers growing out of a bush.

Spiritual Qualities Of The Lotus Flower

The spiritual qualities of the lotus flower has found its way into Egyptian legends, Indian culture, and even Western faith. This is not surprising as the lotus flower is a potent symbol that grows strong and beautiful from the murkiest depths. Not to be mistaken with the water lily, lotus flowers bear fruit, but produce less nectar and come in fewer colors. The roots of the lotus are deeply imbedded into the bottom of river beds or ponds, while the flowers and leaves float atop the surface of the water. This plant is also thought to be one of only a few heat producing plants, and generally maintains a temperature around 86 to 95 degrees so as to lure cold blooded pollinators.

The lotus is the national flower of both Vietnam and India. In India the lotus flower has made its way deep into religious beliefs and in national folklore. The lotus is one of the eight auspicious symbols and is considered to be a symbol for the progress of the soul through muddy materialism, all the way to bright and sunny enlightenment. In esoteric Buddhist teachings, the unopened flower is thought to be like the heart of man – blossoming only when touched by the virtues of Buddha. In Egypt the lotus can be seen in a variety of art, hieroglyphics and as general decoration. One of the legends that can be found in this area is of a giant lotus rising from watery chaos and causing the sun to rise on the first day of creation. In Christianity, the white lotus is thought to be a representation of the purity of the Virgin Mary. Aside from having a great religious and mythological significance, the lotus can also be consumed. The rhizomes can be roasted, curried, pickled or dried and used as a thickening powder. The seeds can be candied, roasted or eaten raw; the flower and stalks, on the other hand, can be prepared in any way that a regular leafy vegetable might be eaten.
Lotus flowers are full of deep meaning, beautiful and long lasting, and thus, make great gifts. Many people like to give them as wedding presents as they are one of the few flowers that bloom and produce fruit simultaneously. This is thought to be a good omen for a newly married couple, as it not only represents a continuation of the growth of their relationship, but also a growth in their family. These flowers can be given alone, or as part of bouquet. If you are giving them as a gift to someone who lives in a warm climate, has access to a garden pond and simply loves to grow things, you might also want to consider giving them either a pre-grown plant, or even a few fresh seeds.

Lily,The Goddess Hera

The lily was dedicated to the goddess Hera, the wife of Zeus. Legend has it that when Zeus fathered Hercules with the mortal woman Alceme, he wished his son to partake more fully of divinity. To this end he had the baby brought to Hera after he drugged her to sleep. He had the baby placed at her breast and Hercules nursed. Hera awoke in horrified surprise and flung the baby from her. Some of her milk gushed across the heavens and formed the milky way. A few drops fell to earth and from those drops sprang the first lilies.

Lilies have been associated with many ancient myths, and pictures of lilies were discovered in a villa in Crete, dating back to the Minoan Period, about 1580 B.C.
Roman legend has it that when Venus rose from the sea-foam she saw a lily and she became filled with jealous envy at the whiteness and beauty of it.Seeing it as a rival to her own beauty she caused a huge and monstrous pistil to spring from the lily's snow-white center. This myth accounts for the the lily being associated with Venus and the Satyrs who are the personification of lustful ardor.
Lilies are also a symbol of death, and at one time lilies were placed on the graves of young innocents. The lily has no true medicinal value although at one time it was thought to posses certain medicinal virtues. It was thought to have magical properties and there were thousands of recipes in Elizabethan times for the use of lilies in the treatment of fever or as a unguent containing lily root for cleaning wounds,burns and sores. as well as relieving rheumatic and arthritic symptoms.

Calla Lilies,So Beautiful

When people think of calla flowers they most commonly associate them with calla lilies (technically known as Zantedeschia, a tribute to the famous botanist Giovanni Zantedeschi). However, there is a species in the same family referred to Calla palustris that grows wild in the cooler regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Although these two plants are similar in appearance and are part of the same genus, this variety only has a single species and contains a cluster of red berries at its center. Calla lilies boast a slightly larger family with eight recognized species; comes in a variety of colors and patterns (from a similar white to that of Calla palustris, to a golden hue, or spotted yellow or pink); grow to roughly around 1 to 3 feet, and are native to Southern Africa.

Although both Zantedeschia and Calla palustris varieties of calla flowers are considered highly poisonous to consume, many still take their chances. The rhizome of the wild calla can be dried, ground or boiled to make it edible. The leaves of calla lilies can also be cooked before consumption; however, most people will advise you to err on the side of safety with this particular culinary art. Calla flowers have a good deal of history, starting as far back as the Romans. This particular plant has, over time, fluctuated between being an emblem of happiness, to a respectful sign of sadness. During Roman times calla lilies were planted just inside the doors of homes at the time of winter solstice. This was done to bring some well needed “light” during the dark and dreary winters. Later on, callas were associated with funerals as they are not only a symbol for peace, they are also long lasting and can withstand warmer temperatures than many other flowers. Calla flowers have returned to a more cheerful use in recent times. During 1937 in New York, one of the largest blooms ever grown was a calla lily; Georgia O’Keefe painted at least eight pieces depicting callas, and an exhibition at the Brooks Museum in Santa Fe, New Mexico featured over 50 depictions of this famous flower, and around 1934 the calla lily became very popular in weddings when a photo of a South African bride displaying a bouquet of callas surfaced.
As a gift, calla flowers can be very meaningful. Although they are predominately thought of as an emblem for spiritual peace, they are also thought to represent magnificence, purity and rebirth. Callas can be given as a houseplant, in a bouquet, boutonniere, or even clipped and given as a single flower.

Flowers Have Been Evolving Into Different Shapes And Structures

Scientists in China have discovered that the simple raindrop may be an important factor in the evolution of flowers.
In a study covering 80 species of flowers, scientists found that flowers have been evolving into different shapes and structures partially to stop their pollen from getting wet. Some flowers even evolved waterproof pollen to avoid the problem.
The findings go some of the way to explaining why many flowers in rainy areas have either droopy flowers, or close their petals. Charles Darwin is one of many researchers that have theorised that flowers may have evolved this way in order to protect themselves from damage by rain, and water diluting their nectar.
The scientists recorded how the flowers of various species responded to rainfall, monitoring whether the flower moved to protect the pollen, as well as determining how long pollen produced by each species remains viable in water.

What they found confirmed a strong link between rainfall and flower design, the researchers report in the New Phytologist.
“Some plants shelter their pollen grains through a change in floral orientation or closing their corolla on rainy days. For example, tulip flowers close their petals rapidly when rains come. We were surprised that some plants without pollen protection structures develop water resistant pollen. The finding of a high proportion of resistant pollen in no-protection species suggests that selection by rain contact favours pollen resistance to water.” Says Shuang-Quan Huang of Wuhan University in China

Caesalpina Pulcherrima

Form: informal, vase-shaped, multistemmed shrub
Seasonality: officially evergreen; usually winter deciduous in Tucson
Size: 3-10ft with equal spread; more tree-like in warmer location
Leaves: bipinnately compound, fern-like, many 3/4in leaflets; normally bright green turning red in winter, sometimes leafless in winter
Flowers: distinctive panicle of bright blooms; flowers are red, orange and yellow with long red stamens; on terminal ends of branches in summer
Fruit: hard brownish pod, 2.5in long, thin and flat, twists when drying, explosively dehiscent, poisonous
Stems/Trunks: inner portion of plant usually shows signs of having been cut back; small thorns look furry but are sharp
Range/Origin: West Indies; common throughout Sonoran deserts, naturalized in Texas
Hardiness: damaged at 32°F, with increasing damage as temperature decreases; killed to ground in teens, sometimes killed outright
LANDSCAPE VALUE:
summer color
tropical effect
background
reliable, good in medians

CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS:
Exposure: full sun or light shade, takes heat; not good on north sides; gets leggy in shade and blooming is reduced
Water: best with regular irrigation; once per week while blooming; height and growth rate determined by water supply
Soil: tolerant, good drainage
Propagation: seed, very ease
Maintenance: moderate; pod cleanup; pruning every year to remove frost damage; sometimes pruned to ground in winter

Feng Shui Is The Traditional Art Of Placement

Feng Shui is the traditional art of placement. Feng shui handles the five main elements; water, wood, fire, earth and metal. Each one of these five elements moves in a different way and makes the energy of the environment vary with it. Plants and flowers generate vital energy by exhaling oxygen into the air. The following tips will help you energize your home with the power of plants and flowers:


1)Plants are very auspicious from the point of view of Feng Shui. It is always good to grow plants in the house, especially wooden plants. The wood element represents spring, new beginnings, growth and wealth.2)Fill your office with soft plants to generate more energy. House plants promote business growth and brighten any work space. Place plants in the east, south or southeast corners of your office to attract good luck.
3)If you are a married couple and want children, avoid placing flowers in the bedroom. Generate energy for resting and romance by placing a basket of fruits. Fruits, especially pomegranates, are a symbol of fertility.
4)Avoid plants with sharp, pointed leaves or thorns including cactus and spider plants because they emit negative energy. Do not place them near the front door. They could be placed in the balcony.
5)Bonsai plants represent stunted growth. Hence do not place them inside or outside the house. Trim your plants regularly. Overgrown plants invite negative energy.
6)Fresh flowers bring luck and fortune into your life. Place fresh flowers in your living room or office on a regular basis. However, once they die, throw them out as they give out Shar Chi???? (negative energy).
7)Avoid placing dried flowers in your house. They are believed to bring misfortune. Anything dead or decaying represents death and dying and creates negative yin energy. Decorating your home with artificial flowers are a far preferable option and are believed to attract good luck.
8)Do not place any flowers, plants or any other auspicious Feng Shui symbol in the bathroom. It may invite bad luck.
9)Place a orange or a lemon at the main entrance of the house to ward off evil spirits or negative influences.

Love Flowers,Love Life

Since ancient times, flowers in people’s lives play a huge role. They have always been associated with love, joy, cheerfulness and good humor. Our forefathers gave flowers not only on holidays, but also the simple days because he believed that the magic of flowers can lift a person on the diseased feet, inspired by the lightness of life. Flower in ancient time, after a man born, pick, dried, and always carry it with, they were like a guardian angel, the safety of the plagues, disasters, and energy vampirism.

Nature has created a lot of different flowers. Each of the two hundred thousand species of these beautiful plants on our planet has its own unique, beautiful and unusual, all raise a lot of joyful emotions and feelings. Flowers not only make our lives a lot of light, but they clean the air around us, fills it with oxygen, light and delicate flavor. Scientists have long been proven that this beautiful piece of nature can absorb negative energy, give us a positively charged particle. Many scientific experiments confirmed that the vegetation has energy and have an impact of external effects – pain, death, affection.
Each Flower is caused by a variety of feelings you only need to be specific in its unique charm and character. Every Flower in addition to it’s specific aroma, beauty and aesthetic effect itself has some kind of hidden symbolism, the inner mind, which sometimes can even explain it-like character traits of people.

Enjoy With Beautiful Flowers

If you love flowers and you like to bring them in your home either as decorative bouquets or as plan pods, then you’ll also love this item. It’s a very unusual vase created by Philippi Design. It’s actually a group of 10 individual vases waiting to be filled with beautiful flowers.

This unusual piece will definitely become an eye-catching decoration in your home. The structure is made of 10 individual chrome-plated brass stems set on a thick glass base. Each piece is 10 inches high by 8 inches long and by 8 inches long. The simplicity of the mini-cases is supposed to allow the flowers to show their true beauty without being challenged by anything else. In most cases, each tube accommodates only 1 flower. In some cases, depending on the flowers you choose, you can place several pieces in one vase. You can choose only one flower type or you can alternate the colors and types to create a more dynamic décor.

This vase is particularly unusual because it’s made of several smaller vases. This allows you to create very beautiful ornaments. However, there’s also a disadvantage. Because of the dimensions you’ll have to find a larger space for this structure. Either than that, it’s a perfect choice for any home. It’s simplicity will allow it to integrate perfectly in any décor.

The Annual Flower Show hosted by the Agri

The Annual Flower Show hosted by the Agri-Horticultural Society of India started on the 5th of February. It will last for three days and is expected to a real treasure for those who love nature.
William Carey created the society in 1820. It began setting such shows from the year 1828. Everyone will be pleased by meetings of pro plant growers who are going to perform their best blooms and plants.
Beside of every visitor will be able to get useful tips, methods and suggestions concerning their home yards and gardens.
Many sellers who participate in this flower display provide you with a great opportunity to purchase new gardening tools, organic fertilizers and many other products that can be used in your garden.
In addition garden furniture and plantations that can be maintained at your location will be also for sale.
Attendants walking around the society gardens will enjoy nicely designed green spots in the Japanese Garden, Bhesaj Udyan, Rockeries and Waterfalls, Meditation places and other nurseries.

Japanese magnolia is a splendid tree producing

Japanese magnolia is a splendid tree producing attractive flowers in white, pink or purple. The trees are comparatively small-sized and in some gardens and yards even serve as cute shrubs.
With just little care these decorative plants will give bright and colorful look to your yard.

•    It is very important to plant the tree after storm season, prior the hitting of cold one. The development of the plant’s root system requires some time. That is why make sure that no strong wind and no frost will damage or freezes the roots.
•    Once magnolia is planted you should mulch around its base.  Create a somewhat bed for it by making a 2 ft-wide circle around the tree with mulch. This will assist the roots in keeping temperature, controlling weeds and letting to mow around the tree.
•    With the beginning of cold times try adding additional mulch. In fact the usual depth of mulch is about 2 in, however your magnolia tree requires 2 more inches. 4-in-deep- mulch will prevent the plant’ roots from freezing throughout too frosty days. If your tree is small or you use it as a shrub you are free to coat it with an unneeded sheet.
•    Late wintertime is the very time to feed the plant with some fertilizers. Get an 8-8-8 balanced fertilizer, spreading it at a grade of 1 pound per 100 square ft of the area. However I would like to warn you – no fertilizing is recommended until Japanese magnolia is well maintained in the yard.
•    The time for pruning comes after the tree’s blooms flower. You are free to prune Magnolia to any form you like. Of course, the shape depends on either you use the plant as a tree or shrub. For instance, there is no need in pruning trees as carefully as you prune the shrubs.
•    The Japanese Magnolia requires regular watering; water the soil once it seems to become dry.
Do you have any additional tips on growing and caring Japanese Magnolia?

Fall is around the corner

Fall is around the corner, and save-the-date cards are flying all over our calendar. Here are five wedding ideas brides love this autumn:
Harvest your Love
Bring a little nature into your wedding. Incorporate pheasant feathers, wheat, berries, whatever your heart desires. Decorate the aisle with fall leaves sporadically placed to tie into the fall wedding theme.
Exotic Fall Flair
You can incorporate a few exotic flowers and not lose the fall look. This bridal hand-tied bouquet is filled with orange mokara orchids, circus roses and miniature rust calla lilies.
Classically White
Not all fall weddings have to be in a darker color palette. Brighten up your fall by using all white florals. Line the aisle with all white calla lilies and hydrangeas as well as fill the altar with arrangements abundant with calla lilies. As guests enter the reception, greet them with white phaloenophosis orchids flowing out of glass pilsners and clusters of calla lilies under water.
Farmer’s Daughter

A venue where you can showcase the season inside and out, such as a restored bed and breakfast and barn, makes for a perfectly themed fall ceremony and reception. Bring the outside in with large trees, and focus the flowers on the altar. If pink is your favorite color, add the leucadendron, monkey tail and hypericum berries to the bouquets and boutonnieres’ for a fall spin.
I love you “Dahlia!”
Dahlias scream fall. They are beautiful, especially in bridal and bridesmaid bouquets. Here are hand-tied bouquets filled with dahlias, parrot tulips, green berries, circus roses and freesia with some monkey tail added for a little wispy.

Kalmia latifolia is the botanical name of the plant

Kalmia latifolia is the botanical name of the plant that is more commonly known as Mountain Laurel or Calico Bush. Belonging to the heath family (Ericaceae), it is capable to reach up to 10 ft high.
It is an evergreen shrub, which forms thickets in good growth conditions. It bears deep green leaves that are alternatively arranged. The blooming time takes place in April. The plant’s blooms come in white with pick spots.
The alternative names for the plant are Lambkill and Sheepkill with the reference to the fact that all Mountain laurel parts are poisonous.
Mountain Laurel thieves in mountainous areas and edges of the wooded lands. It is also grown as the gardening plant.

　　
　　

Lilium candidum is the botanical name of the plant

Lilium candidum is the botanical name of the plant that is commonly called the Madonna lily. It represents the genus Lilium and originates from the Balkans and West Asia.
Forming bulbs at the ground level it is notable by a basal rosette of leaves through the winter season, dieing back in summertime.
The flowering stem is about 1.2 m - 2 m long', it appears in late spring and produces aromatic blooms in summer. Madonna lily’s blossoms come in white color and are yellow at the base.
Madonna lilies are displayed on wall paintings at the Minoan palace of Knossos. Medieval paintings of the Blessed Virgin Mary often display her taking these dainty blooms.
The Madonna lily is a former provincial flower of Quebec, referring to the white fleurs de lis on the provincial flag.

　　

Astilbe is a beautiful flower having the meaning

Astilbe is a beautiful flower having the meaning of ‘I will be waiting for you’. Being one of the representatives of Saxifragaceae family the herbaceous plant is alternatively called False Goat's Beard and false spirea.
The first species which growers from Europe got to know was Bergenia crassifoilia. This Siberian plant with large red blossoms was first met in 1760.
This elegant pyramids-like flower blossoms in June and its feathery plumes’ height is about 2 feet. The plant is quite unpretentious; it may grow both in shady or sunny area. Nowadays its cultivars are bred throughout the world and available in various shades and colors. The most popular are pink, lavender, burgundy, rose, crimson and white.
Astilbe is available from March till September. The life of the cut flower lasts for 5-7 days. To take the proper care for this plant one should know that it requires much water.
Astilbe is often used as filler in a vast variety of designs and flower arrangements. Once can use either fresh or dried plant.

　　　

Frangipani is commonly called the Hawaiian Lei flower

Frangipani is commonly called the Hawaiian Lei flower. The plant represents a genus Rubra of the flowering plant from the family Plumeria, growing warm tropical regions of the Pacific Islands, Caribbean, South America and Mexico. The other common names of Frangipani plant are Temple Tree, Dead Man's fingers, Egg Flower, Amapola , etc.
The plant produces rosy-pink, white, red blooms that are touched with bronze cue. They spread fragrance having special tropical flavor. They have the shape of propeller bearing tender yellowish center with creamy outer petals. These flowering plants can reach the height of big shrubs or even small trees.
The mature Frangipani grows up to 30-40 feet tall and 15-20 feet in width. It bears long leathery leaves gathered in clusters close to the branch tips. This deciduous plant is not evergreen.
Frangipani plants expand poisonous, milky sap. However it is widely used in flower bouquets.

　　
　　

The blooms are available from November

Perfect lover, Fame, Love, Passion, Romance, charity; declaration of love
The Latin name of the flower is Tulipa, it is the Latinized version of ‘tulipam’ or ‘tulbend’, meaning "turban" with reference of the tulip's shape.
This lovely plant is recognized as the national flower of Iran and Turkey, its motifs can be often found in Persian and Turkish folk arts. The history of these attractive flowers is of great interest indeed. Within a lot of time they were grown in gardens of Turkey at the same time being used on Turkish ceramics. Tulips were first brought to Europe in the middle of the 16th century.
The blooms are available from November till May in red, pink, white, yellow, orange, purple colors; bi—colored flowers are also can be found. The cut plant will enjoy the vase life for 3-7 days. With proper care and handling it may grow a couple of inches daily.
The flower has such meanings as ‘perfect lover, Fame, Love, Passion, Romance, charity’.
This attractive flower makes perfect bouquets and is an uncommon addition to any style- arrangements.

　　
　　

These tasty golden-orange fruits frequently

American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) is famous by a lot of names; among them are common persimmon and possumwood. The plant can be found in the southeastern America. Growing wild it has been in cultivation for its edible fruit and wood by Native Americans.
Diospyros virginiana is capable to attain the height up to 20 meters. In summer season it bears aromatic, bell-like flowers in creamy-yellow color. American Persimmon can produce the fruit only after 6 years of its life. Ancient Greek called the tree’s fruit as 'the Fruit of the Gods'.
These tasty golden-orange fruits frequently hang on the tree after the foliage die off in the fall. By the way, one can come across a rare natural form of the species bearing darker fruit, nearly black. This form is known under the name Diospyros virginiana atra. The ripe fruit have sweet taste; that is why they are used in desserts and cuisine.
In addition to the fruit-producing capability, American Persimmon is a perfect middle-sized yard tree.
　　

The botanical name of the flower is Alchemilla

The botanical name of the flower is Alchemilla. Being the representative of the Rosaceae family, the flower is commonly known as Lion's Foot, Bear's Foot, Dewcup, Lion's Foot, Bear's Foot, Nine Hooks, Leontopodium, Stellaria Dewcup, Breakstone, Stellaria, and Woman’s Best Friend.
In the middle Ages, Lady's Mantle was referred to the Virgin Mary. It got its name due to the reference of the leaves’ lobes looking like the scalloped edges of a mantle.
The Lady's Mantle represents a perennial plant that is capable to tolerate bad conditions. The flowers have no petals and are available in green and bright cues. The form clusters of blossoms having 6 to 9 inches across.
This attractive plant has grey-greenish leaves that have small leaf hair on both sides for the majority of varieties. Leaf hair aids the flower in water-resistance.
Ladys Mantle has a long effective bloom period.　　

Lilium candidum is the botanical name

Lilium candidum is the botanical name of the plant that is commonly called the Madonna lily. It represents the genus Lilium and originates from the Balkans and West Asia.

Forming bulbs at the ground level it is notable by a basal rosette of leaves through the winter season, dieing back in summertime.

The flowering stem is about 1.2 m - 2 m long', it appears in late spring and produces aromatic blooms in summer. Madonna lily’s blossoms come in white color and are yellow at the base.

Madonna lilies are displayed on wall paintings at the Minoan palace of Knossos. Medieval paintings of the Blessed Virgin Mary often display her taking these dainty blooms.

The Madonna lily is a former provincial flower of Quebec, referring to the white fleurs de lis on the provincial flag.

Madonna Lily

By Maciek Godlewski - under the terms of the GNU Free Documentation License, Version 1.2

Lilium Candidum Flower

Themselves in an aroma

Cut a lily from the flower beds, in a vase, placed on the table and felt themselves in fragrance.　　
　　
　　
　　
　　

Early morning rain, the sun

Early morning rain, the sun, like grooming like the sun after a cool-cool thrown into the earth, through the forest mist as Shaman Qing Yang, according to the raindrops on the leaves seems like a bright