Flowers An Annual Event

Flowers, An Annual Event by: Frederic Madore
Are you a natural when it comes to gardening? Do you simply wish your rose bush to bloom, and presto, roses appear? Well, if you are a green thumb, congratulations. As for me, it is an effort of biblical proportion, to get even the grass to grow. I would hazard a guess, and estimate that the remaining 90% of the general population share this problem. If flowers were so easy, we wouldn’t need florists and landscapers.
Flowers are without a doubt a gift from the gods. They surround us with beauty, remind us that some color in our lives can bring happiness to our drab surroundings, and often are a subtle reminder of that special moment we don’t want to forget. What about the basics of flowers? Do we really know that much about the science of flowers, what makes them so appealing, so colorful, and so sweet smelling?
Flowers are the reproductive organs for the plants that support them. The flower itself can be composed of male and female parts, only male or only female parts, or in some cases a combination of male and female parts. Some plants need pollination, and some are parthenocarpic (big word that only means “virgin fruit) and make fruit without pollination!
The color of the flower and the scent of the flower are meant to act as attractants for the pollination process; as you can smell and see, it is an effective tool. The many colors of the rainbow can also be found in the many colors of the flower garden, also. Different colors attract different insects, as do different smells.
There are also different types of flowers. Some are perennials, some are biennials, and some are annuals. The perennials will return year after year, wherever they have been planted, but do not offer the greatest array of color or scent. The biennials will complete their entire life cycle in two growing seasons, or generally two years. Annuals are plants whose life cycle lasts only one growing season, or one year. The annual plants are some of the most brilliant and offer the greatest variety, color and scent. They are also among the most adaptable garden plants and don’t require much more than water and sunlight.
I personally prefer the perennials to any of the other types, simply because once I plant them, they are there to stay. Unless of course I manage to bring them to an early demise! Examples of perennials are azaleas, lilies, and of course, roses. Biennials are composed of forget-me-nots, foxgloves, and pansies. The annuals, are as I stated earlier some of the most brilliant in color and scent and are composed of marigolds, zinnias and snapdragons. Often annuals will drop enough seeds so that actually “appear” to be perennial flowers.
As you can see, there should be flowers for every type of grower. A special color or scent for every special occasion. Flowers are like the voice of song for the plant world. When we “humans” sing, it lifts our spirits and we soar on the wings of our dreams. This is also what the beauty and fragrance of the flower brings to the garden.

http://flowers-information-center.info

Using flowers to heal harm

Hi all

Here is another example of the power of the flower. It never ceases to amaze me just how much good a few flowers can do to make some one feel better, special, loved, and it takes so little.

When I found this article, I thought WOW!! here is another way to use flowers to heal.


If you want to find out more about how flowers can work for you, then read my book "How To Buy Flowers"
or you can pick up a free chapter here


Using flowers to heal harm: "A flower garden sprouting at the state prison in Tucson is billed as a crime-fighting tool that helps put Arizona at the forefront of 'restorative justice.'

It's part of a rehabilitation philosophy that has been credited with keeping some offenders from committing more crimes after they've been released.

The garden outside the visitation room at the Santa Rita Unit at the Arizona State Prison Complex-Tucson, 10000 S. Wilmot Road, is just getting started - as are state efforts to turn criminals around by focusing on victims."

Continue reading the article here

Flowers for 'Breast Cancer Awareness'

This is a great idea, the more awareness the better.

The florists have done it for years with the Daffodil for cancer research.

Flowers just somehow say it all.

Let's all do our bit.


Regards

Carmel



Flowers for 'Breast Cancer Awareness': "Flowers for 'Breast Cancer Awareness'

The floral industry has once again provided an easy way to give to a good cause and share a bouquet with someone near and dear.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and participating florists are offering the 'Hope and Love' bouquet during the month. For each $29.99 bouquet purchased, $10 will go to the University Breast Health Center to help area women who need mammograms or other related care.

Local florists have suggested the 'Hope and Love' bouquets are appropriate for families who have lost a loved one to breast cancer, women battling breast cancer or as a reminder to someone to schedule her annual mammogram.

In North Augusta you can purchase the bouquet at Jim Bush Florist, 501-B W. Martintown Road.

Call 278-4580 for more information or to order a bouquet."

All You Need is Flowers!

All You Need is Flowers!
by: Nadia Mikkelsen

A way to a woman’s heart is through flowers. Yes men, it can be that simple. Flowers can represent so many different emotions and it will make your special someone so very happy. It says I love you without having to say it.

Not only are emotions such as sight and smell affected, but it also shows you have a caring side, a softer side.

If you want to show your romantic side, ask your special someone what are her favorite colors, favorite flowers, and favorite plants. And most important, be sure to ask if she has allergies to any type of plant or flower.

A floral arrangement can be made special for your loved one. Visit your local florist for ideas and suggestions. A beautiful floral arrangement can be made with her favorite colors, flowers, and plants. The arrangement can be wrapped in beautiful paper, or arranged in a special vase.

Most large grocery stores are in the floral business. When shopping for that romantic dinner, stop by the floral department. You will find so many different floral arrangements. If you cannot find the perfect arrangement, you can ask the department florist to create something unique for the occasion.

Flowers can also be ordered by the click of a button. Today most people own a computer and have access to the internet. You can shop for ideas and tips before making your final selection. You can shop from the comfort of your own home or office. In fact most flower sales are made on the internet. www.sendflowersfordelivery.com is a good place to find flower shops.

You will find arrangements for all sorts of occasions and price budgets. You will have pictures to choose from along with the price range.

Flowers are not only for romance, but also for making others feel good when it is needed. They can help to raise a person’s spirits when they are down. It has been proven that flowers can help the sick feel well. The colors and smell will heighten emotions in all of us.

Flowers can also make the perfect gift for any holiday. For those that have everything, it can be difficult to find the right gift. Flowers will make any holiday special.

Be sure to ask your florist how to properly care for your arrangement. Flower food is usually included in your arrangement or can be purchased separately. With the proper care, your flowers can look just as beautiful two days later as the day they were purchased.

Today it is becoming more popular for flowers to be purchased for men as well. So men do not be so surprised when you receive flowers from your special someone or even an admirer. It shows that women can be just as romantic as men if not more.

Flowers can also be used to brighten the home or office. Flowers offer so many different fragrances to make your home and office smell and feel fresh. When planning a special party, your florist can create the mood you wish to express to your guests.

In fact it is safe to say that flowers just maybe the world’s most perfect gift.

About The Author

Nadia Mikkelsen is the owner of http://www.sendflowersfordelivery.com

Ever Used a “Frog” (a.k.a. Kenzan)? Then Check this out....

Ever Used a “Frog” (a.k.a. Kenzan)?: "No, not that kind of frog! I’m talking about a circular metal disk with many small sharp points coming out of it. It’s also known as a “kenzan” (to you Ikebana enthusiast) and they are a very fun tool to use for creating simple and seeming gravity defying floral arrangements. They especially come in handy if you are trying to create a more minimalist look, or if you have only a few flowers to design with (good for those on a budget). They are also fun because they enable you to break away from the typical vased arrangements to create new looks.

So how do they work? Frogs are secured into a vase or"


Want to finish reading this article, just click here


There are heaps of great ideas around to make your home or workplace more pleasant with the use of flowers. You don't have to spend a fortune either.

Something as simple as a daisy in a jelly jar or tiny glasses in a row with a little flower in each one.

Doesn't have to be a big bunch or arrangement, single flowers can be very effective.

Be an creative, look around you, what's that unused ashtray doing? You don't want any smokers in your home/workplace, fillit with short head flowers. No one well even think of using it then, and much nicer to have a flower perfume too.

Okay, a few ideas, more in the article.

Take care

Carmel

You can get a free chapter of my book here

Flowers Fresh and Feng Shui

Hi all,

I like to find good articles for you, this one is on Feng Shui and fresh flowers, another reason to have fresh flowers in your home, works in the office too.

Hope you enjoy it and maybe learn a thing or two to help with your Feng Shui

Best regards
Carmel

PS You can get a free chapter from my book "How To Buy Flowers" by clicking on this link

To incorporate feng shui elements into homes, Tossapol suggests using colours and flowers as remedies to effectively create a harmonious living space.

Aside from their natural beauty, flowers can enhance positive energy and improve a person's health and state of mind, he says.

``Colour is a powerful feng shui tool that can directly affect your mood as well as your emotional and physical well-being. There are various types, shapes and colours of flowers out there for you to choose from,'' he suggests.

``It's important to examine whether the flowers and colours contribute to your sense of well-being or not.''">Bangkok Post Sunday 02 October 2005 - THE FIVE ELEMENTS: "To incorporate feng shui elements into homes, Tossapol suggests using colours and flowers as remedies to effectively create a harmonious living space.

Aside from their natural beauty, flowers can enhance positive energy and improve a person's health and state of mind, he says.

``Colour is a powerful feng shui tool that can directly affect your mood as well as your emotional and physical well-being. There are various types, shapes and colours of flowers out there for you to choose from,'' he suggests.

``It's important to examine whether the flowers and colours contribute to your sense of well-being or not.''"

Read the whole article here

Buying Flowers Online

A Good Deal of Buying Flowers Online by: Mark Dietzel
Ever wondered what you will give your mom for her birthday? Having a hard time thinking of what would be the best anniversary gift for your girl? Cheer up! You definitely can buy flowers online! Fresh flowers and arrangements can probably be treated as the most popular gifts in the whole world. Basically, nothing brings a smile on someone’s face that you specially care about than the sight and smell of fresh, colorful, and wonderfully arranged flowers. Flowers connect every human being with nature. It spells an outdoor ambience as well. Flowers also have long been non-verbal ways of expressing one’s emotions whether it be a simple “hi” or “hello”, “congratulations”, “condolence”, or “I love you”.
In a variety of purposes, flowers apply. And it is in this connection that adamant availability of buying flowers online has become possible. Buying flowers online is an easy to access market which anyone can get through any time of the day and any day of the week. Flowers do mark every significant event in a person’s life. Flowers are present in weddings, births, funerals, anniversaries, graduations, and the likes. For flowers always give off a positive impact on a person’s emotions, they give delight due to their fragile beauty, and spell out a powerful symbol of enduring affection and optimism towards life.
So you do want to express your emotions through flowers but you are too busy to drop by a flower shop, you are currently on a trip away from the city, or the person you are to give flowers to is far from you. Then the best possible solution is to send flowers online! Online florists carefully assist you with your every floral need. Wonderful bouquets and arrangements of various kinds of flowers suited for every occasion and for every person are readily available for purchase. Amiable as the staff members are, they are just too willing to help you pick out the right choice which you deem will aptly fit your purpose of giving out flowers. Better yet, try buying flowers online.
You better know the “language of flowers”. Flowers express and symbolize different things. Certainly online florists are aware of these. So you must catch up to them and let them give you a hand. Buying flowers online successfully proves a point. Thousands and thousands of buying flowers online options are around the world. Florists will likely give you suggestions which they deem to be perfect for you and the recipient. Designing flower arrangements is an art so better take note of who to deal with. Some online flower shops offer personalized ambience and quality with their services and products. You may be too trendy as you may need a florist who has a creative flair or too classy that you may want a conservative design. Well, you definitely can try buying flowers online as these things are catered to by them.
Buying flowers online give you the opportunity to know flowers well. In whatever occasion, buying flowers online can be an option. You can also ask questions about rare flowers, how they can be ordered and delivered. Respectable floral shops are out in the internet world. Some online florist services deliver on national basis, international basis, or both. Flowers can say it for you! No need to be thinking of romantic words or terms to say to her. Express it with flowers as they may speak louder than your words. They may mean a lot to the recipient. Flowers are truly a gift to us. They are not only beautiful but they are fascinating proofs of how powerful the effect nature has to humans. Save yourself the worry of driving from one flower shop to another. You can buy flowers online!

www.to-send-flowers.com


markd624@hotmail.com

A Day In A Flower Shop

A Day In A Flower Shop

By
CTBaird

Owning and working in a flower shop is, as everyone thinks, a lovely job.

There are times when it is a ‘yukky’ job too. More on that later.

When you open your shop in the early morning, there is always a wonderful smell, even though the flowers don’t have the strong perfume they once had, all together they smell wonderful.

I think the perfume permeates all around. Even when there aren’t many flowers out in the shop.

The previous afternoon’s flower delivery is put in the cool room overnight with the arrangements to be sent out on the first run delivery.

There is always plenty to do. The day starts early and the flowers purchased that morning are to be put away, the day’s orders sorted out and put in order of delivery times. The courier to be notified of what deliveries they will be needed for.

Then the inspiration takes over. The colors of the flowers will often inspire certain styles of arrangements.

What makes the florist’s job so interesting is, flowers are never the same, the color combinations, the textures, the filler flowers, the greenery, leaves, grasses, twigs. Bamboo, moss, pebbles, containers, these all add to what will inspire and delight the florist to what can be created.

When the orders are looked into, the type of person they are going to will always be taken into account.

A romantic will have the pretty pastels, delicate filler flowers and soft greenery.

A male will have an arrangement made up in maybe a timber box, strong colors, bold flowers, wonderful leaves and grasses.

There maybe a wedding to be prepared. Flowers for a wedding need special attention. They have to be fed and watered and opened, all so they will be perfect for the bride on her big day.

Sometimes wedding flowers arrive at the flower shop five days before they have to be assembled. The florist will tend to them daily to make sure they are just right.

The phone calls start coming in with orders for that day and later days. The customers walk in to the shop and like to see arrangements and bouquet already made.

Maybe they want to pick up something quickly and go, or maybe they want to see what styles are available to collect or send later.

Whatever they want or need, the florist will give them the utmost attention and make sure they are confident that what they order will be right flowers for the right occasion.

All this is the lovely pretty and pleasant part of working in the flower shop.

The not so nice side of things, the “yukky” side comes at the end of the day.

Flowers and the containers used to keep them in, have to be kept clean.

So at the end of the day comes the bucket cleaning time.
Mostly all buckets of flowers and greenery have the water changed every day. The flowers and greenery are put into clean containers with clean water, and then the used buckets are cleaned. There are also the buckets from the shop front, when flowers have been purchased off the display.

These are scrubbed with a brush or scourer, rinsed with a mild solution of bleach and water and rinsed again, ready for the next day.

Occasionally a greenery bucket can get missed and it maybe two days before it gets changes, now that is one not nice bucket, greenery left a day can get very smelly, not the nicest of smells.

The afternoon flower order comes in and the flowers are cut and watered and made ready for the early morning orders. The very early orders are prepared, special flowers for the next day’s orders are taken note of for the early morning trip to the markets and it is time to close up and go home.

The fringe benefit, I’ll call it that, for want of a better name, is the wonderful people you get to know, and each and every day there is at least one of these special people who will come into the shop, mostly to say Hi and have a chat.

Yes working in a flower shop is a specially wonderful way to earn a living.



CTBaird has owned and operated flower shops for 15 years, and is author of
How To Buy Flowers

America's Flower Man

There is an article in the Boston Globe, 22nd September 2005, by Linda Matchan, about America’s Flower Man. Dale Rohman.
You can read it here

He is 67 years old and an advocate for flowers for every one, every day, not just the special days or special times.

I agree with him totally. Flowers have such a wonderful affect on us all. To have a vase of fresh flowers near you, to be able so look at the beauty of flowers, will pick up your spirits like nothing else.

Flowers don’t have to be expensive. You can pick up a bunch to take home, they only need to have the stems cut and put into water. You don’t even have to have a vase, look around your home, jugs look great with flowers in, even a wind cooler, without the wine of course.

If you are sending flowers as a gift, yes, you do have to pay delivery, but when you consider, same day delivery, door to door, sometime only an hour or so after you ordering them, they are on their way to your someone special. The delivery cost for this service is minimal compared with other courier type services.

Specialist flower couriers who know how to look after them deliver flowers. So when they arrive at your special person’s place they look as good as when they left the flower shop.

If there is no one home to receive the arrangement, then the flower delivery person has certain guidelines to follow.

The flowers are always treated with the utmost care so your gift of flowers will arrive in perfect condition.

Next time you pass the flower barrow, or corner store with the market bunches of flowers outside, whatever catches your eye first, buy them, take then home and just enjoy their beauty.

You will find they give your home something special.

My best to you,

Carmel

PS Enjoy flowers today

Tips for Giving flowers

Tips for Giving Flowers
By CTBaird

Flowers give an added touch to any decor and even though the trend today in the modern home is a above, not everyone lives in a modern home.  So the home can dictate the style to give.
Birthdays
Flowers can be an excellent choice for birthdays, either on their own or to accompany a gift. The sky is the limit with birthday flowers, a good guide is the Flowers and Personalities section in My Flower Book
Get Well  
Very often flowers are the choice of gift for someone in the hospital or convalescing at home Unless you know the recipient is able to look after a cut flower bouquet, it is best to send an arrangement in a container so there is no fussing for them.  These need to be bright happy flowers, the cheer up happy kind
New babies
Pink for girls and blue for boys still applies when giving flowers after the new baby arrives.  Even though clothes wise not so many new babies are dressed in the traditional colors anymore, the traditional colors still apply to flowers.  Add a soft and cuddly toy, still the most popular toy is a teddy bear. 
There are also some beautiful ceramic keepsakes for the flowers to be arranged in and an arrangement is best, not cut flowers as most new mothers do not have the time nor inclination to take care of cut flowers.
Sympathy
Most of us turn to flowers when we hear someone has passed away, we send flowers to the family left behind and a tribute to the actual funeral.
When you send flowers for a bereavement it is best to have an arrangement made if they are going to the family, cut flowers often get left somewhere as to take care of them is just too much at the time.  So they may be found later and looking very sad.  Not what anyone wants at a time like this. 
Some people prefer bright, others feel a more traditional middle of the road style is more suitable.  Wreaths and sheafs are for the funeral and not the home.
Often after the funeral the arrangements are given to the family and they may take them home or give them to a hospital or rest home or to friends who have helped them through the sad time
When giving flowers as a gift, consider a few things first
What the person receiving them likes.
For example

• What colors do they like/dislike.


• Do they have a favorite flower.


• What kind of message do you want to send (if you are just friends then red roses may not be appropriate)


• Where are the flowers being sent, to a home or workplace.


• What the person like to do, like their hobbies et

If you tell your florist these things, she will be able to create just the right floral gift for you.

How To Buy Flowers

Hope this will help next time you think of sending flowers to someone.

My best to you
CarmelTips For Giving Flowers

 
 
 
 
 

Reminds me of the day I found my Prince in the coldroom

BBC NEWS | UK | England | Shropshire | Stowaway frog hops into flowers: "A man who tried to surprise his girlfriend with a bunch of flowers got a shock himself when a stowaway tropical frog appeared in the blooms.


Kerry Swinton, from Telford, Shropshire, was in a car admiring the petals when she said she noticed a pair of eyes looking back at her."

Read about it here

This reminds me of the time I found a little green frog amongst the camellia leaves in my coldroom, Thought my Prince had come.

I got in touch with the wildlife people to take him to the frog man who would know what area he came from and check him out to make sure he was healthy and then return him to his natural environment.

I was rather sad to see him go.

Bye for now,

Carmel

From Corn To Flowers and Loving It...

StandardNET/Standard-Examiner: "FARR WEST -- At least 100 wreaths hang on the walls at Lyle Dabb's produce stand, ready for the taking.

But the wreath that folks want to buy today is the one still taking shape on Dabb's worktable.

It's an autumn-looking concoction of golden corn tassel, orange safflower and yellow statice. As Dabb assembles one for a customer, others step up to ask for one just like it.

That's the way it is -- whatever he's working on is the most popular item, says Dabb, piecing clumps of plants together with his tanned and dirt-soiled hands.

'As long as we've got the wreath of the day going, we might as well make it,' the Farr West farmer says, starting in on another.

Of course, if you'd rather have something else, just look around. Dozens and dozens of wreaths of all descriptions -- flowery or plain, sleek or bushy, frilly or bare -- cover nearby sheds and chicken coops and dangle from tree branches."

This is a great article and one florists like me love to read, farmers growing flowers, we need them all especially when they have a love of it.

Read the rest of the article here

Want a complimentary chapter of my book, "How To grow Flowers" just click here, it's waiting for you, learn what the different flowers mean.

Take care
Carmel

CTBaird

How About A Rose Bush Instead of a Rose Bunch

Hi All,
Ever think about, instead of buying roses, why not give a rose bush instead.  They can even be grown in pots on a balcony.  Your friendly florist can arrange this for you, so why send one rose, when you can send the whole bush.
Choose one of the beautiful colors available.  Below is an article on how to take care of them, easier than you think.
Giving a plant will make sure you are thought of over and over again, every time the roses bloom.
Neat eh!!

Growing garden roses that will be the talk of your neighborhood. Find out how to do it in this article

Many people have the idea that roses are a real specialty, undertaken by only the most serious gardeners. Actually, roses can be low maintenance, although they do have their preferences. Once you learn what these are, you to will be able to delight your neighbors with the sight and smell of wonderful roses.
The most important first step in planting your roses is to decide where you will plant them. Roses bloom best in an area where they get at least six hours of sun every day. Morning sun is preferable, as this dries the dew quickly, making them less susceptible to fungus problems. If you are going to plant more than one rose, leave plenty of room in between each rose, as good air circulation also promotes good health. Once you have picked out your spot, you are ready to go buy your roses. Hybrid tea roses are the type that most people think of when they think of roses. They have long elegant stems with one flower on each stem. You can also choose floribunda roses which have smaller flowers, with multiple flowers per stem, and climbing roses which must have some sort of support system, such as a fence or trellis.
Once you have picked out your roses, it is time to prepare the soil to plant. Begin by digging a hole one and one half as deep and wide as the roots on the rose. Mix some compost or organic matter into the hole, and heap a pile of dirt into a cone shape in the bottom of the hole. Carefully spread the roots over the cone of soil and then fill the rest of the hole with soil, tamping down lightly. Be sure that the rose is planted at the same depth as it was in the nursery, and then water thoroughly. Mulch the area around the roses with shredded bark or compost to retain moisture and discourage the growth of weeds.
To maintain your roses you should trim off spent blossoms and prune any stems that look black or weak. At the first sign of insect or disease, spray the plant with a fruit and tree spray, available from your local garden center. If any leaves shrivel, get black spots or turn yellow, pick them off gently and burn them or throw them in the trash (do not add them to your compost). Fertilize your roses in the spring and late summer, and, if you live in a cooler climate, cut them back and mulch over them in the late fall, and you will have gorgeous roses for many years to come.


-----------------------------------------\\----------------------------------------

So there you are, now you know how to look after the roses, you can give first hand information to the one you send them to.

Take care

Carmel

PS If you haven’t checked out my offer yet, why not do so now just click here and get your free chapter from my book “How To Buy Flowers”

Secrets of the flower farmers

Hi All,

I just found this article, lets you see the other side of fresh flowers, the growers side. in today's world of everything being available whenever we want, this article gives an insight into what a grower goes through to get those beautiful flowers into the flower shops for you to take your pick.


Sunset: Secrets of the flower farmers; western growers reveal their tips for cut-flower success - flower gardening: "Professional growers who supply cut flowers to farmers' markets face the same constraints home gardeners do--not enough time, not enough space. But cut-flower pros have another challenge: They need to turn a profit. They can't afford to cultivate flowers that are hard to germinate, susceptible to diseases, or meager producers. They need reliable, trouble-free, long-blooming flowers; through experience, they've learned which plants meet those criteria.

With that in mind, we asked growers from California to Colorado to name their top-performing plants. To our surprise, they favored many of the same flowers; their top picks are listed on page 53. The growers also provided their strategies and tips for coaxing as many blossoms as possible out of every bed."


Read the full article here

Find out the tips and secrets to how to buy flowers for youself or for a gift, here's the link, click here

Want a free chapter from my book? Go here

Therapy Of Flowers Revealed

Articles: "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. "

Read the full article here


You know how pets can help people who are ill or elderly, flowers have theraputic powers too.

We all get that "feel good" feeling when we receive a beautiful bouquet or even a little bunch, doesn't matter, a single flowers will do the trick.

If you haven't experienced this wonderful feeling, don't wait for someone else to give you flowers, go get your own and you will find out first hand how they can lift your spirits.

Even if you are feeling good they can make you feel so much better.

Buy a flower today, pick a flower from your garden, just enjoy flowers today and every day.

Learn how to do it right.....take this link here and find out.

A Friendly Flower Idea from Canada

CNW Group: "TORONTO, Sept. 6 /CNW/ - On Wednesday, September 7th, 2005 residents of Toronto will have the unique opportunity to meet each other and develop new friendships when Canadiana Flowers hosts their 3rd annual FTD(R) Good Neighbour Day(R) event. Beginning 9:00am, Canadiana will give away 15,000 roses in bunches of a dozen, absolutely FREE to anyone who visits the Eglinton Square Shopping Centre location (located at the corner of Victoria Park Avenue & Eglinton Ave E), while supplies last. There is one catch, however - Stephen & Chris Mangos, the owners of Canadiana Flowers hope the goodwill is exactly that - 'catching'. Anyone who picks up a dozen free flowers will be asked to sign a promise to keep one of the flowers for themselves and give the others away to 11 different people - spreading goodwill and friendship in the community. Canadiana Flowers is also asking for a small donation to be given to help support Habitat for Humanity. A cheque presentation will be made to Habitat opening day of the Fall Home Show, at the Automotive Building, Exhibition Place on Thursday, September 29th, 2005"

The full report is here


Hey there in Toronto, get into this, sounds like a great way to keep things friendly.

When you want to buy flowers, find out how to do it right.....click here

This is Beautiful and something we should all remember

"Go and look on the kitchen floor,
You'll find some flowers there by the door.
Those are the flowers he brought for you.
He picked them himself: pink, yellow and blue.
He stood very quietly not to spoil the surprise,
you never saw the tears that filled his little eyes.'
By this time, I felt very small,
And now my tears began to fall.
I quietly went and knelt by his bed;
'Wake up, little one, wake up,' I said.
'Are these the flowers you picked for me?'
He smiled, 'I found 'em, out by the tree.
I picked 'em because they're pretty like you.
I knew you'd like 'em, especially the blue.'
I said, 'Son, I'm very sorry for the way I acted today;
I shouldn't have yelled at you that way.'
He said, 'Oh, Mom, that's okay.
I love you anyway.'
I said, 'Son, I love you too,
and I do like the flowers, especially the blue.' "


You can read the whole poem here


Would you like to know how to bring a smile to her face every time guaranteed, find out here

Flowers Add Inspiration For Fall Home Decorating

House and Home - Flowers Add Inspiration For Fall Home Decorating: "Fall is a time of year when color is all around us. Leaves are turning yellow, orange, red and crimson; the grass is fading from brilliant green to varying shades of yellow, orange and brown; and bright orange pumpkins and cornucopias abound. Let nature's palate serve as an inspiration for your fall home decorating by bringing a taste of the outdoors in."

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"One Stop at the Florist and You'll Sweep Her Off Her Feet -- Every Time, Guaranteed!"

Conditioning of Cut Flowers

Lincoln Journal Star Online: "To condition flowers, immediately immerse flowers in tepid water containing floral preservative almost up to the flower heads. Fuzzy foliaged plants such as dusty miller should not have their foliage submerged during conditioning. Remove the lower third of the foliage and immerse only to foliage level. "

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Flower buying a problem? Try this click here

Choosing Dinner Party Flowers For Your Table Centerpiece – Three Key Secrets

Choosing Dinner Party Flowers For Your Table Centerpiece – Three Key Secrets: "Are you planning a dinner party? Do you need to choose the right flowers for your floral table centerpiece?

Choosing the right flowers can be frustrating and expensive – or it can be simple and economical. Knowing three key secrets makes it simple for you to choose the right flowers to create a simple but beautiful floral centerpiece.

The key is to have a plan and stick with it."

Read the full article here

Find out how to say the right thing, click here

Study shows that flowers bring smiles

Study shows that flowers bring smiles: "Flowers always seem to lift flagging spirits. When someone is sick, hurting or grieving, friends and family send a bouquet of fresh flowers to cheer them up. When someone says or does something they regret, a handful of flowers affirm the ensuing apology. And fresh flowers accompany holidays, birthdays and weddings.

Flowers also easily can become a part of life everyday."

Read the article here

Anthiriums...Beautiful and Exotic in the Flower world

The Hindu News Update Service: "New Delhi, Aug. 7 (PTI): Farmers in Mizoram have seen good times and also weathered tough years, but a floriculture experiment they undertook three years ago promises to change their lives for the better, forever.

'The cultivation of Anthurium flower varieties is proving to be a success in Mizoram,' Horticulture Commissioner M L Choudhary, told PTI.

The Central Government under exclusive technology mission on horticulture provided the saplings of the ornamental flower to small farmers in that state in 2002 and it has helped them secure a regular income, said Choudhary.

Samuel Rosanglura, the Director of Mizoram Horticulture Department, said Anthurium flower cultivation fetches anything between Rs 6,000-10,000 per month to a farmer depending on the size of the nursery.

Currently, the State has three-lakh Anthurium saplings.

Anthurium is a special flower grown throughout the year in cold temperature, while flowering takes place at a slow pace during winter season.

At present, 33 exotic varieties of Anthurium are being produced in the picturesque northeastern state."

Read the ret of the story here


How To Buy Flowers for any Occasion with Confidence

A Feel Good Story about Flowers

Lifestyle - Great Falls Tribune - www.greatfallstribune.com: "For more than 40 years, Dan Simon nipped, watered and weeded his garden, producing award-winning flowers at the Montana State Fair.

This year, the Great Falls man's colorful creations almost didn't make it to the fair — until a helpul neighbor stepped in.

The result was more prizes for Simon, including one of the biggest floral prizes for a tall flower, a gladiolus.

'It was pretty exciting when he won the champion spike,' said Connie Smith, superintendent of the Floriculture Department at the Montana State Fair.

Simon, who won with a gladiolus, was unable to see the exhibits in person. But he wasn't surprised to win the champion spike.

'I've won 11 or 12 of 'em,' he said Friday.

The year has been a difficult one for the veteran flower grower."


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How To Buy Flowers for Any Occasion with Confidence

AskMen.com - Buying flowers

AskMen.com - Buying flowers: "From generation to generation, women have always loved receiving the gift of flowers. Simply put, flora are a symbol of life and beauty and thus, when received, women don't just feel vibrant and full of life, they feel beautiful and incredibly special.

Showing her your love with a specially-made bouquet will only increase her affection for you, and make her feel like she's still the most important person in your life. In turn, you will reap the benefits as it will be her pleasure to reciprocate the feelings you garnered her with.

i'm not so sorry"

How to Choose the Right Bulbs for Your Spring Flower Garden

How to Choose the Right Bulbs for Your Spring Flower Garden: "Choosing the right bulbs involves more than just selecting colors and cultivars. Timing, bulb size, and most importantly, bulb health are equally significant factors in designing your spring garden.

Before purchasing any bulbs, know the differences in bulb types. Along with true bulbs, several types of flowers, sold as bulbs, grow from the underground stem growth of rhizomes, tubers, and corms.

True bulbs are rounded, self-sufficient, underground storage organs. True bulbs are an incubator for a flower bud embryo already inside."

Dig cut flowers? Check out this nursery

Dig cut flowers? Check out this nursery: "Dig Nursery on Vashon Island is well known by anyone who's into rare and unusual plants, but it also is a destination in its own right, featuring spectacular demonstration gardens and intriguing works of garden art. The coup de gras comes once a year when the amazing flower-filled wholesale cutting garden is open to the public.

The one-acre garden supplies flowers to wholesale florists all around the area. You'll see a dazzling display of old-fashioned 'grandma plants,' including 12-foot-tall empress dahlias, huge blue delphiniums combined with yellow and red Tigridia shell flowers, old-fashioned asters, salvias, Amaranthus 'Love Lies Bleeding,' gazillions of zinnias and much more.

When you're exhausted from strolling, attend a class on making bouquets, learn how to create your own cutting garden or see if you can do the impossible by stumping me with your garden questions. The event runs Saturday and Sunday, 1-5 p.m., and all proceeds from the $5 entry fee benefit Vashon Allied Arts. For information, call 206-463-5096, or go to www.dignursery.com and click on 'Workshops.'"

Check out How To Buy Flowers for Any Occasion with Confidence

Flowers Truly Reach Your Soul

Flowers Truly Reach Your Soul: "Flowers are a simple, sincere and unobtrusive way to lift our spirits. They can bring a smile to a tired face or brighten up a room for someone who is under the weather.

Scientific research shows that flowers and plants have a beneficial impact on state of mind and emotions.

Rutgers University behavioral studies have proven that flowers provide a simple way to improve emotional health.

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."



How To Buy Flowers For Any Occasion With Confidence

Seeding Flowers Indoors: An Inexpensive Way to a Beautiful Summer Garden

Every year you plan that THIS will be the year you have pots and pots of lush plants on your balcony or deck. Then you visit your local nursery in the spring and reality hits -– the cost for your fantasy is just outrageous! Sound familiar?

But you can have the planters of your dreams at a fraction of the cost and with a choice of varieties far beyond what the local garden center offers. How? Start your own flower seeds now.

If you’ve never grown from seeds indoors before, it’s best to begin with just a few types. Easy starters: Trailing lobelia and petunias make a bright and simple garden for sunny spots. Licorice plant and dwarf nasturtiums are also attractive.

Once you’ve decided on your plants, you must know two things to determine when the seeds should be started: the last frost date for your area, and the time required before transplanting.

* The last frost date is the date beyond which there is a low chance (usually about 10%) of temperatures at or below the freezing mark. This is important because many traditional plants for hanging baskets are tender, that is, they will not survive when frozen. You may already know what the frost date is for your area. If not ask gardening neighbors or your local gardening center. If you are in the USA, visit http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/oa/documentlibrary/freezefrost/Spring32F_hires.jpg for information from the national Climatic Data Center.

* The time required before transplanting is different for each type of flower. You’ll see this listed in seed catalogs or on the seed packet. For example, a packet might tell you to “start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date.” Some seeds such as nasturtiums, zinnias, or cosmos may be sown directly outside but if you have to wait after the danger of a frost has passed, you may want to get a jump on spring by starting those inside too.

Licorice plants and geraniums need 12 weeks to sprout from seed. So if my last frost date is May 15th, I’ll want to start them around the last week of February. Petunias, impatiens and lobelia require 10-12 weeks, so I would start them around the first of March. Morning glories, which make a beautiful privacy fence from a plain piece of latticework, need six weeks from start to transplant, but can’t be put outside until two weeks after the last frost date. This would mean starting them indoors about mid-April. I’d start nasturtiums and zinnias about then too.

Your goal is to promote germination (with heat and water) and seedling growth (with light) while preventing your seedlings’ chief enemy, “damping-off” (with air circulation and proper drainage). Here are some tips for successful seed growing.

* Use plastic containers, about 2” deep, fairly wide and with multiple drainage holes. Growers’ cell packs are ideal but you can also use yogurt or cottage cheese containers as long as you sanitize them with a mild bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water) for 15 minutes and then punch several holes in the bottoms.

* Use commercial seed-starting mix. It’s sterilized and contains the necessary food to aid germination. You might also want to try using a product specially formulated to prevent damping-off.

* Plant seeds sparingly. You’ll have to thin them anyway. Some growers plant only two seeds per cell pot. If you’re planting in flat trays, place seeds 1/2” to 1” (1 to 2.5 cm) apart, depending on the seed size, and space the rows 1 1/2” to 2” (3-5 cm) apart. Make a depression in the soil with your finger or a pencil and plant the seed about three times as deep as its diameter. If the packet says the seed requires light to germinate, then put it just on the surface of the soil.

* Set the containers in a water-filled tray. This allows the pots to draw water from the bottom without disturbing the seeds. Cover tray and pots with plastic to help hold moisture and heat.

* Place the entire set-up on a heat source between 75 - 85° F (24 - 29° C). Although a heat mat designed for this purpose is ideal, you can also use the top of a fridge, or a spot near a radiator or space heater.

* Once the seeds have germinated, remove the plastic and put the pots (with the water tray) near a light source at a reduced temperature. Good light is crucial at this point to ensure good growth. Fluorescent shop lights within a few inches of the tops of the seedlings are perfectly suited. You can also try a sunny south window but ideally the light should be on the plants for 16 hours out of each 24-hour period. In my climate, we just don’t have 16 hours of daylight this time of year! Seedlings respond best to daytime temperatures of 60 - 70° F (16 - 21°C) and night temperatures of 50 - 60° F (10 - 16°C).

* Here’s where it becomes critical to prevent damping-off. One way to do this is to let an electric fan blow gently across the surface of the soil during daylight hours. There are also specially formulated products on the market that can be applied to the surface of the soil when you are planting seeds that will help stop damping-off from developing.

* When the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves (not the round little germination leaves), pull all but one plant per cell. It’s hard, I know, to pull up living plants but it’s necessary to prevent overcrowding that will kill all of them.

* When the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, start watering them (from the bottom) with fertilizer diluted to quarter strength.

* A week or 10 days before you plan to plant them outside, start “hardening off” the tender seedlings. Stop fertilizing, and cut the amount of water in half. If possible, keep them in a cooler space inside and start introducing them to the direct sun and fluctuating temperatures of the outdoors. Begin by setting the trays outside for an hour in the mid-morning or mid-afternoon ad gradually lengthen the time to several hours. Don’t put them out in heavy rain or cold, strong wind and be sure to bring them indoors at night.

Follow these steps and you’ll have a bounty of young, strong plants to fill your hanging baskets and pots. This year, you’ll have the planters of your dreams!

About The Author

Debbie Rodgers owns and operates Paradise Porch, and is dedicated to helping people create outdoor living spaces that nurture and enrich them. Visit her on the web at www.paradiseporch.com and get a free report on “Eight easy ways to create privacy in your outdoor space”. Mail to debbie@paradiseporch.com
debbie@paradiseporch.com



How To Buy Flowers For Any Occasion With Confidence.

Orchids Are One Of Nature's Most Beautiful Flowers

Orchids Are One Of Nature's Most Beautiful Flowers: "Orchids are beautiful flowers. The interesting thing about orchids is that they seem to draw people to them. There is hardly another plant or flower that has been able to capture the attention and desire of people the way orchids have. In the past orchids have been hunted and collected in almost every part of the world. Today there are millions of people who are absolutely devoted to the plant and its beautiful 'faces.'

It’s estimated that there are nearly 20 thousand varieties of orchids. They grow in many different climates and regions. There are some important factors to consider when growing your orchids. Light is probably the single most important factor in determining whether or not your plants will bloom. The appropriate amount of light is necessary for proper plant growth and nutrient storage. Without the right light levels, your plant either cannot produce enough food stores to power a blooming cycle. Too much light may burn the orchid and too little light will not support its needs.

An interesting feature of growing orchids is that a plant can live for a long time even with light that is less than ideal, but you probably won't have any flowers. On the other side thought a large and healthy plant that has grown for a long time without enough light will often put on an impressive display once given proper lighting. This means that orchids are very durable and resilient.

As you seek to grow the perfect orchid, take your time and look around as you decide where in your garden you’d like to grow orchids. It will be well worth the patient time and effort you put in to see splendid, beautiful orchids in full bloom.

About The Author

Mike Yeager
Publisher
http://www.a1-flowers-4u.com/
mjy610@hotmail.com"


How To Buy Flowers for Any Occasion with Confidence

Flowers Truly Reach Your Soul

Flowers Truly Reach Your Soul: "lowers Truly Reach Your Soul
by: Janie Redman

Flowers are a simple, sincere and unobtrusive way to lift our spirits. They can bring a smile to a tired face or brighten up a room for someone who is under the weather.

Scientific research shows that flowers and plants have a beneficial impact on state of mind and emotions.

Rutgers University behavioral studies have proven that flowers provide a simple way to improve emotional health.

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."


How to Buy Flowers for Any Occasion with Confidence

Fresh Flowers Aren’t Just for the Dining Room Table

ArticleCity.com - Fresh Flowers Aren’t Just for the Dining Room Table: "Fresh Flowers in All the Traditional Places

When you think of a beautiful floral arrangement, you often think of the dining room table, especially if it is holiday time. And why not? Beautiful dining centerpieces have graced our tables for centuries. Whether you are having a party, decorating for a holiday, or simply adding a beautiful touch, keep in mind that floral arrangements should complement the d�cor and mood of the room. Remember, too, you don’t have to have a traditional arrangement just because you find it in a traditional location. Instead of one big center arrangement, you may want to try a series of vases and candles on a fabric runner for a stunning effect."

Good tips,, more in How To Buy Flowers for Any Occasion

Farmers' Markets, Wonderful places and for Fresh Flowers too....

Arcs and Nodes: "'m a huge fan of Farmer's Markets. I like to check out the local ones wherever my travels take me. The all time most amazing Farmer's Market in the world, Pike Place Market, is in Seattle and close enough to visit whenever the mood strikes. But there is nothing like my 'Home' market, the one held here in the town where I live. The first day the market opens in April is my personal bookmark for the real start of spring and the last day of the market in October is always the first day of my winter. But right now, in high summer, the market is weekly blast of color, life, and activity that gives the weekend a great start and provides the rest of the week with the fresh tastes of summer fruits and vegetables and the brilliant flashes of color from fresh flowers. "


How to Buy flowers for Any Occasion and with Confidence

Get to Know Your Friendly Florist

Over the years, in my flower shops, I have had my real family and my flower shop family. We florists are friendly folk. It starts at the first date for a young couple and in no time at all, or so it seems, I am organising teachers' presents for their children. This is one of the great benefits of being a florist, the satisfaction of becoming a good friend to so many people.

First date, and yes, what we used to call "sorry flowers" when they had an argument, by the way, flowers work wonders when you want to make up after a spat. Then came the engagement, wedding, house warming and babies. And....we travelled all the way with them, great trip, I can assure you.

With my first shop, I found so many of my customers were not very knowledgeable when it came to different types of flowers. So educating my customers started and they passed with flying colors. The variety of flowers they choose and enjoyed was pretty to watch.

So now I want to bring my How To Buy Flowers book to you so you can gain the same knowledge and become the expert.

What Is Your Taste in Flowers?

When people think of flowers, it is always a different thought. Some immediately think of a huge bunch of multicolored and multi variety flowers, others think of roses, mainly red roses and then again there are the ones who think of the pretty and soft and mainly the same color tonings and similar variety.

All in all, flowers are as different as we are and can be made for whichever individual style.

That is where the florist and the flower shop comes in.

The florist can tailor make for the individual needs of the purchaser and the recipient.

There are people who like nothing better than taking care of the flowers, changing the water daily and making sure the flowers are happy. With all the tender loving care most fresh flowers will reward the carer with a beautiful display and many days of vase life.


Find out more at How to Buy Flowers for Any Occasion with Confidence

Cheers
CTBaird

Want To Be A Hit With All The Ladies!!!!!

Ever wanted to surprise someone and send them some flowers.......but......not sure how to go about it, well......help is at hand with......
How To Buy Flowers for Any Occasion With Confidence.

How To Buy Flowers For Any Occasion
With Confidence

This is my latest book on flowers. There is nothing like giving or receiving flowers, Check out my book while the introductory offer is on, not sure how long it will last. Get in early and save lots. Then you can spend the "lots" on flowers.....see Click this link

Cheers
CTBaird

Get Confused Buying Flowers for a Special Occasion?

What happens when you see this? You want to purchase flowers, don't know what to ask for, this type of thing doesn't help, does it?

Let me know what you would like to know to be able to get what you want when buying flowers, take this link and leave me your question How to buy flowers.

Cheers
Carmel
CTBaird

The Amazing Flowers: Next Directory Shopping Flowers Fresh Online: "Fresh Flowers delivered nationwide from Next Directory - online ordering of flowers arranged and wrapped by hand. Directory Help. Search only in FlowersSearch the Web. Flowers. Categories. Web Pages. Designer Flowers - http://www.designerflowers.org.uk/ Surrey florists offer hand-tied designer fresh flower bouquets for nationwide next-day delivery. ... Fresh flowers, chocolates, teddy bears and b"

Extend the Life Of Your Flowers By Steaming Them

Extend the Life Of Your Flowers By Steaming Them: "Extend the Life Of Your Flowers By Steaming Them
by: Gerry Belvedere

This method of extending cut flower life may sound a bit drastic but it is quite effective.

1. Have two clean buckets ready. Rinse them out with some bleach solution first.

2. Boil some water in a kettle and fill bucket No.1 with 2 inches of the boiled water.

3. Fill bucket No. 2 with 4 inches of cool water.

4. Cut a half inch or so from the stems of your flowers or foliage and put them in the hot water for 20 seconds, no longer.

5. Take them out and put them in the cool water.

6. You should add 2 teaspoons of household bleach and a pinch of citric acid to each bucket to inhibit any further bacterial growth.

The steaming induces a rush of natural sugars to the flower heads and gets the stems 'drinking'. Steaming is beneficial to flowers that may have been out of water for a length of time.

Enjoy your flowers!

About The Author

� Gerry Belvedere

Gerry Belvedere is a former artist who now runs her own online florist service at http://www.rosaflora-flowers.com. Rosaflora delivers flowers Australia wide and overseas and offers tips on getting the most out of your cut flowers."

How To Check If Cut Flowers Are Fresh

Now you can learn if the flowers you are buying are fresh, this article
will help you .

Carmel

How To Check If Cut Flowers Are Fresh: "How To Check If Cut Flowers Are Fresh
by: Gerry Belvedere
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. "

Welcome to our blog, How to Buy Flowers

Hello to all who buy flowers for what ever reason,

We will be bringing you great information and tips on buying flowers for loved ones, to say thank you, happy birthday, happy anniversary, welcome the new baby and most special of all, just because. We would love to hear from you, just press the comments button and introduce yourself.

Carmel