boubou's anthology

Verbena

2009-08-04T15:35:00.002+03:00

Verbena is a genus in the family Verbenaceae. It contains about 250 species of annual and perennial herbaceous or semi-woody flowering plants. The majority of the species are native to the New World from Canada south to southern Chile, but some are also native in the Old World, mainly in Europe.

from Wikipedia:
Verbena has long been associated with divine and other supernatural forces. It was called "tears of Isis" in Ancient Egypt, and later on "Juno's tears". In Ancient Greece, it was dedicated to Eos Erigineia. In the early Christian era, folk legend stated that Common Vervain (V. officinalis) was used to staunch Jesus' wounds after his removal from the cross. It was consequently called "Holy Herb".

Care - it's simple and easy to grow, blooming from Spring to Autumn.

Watering: regular when newly planted and until plant is well established. Then, water when it's dry.
Seeds may take up to a month to germinate, so it takes some patience in the beginning.

When it starts blooming. you'll have to remove the faded blooms so that it will go on blooming.

It needs much sun and for many hours a day, so you could also plant it in the garden. Just make sure to leave enough space (~15cm) between plants.
Fertilizing isn't necessary more than once a year.

Didiscus (Lace Flower)

2009-07-14T13:17:00.002+03:00

Didiscus is an annual that can be grown in greenhouses or outdoors. It is a native of Australia.

Seeds may be started indoors 8 to 10 weeks before frost-free weather. Watering is crucial in that phase.
When the soil is warm, they can be sown outdoors too.

After repotting:

Didiscus need a sunny spot and light, well-drained, moist soil. They should be planted 6 to 8 inches apart and the stems

supported with thin sticks. They won't do well in very hot summers.

They need plenty of fresh air all the time and full exposure to sun.

Watering: as mentioned before, the soil must be kept moist.

*Picking off the dead flowers will increase the blooms.

Nasturtium

2009-07-07T13:15:00.002+03:00

Nasturtium (tropaeolum majus) contains some 80 species. There is also a plant called nasturtium (watercresses).

They don't need special care, which makes them ideal for beginners.

*They need full sun and good drainage.

*Sow Nasturtium seeds with warm weather, early spring/early summer.

Water immediately after planting.

*Water weekly, but do not feed the plant any fertilizer (it will only make them blomm less!).

Most varieties spread rapidly, though you can grow them at flower boxes too sometimes (e.g. Peach Melba variety). They also don't like being transplanted.

Lisianthus

2009-06-27T09:40:00.002+03:00

Lisianthus or Eustoma is a genus of 3 species, found in warm regions of the Southern United States, Mexico, Caribbean and northern South America.
They are herbaceous annuals, growing to 15 – 60 cm tall, with bluish green, slightly succulent leaves, and large funnel shaped flowers growing on long straight stems.

Eustoma grandiflorum is particularly popular.

Care Tips:

* Outside or inside, full sunshine - many hours a day.
* Water every day or almost every day.
* May need to move it to a larger pot, especially if you notice the leaves are wilting.
* Prefer sandy soil.

Cosmos

2009-06-25T15:05:00.001+03:00

Cosmos bipinnatus

Cosmos bipinnatus, commonly called the garden cosmos or Mexican aster, is a medium sized flowering herbaceous plant sometimes grown in gardens.
It can be found in the wild in much of North America.
It originated in Mexico, where Spanish Priests cultivated it in their gardens.

There are many varieties in cultivation today, such as:
Sensation, Versailles, Sonata, Daydream (the one in the picture) etc.

Care:

* It prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 8.5.
* Flowering is best in full sun, although partial shade is tolerated
* The plant is tolerant to drought after germination, and is seldom subject to insect or disease damage

The flowers of Cosmos attract butterflies

Lovely Jasmin

2009-06-23T23:44:00.005+03:00

As many of you know, I started this blog mainly as a sort of dedication to my grandmother, when she started being ill. The reason, obviously, was her great love for flowers.
Trying to discover a new flower everytime, one that she wouldn't already have gotten as a present, was indeed a challenging task.
And that's how I learned more about exotic or rare types of flowers.
When I lost her last September I decided to "freeze" the blog. And said goodbye with a gardenia - one of her flowers she was always very proud of. Also, one of the flowers she would always give me -wrapped in a napkin- "to keep on my desk".

However, life goes on, and frozen is the last adjective that fits in. It would take nothing more and nothing less than a blog meme to remind me of this eternal truth.

It was the "Lovely Blog Award" I received today from Katerina Ante Portas - one of my oldest and dearest blog friends.

Katerina, once again, I really appreciate it.
So, it's no surprise that yours will be the first blog I'll mention.

Here are my 3 Lovely Blog Awards, to my first three (female) friends in the blogosphere:

*~ Katerina Ante Portas

*~ Marina

*~ Ellinida

(Girls, if you want to play/play again, you just need to mention it and award it to the blogs you find lovely!)

And, well, that would be no award without a flower.
My chinese jasmine, bought about a month ago (in a picture with a slightly nostalgic effect).
No matter what instructions they give you, the most essential is always the one:
"handle with care".

Grandma's gardenia

2008-09-16T19:40:00.001+03:00

Grevillea

2008-05-23T16:05:00.002+03:00

Grevillea is a diverse genus of about 360 species of evergreen flowering plants in the protea family Proteaceae, native to Australia, New Guinea, New Caledonia, and Sulawesi.

Plant grevilleas in a sunny position with light, gritty, free-draining soil that is low in phosphates. Although drought tolerant once established, they flower more freely and the foliage is healthier for occasional deep watering. Propagation is from half-hardened cuttings; a few cultivars are grafted, and the species may be raised from seed.

Traditional Aboriginal use

Grevillea flowers were a traditional favourite among Aborigines for their sweet nectar. This could be shaken onto the hand to enjoy, or into a coolamon with a little water to make a sweet drink. They might be referred to as the original "bush lollies".

The Christmas Rose - Hellebores

2007-12-02T22:04:00.000+02:00

Commonly known as Hellebores, members of the genus Helleborus comprises approximately 20 species.The genus is native to much of Europe, from western Great Britain, Spain and Portugal, eastward across the Mediterranean region and central Europe into Romania and Ukraine, and along the north coast of Turkey into the Caucasus. The greatest concentration of species occurs in the Balkans. One atypical species (H. thibetanus) comes from western China; another atypical species (H. vesicarius) inhabits a small area on the border between Turkey and Syria.

The so-called Christmas rose (H. niger), a traditional cottage garden favourite, bears its pure white flowers (which often age to pink) in the depths of winter; large-flowered cultivars are available, as are pink-flowered and double-flowered selections.

The most popular hellebores for garden use, however, are undoubtedly H. orientalis and its colourful hybrids (H. × hybridus). They flower in early spring, around the period of Lent, and are often known as Lenten hellebores, oriental hellebores, or Lenten roses. They are excellent for bringing early colour to shady herbaceous borders and areas between deciduous shrubs and under trees.

*Care Tips:

Most hellebores grow happily in shade. They appreciate plenty of organic matter in the soil, topped up with a mulch every spring.

All types prefer a sheltered position away from the effects of strong icy winds in winter and spring that can damage the emerging blooms and leaves.

H. niger isn't the easiest hellebore to establish in the garden but should take to a stony, fertile soil, preferably on the limey side, that doesn't get too dry in summer.

Ideally, seeds should be sown fresh in late summer, but if sown in the spring they'll germinate the following October. Expect to wait about three years for them to produce flowers.

*Legends and Facts:

Helleborus niger is commonly called the Christmas rose, due to an old legend that it sprouted in the snow from the tears of a young girl who had no gift to give the Christ child in Bethlehem.

In Greek mythology, Melampus of Pylos used hellebore to save the daughters of the king of Argos from a madness, induced by Dionysus, that caused them to run naked through the city, crying, weeping, and screaming.
Some historians believe that Alexander the Great died because of a hellebore overdose, when he took it as medication.

Achimenes

2007-11-14T22:50:00.001+02:00

Achimenes is a genus of about 25 species of rhizomatous herbs in the flowering plant family Gesneriaceae. They have a multitude of common names such as Magic Flowers, Widow's Tears, Cupid's Bower, or Hot Water Plant.
The genus is native to Central America and the Caribbean, with the largest number of species occurring in Mexico.

Achimenes species and hybrids are commonly grown as greenhouse plants, or outdoors as bedding plants in subtropical regions.
They are generally easy to grow as long as their basic requirements are met – a rich well-drained soil, bright indirect light, warmth (minimum temperature of 50º F), constant moisture, and high humidity. They have a winter dormancy and overwinter as scaly rhizomes, which should be kept dry until they sprout again in the spring.

Lachenalia

2007-10-16T23:12:00.001+03:00

Lachenalia is a genus of bulbs in the Hyacinthaceae family, which are usually found in Namibia and South Africa. Most of these plants have a dormancy period, and the new roots of these plants will always grow every year.

Origin: Southern Africa

Climate regions: All regions except Tropical (map)

Flowering Season: Between September and November

Sun: Full sun to part shade

Watering: Water when growth appears and keep the soil moist until foliage dies off after flowering. When the bulbs are dormant keep them relatively dry. Frost sensitive and may need protection using other plants in colder areas with late frosts.

Blue Daze

2007-10-07T23:12:00.001+03:00

(Evolvulus nuttallianus)

Plant Type: Annual
Native to Brazil and Paraguay.

It needs frequent watering and moist soil, high in organic matter. However it cannot tolerate wet soils so be careful of too much watering or rain.
It does best in full sun, and can survive partial shade.

Chinese lanterns

2007-09-17T15:34:00.001+03:00

(Physalis alkekengi)

Before including physalis in a bed with other plants, restrict its root area with an underground barrier. This will assist in restraining the rhizomes' underground march. The invasive characteristic can be used to advantage, however, in helping to anchor soil exposed to erosion.

As summer ends, the husks begin turning the vivid color for which the plant is so prized.
As soon as the color change is complete, cut the stems and dry them carefully. Remove the dried leaves before using the stems in dry arrangements. With careful handling the bladders will retain their striking color for several seasons. Lanterns left on the plant add their fascinating beauty to the fall flower garden and last well into winter.

Physalis prefers full sun, except in the very hottest regions, where it is happier with some shade. It is very tolerant as to soil type, but grows best in a moist, well-drained environment. If chewing insects such as flea beetles become a problem, discourage them with a dusting of rotenone. Physalis can also attract whiteflies; keep them under control with regular applications of insecticidal soap.

Snapdragon

2007-09-02T14:57:00.000+03:00

Snapdragon (or Antirrhinum)is a genus of plants named from the flowers' fancied resemblance to the face of a dragon that opens and closes its mouth when properly squeezed (thus the 'snap').

Sow seeds indoors eight weeks before the last frost. Then move seedlings outdoors.

Plant in rich, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Grow in full sun.
For cool season bloom, plant snapdragons in September.
Low drought tolerance.

Forget-me-not

2007-08-28T00:27:00.001+03:00

The Forget-me-nots are the genus Myosotis. In the United States of America, the forget-me-not is the state flower of Alaska, precisely the Myosotis alpestris.

The name was borrowed from Old French "ne m'oubliez pas" and first used in English in c.1532. Loans and translations of it can be found in most European and some non-European languages, like German "Vergissmichnicht" and, in Greek "μη με λησμόνει" (mi me lismόni).

In the 15th century Germany, it was supposed that the wearers of the flower would not be forgotten by their lovers.

Legend has it that in medieval times, a knight and his lady were walking along the side of a river. He picked a posy of flowers, but because of the weight of his armour he fell into the river. As he was drowning he threw the posy to his loved one and shouted "Forget-me-not". This is a flower connected with romance and tragic fate. It was often worn by ladies as a sign of faithfulness and enduring love.

However, forget-me-not is also a symbol of remembrance.
So, I want to dedicate this to the 64 -up to now- victims of the wildfires that still are destroying our small, and until three days ago beautiful country, Greece.

Musk mallow

2007-08-13T11:17:00.000+03:00

Abelmoschus moschatus (Musk mallow) is an aromatic and medicinal plant in the Malvaceae family, which is native to India. These seeds have a sweet, flowery, heavy fragrance quite similar to that of musk. Despite its tropical origin the plant is frost hardy.

Each 2- to 3-inch flower lasts only a single day, but blooms continue to open until frost. The plants have an upright habit and the foliage is attractive.

It thrives in hot humid climates and sunny locations, and will not tolerate drought. Soil should be completely warm before sowing or transplanting. If starting indoors, use transplantable pots to avoid disturbing the roots. Seeds should be soaked overnight before planting and germinate in 15 days.

Boronia

2007-08-04T17:47:00.001+03:00

As a general rule, members of the group require the following combination of conditions:

* Excellent drainage - they will not tolerate waterlogging
* Assured moisture - but freely draining
* Protection from direct summer sun - dappled shade is ideal
* Good light - not dense shade
* Light soils (eg sandy loams)
* Suitable climate

The last item is probably the most difficult to accommodate. Generally, it is pointless trying to grow species native to Mediterranean climates (dry summer/wet winter) in tropical and sub tropical areas. This means that plants such as the brown boronia (B.megastigma), which is renowned for its beautiful perfume, are not long term propositions in humid climates. They can, however, be grown for 1 or 2 seasons as small pot plants and then replaced.

White Mariposa

2007-07-26T12:00:00.000+03:00

The White Mariposa or Butterfly Jasmine (Hedychium Coronarium Koenig).
An endemic jasmine species used by the Cuban women in the wars of independence to pass messages to the battlefields. It symbolizes purity, rebelliousness and independence.

It grows in humid places as banks of rivers and lagoons, but it is also cultivated in yards and gardens of many Cuban houses.

Requires a rich moist soil and a sunny position. It succeeds in shallow water and can also be grown in a sunny border as a summer sub-tropical bedding plant.
Plants are not very hardy, they tolerate temperatures down to about -2°c and can be grown at the foot of a south-facing wall in the milder areas of Britain if given a good mulch in the winter.
The flowers have a delicious perfume which is most pronounced towards evening.
The tubers should be only just covered by soil.

Propagation
Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a warm greenhouse at 18°c.

*As today it is my birthday and Cuba's national day as well, I chose this flower that is their national flower. After all, considering last days' temperatures (45C) here in Greece, the climate wouldn't be so different from Cuba's!
A great day to all people.

Oleander

2007-07-09T14:58:00.001+03:00

Oleander (Nerium oleander), is a highly toxic evergreen shrub or small tree in the dogbane family Apocynaceae. It is the only species currently classified in the genus Nerium. Other names include Adelfa, Alheli Extranjero, Baladre, Espirradeira, Flor de Sao Jose, Laurel de jardin, Laurel rosa, Rosa Francesca, Rosa Laurel, and Rose-bay.

It is native to a broad area from Morocco and Portugal eastward through the Mediterranean region and southern Asia to Yunnan in southern China.

Oleander grows well in warm subtropical regions. It is drought tolerant and will tolerate occasional light frost down to -10°C. It can also be grown in cooler climates in greenhouses, conservatories, or as indoor plants that summer outside.
Oleander flowers are showy and fragrant and are grown for these reasons.

Light: Bright sun, some shade is acceptable.
Moisture: Versatile, can survive both dry and wet soils. Fastest growth occurs when provided moisture in times of drought.
Propagation: Semiripe cuttings are best rooted in summer. Also by seed, but selected cultivars may not grow true to form.

Cockspur coral tree (el Ceibo)

2007-07-01T13:29:00.001+03:00

Erythrina crista-galli is a flowering tree in the family Fabaceae, native to Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil and Paraguay. It is widely planted as a street or garden tree in other countries, most notably in California in the (United States). It is known by several common names within South America: ceibo, seíbo and bucaré, to name a few. In English it is often known as the Cockspur coral tree.

The tree's flower is the national flower of Argentina (ceibo). It is also the official city tree of Los Angeles, California (where it is referred to simply as "the coral tree").

Exposure: Full sun
Water: Moderate water
Drought-tolerant
Climate: Prefers a warm, dry climate. Grows larger in frostless areas
Diseases: Blight
Soil Type: Prefers sandy, moist but well-drained soil in sunny, exposed positions.
Bloom Time:
Late Spring/Early Summer
Blooms repeatedly

The seeds of all members of this genus are said to be poisonous

*Leyenda del Ceibo y cancion (really beautiful legend and song, in spanish)
sorry, no time to translate from spanish, you can try altavista's online translate tool here.

Chinese jasmine

2007-06-27T14:45:00.000+03:00

Other names:
Star jasmine,Confederate jasmine.
Confederate jasmine is not a "true" jasmine - these are members of the genus Jasminum (see downy jasmine (J. multiflorum ), pink jasmine (J. polyanthum ) and hardy jasmine (J. nudiflorum). The common name of Trachelospermum jasminoides honors the wonderful jasmine-like perfume produced by this vine

Location
Despite the common name, Confederate jasmine is not native to the American south - it comes from China but has been a popular garden plant in Europe and the U.S. for centuries.

Culture
Not particular as to soil but prefers well drained situations with some organic matter.
Light: Bright sun to part shade.
Moisture: Average water. Can tolerate drought once established.

Usage
Use Confederate jasmine to cover fences and pergolas or to clamber up tree trunks. Use to soften concrete and brick walls and absorb heat in urban landscapes. Works well in containers.

*Its white flowers are extremely fragrant. Few fragrances are more exotic than the fragrance of Star Jasmine its perfume fills a garden on a still hot summers night

Jasmine-Mint Sorbet, recipe here

Pineapple Guava

2007-06-24T16:28:00.000+03:00

The Feijoa (Feijoa sellowiana, synonym Acca sellowiana), also known as Pineapple Guava or Guavasteen, is an evergreen shrub or small tree, 1-7 m in height, originating from the highlands of southern Brazil, parts of Colombia, Uruguay and northern Argentina.

The fruit matures in autumn and is green, chicken-egg-sized, and ellipsoid-shaped. It has a sweet, aromatic flavour. The flesh is juicy and is divided into a clear jelly-like seed pulp and a firmer, slightly gritty opaque flesh nearer the skin. The fruit drops when ripe, but can be picked from the tree prior to the drop to prevent bruising

It is a warm-temperate to subtropical plant that will also grow in the tropics but requires some winter chilling to fruit. In the northern hemisphere it has been cultivated as far north as western Scotland but does not fruit every year, as winter temperatures below about -9°C will kill the flower buds. Large quantities are grown in New Zealand, where the fruit is a popular garden tree and the fruit is commonly available in season.

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 15°F (-10°C)

Heat Tolerance: Partial shade during the hottest hours of the day in the hot deserts

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Origin: Southern Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Northern Argentina

Growth Habits: Evergreen tree, slow growing, up to 20 feet; gray-green leaves with silvery underside

Watering Needs: Drought resistant once established, but lack of water will cause fruit to drop, does not like to be kept too wet

Propagation: Seeds (unpredictable quality), cutting, layering and grafting.

*Strawberry Feijoa Refresher Recipe

Ingredients:
2 large feijoas, guavas
1 cup strawberries, fresh or frozen
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup milk, 1% lowfat
1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1 cup plain lowfat yogurt, stirred

Directions:
Halve the feijoas, scoop out the pulp and discard the shell. In a blender or food processor fitted with a metal blade, puree the pulp and strawberries with the sugar.

In a small saucepan, combine the milk and gelatin, let stand for 1 minute. Cook and stir over low heat until the gelatin dissolves. Combine with the corn syrup and fruit. Stir in the yogurt.

Freeze in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer's directions.
Serves 8

Abutilon

2007-06-19T21:15:00.001+03:00

Abutilon, Chinese Bell Flower, Chinese Lantern, Mallow, Indian Mallow, and Flowering Maple.

Abutilon is a large genus of about 150 species of broadleaf evergreens in the mallow family (Malvaceae) and is found in the tropical and subtropical regions of all continents.
Leaves alternate, often veined and resembling a maple leaf.

How to Grow
Abutilon makes a good show of color. Start seeds indoors in midwinter at 70-75° F (21-24° C) and set in the garden after last frost. Propagate by taking tip cuttings before fall frost or in late spring. Needs afternoon shade. A good pot plant or houseplant. Prefers warm weather.

Bergenia

2007-06-14T23:20:00.001+03:00

Bergenias are perennial, semi-evergreen plants which originated in central Asia. The Bergenia has been cultivated in home gardens since the early part of the nineteenth century. In the past hundred years or so botanists have created many new hybrid cultivars of this plant. Unfortunately, this very worthwhile plant seems to be overlooked by many gardeners as they make their garden plans.

They are excellent as ground cover, rock garden or border plants.
They will tolerate a wide range of lighting, soil and moisture conditions, however the optimum conditions for these plants are sun, (light shading from hot sun) and moist, rich humus soil.

Dry soil will tend to slow the plants growth, so water should be provided during dry periods.

In cold areas, if your Bergenias are growing in full sun, they should be covered lightly with mulch, to prevent burn.
You should also provide protection by planting a shrub or placing a boulder as a wind block if you live in an area prone to strong, cold winter winds.

Bergenias may be planted either in the spring or early fall. The best time to divide them is in the spring, after they have finished blooming.

New plants can be started by dividing and resetting these old clumps, by taking cuttings from the crown of the plant, or from seed.

Scabiosa

2007-06-09T20:05:00.001+03:00

Scabiosa plants have many small flowers of soft lavender blue, lilac or creamy white colour borne in a single head on a tall stalk. Scabious flowers are nectar rich and attract a variety of insects.

The species, Scabiosa columbaria, hails from the Mediterranean region of Europe, North Africa and western Asia where it grows in dry, sunny grasslands, rocky hillsides and open woods.

The scabiouses like neutral to slightly alkaline conditions, so they will benefit from the addition of lime to the soil. Deadhead to prolong flowering. Divide the clumps every few years to stimulate growth.
Light: Full sun.
Moisture: Scabious can take pretty dry conditions and requires a well drained soil. It is especially important to withhold water in winter.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 4 - 10. Mulch for winter protection. If deadheaded conscientiously, 'Butterfly Blue' will flower almost continuously in frost-free areas except during the hotest mid-summer weather.
Propagation: Seed should be sown in fall as soon as it ripens, and left out over winter. Mature plants may be divided in spring or early summer. Cuttings taken in summer can be rooted.

Delphinium

2007-03-28T16:32:00.000+03:00

Delphinium is native throughout the Northern Hemisphere and also on the high mountains of tropical Africa. The common name, shared with the closely related genus Consolida, is Larkspur.

Delphiniums perform best in a sunny, open site with fertile, well-manured soil.
Remove weak growth in spring, leaving only vigorous shoots.
Water generously every ten days in spring and early summer.
Feed regularly to boost flowering. Removal of old spikes may prompt further flowering in late summer. Tall cultivars do need support - four stakes per plant, put in place around the plant in spring works best. Add new ties as the plant gains in height.

All parts are poisonous if eaten, and foliage may cause skin irritation.

Bouvardia

2007-03-25T01:52:00.000+02:00

Name: The flowers are named after Parisian doctor Charles Bouvard, personal physician to Louis XIII and director of the Jardin des Plantes.
Description: Bouvardia are certainly not common flowers. If you study them closely, you find loose clusters of tubular starlet flowers fringed with leaves and carried on tall stalks. Each stem, resembles a small bouquet in bright firework colours. They also have a faint delicate scent.
Origin: Native to Mexico. Introduced to the UK in 1854, but are chiefly grown in sub-tropical zones and under glass in Holland.
Colour: Shades of pinks and red as well as white.
Availability: All year round.
Family: Their closest relatives are the fabulously fragrant gardenias.
Varieties: They have wonderful names like 'Pink Luck', 'Royal Katty' and 'Albatross'.
Care Tips: Cut the stems at a slant with a sharp knife and don't forget to use the special flower food usually provided for bouvardia. They are particularly prone to water loss and should not be left out of water. If you do not have the special flower food, recut the stems frequently and remove excess foliage.
When grown as houseplants, a minimum winter temperature of 7 °C is required, with a minimum of 12 °C while in flower. Propagation of the cultivars is by cuttings taken in late spring or summer, which need to be kept at a temperature of 20 °C by night and 25 °C during the day, and shaded when required.

Hoya bella

2007-02-25T12:53:00.000+02:00

Name: Hoya is named in honour of Thomas Hoy(1788-1809) who was the head gardener for the Duke of Northumberland at Syon House. Bella as from bellus, beautiful.

Naturally occuring in Burma & India

Sun Exposure:
Sun to Partial Shade /Light Shade
This plant is suitable for growing indoors
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater
Requires consistently moist soil; do not let dry out between waterings
Suitable for growing in containers

Handling plant may cause skin irritation or allergic reaction

Diascia

2007-02-06T15:58:00.000+02:00

Diascias generally make small plants with vertical spikes of tiny flowers which add a colourful, carefree touch in shades of mauve, pink and orange. They also have a long flowering season, are disease free, easy to propagate, and prolifically flower without any pampering.

Site and soil preferences

Diascias like free-draining soil (limy, neutral or acid) and, though they tolerate poor conditions, will flower better and spread more confidently if the ground has a crumbly structure. Good sun is vital.

Planting associations

In borders, diascias can be very effective amongst the silvery foliage of artemisias.

Care

Make sure that plants are well watered in dry spells. When used in a border, an annual feed is sufficient. If planted in containers where their roots are a little more restricted, feed at least every three weeks. If plants get tired and leggy, cut off old flower stems and trim back to encourage new growth.
Tear out and discard plants after heat arrives and plants become ratty-looking.

Phlox

2007-01-18T16:41:00.000+02:00

Phlox is a genus of 67 species of annual or perennial flowering plants that flower in early spring. They are native mainly to temperate North America, with a few species in northeastern Asia.

Phlox range in color from pale blue to bright red to white. Some species such as Phlox glaberrima (Smooth Phlox) grow to 1.5 m tall, while others, such as Phlox stolonifera (Creeping Phlox), form low mats only a few centimetres in height.

Phlox is best grown in well-drained soil, exposed to partial shade to partial sun. The foliage of Phlox is sometimes eaten by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species including Dot Moth, Gazoryctra wielgusi, Hummingbird Hawk-moth and Schinia indiana (This last named species feeds exclusively on P. pilosa). The plant is also popular with rabbits and deer if no other food source is available.

Angel's Trumpet

2007-01-06T16:24:00.000+02:00

Brugmansia is a genus of six species of flowering plants in the family Solanaceae, native to subtropical regions of South America, along the Andes from Colombia to northern Chile, and also in southeastern Brazil.
They are known as Angel's Trumpets, sharing that name with the closely related genus Datura. The genus differs from Datura in being perennial and woody (Datura species are herbaceous), and in having pendulous (not erect) flowers.

The name Angel's Trumpet refers to the large, very dramatic, pendulous trumpet-shaped flowers, that have a delicate, attractive scent with light, lemony overtones, most noticeable in early evening.

Cultivation

Brugmansia are easily grown in a moist, fertile, well-drained soil, in full sun to part shade, in frost-free climates.

They begin to flower in mid to late spring in warm climates and continue into the fall, often continuing as late as early winter in warm conditions. In cool winters, outdoor plants need protection, but the roots are hardy and will resprout in April or May.
The species from the higher elevations, B. sanguinea and B. vulcanicola, prefer moderate temperatures and cool nights, and may not flower if temperatures are very hot.

Most Brugmansias may be propagated easily by rooting 10–20 cm cuttings taken from the end of a branch during the summer.

*Attention !

All parts of Brugmansia are highly toxic.

Nemesia

2007-01-05T01:57:00.000+02:00

Growing on Keep moist and cool, plants do not recover well from drought.

Garden conditions Good in containers or beds and borders but hates so drought so ensure the soil is kept moist. Best in cool gardens or in partial shade in hot areas.

Planting out Plants are neither frost hardy nor tolerant of sudden heat and bright light so harden plants off carefully.

Pests and diseases Greenfly can be a problem on both seedlings and garden plants, browning of the foliage is usually caused by drought and heat stress.

Snowflake

2006-12-23T01:42:00.000+02:00

Spring Snowflake (Leucojum vernum) and Summer Snowflake (Leucojum aestivum) are bulbous plants belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family. They are the only species currently classified in the genus Leucojum.

The snowflakes are native to southern Europe, from the Pyrenées to Romania and western Russia, but they have been introduced and have naturalized in many other areas, including the east coast of North America. They have narrow, strap-like, dark green leaves. The flowers are small and bell-shaped, white with a green (or occasionally yellow) spot at the end of each petal. They have a slight fragrance.

Light: Snowflake prospers in full sun to light shade. Like daffodils, they can be grown under shrubs and trees that are leafless in the late winter and early spring.
Moisture: Snowflake likes a moist, but well drained soil. It tolerates drought when dormant in the summer, but should have regular watering during its springtime period of flowering and growth. Summer snowflake tolerates clayey, even waterlogged soils, too.

Propagation: The bulbs of snowflakes multiply freely and can be divided every 3-5 years. They are best planted in autumn, 5-10 cm deep and spaced about 15 cm apart.

Rosa rugosa

2006-11-28T12:53:00.000+02:00

Rugosa Rose or Japanese Rose (Rosa rugosa) is a rose native to eastern Asia, in northeastern China, Japan, Korea and southeastern Siberia, where it grows on the coast, often on sand dunes.

Rugosa rose hybridises readily with many other roses, and is valued by rose breeders for its considerable resistance to the diseases rose rust and rose black spot. It is also extremely tolerant of seaside salt spray and storms, commonly being the first shrub in from the coast. It is widely used in landscaping, being relatively tough and trouble-free. Needing little maintenance, it is suitable for planting in large numbers; its salt-tolerance makes it useful for planting beside roads which need deicing regularly.

The plant prefers light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, requires well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It requires dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Hemerocallis

2006-11-17T23:17:00.000+02:00

The daylilies comprise the small genus Hemerocallis of flowering plants in the family Hemerocallidaceae. Despite the name they are not true lilies (Lilium, Liliaceae). The name Hemerocallis is based on the Greek words for day and beauty, which reflects the fact that the individual flowers last for only one day. The flowers of most species open at sunrise and wither at sunset, to be replaced by another one (sometimes two or none) on the same stem the next day; some species are night-blooming.

Succeeds in most soils, including dry ones, preferring a rich moist soil. Grows well in heavy clay soils.

Succeeding in sun or shade, it produces more flowers in a sunny position though these flowers can be shorter-lived in very sunny positions.
Succeeds in short grass if the soil is moist.

Seed - sow in the middle of spring in a greenhouse.
Division in spring or after flowering in late summer or autumn.

Calibrachoa

2006-11-15T18:52:00.000+02:00

Calibrachoa are closely related to the Petunia. However on further examination it has been found that there are major differences in chromosomes and breeding behaviour between Calibrachoa and Petunias. The name Calibrachoa comes from Antonio de Caly Bracho, who was a Mexican professor of pharmacy.

Calibrachoa is vegetatively propagated by cuttings. Plant rooted cuttings from February to March for a spring finish.
Calibrachoa requires very high light and grows best in full sun during production. Provide finishing temperatures of (65-70°F). Make one soft pinch at liner planting.

Growing media should be kept moist to avoid wilting. Maintain a pH of 5.5-6.0. Watch for iron deficiencies (new growth turning yellow) associated with high pH.

Calibrachoa is susceptible to aphids and pythium root rot. Drench a fungicide labeled for pythium, especially on upright varieties just after transplanting.

Mandevilla

2006-11-04T18:52:00.000+02:00

Indoors, mandevillas need curtain-filtered or bright indirect sunlight. Provide night temperatures of 60 to 65 ° F and day temperatures above 70 ° F. Plant in a mixture of equal parts peat moss, potting mix and builder’s sand. In spring and summer, feed every two weeks with a fertilizer high in phosphorus such as 10-20-10.

Outdoors, grow mandevillas in partial shade. They need rich, well-drained, sandy soil with humus added. Provide a frame, trellis or stake for support. Pinch young plants to induce bushiness.

Since 45 to 50 ° F is the minimum temperature that can be tolerated by mandevilla, plants should be moved indoors for the winter. Before bringing them indoors, examine them carefully for pests. Look under the leaves, in the leaf axils, and in every conceivable nook and cranny for insects and their eggs. Remove any diseased or dead leaves by hand. Insect-infested plants can be doused with a forceful spray of water to dislodge the pests, or you can use insecticidal soaps or other appropriate insecticides labelled for use on your plant. You may have to prune some of the plant to compensate for any root loss.

Move the plants to a lighted location where the temperature is above 45 to 50 ° F. Reduce the frequency of watering to coincide with the plants’ rest periods induced by the cooler temperatures and reduced light.

In late winter or early spring before growth begins, prune by removing old, crowded stems and shortening others. Even if mandevilla is pruned almost to the ground, it will bloom the same summer on the new shoots, which develop from the base of the plants.

Jatropha

2006-10-25T08:13:00.000+03:00

(peregrina)

Peregrina is an evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy leaves and clusters of star shaped bright scarlet or vermilion flowers.Peregrina is tolerant of a wide variety of soils so long as they are well drained. Peregrina blooms on the current year's growth so it can be pruned at any time of the year. It handles pruning well and can be kept to shrub size, trained to a tree form or used in espalier.

Growth Habits: Small trees to 20 feet, generally up to 7 feet high (2.1 m).

Origin: Peregrina is native to the West Indies, and is especially well known from Cuba and South America.

Frost Tolerance: Needs south exposure, or some frost protection.

Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade.

Watering Needs: Regular water in summer, keep soil moist but not wet.Peregrina is drought tolerant.

Propagation: Seeds or cuttings in spring.

Plumbago indica

2006-10-19T23:59:00.000+03:00

Sun Exposure:
Light Shade

Water established plants one to two times a week if there is no rain; do not overwater

Danger:
All parts of plant are poisonous if ingested

Bloom Color:
Rose/Mauve
Scarlet (Dark Red)

Bloom Time:
Late Winter/Early Spring

Foliage:
Herbaceous
Smooth-Textured

Other details:
New leggy shoots lean over, branch and flower, so do not cut them off and it will spread .

Cassia fistula

2006-10-16T11:42:00.000+03:00

Native to the tropical regions of Asia, Cassia fistula is naturally distributed across India, Indochina, and Malaysia. It has
also been introduced to the tropical regions of Africa and America.
Cassia fistula blooms and fruits virtually throughout the year at a young age in most places where it is cultivated. In its natural habitat, the fruits (legumes) ripen in the months of April and May

Description: A tropical ornamental tree with a trunk consisting of hard reddish wood, growing up to 40 feet tall. The wood is hard and heavy. It has showy racemes, up to 2" long, with bright, yellow, fragrant flowers. These flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.
The fruit is a legume is 30-60 cm long and 1.5-2.5 cm broad, with a pungent odour and containing several seeds. The seeds are poisonous.

Not recommended for dry climates. Growth is best in full sun on well-drained soil; it is drought and salt tolerant, but will be damaged by even short spells of freezing weather. It can be subject to mildew, leaf spot and root diseases.

Seeds can be stored at room temperature and remain viable for 1 year.

The Golden Shower Tree (Cassia fistula) is used as an ornamental and shade tree around houses; on the edges of roads; and in the streets, parks, and gardens of towns.

Frangipani

2006-10-12T12:07:00.000+03:00

Plumeria (common name Frangipani) is a small genus of 7-8 species native to tropical and subtropical America. The genus consist of mainly deciduous shrubs and trees. P. rubra (Common Frangipani, Red Frangipani), native to Mexico, Central America, and Venezuela, produces flowers ranging from yellow to pink depending on form or cultivar. The genus is also related to the Oleander, Nerium oleander.
Both are known to possess poisonous, milky sap, rather similar to that of Euphorbia. In Mexico, the Nahuatl (Aztec language) name for this plant is "cacalloxochitl" which means "crow flower." It was used for many medicinal purposes such as salves and ointments.

From Mexico and Central America, the plumeria has spread to all tropical areas of the world, especially Hawaii, where its flowers are the ones used to form the colorful, tropical flower necklaces (lei).

Native to Tropical America, from southern Mexico, northern South America and the West Indies, Plumeria is rated a small tree, to about 15-18 feet and is seen in a variety of solid colors. We have seen some grow much larger.

This tree prefers full sun or shifting shade, hot weather and humidity during blooming months. Not too fussy for soil conditions, Plumeria can grow fairly close to the beach, but without full wind. Enriched soil is preferred and good drainage should be provided.

In the fall months the leaves start to look sick and fall off one by one. It's natural.

Other common names throughout the tropical world :

* Dead Man's Finger (Australia)
* Jasmine de Cayenne (Brazil)
* Pagoda Tree or Temple Tree (India)
* Egg Flower (southern China)
* Amapola (Venezuela)

Arts&Lit :

Frangipani: A Novel by Celestine Hitiura Vaite

Gaillardia

2006-10-02T22:01:00.000+03:00

These perennials generally grow from two to three feet tall, but there are also many new hybrid strains which include dwarf varieties that only attain a height of a foot, and colors ranging from yellow to red or orange.

Blanket flowers do best when grown in full sun and light, well drained soil. Soggy soil will cause root rot in winter.

Plant them 15-18 inches apart.

They thrive in the summer heat, with only moderate watering and feeding.

They are easily grown from seed which may be sown directly into the garden from early spring up until early summer, where they will bloom for you the first year.
Perennial hybrid Gaillardias should be divided and replanted every two or three seasons. Best if divided in August or September.

Gaillardias are an excellent choice for your butterfly garden, or for cutting. If you keep the flower stalks cut off as they fade, you will enjoy these flowers from mid June, until the first frost.

Hollyhock

2006-09-17T21:21:00.000+03:00

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Origin: Eastern Mediterranean

Growth Habits: Annual, tall spikes of flower reaching 9 feet (2.7 m) for some varieties

Watering Needs: Regular water

Propagation: Seeds in late summer or spring

Growing 4 to 8 feet high, hollyhocks are an old garden standard, particularly useful for background screening or where vertical accent is desired. They grow best in full sun in deep, rich, well drained soils. Some varieties act as reseeding biennials. Annual types are available that flower the first year. Many colors are available from pastels to near black.
Linnaeus, who named this plant, used both Alcea (Latin form) and Althea(Greek form) from the Greek word for 'to cure'

Cultural Practices:
Avoid soils that are too rich. Check for rust and spider mites.

Propagation:
Sow in September for spring bloom. Protect the seedlings from snails and slugs. They can also be sown indoor at 50-55°F (10-12°C)

Fall aster

2006-09-08T20:07:00.000+03:00

Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Flower Color: Lavender blue with yellow center

Water Requirements: Water 2-3 times per week until established; do not overwater
Drought-tolerant;
Prefers a well-drained soil.

Pruning: Trim back in late spring to encourage bushy plants.

Other details:
This plant is attractive to bees, butterflies and/or birds
This plant is resistant to deer

Calendula

2006-09-02T20:25:00.000+03:00

Calendulas are a very prolific, easy to grow annual flower. Also known as "Pot Marigolds", Calendulas produce orange, yellow, and lemon colored flowers on long stems. Flowers will bloom from mid-summer all the way until frost.

Propagation:

Calendula are grown from seeds. Sow seeds early in the season and cover lightly with 1/4" of garden soil. They germinate easily and will grow quickly, producing their first of a continual display of blooms by mid-summer.

Select a location in your garden where they can grow undisturbed for years and years, as these flowers will drop their seeds and reseed your flowerbed each year. Space plants 15" apart.

How to Grow:

Calendula like rich, well drained soil, but are very tolerant of average to slightly poor soils. Improving your soil quality will produce much healthier plants and flowers, so add plenty of compost. Add a general purpose fertilizer once a month.

Once your Calendula is established, it should grow well, even if left unattended. Water them during dry periods, once or twice per week.

Add mulch around the plants for appearance and to keep weeds down.

Early in the summer, your plants will begin to produce large flowers on long stems. They will continually produce flowers even after the first light frost. As you pick the flowers for indoor arrangements, look carefully on the stem and the undersides of the leaves for aphids. Pick dead blooms to keep the plants neat looking and to encourage new blooms.

Calendula is a somewhat hardy annual. It will not be harmed by a light frost either in the spring or fall. It will succumb to heavy frosts or freezes.

Insect and Disease:

The biggest drawback to Calendulas is that insects like them and they are subject to plant disease. Aphids are the most common insect problem. They are readily treated with an insecticidal soap or repellent. Sevin should also work well. Inspect flowers closely before bringing them indoors.

The most common disease are mildews resulting in hot, humid weather or rainy weather. Use fungicides if mildew problems

Hibiscus

2006-08-28T00:31:00.000+03:00

You need to know which one you have. Unfortunately, garden centers, nurseries and home improvement centers lump all hibiscus together.

If your hibiscus has glossy deep green leaves, 3-6" flowers of red, pink, orange, yellow, double or single flowers, it is probably a TROPICAL hibiscus. While many common garden varieties have the 3-6" blooms, many of the hybrid varieties of tropical hibiscus can have blooms around 10" in diameter under ideal conditions.

Another way to check is if the flowers are salmon, peach, orange, or yellow, or double flowered, then you probably have a TROPICAL hibiscus. Hardy hibiscus do not come in these colors or in doubles! Many tropical hibiscus flowers have more than one color in a bloom either in bands or as spots.

If your hibiscus has dull medium green heart shaped leaves, dinner plate sized white, pink or red flowers with HUGE, bomb shaped buds (2-4" in length!), it is a perennial, hardy hibiscus.

Hardy hibiscus need very little care over the winter, they are root hardy to about zone 5 with no protection. They die to the ground each year.

If you have a tropical hibiscus, remember it is a TROPICAL. They will not tolerate more than a night or two of light freezes. Even one hard freeze (below 25) could kill the plant. These plants are native to sunny, warm and usually humid tropical places.

They detest cold, rainy weather and cold, wet soil. They will not reliably survive outdoors north of zone 9. In all other areas, it may be a good idea to bring them indoors BEFORE temps regularly drop below 40-45 F at night to avoid any damage.

Treating your tropical hibiscus correctly will give you years of enjoyment. But remember, they are not immortal! Some are spent after 4 or 5 years in a pot and should be tossed away at this point. Try some of the many and never ending new hybrids being developed!

Alstroemeria

2006-07-21T23:58:00.000+03:00

Peruvian lily

Planting

Look for plants at nurseries in spring and summer.
Plant alstroemeria in full sun in well-drained soil.
Add a light application of organic fertilizer to the planting hole.
Place the plants no deeper than they were growing in the containers.
Set the plants 1 foot apart.
Mulch around but not on top of the plants with 3 inches of organic compost.
Water well until soil is completely moist.

Caring

Cut off old flower stems with bypass pruners.
Mulch around but not on top of the plants in early spring with 3 inches of organic compost.
Water well weekly until soil is completely moist in summers with no rainfall.
Light Requirement: full sun full sun/part shade

Stephanotis

2006-06-24T23:17:00.000+03:00

(Madagascar jasmine )

Care Tips - Does not like to be moved. Enjoys a very bright though not sunny position. Does not tolerate frost, wet or cold conditions. Flowers early summer to early autumn.

Temperature
The temperature should be moderate 60-85F (16-28C), preferable at the cooler end during the rest period. Temperatures below 40F (7C) should be avoided.

Watering
Even watering throughout the growth season, March - September, especially if your plant is in bud or bloom. Keep somewhat on the dry side during the rest period.

Feeding
Feed with a fertilizer suitable for tropical plants during growing season.
Mist the leaves (never the flowers) often in summer to produce humidity.

Penstemon

2006-06-02T20:11:00.000+03:00

Soil: Penstemons, by their very nature, will thrive in almost any conditions but most of the European Hybrids prefer an open and sunny position in well drained soil. Drainage is important, particularly if you are leaving the plants to over-winter in a border, as they really do not like the crown of the plant being constantly wet.

Pruning: Removing seed heads during the growing season, with some exceptions where the seed heads will improve the look of the plant, will help to encourage more flowers but do not cut back the flowering stems in the autumn as they help to protect the crown of the plant and its new shoots from the frost. When new shoots appear at the base all danger of heavy frost is passed then you can cut most penstemons well back being careful not to damage the new shoots.

Planting: Take account of the spread of each penstemon, especially in mass border plantings, and be careful not to introduce pest affected plants into established plantings. Many penstemons, especially those marked as 'patio varieties', are suitable for pot culture and are particularly colourful in a small space.

Muguet

2006-05-30T01:40:00.000+03:00

(Lily of the valley)

PLANTING
Plant lily-of-the-valley in full sun or part shade in well-drained soil.
Add a light application of organic fertilizer to the planting hole.
Place the plants no deeper than they were growing in the containers.
Set the plants 1 foot apart.
Water well until soil is completely moist.

CARING
Cut any remaining old stems back to the ground in early spring using bypass pruners.
Apply a light application of organic fertilizer to the top of the soil in spring; follow package directions.
Mulch around but not on top of the plants with 3 inches of organic compost in spring.
Water well weekly until soil is completely moist in summers with no rainfall.

FACTS:
Signifies a "return to happiness". Lily of the valley is much used in bridal arrangements for their sweet perfume. Traditionally associated with May 1st, especially in France where the "muguet" is handed out at special events.

WARNINGS:
All parts of the plant are poisonous
Where well adapted, plants can become invasive

Hydrangea

2006-05-28T21:21:00.000+03:00

Soils for colour: The soil type determines the flower colour (acid produces blue). To create blue on a limey soil, you can use a special blueing compound composed of aluminium sulphate, although the results won't compare with plants growing in acid soil. Alternatively, grow a compact variety, such as 'Blue Bird', in a large container filled with lime-free compost and supplement its liquid feed with a blueing compound.

Site and watering: Hydrangeas are true survivors and can often be seen flowering in overgrown or neglected gardens. With a small amount of care they do really well. Both mopheads and lacecaps prefer dappled shade against a north- or west-facing wall. If it's too bright they're likely to scorch. Their leafy shoots need plenty of moisture during the summer. Apply a mulch to drier soils to lock moisture in the ground and promote decent-sized flowers. Plants also need to be sheltered from cold winds, which can frazzle new foliage during the spring.

Pruning: It isn't essential but can be done each spring as new shoots appear. With established plants, just remove about one-third of the older, less productive stems and cut back old flowering stems to a strong pair of buds. Leave the old flower-heads on over winter to give frost protection to the delicate new growth below. The flowers look fantastic when their brown, papery domes are covered by frost. Left unpruned, hydrangeas will continue to bloom but the size of the flowerheads will be reduced by the overcrowded stems. H. paniculata needs to be cut back completely each spring.

Corn Lily

2006-05-23T23:41:00.000+03:00

(Ixia)

Planting time: Late Summer to Autumn
Depth & spacing: 4-5cm deep & 6-10cm apart.
Aspect: Full sun
Soil: Well drained.
Watering: Start watering when growth appears and keep soil slightly moist until foliage dies off after flowering. It is ideal to keep bulbs relatively dry whilst dormant.
Fertilising: Generally requires very little fertilising. In poor soils lightly top dress with a complete fertiliser in Autumn. Eg: Blood & Bone.
Flowering time: Mid to late Summer After flowering care: Leave the bulbs undisturbed
Frost: Protect from heavy frosts.
Comments: Their flowers are interesting, colourful and long lasting when cut.
Climate: Subtropical to Cool.

Columbines

2006-05-19T14:20:00.000+03:00

The Columbine (Aquilegia) is an easy plant to grow because it adapts itself to a wide variety of conditions. Columbines do best however, when they are grown in moist, rich, well drained soil in light shade. These one to three foot high plants generally begin blooming in early to mid-May and will often continue through June if the flowers are removed as they fade.

Columbines are a favorite flower for hummingbirds, and are excellent additions to the rock garden, or as a native woodland planting. They tend to cross-pollinate, hybridize, and self seed freely, creating new strains and colors. However, the formation of seeds will shorten the productive lifespan of the plant, so it is best to remove the spent flowers promptly. Columbines tend to lose vitality after 3-4 years and are best replaced at that time.

Plants should be set out the garden in spring or late summer. Plant them one to two feet apart with the crown (where the roots and tops meet) at soil level. Once established, feed them monthly with a soluble all purpose (5-10-5) fertilizer and keep them well watered during growing season. In colder regions (Zones 4-5), it is a good idea to provide a good mulch of hay, straw, etc. in late fall to protect from alternating freezing and thawing temperatures.
Seed may be sown directly in the garden in early spring or up until mid summer. The seeds should be left uncovered, because they germinate faster in light. These seeds will produce flowering size plants the following spring.

If you are starting your Columbine seeds indoors, they will need to be sown into their pots or flats, and then chilled in the refrigerator for 1-3 weeks before moving them to 70-75 degrees, where they will germinate.

Morning glory

2006-05-14T11:34:00.000+03:00

Native to the tropics, more than 200 species of morning glories come from the Americas alone. Their requirements are few, and their daily crop of freshly opened blue, purple, pink, scarlet, white or multicolored single or double trumpet-shaped flowers makes them one of the most widely grown of all annual vines. Flowers are normally open only from dawn to midmorning, but the newer varieties tend to hold their flowers open most of the day, especially in cloudy weather. Flowers can be as much as eight inches across although most are around 4 inches.. The vine's abundant leaves are heart-shaped, 4 to 5 inches long.

Morning glory vines grow very fast, reaching 10 feet or more two months after seeds sprout, and they will climb on just about any support. Profusely flowering against a background of pale green foliage, they quickly form lovely hedges or screens. The vines are sometimes used as a temporary ground cover, and do well in hanging baskets and containers. They should be planted in full sun and need a soil that is not too fertile or moist to prevent the production of leaves instead of flowers.

After all danger of frost is past, sow the seeds 1/2 inch deep, 8 to 12 inches apart, and provide a support of twine, wire or a fence or trellis for the vine to climb on. Or start seeds indoors in individual 3-inch peat pots four to six weeks before the last frost is due and set the pots into the garden when you can be sure seedlings will not be nipped by a late frost. Seeds started in flats are not likely to survive transplanting. Before you plant each seed, nick it with a file to help it absorb water and germinate more quickly. Alternatively, the seeds may be soaked overnight in tepid water to soften their coats.

Myrtle

2006-05-06T15:54:00.000+03:00

A family of shrubs and trees almost entirely of tropical regions, especially in Asia and Australia.
Crape myrtle is a handsome tree that does best in warm summer areas.

Site Selection
Select a site with full sun and well-drained soil.

Care
Apply a layer of compost under the tree each spring, spreading it out to the dripline (the area under the outermost branches). Add a 2-inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and control weeds, keeping mulch a few inches away from the tree trunk.

Water plants during the summer if rainfall is less than 1 inch per week. Flowers are produced on new wood, so prune back weak, spindly growth in spring to encourage better flowering. Prune off dead, diseased, and broken branches anytime.

Language of Flowers : Love

Agapanthus

2006-04-30T19:12:00.000+03:00

Agapanthus coddii is easy to grow. It requires rich, well-drained soil with ample compost (decayed organic matter) and plenty of water in summer. It does best in full sun, is not at its best in semi-shade but will still do well in light shade for about half the day. It does not mind irrigation during its winter dormant period, and also does very well in the winter rainfall Western Cape. In order to get Agapanthus coddii to flower well, it is crucial that it is fed generously every spring and watered well during spring and summer.

As with most plants they benefit most from regular (e.g. weekly) deep drenching as opposed to frequent superficial waterings. Plant Agapanthus coddii so that the rootstock is just underground. Take note that unlike the evergreen agapanthus that need to be lifted and divided every four years or so to ensure flowering, Agapanthus coddii, and all the other deciduous species, require a period of settling in and may not flower very well in their first year after being re-planted. It is best to leave them undisturbed for up to six years. Agapanthus coddii is frost hardy, and should be able to survive in permanent outdoor cultivation in areas with a winter minimum of -7 oC / 20 oF although in regions that dip to -5 oC / 23 oF and below for long periods the plants should be mulched thickly with a protective layer of leaves / straw / hessian.

Propagation is by seed or division.Seed can be sown fresh, in late summer - autumn, but in cold climates it can be kept refrigerated (not frozen) and sown in spring. It must be kept in the refrigerator or it will perish. Seed should be sown in deep (10 cm) trays, in a mixture of equal parts river sand and fine compost, and kept semi-shaded and moist. Seed germinates readily within six to eight weeks.

Agapanthus coddii is generally pest- and disease-free. Foliage may be attacked by red spider mites, thrips, and mealy bug but need only be sprayed if infestation is severe.

The name Agapanthus is derived from the Greek agapé love and anthos, flower. There is no clear reason for this derivation although it could be interpreted as 'lovely flower' or 'flower of love'.

Peony

2006-04-27T00:55:00.000+03:00

Peonies combine well with other perennial flowers by providing a season of color during June. Sufficient water and weed control are essential if peonies are to give top performance.

Peonies thrive in any well-drained, good, rich garden soil. Plant them in full sunlight. When peonies are planted in poorer soil, dig a hole 2 feet deep and 2 feet wide and fill with rich topsoil for each plant.

Peonies may be used in foundation plantings but often suffer from drought and may require more water than when planted in open locations. The peony plant should be spaced 2 to 2½ feet from the walI.

September is the best planting and dividing time for peonies. Roots set in September usually become established before cold weather. Three to five healthy buds per root are desirable.

Cultivation should be shallow, just to keep down the weeds. Cultivating more than 2 inches deep is likely to injure the shallow peony roots.

Peonies have few pests or problems. The most frequently occurring pests are botrytis blight and leaf blotch, both fungal diseases. Especially prevalent during wet springs, botrytis affects leaves, stems and flowers. Spots appear on leaves, stems soften and decay, and flowers either rot or buds blacken and fail to open. Prompt removal of infected material and a thorough fall cleanup are essential for control.

Several causes for failure of peonies to bloom satisfactorily are: too deep planting, the variety, shading,overcrowding,competition from roots of nearby plants, diseases (such as botrytis and viruses) and insects (thrips).

Dicentra

2006-04-19T23:05:00.000+03:00

(Bleeding Heart)

DESCRIPTION: These lovely perennials are found wild in shady hollows and forests from Siberia to Japan. Dicentras are commonly known as Bleeding Hearts. The varieties of these plants range in height from 12 to 30 inches and spread up to 18 inches or more. D. spectabilis var. alba is a clump-forming plant with light green, deeply divided leaves resembling those of the fern. Its pure white, heart-shaped flowers hang pendulous from arching stems in late spring and early summer. It is sometimes hard to distinguish this variety from the pink-flowered kinds when not in bloom, so to avoid disappointment, purchase this plant during its flowering period. D. 'Bacchanal' is more of a spreading plant, growing from 12 to 18 inches high. Its foliage is also fern-like and a pretty green color. The small, heart-shaped flowers of this variety also grow from arching stems in late spring and early summer; they are very dark red. D. 'Spring Morning' forms mounds of bright grayish-green, feathery foliage up to a foot high. Its small, heart-shaped flowers are pink.

POTTING: These plants need moist soil that is rich in humus and a position in partial shade. D. spectabilis 'alba' is hardy, but keep in mind that the new growth can still be damaged by severe late frosts.

PROPAGATION: The roots may be divided and repotted when they are dormant in late winter. Seeds may also be sown in a cold frame or sheltered spot outdoors in early summer or autumn. Root cuttings may be taken in the fall.

VARIETIES: D. spectabilis & var. alba; D. formosa; D.eximia; D. oregana; D. chrysantha (Golden Eardrops); D.canadensis (Squirrel's Corn); D. Cucullaria (Dutchman's-Breeches).

THE LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS:
Elegance. Fidelity.

Clematis

2006-04-18T18:22:00.000+03:00

Clematis prefers their feet in the shade and their tops in the sun. Keep the roots cool with a well-drained rich soil with added compost, or composted manure

A start in a four-inch pot will be harder to establish, even though it is less expensive to buy. If you buy small starts in the spring, it is best to transplant to a larger pot with good potting soil, letting it continue to establish a good root system. Keep the pot shaded and do not let the soil dry out. A good feeding once a month with fertilizer will give it a good start. Plant out in the garden when fall rains return, and mulch well. It will continue over winter to develop its root system. Buying clematis in one-gallon containers in spring or autumn, you will have a better chance of success..

Most clematis vines grow well in shade. Since the vines adapted to shady conditions in their natural habitat, they use their climbing capabilities to seek sunlight. Keep this in mind when selecting a site for your vine. Clematis happily climbs up into large shrubs and trees, or on a trellis. We can find many ways to utilize clematis in our gardens.

Many trees and large shrubs have long periods where they provide little interest. Choosing the correct clematis to clothe them in colour for an extra month or so is the ideal solution.

Plant the clematis away from the direct base of the tree or shrub to avoid competition for moisture and nutrients. Prepare the planting area well applying as much compost as possible to provide and maintain moisture and nutirents.

Roses are ideal plants to support clematis - their cultivation needs are similar and they complement each other well.

Language of Flowers
Clematis : Mental beauty.

Narcissus

2006-04-10T17:11:00.001+03:00

Planting and Care

Location: Full sun to part shade
When to plant: Fall
General Instuctions: Narcissus does best in well-drained soil. Before planting your bulbs in the fall, improve the soil fertility and drainage with organic matter such as composted manure and sphagnum peat moss. Plant narcissus bulbs 4 to 6 inches deep, leaving 3 to 6 inches between bulbs. In warm-winter climates, you must precool bulbs before planting to ensure optimum bloom. As with most spring-blooming bulbs, allow the leaves to die back before clipping. Daffodils are poisonous and, therefore, are impervious to rodent damage.

Naturalizing daffodils: Instead of limiting bulbs to beds and borders, scatter clumps of daffodils under shrubs, around trees, and in the lawn. This process, called naturalizing, uses natural surroundings as a backdrop for bulb bloom. Eager to spread, daffodils will multiply in your landscape, re-creating their original growth in the wild.

Danger:
Parts of plant are poisonous if ingested

The Language of Flowers:
Desire

Narcissus (The). This charming flower is named from the son of Cephisus. This beautiful youth saw his reflection in a fountain, and thought it the presiding nymph of the place. He tried to reach it, and jumped into the fountain, where he died. The nymphs came to take up the body that they might pay it funeral honours, but found only a flower, which they called Narcissus, after the name of the son of Cephisus. (Ovid's Metamorphoses, iii. 346, etc.)
Plutarch says the plant is called Narcissus from the Greek narke (numbness), and that it is properly narcosis, meaning the plant which produces numbness or palsy.
"Sweet Echo, sweetest nymph that livst unseen ...
Canst thou not tell me of a gentle pair.
That likest thy Narcissus are?"
Milton: Comus, 235, etc.
Echo fell in love with Narcissus.

Narcissus (JavaScript engine)

Narcissus is an open source JavaScript engine. It was written by Brendan Eich, who also wrote the first ever JavaScript engine: SpiderMonkey. Its name is based on the mythical figure of Narcissus, who fell in love with himself. This relates to the fact that this JavaScript engine is a Metacircular Interpreter, because the engine itself is also written in JavaScript.

Geranium

2006-04-05T22:40:00.000+03:00

Buying and planting

When buying geraniums, look for plants with plenty of leaves and shoots growing from the base. They can be planted at any time, but spring and autumn are ideal.

Cutting back

Most species die down in the autumn, when their old foliage and stems can be cut back to encourage a crop of fresh leaves in spring.

Feeding

A light scattering of a general fertiliser around plants in the spring keeps them happy all year.

Outdoor Geranium Culture

Wait to plant geraniums outdoors until frost danger has passed and the soil temperature reaches 60°F. Choose a site with lots of sunlight, ideally eight hours or better. With less sun, the plants will bloom sparsely. Soil should be open and porous to allow for good water drainage, oxygen penetration, and healthy root growth.

Geraniums will not bloom well if they are overfertilized.

Water geraniums thoroughly, but allow the soil to dry between waterings to avoid root rot. Do not allow the plants to wilt, however. Cycles of wilting, followed by a heavy watering, cause leaf drop and result in poor growth.

Remove faded flowers and dry leaves from the plants.

If you have a bright location indoors, you can bring your geraniums inside and keep them growing as houseplants until it’s warm enough to put them out the following spring.

The practice of storing geraniums in the basement over the winter works better with cold, damp basements than it does with dry, warmer, modern basements.

Indoor Geranium Culture

Prospects for success when growing geraniums indoors depend largely on having enough light to promote flowering. Geraniums thrive in full sunlight. In the absence of a bright, sunny window, supplemental fluorescent tube lighting kept 10 to 12 inches from the plants will help growth. Fluorescent lights can be used from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. to supplement natural light.

Overwatering will cause geraniums to rot. Feel the soil to determine when to water. If it’s dry to the touch, water thoroughly. If it feels moist and cool, don’t water. Geraniums tolerate dry soil conditions better than excess moisture.

Geranium pots can be either clay or plastic, but must have drain holes. Saucers placed under the pots to collect water should be emptied a few minutes after watering. If a large, shallow pan is used to display several plants, gravel can be placed on the bottom. The evaporating water from the gravel surfaces will increase humidity.

In the home, geraniums do not require frequent fertilization. By potting young plants in a good soil mix (1 part soil, 1 sand, 1 peat), additional nutrition will not be required for two or three months.

Geraniums thrive in a wide range of temperatures. Ideally, they should be grown at 65°F day and 55°F night temperatures. Avoid cold, drafty areas as well as hot, dry locations.

Impatiens

2006-04-03T13:02:00.000+03:00

Indoor Culture

Soil Requirement: All-purpose soil composed of two parts garden loam, one part leaf mold or peatmoss and one part coarse sand; soil must be well drained.
Maintenance: Keep moist but not wet, barely moist in winter, use water that is room temperature, it is best to let water stand overnight before using; fertilize every two weeks with a houseplant fertilizer at one-half recommended rate, reduce fertilization in winter; ideal temperatures are 10oC to 13oC at night and 18oC to 21oC during the day; repot anytime as necessary.Bright light

Outdoor Culture

Soil Requirements: Slightly acid to neutral, good garden loam rich in organic matter such as leaf mold or compost with liberal amounts of coarse sand for good drainage.
Maintenance: Keep moist but not wet; fertilize every two weeks with a general fertilizer; plant out-of-doors after danger of frost has passed.
Situation: Sun or partial shade

Propagation: Seed sown indoors 6 to 8 weeks before last occurrence of frost (late February to mid-March); give bright light but not direct sun; artificial lights, such as Grow Lamps, should be used--place 6 to 12 inches above the flats for 12 to 14 hours a day; soil temperature should be 21oC and air temperature 24oC for good germination; seed should germinate in one to two weeks; grow plants at 14.4oC to 15.5oC; cuttings, anytime, place in sand and mist or enclose in a polyethylene plastic bag.

Honeysuckle

2006-03-30T19:29:00.000+03:00

Honeysuckle (Lonicera) vines are easy to grow, vigorous, heat-tolerant, and nearly indestructible. The flashy and fragrant flowers will attract hummingbirds and butterflies all summer long. The resulting fruit of the Honeysuckle flower will provide a fall treat for your local songbirds as well.
There are many varieties of Honeysuckle which are suited to a variety of applications. The most common use is to allow it to grow along a trellis, fence, or other framework, but it can also be grown as a ground cover or used for erosion control. The vines will bloom heavily in spring and to some extent throughout the summer. Many honeysuckles will thrive in containers as well.

Planting and care
Honeysuckle prefers full sun, but will tolerate partial sun, and even some light, afternoon shade. Once established, Honeysuckle needs only moderate watering, unless the summer is very dry. If the planting area is properly prepared and mulched, your Honeysuckle will be satisfied with a light annual applicaton of a balanced fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season, and then once again in the middle of the blooming season.

Honeysuckle should be planted in early spring, as soon as frost danger has passed. Water the plants thoroughly, and follow up with repeated soakings until the plant shows signs of new growth. Mulch the plant with heavy cover of leaves, to protect the roots from freezing as well as to conserve moisture in the summer. When your plant has finished blooming, you can prune for shape. (Only lightly prune plants until they are well established at about 2 years old)

*Πολυαγαπημένο φυσικά το τραγούδι του Λουκιανού Κηλαηδόνη

Είναι κάτι νύχτες με φεγγάρι
μες τα θερινά τα σινεμά
νύχτες που περνούν
που δεν θα ξαναρθούν
μ' αγιόκλημα και γιασεμιά

Επίσης αγαπημένο ..σπορ, να τρώμε (πίνουμε, μάλλον) το μέλι από τα άνθη.
Τα οποία γενικώς είναι γευστικότατα!
(Αρκεί να μην είναι ραντισμένα βέβαια :D )

Gerbera

2006-03-27T21:39:00.000+03:00

Pick the flower of the plant when one or two rows of stamen are visible. This is important because raw flowers need much more energy to develop completely but they have only a few reserves. Due to this the durability of raw flowers is shorter.

Culture:
Gerbera should be planted in rich well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade (in hot areas). Full sun is best for more flowers production. Plant the crowns above the soil level, too deep will invite crown rot. .
Water early in the day and allow it to dry slightly between watering. Avoid overhead watering. Improper watering and poor drainage will lead to problems such as crown rot and poor flower production. Some sources say to fertilize monthly others every two weeks during the flowering period (spring and summer). Maintain the plant by removing spent flowers and old leaves.

Trivia:
Zodiac: Associated with the star sign Leo
Little-known 20 years ago, but now extremely popular and fashionable. Gerbera were first imported to Europe in the 19th century.
It was named in honour of the German naturalist Traugott Gerber

Flowers Language:
You light up my life.

Mirabilis jalapa

2006-03-26T13:15:00.000+03:00

(Νυχτολούλουδο)

Common Names: four o' clock, marvel-of-Peru, beauty-of-the-night

Description
Four o'clocks are leafy, shrublike, multi-branched perennials that produce flowers all summer long.They have numerous branches and opposite, pointed leaves 2-4 in (5-10 cm) long. The fragrant flowers are borne singly or in clusters, and can be red, magenta, pink, yellow or white, sometimes with more than one color on the same plant. Bicolored flowers are also possible.
Four o'clocks are native to tropical South America. They have become naturalized in many parts of the Southern U.S.

Culture
Fast growing four o'clocks are easy to grow and essentially trouble free, thriving in most any soil.
Light: Four o'clocks do best in full sun, but also perform well in partial shade.
Moisture: Regular garden moisture. Reduce watering in winter.

Propagation: Plant seeds in early spring or divide tubers any time. If you soak the large black seeds in water overnight before planting they will germinate quicker. If you get one that you like especially, you can dig up the tuber at the end of the season and replant it next spring. Four o'clocks will self seed. The large, elongate tubers make it difficult to transplant very large specimens.

Usage
In North Florida, four o'clocks usually open up around 8 o'clock in the evening! But they open earlier on rainy or very cloudy afternoons. The stems are rather fragile and brittle and often get broken. A sweetly scented four o'clock growing near the front door is a pleasant southern tradition.

WARNING
Four o'clocks self seed and may become a nuisance if not kept under control. If left to spread unchecked, they then can be difficult to eliminate because of the large, deep-rooted tubers. All parts of the plant are said to be poisonous - do not ingest!

Ranunculus

2006-03-23T16:25:00.000+02:00

(Νεραγκούλα)

Broadly speaking, ranunculus are frost-hardy cool-season perennials. They perform best where winters are relatively mild and springs are long and cool. The roots tolerate soil temperatures to 10F, while growing plants can handle temperatures below 20F for several hours.

Plant in early spring a week or two before the typical last frost.
Or, plant them in pots indoors in February for transplanting later. Place pots in a south- or west-facing window or under grow lights. Temperatures around 55F are ideal. In early spring, gradually acclimate plants to outdoors by putting them out for more time each day (bring them in at night). Plant outdoors by mid-April in zones 6 and 7 (mid-May in zones 4 and 5). Spring-planted ranunculus will bloom in June or July.

Choose a location in full sun and be sure the soil is well drained. The one environment that ranunculus do not tolerate is warm and wet. The cool soil of fall and early spring offers some protection from rotting, but soil that is never soggy gives extra insurance.

Mythology: In fairy tales frogs are apt to change into princes and it was an Asian prince in just such a story who gave his name to this flower, which grows naturally in swampy ground. The prince was so good-looking that he was loved by everyone. He also had a beautiful voice but this was his undoing. He loved the open country and sang delightful songs in the presence of nymphs. He did not have the courage to declare his love to them and this haunted him so much that he died. After his death he was changed into the flower with delicate tissuey petals which bears his name.
Language of Flowers: Meant "you are rich in attractions" to the Victorians.

Campanula

2006-03-18T22:47:00.000+02:00

Shop for bellflowers in 4-inch to 1-gallon containers.

Shop in midspring when bellflowers are in bloom, or wait until fall when many nurseries have sales.

Planting

Plant bellflowers in spring or fall in a well-drained, sunny spot in the garden. In hotter climates, choose a location that gets morning sun.
Add some organic fertilizer to the planting hole.
Water well after planting.
Add a 2- or 3-inch layer of organic compost so that the new plant doesn't dry out.

Caring
Cut the flowering stem of taller varieties off to a point just above where you see new growth; use bypass pruners. This will encourage the plant to keep flowering.
Cut back the tall flower stems to the base of the plant in spring

Cyclamen

2006-03-14T16:43:00.000+02:00

After you have just received a cyclamen, it's important to keep it cool and to water it correctly, making sure not to under- or overwater. To prevent disease problems, it is also a good idea to maintain good air movement around the plant.

From late autumn to early spring, provide your plant with as much light as possible. Sunburn is usually not an issue this time of year, although you may want to avoid placing your cyclamen directly in front of a south-facing window.

Aim for temperatures between 40° and 50°F at night and day temperatures less than 68°F. A cyclamen won't be too happy in a house heated much above 70°F, with the dry atmosphere that goes with it. If you are unable to provide cool enough conditions, the plant will survive for a time, but eventually it will develop yellow foliage and its blooming time may be cut short. It will probably tolerate a less than ideal location for a day or two as long as you return it to a better place shortly afterwards. The plant will tolerate indoor conditions even better if you move it to a cool spot at night. Make sure to provide as much light as possible in its daytime location.

Watering incorrectly can cause many problems, especially when too much water has been applied. Always wait until the soil surface feels dry before you water, but don't wait until the plant becomes limp. Do not water the center of the plant or the tuber may rot. A cyclamen prefers to receive a good soaking, then dry out partially before receiving a good soaking again. Allow the plant to drain over a sink or empty the water collection tray beneath the container after a few minutes. This will help prevent the roots from remaining too wet, which can lead to rotting.

Fertilize your cyclamen with a water-soluble fertilizer recommended for use on indoor plants, mixed half strength. Apply it every 3 or 4 weeks, starting about a month after you receive the plant. Overfeeding is more likely to produce foliage than flowers.

Dead flowers or leaves should be removed by giving their stems a sharp tug. If a sharp tug doesn't remove them, wait another day and try again. You don't want to risk yanking out a chunk of the tuber along with other healthy leaves.

When the plant stops blooming, its leaves will begin to turn yellow and it will enter a dormant state. Most people discard the plant at that point. However, you may be able to force it to bloom again. Stop watering when the leaves turn yellow and wither. Keep the pot in a cool place, if possible, and allow the soil to become dry. It may be placed outdoors during the summer in a location where rainfall won't reach it, out of direct sunlight. Once all the leaves have dried, a process that could take up to two months, the tuber may be repotted into a container that is 1 inch larger in diameter than the old pot. This is usually necessary only every 2 years. Use a packaged, peaty soil mixture. The top half of the tuber should protrude above the soil line to assure adequate drainage and avoid tuber rot. Do not water it, as this could trigger new growth prematurely.

Rhododendron

2006-03-05T18:52:00.000+02:00

Soil

Rhododendrons grow best in light, well-drained soils with good soil aeration and an ample supply of soil moisture during the summer. They can be grown in heavy soils if special precautions are taken.

Planting

Rhododendrons should be planted with either a root ball, if the plants are field grown, or with their container mix, if container grown. In favorable climates, rhododendrons can be planted almost any time of the year with reasonable success. In colder areas, early spring planting is recommended with early fall planting being second choice. In hot areas, fall planting is preferred.

Rhododendrons are easily damaged or killed by planting too deeply. The top of the root ball should be at the surface of the ground in ideal planting sites or an inch or two above the surface of the ground or even in raised beds in less than ideal sites.
Never plant rhododendrons deeper than they were grown in the nursery as is sometimes recommended for other types of plants.

In very light, sandy, acid soil which is high in organic matter and ideal for rhododendrons, they may be planted in a hole a little larger than the root ball.

Subsequent Care

Although rhododendrons will not tolerate stagnant soil moisture, they are shallow rooted and the roots may dry out during the summer even though deeper rooted plants show no signs of drought stress. Therefore, rhododendrons should be well watered during the summer, especially the first year after planting when the roots have not yet gotten out of the original root ball and into the surrounding soil.

Some foliage droop is normal in dry weather, especially on warm afternoons, but when leaves still show signs of drooping in early morning, the plants are showing a need for water and should receive a good soaking. When air temperatures go above 95° F (or even lower for alpine types), rhododendrons and azaleas appreciate a misting to prevent desiccation of their foliage. In cold climates, watering or misting of foliage during warm days in the spring or on windy days when the roots are still frozen will help to keep rhododendrons in good condition.

Begonia

2006-03-02T11:26:00.000+02:00

Culture: Flowering houseplant begonias should be located in a bright spot and receive some direct sunlight. Early morning sun in an east window works well. Many of the cane and shrub-types flower best with some direct sun. Several hours of winter sun are beneficial.

Keep soil evenly moist, allowing it to dry only slightly between waterings. Reduce water in winter (stop watering tuberous begonias in fall). Always avoid wet or waterlogged soil. When plant is in full growth, fertilize with balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength at alternate waterings. Never allow plants to sit in a saucer of water.

Begonias tend to be leggy. Pinch the tip of branches to promote lateral growth. At desired fullness, stop pinching to allow the plant to flower (if it is not already flowering).

Begonias growing indoors should be moved to a partly sunny location outdoors during the summer. Some begonias do not tolerate direct sunlight and should be placed in the shade.

Anemone

2006-02-28T13:19:00.000+02:00

Name: Comes from "anemos", the greek word for wind. Sometimes called the windflower. Pronounced a-NEM-o-nee

Planting time: Autumn until early May.
Depth & spacing: 5cm deep. 10-15cm apart.
Aspect: Full sun to light shade. Will tolerate more shade in warmer climates.
Soil: Well draining, fairly rich.
Watering: Water once growth appears & keep soil moist until foliage yellows in late Spring.
Fertiliser: Dig fertiliser into soil a week or longer before planting or apply to top of soil after planting and water in. These bulbs are very free flowering and so require generous amounts of fertiliser.
Flowering time: Late Winter until early or mid Spring.
Climates: Cool to subtropical.
After flowering care: You can leave these easy-care bulbs or dig them once the foliage has died back. If you do this, store them somewhere cool and dry over Summer & replant in Autumn. These corms naturally degenerate over time and should be replaced every 2nd or 3rd year.
Comments: These are great bulbs. Low care and free flowering with each corm producing numerous cheerful flowers. Well worth planting in any garden for loads of carefree colour. Also great in vases.

Magnolia

2006-02-23T22:09:00.000+02:00

DESCRIPTION: These evergreen and deciduous (leaf-losing) trees and shrubs have beautiful, large flowers. Some kinds bloom very early in the spring before the leaves, some bloom later in the spring and still others during the summer and early fall. Some kinds produce pretty fruits, which are usually shaped like a cone and brightly colored.

POTTING: With one or two exceptions, Magnolias won't grow well in lime soil, although M. acuminata will grow where a good amount of soil covers limestone. They should have deep, well-drained loam and will benefit from a bit of peat or compost placed around the roots at planting time, in the spring or fall. They will also do well in peaty soil that isn't too compact and in disintegrated granite. Once they've been planted, they shouldn't be disturbed, as this will most likely result in permanent injury. For this reason, they should be placed far enough apart to allow plenty of room to grow to their full size. Late spring is the best time to plant, just as the leaf buds begin to open. When necessary, pruning should be completed during the summer, but should really only be done to young plants. Removing branches from small trees will be tolerated, but removing large branches from established trees isn't safe. Large wounds won't heal well on old trees. Decide when the tree is small how you want it to look and begin shaping and training toward that.

PROPAGATION: Rare kinds of Magnolias should be propagated by grafting in the winter or spring in a greenhouse. M. acuminata or M. tripetala should be used as understocks. Otherwise, seeds, cuttings and layers may be used to increase your plants. Seeds should be sown when they are as fresh as possible. Sow them in light compost consisting of two parts peat, one part loam and one part sand. The pots or pans may be placed in a cold frame or greenhouse and kept shaded.
Another method is to layer the lower branches into the soil mixture described above, which is placed under the tree or bush. The branches should be slit and pegged down in the spring. They shouldn't be bothered for two years. Magnolias may also be increased by air layering.

Dahlia

2006-02-15T21:08:00.000+02:00

There are both single-flowering and double flowering types. Double-flowering dahlias include cactus (tubular petals that curve backward for more than half their length), semicactus (similar to cactus except the petals are broad at their base and curve for less than half their length), decoratives (broad pointed or rounded petals, irregularly arranged), ball (ball shaped flowers over 2 inches in diameter), and pompons (ball shaped flowers less than 2 inches in diameter).

Dahlias should be planted in a well ventilated, sunny location that is protected from strong winds. Plant dahlias after the danger of spring frost is past. To plant the tuberous roots, dig a hole 6 to 8 inches deep and large enough to accommodate the root. Lay the root flat with the bud or growing point up and cover the root with 2 inches of soil. Continue to fill in the hole as the plant grows. Place a stake 6 inches away from the root of the tall growing varieties at planting time. This is important because the central stem of the plant will need to be supported as it grows. When the plant is about a foot tall, tie it loosely to the stake. Continue tying the stem to the stake as the plant grows to insure an upright plant with straight branches.

Dahlias respond to deep and frequent waterings. Dahlias require approximately an inch of water (either rainfall or irrigation) each week throughout the growing season. In hot, dry weather watering should be done at three-day intervals during the blooming season. Because dahlias are heavy feeders, they will respond to one or two sidedress fertilizer applications during the growing season. The first application should be made shortly after the sprouts emerge and the second in late July. Apply a 5-10-10 fertilizer at the rate of 1/4 cup sprinkled in a ring around each plant. Work it into the soil and water in well. Avoid getting fertilizer on the foliage.

You can increase the size of dahlia blossoms by removing lateral buds from the large-flowered varieties. This is called "disbudding." When the three buds that form at the end of each branch reach the size of small peas, remove the two side buds. The center bud will then develop into a larger blossom. Small-flowered dahlia plants should not be disbudded. Dead flowers should be removed from all dahlia plants to encourage repeat bloom.

Amaryllis

2006-02-12T15:13:00.000+02:00

*Planting

Plant bulbs in a nutritious potting compost, many are available pre-mixed. Plant the bulb up to its neck in the potting compost, being careful not to damage the roots. Press the soil down firmly to set the bulb securely in place after planting.

*Placement and Watering

Plant the bulb, or place the potted bulb in a warm place with direct light since heat is necessary for the development of the stems. The ideal temperature is 68 to 70 degrees F. Water sparingly until the stem appears, then, as the bud and leaves appear, gradually water more. At this point, the stem will grow rapidly and flowers will develop after it has reached full growth.

*Flowering Period

Bulbs will flower in 7-10 weeks as a general rule. In winter the flowering time will be longer than in spring. Set up your planting schedule between October and April with this in mind. To achieve continuous bloom, plant at intervals of 2 weeks for stunning color in your home or garden.
After-Bloom Care

*After-Flowering.
After the amaryllis has stopped flowering, it can be made to flower again. Cut the old flowers from the stem after flowering, and when the stem starts to sag, cut it back to the top of the bulb.

*Leaf Growth and Development.
Continue to water and fertilize as normal all summer, or for at least 5-6 months, allowing the leaves to fully develop and grow. When the leaves begin to yellow, which normally occurs in the early fall, cut the leaves back to about 2 inches from the top of the bulb and remove the bulb from the soil.

*Bulb Storage.
Clean the bulb and place it in a cool (40-50 deg. F), dark place such as the crisper of your refrigerator for a minimum of 6 weeks. Caution: Do not store amaryllis bulbs in a refrigerator that contains apples, this will sterilize the bulbs. Store the bulbs for a minimum of 6 weeks.

*Plant Again.
After 6 weeks you may remove bulbs whenever you would like to plant them. Plant bulbs 8 weeks before you would like them to bloom.

*Meaning :
Pride

Tulip

2006-01-02T18:38:00.000+02:00

Tips for Growing Tulips:

# If you are planting other bedding plants amongst tulips; it is a good idea to plant them before the bulbs, so as not to damage the bulbs with the trowel later.

# Sandy soil is best for Tulips (or any bulb) to increase and flower in later years. Good Drainage is essential. For best results plant bulbs in October or November. As a rule of thumb, the depth that tulips should be planted is approximately three times the length of the bulb.

# Tulips are very disease resistant; however can be troubled by "Tulip Fire". Stems and leaves of plants become deformed and stunted. Later they will display brown patches. If this occurs bulbs should be destroyed.

# Over crowded bulbs can also cause problems in your garden. If this occurs, dig up your tulips just before all the foliage has completely died down and divide by pulling smaller new bulbs from the base of the old bulb and replant them.

# After flowering, it is ok to deadhead your tulips but always allow the leaves to die off naturally. If you are concerned about the appearance of the fading greens, try braiding the leaves.

# Tulips make excellent cut flowers and usually last about a week in a vase. Don't forget to add a little suger to your water to prolong the life of your bouquet.

Forsythia

2005-12-20T20:50:00.000+02:00

One of the earliest signs that spring has arrived, is when the Forsythia bursts into a profusion of yellow blossoms spreading from the ground to the tip of each graceful, cascading branch.
The Forsythia is a fast growing (1-2 feet per year) deciduous shrub. Depending on the variety, they can vary in size from a compact one foot tall plant, to others that can reach 8 to 10 feet in height.
Forsythias make excellent informal hedges, or may be planted as an individual specimen. The taller varieties are easily espaliered against a wall or fence. The branches may be cut and brought into the house in late winter. In a week or two, you will be treated to an extra early flower bouquet.
Forsythias thrive in full sun or light shade, will grow in almost any soil, and are quite tolerant of the poor growing conditions, and pollutants found in cities.
Although Forsythias aren't really fussy about their growing conditions, they will perform best when given optimum conditions.
The soil should be well-drained. The addition of peat moss, composted manure, or garden compost to the existing soil will get the plant off to a good healthy start. Larger varieties should be given plenty of space to grow, to fully appreciate the beauty of the natural cascading shape of a specimen sized plant. Forsythias will bloom best in full sun, but may be planted in light shade.

New plants can be started from softwood cuttings, taken from new growth in late spring or early summer. Another method of propagation is by the method known as ground layering. This is done by pinning the tip of a branch to the ground, where it will root. Once rooted you may sever the new start from the parent, and replant it elsewhere.
Forsythias are best planted or transplanted during the winter dormant season, however, new additions to your garden can be safely planted at any time of the year.

Hyacinth

2005-12-16T12:10:00.000+02:00

Site Selection
Select a site with full sun to light shade and well-drained soil.
Planting Instructions
Plant hyacinth bulbs in fall, 6 to 8 weeks before a hard frost is expected and when soils are below 60 degrees F. This is usually during September and October in the North, and October and November in the South. Prepare the garden bed by using a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of 12 to 15 inches, then mix in a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost. Dig a hole 6 to 8 inches deep. Set the bulb in the hole, pointy end up, then cover with soil and press firmly. Space bulbs 4 to 6 inches apart. Water thoroughly after planting.
Care
Keep hyacinths watered during dry spells in the fall. After plants are finished flowering in spring, cut back flower stalks but allow the leaves to die back naturally, hiding the unsightly foliage with annual or perennial plantings. An annual application of compost should provide adequate nutrients. Flower size may decline in subsequent years, so some gardeners treat hyacinths as annuals and plant fresh bulbs each fall.

Primrose

2005-12-14T01:18:00.000+02:00

PRIMROSE
Primula species
Flowers January-April
Potting or re-potting time September or when necessary
Position in garden during summer Covered, ventilated cold frame

Of the 300 or more members of the family Primulaceae, 3 are particularly suited to the window garden, principally because their period of bloom is early enough to provide winter flowers.

The fairy primrose, Primula malacoides, has loose clusters of small, delicate flowers borne on thin stems, which tower above the slightly hairy leaves. Colors are shades of lilac and pink.

Primula obconica has large, oval green leaves and numerous clusters of pink and lilac flowers, which are much larger than those of the fairy primrose. Hairs on the leaves are sometimes irritating to tender hands.

The Chinese primrose, Primula sinensis, is probably the most attractive plant of the three. Its numerous, lobed leaves have toothed margins and are covered with short hairs. Large umbels of flowers, with prominent, contrasting eyes, are white, through shades of pink, to deep rose.

The primula species here listed are almost insatiable when it comes to watering. Place the pots in deep saucers of pebbles and water copiously from the bottom every day. Do not get water on the foliage. Keep primroses away from direct sun, and grow them in a cool, moist atmosphere.

The tender primroses are quite difficult to carry over the summer, and it is usually better to purchase new plantseach fall. If you wish to experiment with carrying them over, summer the plants in a shaded cold frame, with the sash raised 4 or 5 inches to allow for plenty of fresh air. Do not let the plants dries out-even for an hour. If the primroses look promising in early September, re-pot them in new soil; take them back into the house, and cross your fingers!

Gloxinia

2005-12-13T08:54:00.000+02:00

Gloxinias are among the best plants that are grown for spring and summer enjoyment, although with proper handling, flowering plants can be produced throughout the year. Their velvety, bell-shaped flowers can average over 3 inches in diameter. Each flower is displayed on a long petiole. Their color-range is white to pink to red to blue to purple. They can also be two-toned with white centers or white rims. There are single and double flowering types, with petal edges smooth or wavy. Their foliage is oblong, graceful and velvety like their flowers. Gloxinia will not be outdone for showmanship.
CULTURE

Propagation: Gloxinias can be grown from seed, tubers, or leaf or stem cuttings. Tubers are available only for spring plantings — plants from tubers are in flower in about four months. Producing flowering plants from seeds takes about six months, depending on the seasons involved (e.g., they grow a lot faster in summer than in winter). Plants grown from seeds have shorter internodes (the area of a stem between points of leaf attachment). As a result, they are more compact and more attractive.

Growing media: Gloxinias grow well in a mix that contains 50 percent sifted peat (using a sieve with quarter-inch openings) with the remainder being a combination of perlite, coarse sand and a little vermiculite. The pH should be 5.5 to 6.5.

When potting a tuber, make sure that the "hollow" part is on top and very close to the mix’s upper surface. Gently pack the dry growing medium around the tuber and then water many times (maybe even 10 times). Never pack any growing medium that is wet.

Light and Temperature: Bright, indirect light is necessary to keep gloxinias in flower. They are "warm loving" plants that grow best at a nighttime temperature of 65 ° F or warmer. The preferred daytime temperature is 75 ° F. Gloxinia leaves are somewhat brittle, which is made worse by temperatures lower than those recommended.

Watering and Fertilizer: Gloxinias should never be allowed to dry out, even slightly. When watering, avoid getting water on the leaves. Humidity should be high. This can be achieved in the home by placing the plant on a gravel/water tray. Gloxinias should be fertilized moderately at every watering. Avoid fertilizers with high phosphates and urea nitrogen. A balanced fertilizer such as a 15-15-15 is recommended and should be applied according to label directions.

Flowering: Gloxinias are extremely sensitive to their environment. They simply do not tolerate stress well. Anything that restricts their root growth or top growth will reduce both plant size and the number of flowers initiated. A single gloxinia plant can produce well over two dozen flowers. If the first two flowers are pinched off very early in their development, the majority of the remaining flowers will develop together, making a spectacular display.

When all flowering is completed, the plant will decline and go into a resting state. As the plant declines, start watering less often, then stop watering altogether and let the leaves die. Allow the tuberous stem to rest 2 to 4 months in dry soil. Keep an eye on the plant and when new growth appears, resume watering.
PROBLEMS

Diseases are an infrequent problem in the home environment. Gloxinia may develop root rot from overwatering. Leaves may be damaged by cold water, so keep water off of the foliage. Insect and related pests of gloxinias include mites and thrips.

Pansy

2005-12-12T12:46:00.001+02:00

Pansies are grown from seeds. They like full to partial sun. Pansies can be directly seeded into your flower garden or seeded indoors for transplanting later. For spring blooms, you need to start your Pansies in pots and containers indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost.

Sow seeds early in the season and cover lightly with 1/8" soil. Water thoroughly once. They germinate slowly.

Transplant Pansy into your garden after the last frost date for your area. Space them 6" apart. They will tolerate a little crowding. If you are creating a flower bed, you may want to create a pattern or color scheme prior to planting. Or, use mixed varieties.

Pansies prefer cool to warm climates, and wilt a bit in mid-summer heat. In warmer areas, we recommend partial shade. They tolerate a variety of soils. Add a general purpose fertilizer when planting them, then once a month after that.

Once your Pansies are established, they should grow well, even if left unattended. Soil should be moist, but not wet. Water them during dry periods, once or twice per week. Keep them well weeded.

Remove spent blooms to promote additional blooms and extend the blooming period. This will also keep the appearance neat and beautiful.

Pansy are hardy annuals. They will often survive the first frost if it is light. They will not survive a hard frost or freeze.

The pansy gets its name from the French word pensée meaning "thought". It was so named because the flower resembles a human face and in August it nods forward as if deep in thought. Because of the origin of its name, the Pansy has long been a symbol of Freethought and has been used in the literature of the American Secular Union. Humanists like the symbol also, as the pansy's current appearance was developed from the Heartsease by two centuries of intentional cross-breeding of wild plant hybrids. The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) uses the pansy symbol extensively in its lapel pins and literature.

Petunia

2005-12-11T16:07:00.000+02:00

Petunias are one of the best summer flowering annuals for massed display, and they also look good in pots and hanging baskets. The color range is huge, with varieties available in every color except orange. You can expect blooms throughout the summer and into autumn if faded flowers are removed regularly. Plants quickly grow to a height of 10-16 inches. Petunias can be used as cut flowers, but they look their best in garden displays.

The very fine seeds are hard to handle, and you'll have better luck starting them indoors. Cover with a dusting of soil and water from the bottom of the pot to avoid dislodging seeds. When seedlings are 1-2 inches tall they can be transplanted outdoors at intervals of six to eight inches in soil that has been enriched with compost or manure. Pinch out the growing tips when they reach a height of 3-4 inches to encourage bushy growth. Water regularly to establish, and thereafter wait until the soil dries out to water. Overwatering will cause foliage to yellow and the plants will eventually die. Overfertilizing will result in an abundance of foliage with few flowers. Limit supplemental feedings to one or two during the growing season. After the first flowering flush, cut the plants back to encourage a second blooming.
Type: annual
Propagation: seeds
Light: full sun
Flower Color: all but orange
Bloom Time: summer and autumn
Height: 10-16 inches
Width: 12 inches
Soil Requirements: well drained
Zones: all but the coldest areas
Uses: massed displays, hanging baskets

Freesia

2005-12-10T01:41:00.000+02:00

Care Tips: Buy them with at least one flower open on the stem. Several bulbs should be planted together in a pot, box, or pan, in October, if wanted for the holidays, or later if wanted at Easter. The plants bloom from ten to twelve weeks from planting, under ordinary care.Make sure they have plenty of water and never let the stem ends dry out. Pinch out the topmost buds and remove the old flowerheads to encourage new ones to open. Keep away from fruit, vegetables, and excess heat, as they are very sensitive to the ethylene gas produced.

Facts: Unlike most other flowers, where the white forms smell most strongly, if you want highly scented freesia look for pink and red varieties.

Gardenia

2005-12-09T08:49:00.000+02:00

Gardenia requirements are very exact, and to insure your plants continued bloom, these needs must be met.

* Full sun, with some shading in the summer (in the hottest areas)
* An acid soil with a pH between 5 and 6
* Keep the soil moist, but never soggy
* Humidity, or daily misting
* Heavy feeding
* **Cool night temperatures**

Gardenias should be planted in well conditioned soil containing peat moss and compost. Cultivating around the plants may damage their shallow roots, so the plant should be mulched with 2 to 3 inches of wood chips, sawdust or ground bark to keep the soil moist, cool and weed free. Feed the plants every three weeks during the growing season with a rhododendron-azalea food, or acidifying fertilizer. (Miracid)
Proper temperatures are necessary for a gardenia to bloom. This is the most critical aspect. Flower buds will fail to form if day temperatures are higher than 70degrees or night temperatures are over 65 degrees or less than 60 degrees. The ideal temperature ranges would be 65 to 70 degrees during the day and 60 to 62 degrees at night.
Gardenias can be pruned as far back as you like but you should keep a few important details in mind. First, cut plants back when they are dormant ( depending upon where you live). This will allow the stems to "heal their wounds" when the plants aren't actively growing. This way you can still enjoy flowers the next year. When pruning, don't cut all the leaves off. Some leaves need to be left so the plant can still produce food for the root system. The following spring, use an acidic fertilizer with chealeted iron and high nitrogen so the plant can produce healthy leaves and buds. If you only want your plant to become bushier, simply pinch out the tips while the plant is dormant. Pinching will usually promote a heavier bloom the following year.
If you are growing your Gardenia as a potted plant indoors, keep it out of direct, hot sun, and allow it to only get bright light.
I think that your 'black mold' is more than likely an algae growth, which is a cosmetic problem for your plant rather than a health problem. This could be caused by insufficient air circulation, or possibly lack of sun. Unfortunately, in your situation, the only way to remove this growth is by hand washing each leaf.

Bougainvillea

2005-12-08T10:12:00.000+02:00

Lighting: Full sun.

Temperature: Being a warm weather plant, they must be provided winter protection. They can usually tolerate die back from a freeze, but will withhold blooms for awhile.

Watering: Sparse to light watering and good drainage. More bougainvilleas are killed by too much water than by too little.

Feeding: Fertilize once in the spring with a low nitrogen fertilizer and maybe once again in the fall. The old established method of forcing flowers is to withhold water to a point of causing severe stress to the plant. Research at the University of Florida has found that plants flower best when given high nitrogen fertilizers and short day lengths (15 hours of darkness within ever 24 hour period).

Pruning and wiring: The bougainvillea takes well to pruning; a useful attribute in styling bonsai. Because bougainvillea generally blooms on new growth, each branch, as blooms begin to fade, should be cut back to a point somewhat shorter than the desired length. Seal all cuts to prevent rot. If rot is detected on a collected specimen, cut it out completely.

Propagation: Bougainvillea may be grown from air layers, root cuttings and branch cuttings. Young shoots, a few inches in length, should be placed in sandy soil with bottom heat and moisture. Half-ripened or old wood cuttings in six to twelve inch lengths may be rooted April to June.

Repotting: Repot in Spring. Do not prune the roots too severely.

Pests and Diseases: Caterpillars, aphids, scale, greenfly and mineral deficiencies (chlorosis). Care must be taken that fungus does not invade the tree; reduced humidity and a preventive spraying of fungicide will help greatly.

Camelia

2005-12-07T08:20:00.000+02:00

The camelia is an extremely adaptive species; nevertheless for best results, it grows best in areas that are partly shady that have either a humid atmosphere or are regularly watered to keep moist.

Always try to make sure that the plant has perfect drainage, whether in a pot or planted in a garden. Camelias need a lot of water, especially when in bloom, but are terribly sensitive to stagnation, with dire results. It's advisable to repot camelias annually in the first two or three years of life, and after that, every other year. The existing pot should be replaced with a new container with a 10% bigger diametre. Repotting should be done before the new growth starts. Camelias planted outside in gardens should be well mulched with organic matter. This protects the roots from sudden changes in temperatures, curbs the development of weeds and above all provides a continuous supply of nourishment. Camelias don't require much in the way of fertilisers and are very sensitive to saltiness: if possibile, use organic fertilisers but if this is not possible use high quality chemical fertilisers developed specially for acidic soilds and lower the advised dosage.

Chrysanthemum

2005-12-06T12:08:00.000+02:00

They should be planted in early spring after all danger of freezing, however they can be planted almost any time, as long as they have time to establish their root system before the hottest weather. They grow best and produce the most flowers if planted in full sunshine, and respond to plenty of food and moisture.

All chrysanthemums have the same requirements for good growth. First they need a spot with at least 5 hours of sunlight a day to bloom. The ideal soil for mums is organically rich, deep and slightly acidic. For us that means digging in some compost and aged manure before planting.

Nourish the young plants regularly through spring and summer, but stop all feeding when the buds start to show color and you'll see the best flowers. Mulching also helps mum roots stay cooler during our hot summers.

* Water well during dry periods. Mums have shallow roots and needs lots of moisture.

* Soak plants heavily just before freeze-up. Apply mulch around the base of the plant.

* Divide every two years for best flowering. Discard the centers of mums and plant new pieces. Centers die out after about two years.

Azalea

2005-12-05T22:24:00.000+02:00

Flowering takes place in spring, from May to April.

Care Tips - Remember to water regularly - with rainwater if you live in a hard water area - as they hate drying out.
It is convenient to water the plants without wetting the leaves or the flowers. A good technique consists on placing the plant on a plate full with water that should stay during the hottest months, although it is necessary to remove it a couple of days a week so that the plant can rest.
Dry brown leaves usually indicates underwatering whereas firm yellow leaves means it has been watered with hard water.

They need an illuminated and well ventilated atmosphere, not directly in the sun, especially in warm climates. Being exposed in demishade is the most appropriate, with a temperature between 12-22 Cº. Being not a very warm climate place, it is convenient to protect it indoors during the winter. With the arrival of the spring, they should be placed outdoors again, without exposing it neither to full sun nor to very high light conditions, leaving them in a dark place for 10 days of adaptation. After this period, one can already place them in an illuminated place, nor in full sun. At the beginning of autumn they should be placed indoors.

~FLOR DE AZALEA~

Canta Jorge Negrete

Como espuma,
que inerte lleva el caudaloso río,
Flor de Azalea,
la vida, en su avalancha, te arrastró.

Pero, al salvarte,
hallar pudiste protección y abrigo,
donde curar tu corazón herido
por el dolor.

Tu sonrisa,
repliega el paso de las horas negras;
tu mirada,
la más amarga desesperación.

Hoy, para siempre,
quiero que olvides tus pasadas penas,
y que tan sólo tenga una serena
tu corazón.

Quisiera ser
la golondrina que al amanecer
a tu ventana llega para ver
a través del cristal;

y despertarte,
muy dulcemente, si aún estás dormida,
a la alborada de una nueva vida
llena de amor.

Hello World!

2005-12-04T23:46:00.000+02:00