Tag:

Cut Flowers

Growing and Caring for Freesia: A Complete Guide

by Gregory April 14, 2025

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

All About Freesia: A Guide to Growing and Caring for These Fragrant Flowers

Introduction

Freesia is a beautiful and fragrant flower that is native to South Africa. It was introduced to cultivation in the Victorian era and quickly became a popular choice for gardens and bouquets. Freesia symbolizes innocence, purity, and trust.

Growing Freesia

Freesia is relatively easy to grow, but it does have some specific requirements.

Climate: Freesia prefers warm, sunny climates with daytime temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures between 45 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. It cannot tolerate frost.
Soil: Freesia prefers moist, well-draining soil. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and moisture retention.
Planting: Plant freesia bulbs in the fall or spring. Space the bulbs 4-6 inches apart and plant them 2-3 inches deep.
Watering: Water freesia regularly, especially during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizing: Fertilize freesia once a year with a general-purpose flower fertilizer.
Support: Freesia plants can grow tall and may need support. Use ring or grid-like grow-through plant supports to keep the stems upright.

Care and Maintenance

Deadheading: Deadhead spent blooms to keep the garden tidy and encourage new growth.
Dividing: Divide freesia plants every three to five years to prevent overcrowding.
Overwintering: In cold climates, freesia bulbs can be dug up and stored indoors over the winter.

Varieties of Freesia

There are many different varieties of freesia available, each with its own unique color and bloom time. Some popular varieties include:

Athene (white)
Belleville (pink)
Demeter (yellow)
Golden Passion (orange)
Mirabel (purple)
Oberon (blue)
Royal Blue (blue)
Snowden (white)

Uses of Freesia

Freesia is a popular choice for cut flowers. It can also be grown in containers or in the garden. Freesia flowers are often used in arrangements and bouquets.

Troubleshooting Common Freesia Problems

Yellowing leaves: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering or nutrient deficiency.
Brown spots on leaves: Brown spots on leaves can be a sign of disease.
Stunted growth: Stunted growth can be a sign of overcrowding or lack of sunlight.
No blooms: No blooms can be a sign of improper planting, lack of sunlight, or nutrient deficiency.

Conclusion

Freesia is a beautiful and fragrant flower that is easy to grow and care for. With proper care, freesia plants can thrive for many years and provide you with beautiful blooms season after season.

Flower Gardening

All About Stock Flowers: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Gardeners

by Donna November 11, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

All About Stock Flowers: A Guide for Young Gardeners

Introduction

If you’re looking for a fun and rewarding garden project that will produce beautiful, fragrant flowers in the spring, stock flowers are a great option. They’re easy to grow, and they come in a wide variety of colors and shapes.

What are Stock Flowers?

Stock flowers, also known as gillyflowers or Matthiola incana, are a type of annual or biennial flower that is native to the Mediterranean region. They are known for their sweet, spicy fragrance and their long-lasting blooms. Stock flowers can grow to be 1-3 feet tall and produce clusters of small, double or single flowers in shades of white, pink, red, purple, and yellow.

How to Grow Stock Flowers

Stock flowers are relatively easy to grow from seed. They can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or sown directly outdoors in the spring. Stock flowers prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. They should be watered regularly, but allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.

Caring for Stock Flowers

Stock flowers are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they do require some basic care to thrive. They should be fertilized every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer, and deadheaded regularly to encourage new blooms. Stock flowers are also susceptible to aphids and other pests, so it’s important to keep an eye out for them and treat them accordingly.

Chilling Stock Flowers

One of the most important things to remember when growing stock flowers is that they require a period of cold treatment in order to bloom properly. This process, known as chilling, can be done by exposing the plants to temperatures between 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit for 2-3 weeks. Chilling helps to break down the plant’s natural growth inhibitors and promote flowering.

Growing Stock Flowers in Cold Climates

Stock flowers can be grown in a variety of climates, but they do best in cool, temperate regions. In cold climates, it’s important to protect stock plants from frost by mulching around them or growing them in a greenhouse. Stock flowers can also be grown indoors in a sunny window.

Benefits of Growing Stock Flowers

Stock flowers are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. They are a great source of nectar for bees and other pollinators, and their sweet fragrance can help to attract butterflies to your yard. Stock flowers are also a good choice for cut flowers, as they will last for up to two weeks in a vase.

Conclusion

Stock flowers are a beautiful and versatile flower that can be grown in a variety of climates. With a little care, they will produce beautiful blooms that will add color and fragrance to your garden all season long.

Flower Gardening

A Beginner’s Guide to Growing and Arranging Cut Flowers: Create Stunning Bouquets at Home

by Donna June 15, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Beautiful Homegrown Bouquets: A Beginner’s Guide to Cut Flowers

Introduction

Have you ever dreamed of filling your home with the beauty of fresh-cut flowers? Growing your own cut flowers is a rewarding and sustainable hobby that can bring joy to your life and your home. In this article, we’ll guide you through the basics of growing and arranging cut flowers, making it easy for you to create stunning bouquets that will brighten your day.

Getting Started with Cut Flowers

Choose a variety of flowers that suit your taste and growing conditions.
Consider the flowering season of each plant to ensure a continuous supply of blooms.
Start with plants that are easy to grow and maintain, such as zinnias, sunflowers, and daisies.

Creating a Cutting Garden

Designate a specific area in your garden for growing cut flowers.
Plant flowers in borders or raised beds to make them easy to access.
Include a mix of annuals, biennials, and perennials to extend the flowering season.

Selecting the Best Cut Flowers

Look for flowers with strong stems and long vase life.
Choose blooms that are fully open or just starting to open.
Avoid picking flowers that are wilted or damaged.

Arranging Cut Flowers

Use a variety of vases and containers to create unique arrangements.
Group flowers by color, shape, or texture to create visual interest.
Experiment with different heights and angles to add depth and dimension.

Prolonging the Life of Cut Flowers

Remove any leaves or stems that will be below the waterline in the vase.
Use fresh, clean water and change it every few days.
Keep cut flowers away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Add a floral preservative to the water to extend their lifespan.

Growing Cut Flowers Sustainably

Choose plants that are native to your area to support local wildlife.
Avoid using chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Compost plant trimmings to enrich the soil and reduce waste.

Thrifty Tips

Repurpose glass jars as vases to save money and reduce waste.
Remove glue residue from jars by soaking them in hot water and using baking soda or vinegar.

Conclusion

Growing and arranging cut flowers is a rewarding hobby that can bring beauty and joy into your life. By following these tips and experimenting with different plants and arrangements, you’ll be able to create stunning bouquets that will brighten your home and impress your friends and family.

Flower Gardening

Growing Gypsophila: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

by Gregory June 13, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

How to Grow Gypsophila: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Gypsophila, commonly known as baby’s breath, is a beautiful and versatile plant that adds a delicate touch to gardens and bouquets. With its tiny, white or pink flowers, gypsophila is a favorite among gardeners and florists alike. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about growing gypsophila, from choosing the right variety to caring for your plants and preventing common problems.

Choosing the Right Variety

There are many different varieties of gypsophila, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include:

Gypsophila paniculata ‘Snowflake’: A perennial variety with masses of snow-white flowers that bloom on strong stems in early summer. Perfect for bouquets, dried flower arrangements, and filling gaps in the border.
Gypsophila paniculata ‘Bristol Fairy’: A perennial variety with double white flowers, also good for filling gaps in the border, cutting, and dried flowers.
Gypsophila ‘Rosenscheier’: A compact, perennial variety with white flowers that fade to pink as they mature.
Gypsophila elegans ‘Covent Garden’: A pretty white annual variety that’s excellent for cutting.
Gypsophila cerastiodes (mouse-eared gypsophila): A dwarf, semi-evergreen alpine type with a creeping habit. Green-grey, hairy leaves contrast with masses of small white trumpet-shaped flowers in spring and summer, loved by pollinators.
Gypsohila repens ‘Rosea’: A pretty, creeping pink variety, ideal for rockeries or planting in stone walls.

Growing Conditions

Gypsophila prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline or neutral. They also need full sun to thrive. If your soil is heavy or acidic, you can amend it with compost and grit to improve drainage and pH levels.

Planting

When planting gypsophila, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the plant deeply after planting.

Care

Gypsophila is relatively easy to care for. Here are a few tips:

Watering: Water your gypsophila plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizing: Feed your gypsophila plants every few weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Support: Taller varieties of gypsophila may need support in windy spots. Use pea sticks or brushwood to provide support.
Deadheading: Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage repeat flowering.

Propagation

Gypsophila can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or division.

Seed: Sow seeds of annual gypsophila directly in the garden in spring or fall. Perennial varieties can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
Cuttings: Take basal cuttings from perennial gypsophila in spring or summer. Root the cuttings in a moist rooting medium.
Division: Alpine varieties of gypsophila can be divided in spring or fall.

Problem Solving

Gypsophila are generally trouble-free plants, but they can occasionally be affected by pests or diseases.

Pests: Aphids and spider mites are the most common pests that affect gypsophila. Treat infestations with an insecticidal soap spray.
Diseases: Gypsophila can be susceptible to root rot and stem rot in poorly drained soil. Avoid overwatering and improve drainage by adding grit to the soil.

Conclusion

Growing gypsophila is a rewarding experience that can add beauty and charm to your garden or bouquets. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can enjoy the delicate blooms of gypsophila season after season.

Gardening

Grow Your Own Cut Flowers: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing, Arranging, and Enjoying Beautiful Blooms

by Donna June 13, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Growing Cut Flowers for Your Home

Why Grow Your Own Cut Flowers?

Growing your own cut flowers is a great way to enjoy beautiful blooms in your home all year round. It’s also a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option than buying flowers from the store.

Benefits of Growing Cut Flowers

Save money
Control the quality of your flowers
Choose flowers that are in season
Support local farmers
Reduce your carbon footprint

How to Grow Cut Flowers

To grow cut flowers, you’ll need to choose the right varieties. Not all flowers are suitable for cutting, so do your research before you buy seeds or plants.

Once you have your plants, you’ll need to provide them with the right care. This includes:

Watering them regularly
Fertilizing them every few weeks
Protecting them from pests and diseases

Arranging Cut Flowers

Once your flowers are blooming, you can start arranging them in vases. Here are a few tips:

Use a variety of colors and textures.
Consider the height and shape of the flowers.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different arrangements.

DIY Cut Flower Garden Ideas

If you’re looking for some inspiration for your cut flower garden, here are a few ideas:

Plant a variety of flowers that bloom at different times of the year.
Create a cutting garden dedicated to growing flowers for vases.
Use trellises or cages to support tall flowers.
Add some scented flowers to your garden to enjoy their fragrance indoors.

Growing cut flowers is a fun and rewarding experience. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy beautiful blooms in your home all year round.

Gardening

Free Flower Seeds 2024: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Zinnias from Seed

by Gregory May 26, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Free Flower Seeds 2024: A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Zinnias from Seed

Introduction

Get ready for a blooming good time! From January to June, we’re giving away free packs of flower seeds to our subscribers. Join us as we embark on a year of gardening adventures, starting with our very own flower grower, Cel Robertson.

Meet Cel Robertson, Our Flower Guru

Cel is a plant lover and the founder of Forever Green Flower Company. She’s passionate about growing beautiful flowers from seed, and she’s sharing her expertise with us.

Growing Together

Cel will be growing six varieties of flowers this year: zinnias, echium, xerochrysum, sunflowers, cosmos, and foxgloves. She’ll be sharing her progress and tips each month, so we can all learn and grow together.

Where to Grow Your Flowers

Cel doesn’t have a garden at home right now, so she’ll be using a bed on her flower field and planting containers at home. You can grow your flowers in a garden, containers, or even a polytunnel.

How to Sow Zinnia Seeds

Zinnias are half-hardy annuals, meaning they don’t like frost or cold weather. So, it’s important to wait until it gets warmer before sowing your seeds.

Sow zinnias about four weeks before your last frost date.
Use individual cell trays or seed trays.
Place the seeds in the trays and cover them with a thin layer of soil.
Keep the soil moist and warm.
Once the seedlings emerge, grow them in a greenhouse or polytunnel until they’re strong enough to transplant outdoors.

Caring for Your Zinnia Plants

Once your zinnias are transplanted outdoors, they’ll need regular watering, fertilizing, and sunlight.

Water your zinnias deeply and regularly, especially during hot weather.
Fertilize your zinnias every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Zinnias need at least six hours of sunlight per day.

Harvesting Your Zinnias

Zinnias bloom from summer to fall. You can harvest them when the flowers are fully open.

Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle.
Remove any leaves that will be below the water line in the vase.
Place the zinnias in a vase with fresh water.

Get Inspired

Looking for more gardening inspiration? Check out these helpful resources:

Tips on how to tidy and clean your greenhouse
Prepare your greenhouse for spring sowing and growing
Check out our guide to the best heated propagators
Be inspired to build your own polytunnel
Read up on sowing seeds early
Follow David Hurrion’s four steps to seed sowing success

Conclusion

Growing zinnias from seed is a fun and rewarding experience. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy beautiful blooms all season long. So, gather your supplies, sow your seeds, and let’s get growing!

Flower Gardening

The Ultimate Guide to Growing the Best Sweet Peas for Cut Flowers

by Gregory April 26, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Best Sweet Peas for Cut Flowers

Introduction

Sweet peas are a popular choice for cut flowers because of their delicate fragrance and beautiful blooms. They come in a wide range of colors and varieties, so you can find the perfect ones to match your taste.

Choosing the Best Sweet Peas for Cutting

The best sweet peas for cutting are those with long, straight stems and a strong fragrance. You should also look for varieties that are resistant to disease and pests.

Some of the best varieties for cut flowers include:

Matucana: An old variety that is still considered one of the best.
Dynasty: A reliable variety with strong pink flowers.
White Supreme: A vigorous variety with long stems and a good fragrance.
King Edward VII: A highly fragrant heirloom variety with brilliant magenta flowers.
Erewhon: A striking cultivar with bicolour flowers and a delicious scent.
Mollie Rilstone: A pretty picotee variety with white flowers blushed with pink.
Just Julia: An excellent mid-blue variety with a strong scent.

Tips for Growing Sweet Peas for Cut Flowers

To grow the best sweet peas for cut flowers, follow these tips:

Train your sweet peas with the cordon method: This method will help to produce long, straight stems.
Pick your sweet peas regularly: This will encourage them to produce more flowers.
Cut your sweet peas in the morning or early evening: This is when the plants are least likely to be stressed and dehydrated.
Cut the stems as long as you can: This will give you more flowers to enjoy.
Plunge the stems into cold water immediately: This will help to prevent them from wilting.

How to Cut Sweet Peas for Cut Flowers

To cut sweet peas for cut flowers, follow these steps:

Cut the stems as long as you can, collecting them in one hand as you work.
When your hand is full, plunge the bunch into a bucket of cold water, placed nearby in the shade.
Continue to pick until you have the desired number of flowers.
Cheat a bit of extra length by cutting short stems right back to the plant, including a few twining tendrils to add to the vase display.

Sweet Pea Cut Flower Care

To keep your sweet peas looking their best, follow these care tips:

Change the water in the vase every few days.
Keep the vase in a cool, shady spot.
Remove any dead or wilted flowers.

With proper care, your sweet peas will last for up to two weeks in a vase.

Conclusion

Sweet peas are a beautiful and fragrant addition to any vase. By following the tips in this article, you can grow and care for your own sweet peas to enjoy for weeks to come.

Gardening

Late Summer Color: Plants to Brighten Your Garden

by Gregory April 26, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Late Summer Color: Plants to Brighten Your Garden

Introduction

Looking to add some vibrant color to your garden in late summer and autumn? Check out these fabulous plants that will keep your borders blooming all season long. There are options for every color scheme and growing condition, whether you have pots or borders.

Flowering Plants for Late Summer

Tulbaghia violacea: This South African perennial blooms from mid-summer to autumn, with pale pink clusters of bell-shaped flowers.
Single dahlias: These dahlias come in a wide range of colors and shapes, and they’re a great source of nectar for pollinators.
Persicaria amplexicaulis ‘Atrosanguinea’: This vigorous and reliable plant forms a large clump with pointed leaves and produces breezy spikes of crimson flowers from midsummer to autumn.
Rudbeckia ‘Cherry Brandy’: Known for its deep rich crimson flowers, this plant blooms in late summer and lasts well as a cut flower.
Salvia x jamensis Raspberry Royale: These short, shrubby salvias have vibrant flowers that attract bees and smell heavenly.
Penstemon ‘Raven’: With dark burgundy-purple flowers held on long stems, this perennial is a favorite for late summer color.
Calibrachoa: These trailing plants look like mini petunias and come in an array of colors, perfect for baskets and containers.
Tithonia ‘Torch’: These annuals have huge, rich-orange flowers held high on delicate stems, making them a standout in late summer borders.
Anemone hupehensis ‘Splendens’: Japanese anemones bring a welcome splash of color in late summer and early autumn, with bold pink petals surrounding a vibrant yellow center.
Hydrangea ‘Annabelle’: Hydrangeas are a classic choice for late summer, with their large, calming white flower heads.

Tips for Choosing Plants

Consider your color scheme and the growing conditions in your garden.
Choose plants that will bloom at different times to extend your season of color.
Don’t forget to include plants that attract pollinators.
If you have limited space, consider growing plants in pots or containers.

With these fabulous plants, you can enjoy a beautiful and colorful garden all through late summer and autumn.

Gardening

10 Best Garden Trugs for Every Need and Budget

by Gregory April 15, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

10 of the Best Garden Trugs

What is a Trug?

A trug is a versatile garden tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, such as harvesting fruits and vegetables, collecting cut flowers, and transporting tools. Trugs come in a range of sizes, shapes, and materials, so you can find one that’s perfect for your needs.

History of Trugs

Trugs have been used in gardens for centuries. In Anglo-Saxon times, they were made from hollowed-out pieces of wood. Over time, they evolved into the more practical and lightweight willow version that we know today.

Types of Trugs

Sussex Trugs: These classic trugs are handmade in Sussex, England, and are known for their durability and style.
Woven Trugs: These trugs are made from woven willow or other natural materials. They are lightweight and flexible, making them easy to carry.
Recycled Trugs: These trugs are made from recycled plastic or other sustainable materials. They are a great option for eco-conscious gardeners.
Hip Trugs: These trugs clip onto your waistband, giving you hands-free access to your tools while you work.
Colander Trugs: These trugs have a colander base, which makes them ideal for harvesting and washing vegetables.
Open Flower Trugs: These trugs have an open-ended design, which allows cut flowers to lie flat.
Galvanized Metal Trugs: These trugs are made from galvanized steel, making them durable and resistant to rust.
Personalized Trugs: These trugs can be embroidered with your name or a special message, making them a unique and thoughtful gift.
Rubber Trugs: These trugs are made from durable rubber, making them flexible and easy to clean.

Choosing the Right Trug

When choosing a trug, consider the following factors:

Size: Trugs come in a range of sizes, from small to large. Choose a size that is appropriate for your needs.
Shape: Trugs come in a variety of shapes, including rectangular, oval, and round. Choose a shape that is comfortable to carry and use.
Material: Trugs are made from a variety of materials, including willow, plastic, metal, and rubber. Choose a material that is durable and easy to clean.

With so many different types of trugs to choose from, you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for your gardening needs.

Gardening

New Year’s Gardening Resolutions: Expert Tips for a Thriving Garden in 2023

by Donna March 20, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

New Year’s Gardening Resolutions for Every Green Thumb

As the New Year dawns, it’s a perfect time to reflect on our gardening practices and set some resolutions to improve our green spaces. Here’s a roundup of gardening resolutions from experts in the field, each with tips and advice to help you achieve your gardening goals in 2023.

Protecting Pelargoniums

Pelargoniums, also known as geraniums, are beautiful plants that can brighten up any garden. However, they can be susceptible to frost damage during the winter months. To protect your pelargoniums, consider bringing them indoors or placing them in a sheltered area. You can also take cuttings in the fall to ensure you have replacements if any plants are lost.

Containing Containers

If you have a small garden or limited space, container gardening is a great way to grow plants. However, it’s important to choose the right size and type of containers for your plants and to be mindful of water management. Larger containers retain moisture better than smaller ones, so opt for bigger pots if possible.

Sowing Seeds Earlier

Don’t wait until spring to start sowing seeds. By starting earlier, you’ll give your plants more time to establish and enjoy them for a longer period. For first-year-flowering perennials, bananas, and brugmansias, sow seeds in February. For most other plants, early March is a good time to start sowing.

Planting Roses

Roses are a classic addition to any garden, and they’re surprisingly easy to grow. Choose a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. When planting roses, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Place the rose bush in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.

Growing Wisely

Don’t waste time and effort trying to grow plants that aren’t suited to your climate or space. Instead, focus on growing plants that you know will thrive in your conditions. Consider factors such as sunlight exposure, soil type, and water availability. By choosing the right plants for your garden, you’ll have a better chance of success.

String Solutions

String is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of gardening tasks, from tying up plants to marking out rows. Keep a ball of string handy in your garden shed or tool bag, and you’ll always be prepared to tackle any job that comes up.

Repotting and Planting

Spring is the ideal time to repot houseplants and plant new ones in the garden. When repotting, choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and use fresh potting mix. Water the plant thoroughly after repotting and place it in a bright spot.

Saving Water

Water conservation is becoming increasingly important, especially in areas prone to drought. There are a number of ways to save water in the garden, such as using drip irrigation systems, planting drought-tolerant plants, and collecting rainwater.

Winter Interest

Don’t let your garden look drab during the winter months. Add some winter interest by planting evergreens, shrubs with colorful berries, and winter-flowering bulbs. You can also create a winter garden by using decorative elements such as lanterns, bird feeders, and festive decorations.

New Home, New Garden

If you’ve recently moved into a new home, take some time to observe your garden and see how it changes throughout the seasons. Once you have a good understanding of your garden’s microclimate and conditions, you can start making plans for changes or additions.

Cut Flowers for Drying

Dried flowers are a beautiful and versatile way to decorate your home. Grow your own cut flowers for drying by choosing varieties that dry well, such as lavender, yarrow, and strawflowers. Hang your cut flowers upside down in a warm, dry place until they are completely dry.

Veg in a Small Space

Even if you have limited outdoor space, you can still grow your own vegetables. Consider growing vegetables in containers, window boxes, or vertical gardens. Choose space-saving varieties of vegetables, such as bush beans, compact tomatoes, and strawberries.

Newer Posts

Older Posts