How do determine if you have a Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter Cactus. Other than the bloom time, you can determine what type you have by the shape of the leaves. Thanksgiving cactus have pointed claw like leaves, the leaves of a Christmas cactus are more scalloped, while Easter cactus leaves are more rounded. General care… Read More
This is the time of year to create a timely, lovely holiday centerpiece for all to enjoy. Here are a few helpful suggestions. Start with a theme, maybe the twelve days of Christmas or all the winter and summer sports that different members of the family enjoy. It could be whimsical and fun for your… Read More
The season of fresh evergreens and indoor blooming bulbs is upon us! Here are some quick and easy tips to make your holiday home bright. First you probably want to make a container of evergreens to brighten your entryway and welcome guests. Use a mix of pine, fir and spruce to add variety and texture…. Read More
Do you know 2016 is the Chinese year of the Monkey? This year claims to be a lively and positive one oriented towards an active social life. We are supposed to experience a year full of laughter, optimism and creativity. Sounds good to me! This would be the ideal time to pursue your creativity and… Read More
There are many legends about Valentine’s Day. Some believed if a lady saw a robin on that day, she would marry a sailor. If she saw a sparrow, she would marry a poor man but be very happy. If she saw a goldfinch, she would marry a millionaire! Valentine was a priest back in early… Read More
It’s time for poinsettias! Here are a few tips to keep your plant lush and healthy throughout the holidays and beyond: Pick a plant where the yellow flower buds in the middle of the colored bracts are unopened. Poinsettias originate in Mexico so they don’t like drafts or cold temperatures. We’ll wrap it up well… Read More
Now that the Halloween decorations are packed away, you may have started thinking about the holidays and asked yourself what you can do to set the mood. First, draw attention to the front door. Maybe position a pair of lanterns on either side of the entryway to set the scene for your special occasion or… Read More
You may have already heard about the origins of the poinsettia and how it was discovered in Mexico, but just in case you didn’t, here’s a little history lesson for you. In 1825, Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first U.S. Ambassador to Mexico and amateur botanist, noticed the plant growing in the southern regions of Mexico…. Read More
Here we are again with the holidays upon us. They seem to arrive faster every year, no matter which holiday you celebrate. They all promote eating and giving, which is as it should be. If you get a chance, visit the Arboretum and the gigantic poinsettia tree. I heard they were doing it all in… Read More
“Come woo me for now I am in a holiday mood”. A quote from the Shakespeare play, “ As you like it”. That is just to remind you that Valentine’s Day is near and I suggest you remember to honor one of your loved ones on that day. Celebrations are a great excuse to escape… Read More
Here we are in the New Year! What a wonderful holiday, but now we need a fresh start. What better way to do that than “de-clutter”! Yes, that is what I wrote. Doesn’t sound like much fun, but just think how good you will feel when all the “clutter” is gone. Are holiday decorations in… Read More
Welcome to Winter! Time to take part in traditions and celebrate the holidays we look forward to each year. Family, friends and loved ones are so important, and now is the best time to create ways to show how you care and inspire them for generations to come. Decorating your space for all to enjoy… Read More
