Holiday Plants
The holiday season is a magical time when houses are decorated with twinkly lights and garlands. The weather is colder and the possibility of snow forces people to stay indoors. And when you do brave the cold to attend a family gathering or holiday party, it can be overwhelming, especially when you’re on the hunt for a last-minute gift. Personally, you can never go wrong with a bottle of wine or champagne to give to the host or hostess. However, a potted herb plant like rosemary, is a memorable gift that provides flavor for cooking and an added décor to the home.
Do you have a friend who is also a plant mom? Need a gift for a new mother-in-law who happens to have a green thumb? Below is a list of festive plants for this holiday season.
HOLIDAY PLANT GIFT GUIDE
Snowdrop and Amaryllis bulbs– These perennial flowers are the perfect gift for avid gardeners or someone who simply just loves flowers. Snowdrops bloom between January through March and can survive freezing temperatures. Bulbs can be planted in the ground if not frozen or in a pot. Note: Like daffodils, snowdrops can multiply, so it’s best to dig up the bulbs, separate them, and replant them.
Amaryllis flowers come in shades of red, white, and pink. You can grow the bulbs in water, but they will only bloom once. Best to plant in a flowerpot so that you’ll have cheerful blooms every year. Note: Amaryllis are toxic and cannot survive freezing temperatures.
Herb Kit or Potted Herb Plant– Cooking enthusiasts will appreciate growing fresh herbs. You can order herb-growing kits online. Also, at your local grocery market, you can find fresh herb plants like rosemary, basil, and parsley. Use a festive flowerpot or add a holiday ornament to your plant for some extra Bazaz.
Venus Fly Trap– A plant that kids will enjoy, the Venus Fly Trap is a fun and educational gift. A native plant found in North and South Carolina, the Venus Fly Trap requires full sun and moist soil. Note: Use only distilled or rainwater when watering this plant. Also, this carnivorous plant does eat insects but can survive months without eating.
Include a children’s book with the plant. My favorite is Elizabite- Adventures of a Carnivorous Plant, by H.A. Rey.
Book Link: barnesandnoble.com
Christmas Cactus – This perennial plant is a favorite of mine. Part of the succulent family, Christmas Cactus blooms around December and thrives in cold temperature rooms, like a closed-in porch or sunroom. The plant requires partial sun. Allow soil to dry before watering.
Poinsettias, mini holly, and miniature evergreen trees are also popular plants that are in season. All are festive and inexpensive, but highly toxic to pets.
Besides plants, practical gardening tools, gloves, and gardening planners make lovely gifts for loved ones who like to garden.
Holiday shopping can be stressful. Keep it simple and purchase gifts that are practical and meaningful.
Happy Holidays!!!
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