Bloomin' Blog

Ask the Plant Expert: Please Help My Corn Plant – What Am I Doing Wrong?

January 14, 2014 by Jamie Jamison Adams

Ask The Plant Expert:

What is wrong with my plant?

I received this plant as a condolence at my mothers funeral. When I reviewed it there were no problems with it, but about two days after bringing it home the leaves started to brown … that was about a week ago. Now it looks like this. I would really love to save this plant. Can you help?

It is located in front of my French doors that do not have curtains and is about two feet away from a heater vent, but the vent does not blow directly on it, and the temperature is kept at around 72° in the house. I have watered it once since bringing it home. The care instructions said moderately bright light and only water when soil is dry, so I’m not sure what I’m doing wrong.

I had problems sending multiple photos so I just included the whole plant. If you need others please email me a location that they can be sent.

Angie

Plant Expert Reply:

Angie,

I think the plant is suffering from too much direct sunlight and not enough humidity. If the plant is closer than 18″ from the French doors, the sunlight may be too strong. Keep in mind the glass from the door can cause the sunlight concentration to intensify. This will cause a burning effect on the leaves. Low humidity can also cause browning of the tips and leaves.

I recommend you pull the plant at least 18″ from the window and mist the air around the plant every other day with lukewarm water. You should see new growth within a couple of weeks. You can remove any of the severely damaged leaves.

One more thing. Check your pot and make sure any excess water can drain away from the plant.

Good Luck and keep me posted.

Thanks,

Jamie Jamison Adams

Filed Under: Plant Care Questions Tagged With: Ask The Plant Expert

Ask the Plant Expert: What is this Blooming Plant with Spikes on the Trunk?

January 13, 2014 by Jamie Jamison Adams Leave a Comment

Ask The Plant Expert: What is this plant called?

I got this plant a few months ago. The plant had pink flowers blooming on it but they have all died. The trunk has spikes on it.

Ryan

Plant Expert Reply:

Ryan,

What an interesting little plant you have. It is a is a Euphorbia milii commonly called Crown of thorns.

This plant does not like to be over watered, so water it sparingly and apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer at half rate to it once a month during the growing season. In March and April the plant will require a little more water than other times during the growing season. During the winter keep the plant almost dry.

To ensure that the plant will thrive make sure you have the plant potted in a well-drained light soil and placed in full sunlight. It prefers warm areas and is hardy only in zone 9 – 11. If you live outside of these zones, be sure to bring the plant indoors once the temperature falls below 45 degrees.

When handling the plant you might want to wear latex gloves since the sap of the plant can cause skin irritation. This plant is poisonous if ingested, so keep children and pets away from it.

Hope this information is helpful.

Thanks,

Jamie Jamison Adams

Filed Under: Plant Identification Tagged With: Ask The Plant Expert

Friday Florist Recap 1/4 – 1/10: Wearying of Winter

January 10, 2014 by Ed Belly 2 Comments

This week we have a few last holiday holdouts and a whole host of spring-themed and colorful designs! From the photos we received this week, it’s obvious our florists are already wearying of winter. They are looking ahead to warmer weather and the explosion of color that comes with Spring. So join in the fun and scroll down to see a bevy of beautiful blooms!

Wedding Flowers

Winning bouquet from Cary’s Designs Floral in Spanish Fork, UT

“Our Wedding Bouquet for Gentry Gustin’s Wedding in August was published in the newest issue Utah Valley Brides Magazine! We are very honored!”

Blue and white winter wedding bouquet from Blooming Art Floral Design in San Diego, CA [Read more…]

Filed Under: Floral Design Tagged With: Facebook Friday, Floral Design, Flower Pictures, Sympathy Flowers, Wedding Flowers

Flower Spotlight: Carnations

January 9, 2014 by Ed Belly Leave a Comment

This month we spotlight the carnation!

Carnation Origins

The carnation is a beautiful flower most likely native to the Mediterranean region. I say “most likely” because it has been so widely cultivated over the last 2,000 years that no one knows for sure the full range of this flower’s natural origins. Still, if you were to try growing your own carnations, you’d need well drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil and full sun. Certainly in keeping with a Mediterranean climate!

Carnation Colors and Meanings

In general, carnations represent love, fascination and distinction however color variations can have their own meanings.

Light Red – Admiration
Dark Red – Deep love or affection
Pink – A mother’s undying love – The legend around this color says that the pink carnation was formed when the Virgin Mary wept for Jesus as he carried the cross to his own crucifixion.
Purple – Capriciousness, unpredictability, fickleness and unreliability
Yellow – Disappointment, dejection and rejection
White – Pure love and good luck
Green – Not a natural color, they are often dyed and coupled with white carnations for St. Patrick’s Day.
Striped – Regret or refusal

As you can see, the carnation covers a wide range of feelings and events. Did someone ask you out but you want to let them down easy? Say, “No” with flowers! Want to tell the world you’re feeling a bit unpredictable? A purple carnation on your lapel will do the trick nicely. Are you wanting a different flower to use on Valentine’s Day? The red carnation says love as loudly as any rose. The carnation is also the official flower for January birthdays!

Need to think of new and creative ways to use carnations? Contact your local florist and let them guide you! Carnations have been popular flowers for over 2,000 years. They have a storied history and are just downright gorgeous. Next time you have flower needs, don’t forget the carnation!

Filed Under: Flower Meanings Tagged With: Carnation, Carnation Comeback, Flower Meanings, Modern Carnations

Broad Mites Might Be The Problem With Your Schefflera

January 8, 2014 by Jamie Jamison Adams

Ask The Plant Expert:

Hello, Through unfortunate circumstances I have become the keeper of 2 Schefflera plants. One is a pretty good sized ‘bush’ and the other is much smaller.

They both came from a florist and looked extraordinary 5 days ago. The problem started surfacing the day we brought them home, the leaves started wilting, turning a dark greenish-brown and then falling off. On the smaller plant some of the leaves actually look shriveled and dried (mostly the smaller newer growth). There are a few leaves that have spots on them.

I’m having a hard time telling if they are dry, the soil seems to be deep in the pot and it seems to just be the vine/stem in the soil. Because of this they have been watered thoroughly and drained before putting them back in their decorative pots. They are both in a brightly lit room, the smaller one has been placed near a great vent so I just moved it today.

The larger one is in the same room but not near a vent. They were shipped to a visitation and then put in the car for a few hours before coming home with me – the temp that day was in the single digits. When I first noticed these symptoms it reminded me of what lettuce looks like when it gets frozen then thawed, I thought the extreme temps did something to some of the branches so I trimmed quite a bit of the sickly looking leaves/stems from them. Regardless of doing that they are rapidly losing life. They are holding a sentimental value right now for me and I would really love to keep them happy but not sure how to fix the problem.

Marci

Plant Expert Reply:
Marci,

Wow. It does look like your plants are having a bit of trouble, but I think your plants are still in fairly good condition.

Exposure to cold temperatures may have caused some of the problems you are seeing. But from a glance, I would say the plants could have a broad mite problem. Broad mites will often cause new leaves to cup downward and pucker, as well as cause leaves to be stunted with serrated margins. You will need a magnifying glass to identify the mites. If your plant does have mites, I recommend removing all damaged leaves and stems and treating with a miticide. Your local garden center should have one that will work.

The sticky substance could also indicate an aphid problem. If you have aphids, you should be able to see them without a magnifying glass. Look at the underneath side of the leaves. If aphids are a problem, you will need to treat with an insecticide.

I am not sure what you mean when you say ” I’m having a hard time telling if they are dry, the soil seems to be deep in the pot and it seems to just be the vine/stem in the soil. Because of this they have been watered thoroughly and drained before putting them back in their decorative pots.”

If you can give me a little more information or a picture of the soil, I think I can help you avoid water stress issues.

At the bottom of our Dwarf Schefflera page you can find a list of care instruction that might help.

I hope this information is helpful.

Thanks!

Jamie Jamison Adams

Filed Under: Plant Care Questions Tagged With: Schefflera

FSN’s Pinterest Picks

January 7, 2014 by Juli Jackson Leave a Comment

Really feeling the purple this week when we searched through Pinterest for some great inspiration from talented florists. Take a closer look and you’ll see all those carefully crafted details that make these pieces so lovely and ready to deliver smiles! [Read more…]

Filed Under: Floral Design Tagged With: Pinterest Picks

January is Houseplant Appreciation Month!

January 6, 2014 by Juli Jackson Leave a Comment

Leafy Friends Who Love You

Houseplants are wonderful additions to your home. They add color, life and a touch of nature everyday. They give off oxygen that helps purify your home and they ask for so little care in return. This is the month to give them a little extra love and attention. Now that the holidays have passed, find a moment to check in with your plants and give them some TLC.

Plant Care Tips

Make sure your plant is getting enough light! Check to see if leaves are still a nice dark green. Yellowing and dropping leaves can be a sign of not enough light. Also if new leaves are thin and small, you might need to find a new brighter place.
Rotate plants that are leaning or growing towards their light source. Increasing the amount of light will stop uneven growth.
Trim dead leaves with clean shears or by carefully pinching them off with your fingers.
Gently wipe dusty leaves with a soft damp cloth. Don’t use commercial plant shine products as certain types can damage the plant over time.
Water plants slowly and thoroughly. Stop when water comes out the drainage holes. If water runs out the holes immediately when watering, there might not be enough soil and too many roots. Time to re-pot!
Overwatering is the biggest problem for indoor plants. Use your finger to gauge if you should water plants or not. Stick your finger 2 inches in the dirt of each pot. If it is slightly moist 2 inches down, wait another day or two. If it is completely dry, water away. If you find it is very wet, cut back on watering.
It is best to water plants in the morning. Use tepid, or slight warm, water for best results.
Add in fertilizer if needed and consider re-potting any plants that need it.

Give The Gift of Green

Share the joy of beautiful indoor plants with a friend or loved one. Even if someone claims they don’t have a “green thumb” there are so many easy-to-care-for plants available at your local florist. Work with a florist directly and they will help you select a wonderful plant that will be enjoyed for years to come.

Filed Under: Tips & Tricks Tagged With: Houseplants

Friday Florist Recap 12/28 – 1/3: Wrapping up the Holidays

January 3, 2014 by Ed Belly Leave a Comment

Happy New Year!! We have moved past the last of the holiday season and are heading toward love with Valentine’s Day coming just a little over a month away. This week we have some lovely holiday themed pieces making use of tree ornaments, a wedding collage, and a gorgeous casket spray designed on drift wood! We also have a special photo from Monday Morning Flower and Balloon Co. of which they should be VERY proud. Scroll on through and enjoy our wrapping up the holidays edition!

Special Occasion Flowers

Winning arrangement from Monday Morning Flower and Balloon Co. in Princeton, NJ

“Our bouquet was chosen by the Philadelphia Zoo for the cover of their new Wedding Brochure!”

Explosively beautiful arrangement from Wilma’s Flowers in Jasper, AL [Read more…]

Filed Under: Floral Design Tagged With: Facebook Friday, Floral Design, Flower Pictures, Sympathy Flowers, Wedding Flowers

Valentine’s Day: It’s Never Too Early to Plan for Love!

January 2, 2014 by Ed Belly Leave a Comment

Valentine’s Day may be more than a month away, but that’s all the more reason to start planning your big day immediately! When it comes to love, you can never prepare too early. After all, “He who hesitates is lost.” By getting an early start, you’re guaranteed to have everything you need to make your significant other’s day magnificent!

Because I Love You

Finding Fresh Ideas

A successful Valentine’s Day requires thought and effort. You want to impress the one you love, and any attempt to thrill your sweetheart should start with a trip to your local florist! A florist provides unique ideas and creative floral designs, the very things needed to leave your lover breathless. The local florist specializes in creative design. It’s not enough to give the same arrangement everyone else is receiving, you want to give them something that illustrates exactly how you feel.

Talk with your local florist, discuss your ideas and let them help you shape them into something wonderful!

Filed Under: Gift Ideas Tagged With: Flower Suggestions, Valentines Day, Valentines Day Flowers, Valentines Day Gifts

Best 5 Reasons to Send Flowers in January

January 1, 2014 by Juli Jackson Leave a Comment

Gray and blue don’t have to color this wintery month. We have some great reasons to send exciting flowers in January so not only can you help celebrate a special occasion, you can feel great about brightening someone else’s day… and your own!

#1. Houseplant Appreciation Day – Jan 10th

The holidays are done. You finally got all the decorations packed away. But what is missing in your household now? Houseplants of course! Today is the day to tend to any plants you already have and definitely the best day to send a new houseplant to a friend or family member. Indoor plants instantly brighten a room, they purify the air and add life to the house day after day. Your local florist will have a great variety of easy-to-grow houseplants in all shapes and sizes.

#2. Chinese New Year – Jan. 31st

Also referred to as the Lunar New Year, this traditional Chinese holiday is marked by bright red decor, big feasts, offerings to the spirits, and cleaning house to make way for good luck in the new year. Help someone near and dear to you celebrate good fortune and happiness with a bright Asian-inspired bouquet! Send flowers for their reunion dinner or as a wish for good luck in the coming year.

#3. New Year’s Resolution Solution

This is the month everyone is trying to start off on the right foot. To be healthier and more active is typically on the top of each list. But making new habits and ditching bad ones is really challenging. You can help support friends as they seek their goals. Trying to cut back on office snacking? Send some beautiful flowers that will provide extra encouragement all week long. Someone wanting to make healthier choices? A fruit basket is a perfect pick-me-up. Empower others to succeed and you’ll be inspired to stick to your own goals!

#4. January Birthdays

You gotta love nature for creating flowers that are designed to bloom even in the gloomy cold seasons. So if there is a birthday to celebrate this month, January’s birth flower, the carnation, is ready to thrill and delight. Carnations are symbolic of love, fascination and distinction. With so many colors and varieties available you’ll be able to send the perfect arrangement to wish anyone a very special birthday.

#5. Beat The Winter Blues

Even if you don’t have a full blown case of seasonal affective disorder, long grey winters have a way of bringing everyone down. After the December holidays and marching right into the coldest days of the year in many climates, January is an especially hard month for sunny dispositions. Battle the winter blues by sending some bright flowers! They will be a welcome surprise and serve as a reminder that spring is just around the corner.

Filed Under: Gift Ideas Tagged With: Best 5 Reasons, Gift Ideas, Houseplants

Wedding Flowers

Carnation Origins

Carnation Colors and Meanings

Leafy Friends Who Love You

Plant Care Tips

Give The Gift of Green

Special Occasion Flowers

Finding Fresh Ideas

#1. Houseplant Appreciation Day – Jan 10th

#2. Chinese New Year – Jan. 31st

#3. New Year’s Resolution Solution

#4. January Birthdays

#5. Beat The Winter Blues

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