6 GREAT PLANTS TO GIVE AS GIFTS
Go ahead: promise them a rose garden–a potted rose garden, that is. Potted roses make thoughtful gifts that last. Roses in pots need to be watered every day in summer and every two to three days in winter. If you water by hand, use a hose with a fine nozzle as this will prevent the potting soil from becoming compacted. To keep growth lush, fertilise every two weeks by sprinkling with a granular fertiliser.
Hydrangeas prefer well-drained, moist soil, but not wet; overwatering can cause hydrangeas to produce less flowers. Depending on your soil type, you will need to adjust how frequently and how much you water. If your hydrangeas are planted in an area that sees high temperatures, they may wilt a bit in the afternoon, but will revive when the temperatures cool down. Using mulch is a great way of conserving water and keeping the ground cool. Other than Blushing Bride, which is a white hydrangea, soil with a pH below 6.0 (acidic soil) will produce blue hydrangea blooms and a pH above 6.0 will produce pink hydrangea flowers. Depending on your preference, you are able to change the color of your hydrangea colors to fit your desired color!
Anthurium plants can tolerate all levels of indirect light, but anthuriums growing in low light will have fewer flowers and will grow slower. These plants cannot tolerate direct light, however, as this can burn the leaves. Anthurium care also requires that the soil be free draining but hold some water. Only water your anthurium when the soil is dry to the touch. Care of anthurium plants does not require too much fertilizer. The plant only needs to be fertilized with a ¼ strength fertilizer once every 3-4 months.
Orchids – one of the most beautiful and unique flowering plants in the world. If you follow a few basic rules, this orchid will be easy to grow and will reward you with several months of beautiful blooms. Orchids enjoy low light and must be protected from direct, unfiltered sun. A brightly lit room out of direct sun is recommended. If your plant does not want to rebloom, you might have to increase the amount of light it receives. Orchids must be considered as an indoor plant in South Africa, needing relatively stable temperatures, which fall almost perfectly within the comfort zone you enjoy inside your house. To water your orchid, we recommend placing 3 ice-cubes onto your orchid once a week.
With striking pointed red leaves surrounding a cluster of yellow flowers, poinsettias have become more and more popular in South Africa around Christmas. The name for poinsettia in the ancient Aztec culture meant “star flower” and it is this link to the star over Bethlehem that brings them into the Christmas tradition. Poinsettias are easy to maintain and will last for a few months indoors making them a wonderful addition to your Christmas decorations and are a great gift idea. Poinsettias come from the desserts of Mexico. The most common mistake we make is to over water them indoors. They should be allowed to dry out between watering and only need water every ten days or so. Place them where they’ll receive plenty of light.
If you have a loved one or a friend who loves cooking, the value of potted herbs is infinite. Herbs taste so much better cut directly from the plant. They look great on a windowsill and is your in-house air freshener. Mint, thyme and oregano are examples of hardy and attractive pot herbs which can serve a dual purpose. Plus, they can either be maintained for years in their pots or transferred to the garden.