Brighten your home with Christmas plants
Kisses under the mistletoe, wreaths of holly and ivy, and tinsel topped Christmas trees are just a few of the associations we make with plants at Christmas time. At this time of year, garden centres, florists and supermarkets are awash with colour providing us with a vast range of plants or flowers that we can we give as presents or buy to brighten up our homes. With such a dazzling array on offer, it is no wonder that buying the right product can seem almost daunting.
Christmas foliage is quite difficult to choose, with such a vast selection available but with a little guidance, even the most green fingered of shoppers can make the right decision.
The colourful red leaves of the poinsettia have made this long lasting plant a popular choice to brighten up any festive table. Another option is the cactus plant but be sure to choose one with small buds now or most of the bloom will be finished by Christmas.
Another festive favourite is the amaryllis bulb, which you can plant immediately and you will soon have a stunning flowering houseplant to show off to neighbours. With a range of options available, whether you want something delicate and colourful or exotic and distinct, this plant will brighten any kitchen or hallway.
Very much part of the Christmas tradition, Helleborus niger is treasured for its pure white flowers with golden stamens that act as beacons of light in the garden during the winter months. This enchanting plant can be admired at close range indoors during the festive period, making an unusual centrepiece for the dinner table, and can be planted in the garden to flower every year once the festivities are over.
To ensure getting a plant of your choice, ensure that you shop early and buy the plant and care for it yourself prior to giving it as a gift. Select plants that are clean and healthy and at the start of their blooming period. Keep in mind that all gift plants are subject to freezing and at this time of the year must be protected. Ask the sales person to place the plant in plastic and always transport it in a warm car. Should you be moving the plant, place it in a rubbish bag and twist-tie the bag shut. Place this bag and plant into a second bag and blow into it so that air can act as insulation. Twist - tie the second bag to keep the air in and your plant insulated from the cold.
