It’s rather surprising how the desirability of the blue dendrobium orchid is increasing at such a fast pace. On the other hand, maybe it is not so surprising. It forms attractive and long-lasting blooms in vivid tones of blue and is a stunning addition to any floral display.
photo credit: stevendepolo

It’s also a popular choice of lots of orchid growers, and it is remarkable to note that this lovely blossom is turning into a highly stylish house plant as well.

The blue dendrobium holds a rich history. It is indigenous to the Philippines where it flourishes as a natural species. It is quite comparable in appearance to particular moths that flit all around in the wilderness of that country.

However a transformation has happened in the blue dendrobium that is being sold in recent times in comparison with the typical plants that grow in their natural habitat. The present kind is a cross that’s in fact a good deal more brilliant in color than its long-established ancestor.

The blue dendrobium orchid is in fact somewhat rare and there are a few sorts that are even dying out. This is largely because their indigenous surroundings have been wiped out. But you can cultivate this attractive orchid at home as long as you possess determination, diligence and the correct knowledge concerning how to raise these flowers.

In terms of raising the blue dendrobium orchid, you will need to be sure to follow one simple principle. The hotter it is, the more water you will need to offer it; and the cooler the temperature, the less watering is necessary.

This may seem obvious; however the reality is that you will need to adjust your watering schedule according to the season. Throughout the summer you’ll need to water these flowers approximately every five days, or less, however in wintertime you can wait up to 12 days in between waterings.

Of course, if you don’t possess the time or persistence to tend the blue dendrobium orchid you can always buy them from numerous florists, both on the internet and off. You can obtain just-cut blue dendrobiums in assorted shades. They make a superb addition to a bridal bouquet, and furthermore are a very striking centerpiece for the wedding reception, or even as a gorgeous flower arrangement for your home.

Technorati Tags: blue dendrobium orchid, flowers, orchids

Roses are many gardeners’ favorite flowers. It has taken a bit for me to grow a good rose but with time and killing a few bushes I have a nice rose garden.
photo credit: *clairity*

One rose I have always wanted is a rose that grew at the farm where I grew up. It’s been there so long no one know what variety it is but it is an old fashioned heirloom rose. It’s so delicate and the fragrance is unbelievable!

So I have taken a few cutting from the bush and plan to start a few of my own bushes.

There is a small trick to growing roses from cuttings that will give you a successful cutting and plant every time.

The trick is in when to take the rose cutting.

With your thumb, gently push sideways against the green thorns on the shoot you are considering cutting.

·  If the thorn bends over and doesn’t easily come away from the shoot,
the cutting is too green. It will not root easily.
·  If the cutting resists and doesn’t release easily, it is too woody. At this stage the thorn may even stick you.  Again this cutting will not root well.
·  However, if the thorn will not bend and will suddenly release from the shoot with a little pop with a medium amount of pressure, the cutting is at the perfect stage for a successful cutting to be made.

This time is roughly when the flower buds start to open up on the first flush of blossoms.

Rose Tips:

Spraying rose cuttings with an anti-desiccant works very well to assist in the rooting process. Why? Because it stops the cutting from losing moisture.

Growing roses from cuttings taken in the morning are more successful than those clipped later in the day. There is less plant stress or water stress early in the morning.

I use a liquid rooting hormone and a sandy soil mixture that will allow the roots to grow easily. A clay soil or rocky soil will not work well. Many people mix peat into a potting soil mix.

Bottom heat is almost a necessity for fast healthy rose clipping roots. I used a heat mat with a temperature of 72F to keep the shoots warm. I also use warm water when watering and misting any plant. Cold water gives a plant shock and that is bad for any plant. Room temperature water is always the best.

Roots should appear after four weeks. Do not jiggle the rose cutting – it disturbs the roots that are forming and will slow the process and perhaps even kill the root. Treat your rose cuttings like any other shrub or woody cutting

You’ll know you’ve been successful when the rose cutting starts growing new leaves.
photo credit: ripplestone garden

My grandmother could root roses in a glass of water, but I have never had luck doing this.

The difference between roses grown from cutting and roses that have been grafted is that grafted roses are hardier and will flower more. The tenderer a rose is the harder it is for them to be over-wintered.

But if you have an old heirloom rose that you cannot identify a cutting may be you only choice.

And if you decide to graft a rose this information should help you, grafting roses.

Technorati Tags: flowers, growing roses, Roses, starting a rose cutting

If your looking for a change or more color in your yard add a few window boxes. And even though it’s late in the growing season you will still be able to find a few varieties of plants.
photo credit: dandeluca

Herbs in flower boxes.

Herb plants are always available in garden centers. With their different floral color and textures herbs will make great garden boxes, plus they will add to your culinary cooking selection. Add a few flowers, ceramic pieces or a vegetable or two and you will have a one of a kind window box. Basil, chives, mint and thyme are all good herbs for your window box.

Best Flower Options for Window Boxes

Begonias, geraniums, marigolds, petunias and pansies are a few of the most popular window box flowers. I like the look of spikes for height and hanging vine or two to create a flow and break the window box feel. When using season flowers, they will need to be replaced in late fall and winter with fall flowers such as mums or greenery.

Examples of successful greenery would be green hydrangea, bittersweet and certain ivy.

When selecting flowers you want plants that will stay fairly small, so that they will not outgrow the space. You will also be selecting plants for an abundance of color and long lasting blooms. Or you may decide to go with one or two colors.

Yellow and white flowers are the trendy colors for the 2009 garden season. Ask at your garden center for plants that stay small and keep their blossoms longer.

One other consideration when selecting flowers is low maintenance. Pick a few plants that have beautiful foliage and will stand out on its own. By doing this, even if you other flowers are in between blossoms you will still have vibrant color in your window box.

Window boxes will add  beauty and color to your backyard landscape . It’s a simple way to have a mini garden and the opportunity to switch you backyard look on a monthly or seasonal basis.

Many of these plants and flowers will grow well indoors and will add more color to your home in the winter season. Just place your window bow, indoors, in a window that receives 6 to 8 hours of light a day.

Technorati Tags: flowers, herbs, vegetables, window boxes