A Few More Plant Options

One of my favorite parts of Christmas is the scents - the tangy scent of an orange studded with whole cloves, the spicy scent of gingerbread men baking in your oven and, of course, the fresh outdoor scent of the massive evergreen in your living room. Everyone knows that poinsettias, though beautiful, have no scent. So if you are looking for some scented options - read on.  .  .  .

Rosemary! Its not just for pork any more. Rosemary plants will bring a marvelous perfume to your kitchen for the entire winter. Whether it's trimmed to look like a Christmas tree, a ball-shaped topiary or trained to grow into a wreath shape - these aromatic beauties require a bit more care than most wintry plants.

Because rosemary is an herb, the plant should really approach dryness before watering throughly. Discard drainage completely. Rosemary does best in a coarser soil mix which allows proper drainage and air circulation around the roots. Here's the tricky part - do not allow the plant to dry out completely. A good watering once a week, discarding drainage will keep your rosemary looking fabulous all year long. Rosemary does best with 3 - 5 hours of bright indirect sunlight daily. Subtle pruning will keep your rosemary in shape.

Lavender is always a favorite - the silvery grey leaves takes on seasonal glimmer during this time of the year. Lavender leaves emit a clean, fresh scent when the leaves are brushed or gently bruised. Lavender plants require at least 4 hours of bright indirect light, although lavender is also an herb, plant in a richer soil and keep evenly moist. Discard drainage after watering. Fertilize all year, more heavily in the summer months. Light pruning will keep your lavender from becoming too long and leggy.

Have I missed something? Do you have a question I haven't answered? I will be happy to offer all tips and tricks I know to help you enjoy your indoor gardening all winter long. Feel free to stop in Montville Florist or send me an email!