The most popular day to give flowers is fast approaching. Valentine's Day on Feb. 14 is one of the busiest days for florists, candy shops, lingerie shops and restaurants. It is "expected" to give and receive flowers, chocolate, to go for a romantic date and more.
If you received cut flowers from your Valentine, then here are a few tips to prolong their life and beauty. Begin with a clean vase. If your container was previously used, then wash it with hot, soapy water to remove any debris and destroy bacteria and fungi that might shorten the life of your cut flowers. Cut off the bottom half inch of your flowers to aid in water uptake. Ensure all foliage is removed beneath the water line.
Miniature roses are a popular choice as a planted gift for this special day. They need bright light so place them in a south- or west-facing window. Miniature roses need a consistent moisture supply so ensure you water them when the surface of the media is dry to the touch. Fertilize weekly with a high phosphorus fertilizer to keep them blooming. Watch them closely as they tend to get spider mites easily.
One other popular plant at this time of year is the azalea. They are beautiful plants and tend to bloom for long periods of time. They prefer bright light but a cool location with temperatures around 15 C being just about perfect. Water azaleas thoroughly whenever the surface of the media feels dry. When they have finished blooming they are usually discarded.
There are also many other options in the retail outlets. Everyone appreciates any sign of spring in heart of winter. There are cheery little pots of miniature daffodils that give even the darkest winter thoughts hope. There are also primroses available which are available in a myriad of colours. A bonus with primroses is once we truly get spring these can be planted out in the garden in a partial shade area. Ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter.
If you are in Saskatoon on Sunday, Feb. 14, we at the Saskatoon School of Horticulture might have that perfect gift for your favourite Valentine. Five years ago we decided that we would do an annual fundraiser on Valentine's Day. We extend this invitation to friends, to lovers and to all who would like to make this Feb. 14 a special day by hosting for you the Cherry Valentine Evening. Yes, it is unbelievable, but we are hosting the party of the season this Valentine's Day. Join us for a delectable evening that not only offers great food, fellowship and fun but also highlights the prairie cherry.
The prairie cherry is one of the greatest fruit crops that we can grow here and we have chosen to honour it by using it a feature product of the evening. Cherries will be the select ingredient featured in the meal, the drinks and of course some of the silent auction items. We offer to you an evening that gives you a delectable dinner along with signature cocktails in a charming and elegant surrounding at the Masonic Temple in Saskatoon. To round out the evening we will enjoy entertainment by one of our favourite local artists, Maurice Drouin.
So if you are looking for an event that is unique and enjoyable then please join us this Feb. 14 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $75 per person (adults only please) and will get you a signature drink, dinner and entertainment. Call 306-931-4769 or email growyourfuture@gmail.com to get your tickets now as our numbers are limited.
— Hanbidge is a horticulturist with the Saskatoon School of Horticulture and can be reached at 306-931-GROW(4769); by email at growyourfuture@gmail.com or check out our website at saskhort.com
