Once the vibrancy, colour, lights and music of the holiday season are over, there’s often a psychological let down.
The cool, short days and continuous rainy days don’t help much either.
This is where nature, in the form of cut flowers, potted plants, spring flowers, like primulas, and the first spring bulbs of the season can make such a difference.
Early miniature daffodils, crocuses and fragrant hyacinths in small pots, placed on a windowsill, are welcome reminders that the first outdoor bulbs are not that far away. They are inexpensive, cheerful and can really lift our spirits.
Because of our mild winter so far, the first primulas are now ready, and if you have a cool window for them, their blooms will last for weeks.
Most have a light perfume, but the yellow varieties always have the strongest fragrance. They are not throw-aways because you can plant them in a protected spot in your garden, and they will come back next year.
Cut flowers, too, are especially nice to enjoy at this time of the year.
Early daffodils and tulips are now ready, and even though they don’t last as long as other cuts, they still perform magic and do so rather quickly. Longer-lasting chrysanthemums, alstroemerias, spring roses and carnations will last a week or more, and the perfume of Oriental lilies can fill your entire home with their delightful perfume. All these cuts will add a special touch of beauty to our homes.
The newest varieties of tropicals have certainly changed the nature of indoor plants.
I love the white flecks of philodendron Birkin, the vibrant yellow of homalomena and the charming white dots of the Polka Dot begonias.
Philodendron Super Atom and Monkey Mask (Monstera adansonii) are very unique, and another philodendron, White Wizard, has interesting splashes of white. Miniature colocasia Black Velvet is also stunningly beautiful.
Tropicals have definitely changed over the past couple of years, and many are now much more dramatic attention-getters. They make a real impact in their positioning as unique and fun plants to have.
Flowering tropicals have also become quite popular, and many last far longer.
Anthuriums in white, pink, burgundy and red and the many varieties of bromeliads, with their spectacular flower heads and vibrant leaves, are beautiful reminders of warm, sunny tropical beaches and gardens. Both are easy care plants.
All of these plants and cut flowers are now available in local garden stores and are worth their weight in positive feelings.
They are also a perfect pick-me-up for folks who may be alone at this time of the year.
