Most perennials won't be truly outstanding until their second year. They will be too busy growing their first year to flower at their fullest. As a rule of thumb though: Fall flowering varieties will almost reach full size, and put on a nice show their first year. Mums will reach full size and full flower their first year.

Ericaceous, an acidic compost - usually in pink bags. Rhododendrons hate lime - as do hydrangeas, magnolias, heathers, azaleas and camellias.

Modern hybrid daylilies have a remarkably diverse color range, especially considering that the wild types from which they have been bred were only in shades of yellow, orange, fulvous (i.e., dull reddish yellow), and rosy-fulvous. Today, the only colors notably lacking are pure white and pure blue. Needless to say, hybridizers are avidly pursuing these two colors. Basic Flower Color The outer portion of the daylily flower is considered to be the basic color of the flower.

Daylily blooms have a wide array of different forms. These include: Circular When viewed from the front of the bloom, the flower appears round. Segments tend to be short, wide, and stubby and generally overlap, giving a full appearance. Triangular When viewed from the front of the bloom, the flower segments form a triangle. The sepals generally recurve. Star When viewed from the front of the bloom, the flower segments tend to be long and pointed.

A sheath is the tubular base of the leaf surrounding the flower spike. Cattleyas and many other orchids form a protective covering for the flowers as they develop. The flowers grow inside the sheath protected from hungry insects until they are big enough to break open the covering and emerge ready to open to full bloom. NOTE: Some orchids that generally produce a sheath may not always follow the rules. Gene Surger found this out the hard way.

Azaleas are rhododendrons, part of the Ericaceae or Heath family. Plants commonly called azaleas have thinner, more pointed, hairy leaves. The plants commonly called rhododendrons and azaleas are different enough, however, that they seldom cross-breed. Deciduous azaleas lose all their leaves in winter and are genetically different enough from the evergreen types that they rarely cross breed. Cultural requirements are pretty much the same for all rhododendrons, including the deciduous azaleas.

Most chemicals will deter deer to some extent. However, when the population is high (as it is now due to the mild winters recently), a dog or a fence may be the only cure. Rhododendrons with a heavy indumentum (fuzz on the underside of the leaves) are not popular with deer and are usually not bothered. Some of the cultivars known as "Yaks" have this indumentum. Among the most popular plants are 'Mist Maiden' and 'Ken Janek.

Yes, rhododendrons may be pruned if required. Most azaleas and rhododendrons usually look best in their natural state, but pruning may be required for various reasons. Bushier plants can be encouraged by pinching out the terminal buds. (If the growth buds are all about the same size, branching will probably occur naturally. Be careful here and don't pinch out the flower buds, normally much larger than the growth buds.

The cause is most likely Phytophthora root rot (caused by Phytophthora cinnamoni) or some other type of root damage. Root rot is a fungus disease that causes the entire plant to wilt and die. It usually affects smaller plants that have recently been transplanted. There is no cure. The entire plant should be removed and disposed of in the garbage. This is something that we should all be aware of.

Conception Flower Essence is a 100% natural, safe and effective unique combination of flower and gem essences in pure, undiluted stock strength that prepares the mind and body for new life. The combination of flower and gem essences will balance the emotions by creating inner serenity and grounding in preparation for conception and pregnancy.

Pomegranate contains harmonizing qualities which bring clarity of thought and emotion, facilitate feminine procreativity and enhance nurturing energies. Pomegranate is the ideal flower essence for women who wish to improve their fertility, develop female intuition and emotionally prepare themselves for the concept and commitment of motherhood. Wild Iris is used for opening up the creative channels and freeing the individual of self-doubt and wariness of their creative potential.

There are no prohibitions regarding who can use Bach flowers. Even those suffering from chronic illnesses, the elderly, and infants can use them. In addition, Bach flowers have a wonderful effect on pets and plants.

The plant may not be getting enough light. If this is the case, simply move the plant to a slightly brighter location, 2) The proper growth cycle is not being observed. Find out what time of year is the blooming period in the plant's natural growth cycle. This may simply be the wrong time of year to expect the plant to bloom, 3) Sometimes, if the plant was purchased as a first time blooming plant, it may not bloom the following year. Be patient. Once the plant is older it will bloom regularly.

The answer to this question depends upon the type of orchid in question. Phalaenopsis plants may flower again for a second time. After the plant goes out of bloom, cut the stem right below the first flower on the spray. A new spray of flowers may emerge from the node below it. For all other orchids, cut off the old flower spike at the base of the plant.

Generally, it's fine to let the inflorescence fade on its own ----it will slowly dry out and turn a brownish color after the flower has dried up and fallen off the plant. Simply snap the stem off, using your first 2 fingers and the thumb on opposite sides of the stem, close to where the inflorescence emerges from the plant.

AOS judging takes place at the official Centers (dates, times and locations listed every month in Orchids) and at AOS judged shows. The best option is to accompany your plant to the judging, and observe the process. Allow plenty of time to get there so neither you nor the plants are stressed. You also have the option of sending your plant in to these venues either by FedEx or some other similar type of service.

Bug Zappers (10/02): The latest on bug zappers, and why you shouldn't use them (from Entomological News, 107(2):77-82) "Our survey of insects electrocuted during routine use of electric insect traps revealed only 31 biting flies, a minute proportion (0.22%) of the 13,789 total insects counted. In contrast, species from 12 orders and more than 104 nontarget insect families, including 1,868 predators and parasites (13.5%) and 6,670 nonbiting aquatic insects (48.4%) were destroyed.

Squash gives inner strength for facing challenges and fears. This essence brings courage and strength for facing adversity. Wild Garlic helps to protect the auric field which may become vulnerable during times of change and transition. Wild Garlic will facilitate feelings of groundedness and vision, thereby increasing emotional courage and strength.

Add 7 drops to approximately 1 liter of filtered or spring water and sip slowly during labor. Alternatively take one drop under tongue as needed. Add 7 drops to bath during labor.

No, Eze-Birth Flower Essence does not have any side effects as it is 100% Natural flower and gem essences.