A wonderful tropical plant that can be found in many fresh markets or florists is the Bird of Paradise. Oftentimes when we find these in a cut stem format the bud is tightly held, it almost looks like a corn husk. If you need them to be in flower for a party and don't have time for them to open, sometimes it can take several days, one can separate the top and fan the petals out. This is just mechanically forcing them into bloom. Inside there are as many as four different, unique flowers, Eric separates them out, gets them ready for the arrangement. It's a quick and easy way to have the bouquet ready without having to wait the extra days for it to come into full bloom.
By Delilah Onofrey, Suntory Flowers
Photographs courtesy of Suntory Flowers
Early Season plants that can handle the occasional cold snap can be a breath of fresh air in early spring.
Want cool colors for the cool season? Click here for an article that highlights plants that fill the bill.
Click here to sign up for our monthly NEWSLETTER packed with great articles and helpful tips for your home, garden and pets!