Say it with living flowers this Mother’s Day

Say it with living flowers this Mother’s Day

Instead of swinging by the service station for a decaying bouquet this mother’s day, make your mum a living flower arrangement that she can enjoy all winter long. After all, it’s the thought that counts.

“Indoor pots look great and are more cost effective than buying cut flowers,” says Awapuni gardening guru, Tod Palenski.

“They’re easy to grow from many of the seedlings you would normally plant outdoors.”

Tod recommends using seedlings that are already flowering, like those in Awapuni’s Pop’n’Grow range, for instant colour.

“Polyanthus, primulas and stocks work really well as indoor pot plants. Plant them together in one container for variety and interest.

“Remember your container needs to be able to drain without overflowing on your coffee table. So choose a pot with holes in the bottom and a saucer underneath, or place some rocks in the bottom of the container before adding potting mix.”

Tod says indoor potting mix is the best option. Because it doesn’t have as much peat and fibre as outdoor mix, it won’t retain as much water.

For a bold look, Tod suggests using bright and colourful varieties in a vibrant, shallow pot.

“Polyanthus looks great in indoor arrangements because there are so many different colours choose from – go for yellows, reds and bright purples for a bold statement.”

Tod recommends you use long-stemmed varieties because they have more impact, and you can pick off the dead flowers more easily.

“This is important because if you leave the dead flowers they will rot and develop a fungus that will affect the rest of the plant.”

You can add height to your arrangement by planting primulas and stocks in bright red or crisp white.

If you think your mum would prefer a more whimsical arrangement, choose the same flowers, but in pale, pretty colours planted in a shabby-chic ceramic jug or watering can.

“Lighter purples, pinks and whites create a lovely country cottage feel. You can create a less formal look by separating the seedlings and mixing up the colours.”

Awapuni’s Pop’n’Grow range makes separating plant easy because each seedling has its own individual root system.

“Because the roots don’t get tangled there’s less chance of breaking them, so they grow stronger and last longer.”

For a display that can be enjoyed all year round, Tod recommends planting succulents around the edge of the pot.

“You can take some cuttings from succulents in your garden. The succulents will keep growing throughout the summer months, after the winter flowers have died off.”

Caring for you new flower arrangement is easy, says Tod.

“A bit of water and a nice sunny spot is all you need. The sunnier the spot, the more flowers you’re likely to get.”

“Just remember not to over-water house plants. Check the soil with your finger and if it doesn’t feel dry don’t water it.”

Once your arrangement is complete, tie some wrapping paper around the container with a bow and present it to your mum.

“The floral display should bloom and change each week, which means you’ll earn even more brownie points with Mum!”

ENDS

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