| 01 July 2005
If you love flowers, and would like to have them year round, a good alternative to a flower garden is to have potted flowers. Many potted flowers can be kept indoors or out. Here are a few suggestions and tips for flowers you can grow inside your home.Bromeliads
Bromeliad foliage and flowers have a wide range of colors and shapes.
They do best in well-lit conditions, but not direct sunlight. They usually don’t need to be watered more than once a week. Check the soil before watering, and make sure it has dried out somewhat. Don’t let it dry out completely. “Rolled” leaves indicate too little water. To remedy this, water the center of the plant, known as the “cup”. The amount of water left in the cup should be minimal, so never add any water to the cup unless the cup is completely dry.
Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums require a good amount of water to maintain optimum health. Do not allow them to dry out to the point of wilting. Keep the soil evenly moist, letting the uppermost layers dry out in between watering. Do not allow the pot to sit in water, as this will destroy the roots. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or deep shadows. A minimum of 12 hours of light daily will increase the longevity of your potted mum.
Kalanchoe
This is a succulent with thick waxy leaves, and flowers in flat headed clusters.
The soil must be allowed to dry a bit in between watering, but it requires more frequent watering than a typical succulent. Again, feel the soil to make sure it feels dry toward the top, and don’t let it sit in water. They should be kept in bright light. Avoid direct sunlight during hot months.
When the flowers die off, remove the blossoms and their stems. The plant should begin to flower again when the days are shorter than 11 hours. Fertilize when you start to see new growth.
A Greener Image offers these potted flowers, as well as several others. For a splash of color for your home or office, contact us for pricing and details!