It's the most wonderful time of the year!
Poinsettia
Kicking it off at number one we have the Poinsettia, we have all been gifted one of these at some point in our lives!
The vibrant red leaves are the epitome of christmas, Poinsettia generally last around 4-6 weeks before the leaves fall depending on how well you take care of them – they like warm houses but no direct heat and should also be kept away from drafts. Water when it is dry to the touch, the easiest way to kill this plant is by overwatering.
Cyclamen
Cyclamen are able to tolerate cool temperatures which make them the perfect winter time plant and can bloom for eight weeks or more under the right conditions.
They prefer a medium – none direct light and avoiding warm drafts. Any yellowing or dead flowers should be removed by pulling them off from the stem. Cyclamen prefer to be watered from the bottom (avoid watering the foliage) place it in a bowl of water for around 15 to 20 minutes to allow the roots to soak up all the moisture needed.
Christmas Cactus
The Christmas cactus is probably the most hardy of all the Christmas plants and probably the easiest to take care of.
This plant will keep going year after year with the right care.
Place in a bright window and water when dry (don’t let it sit in water)
Amaryllis
Is there anything more exotic looking than an Amaryllis?
These beautiful plants belong in a bright spot, they require turning every couple of days to ensure that the plant grows upright.
Rosemary
Who wouldn’t love a miniature christmas tree that smells fresh and piney?
Rosemary prefers a bright light in a south or west facing window. The soil needs to be kept moist so check the soil regularly, the most common killer of this plant is underwatering.
This plant may needs to be trimmed to keep it’s topiary tree like shape.
Paperwhites
Usually you will need to plant these yourself however, within 2 – 3 weeks you will have gorgeous fragrant flowers.
They prefer a sunny but cool spot, these flowers can get quite tall. As soon as you spot the flower growth tie them to a stake to prevent them from falling over.
They prefer a moist soil, so check on this regularly.
That's all for this year!
Everyone at Elk Gardens wishes you all a very Merry Christmas and an even happier New Year.
Here is to 2021 - Let's hope it's a better year than this one, wishing you all good health and wellbeing!