Garden Thoughts

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The kiss of the sun for pardon,
 The song of the birds for mirth,
 One is nearer God’s heart in a garden
Than anywhere else on earth.
-Dorothy Frances Gurney








In today’s fast pace world of bits and bytes remember to take the time to sit back and enjoy the breathtaking beauty and fragrances of the flowers in full bloom.


For my garden this year I choose more flowering plants which would attract both butterflies and hummingbirds: lantana, butterfly bushes, azaleas, hibiscus, bee balm, bougainvillea and petunias. It is a great way to observe these colorful creatures.

Coming up all too quickly is the month of August. A few tidbits to remember, Gladiolus is the designated flower of the month. This flower is associated with many meanings, for instance, they are said to symbolizes strength of character and also indicate calm, integrity and infatuation. As gifts, these flowers are given to represent remembrance and are sometimes presented to those who have lost a dear friend or family member. Since this flower is commonly referred to as the sword lily, on a lighter note, they are also meant to express the idea of someone’s heart being “pierced” with love. Thus, the fresh cut gladiolus are gaining popularity in arrangements used for romantic occasions and anniversaries.


In the garden the gladioli grow from corms which is a bulb like root. In our cold winter climate the corms need to be removed from the ground in the fall and replanted in the spring for late spring and summer blooms.


Gladiolus look better if planted in groups of six or more and very stylish if you plant the groupings in the same color.

Some of the taller varieties may require staking as the flower heads are affected by winds and the weight of the flower.

They grow well in ordinary garden soil and need only average water and sunshine with good drainage a must.

Another tidbit to remember, Friendship Day is celebrated on the first Sunday in August and Sisters Day on August 5th.


The better part of one’s life consists of his friendships
-Abraham Lincoln

Friends and family are the most important ingredients in this recipe of life.
-Unknown

The world is a rose; smell it and pass it to your friends.
-Persian proverb



For these two holidays, I am reminded of the power of flowers. Giving someone a few blossoms is a simple gesture, inexpensive and unexpected but with a such a lovely and heartwarming result.

Our flower shop has some great specials this month and you’ll find our trademark “Grab’N Go Bouquets” a wonderful way to make someone’s day.

For more information just give us a call 1.800.944.7441 or visit our web site at
http://www.larosasflowers.com/

As always, wishing you peace + and love.

LaRosa's Flowers
O'Fallon - Belleville, Illinois
The flower people since 1962

Let’s chat….

What flower is delicate, delightful and durable and has a rich history covering 2000 years? It’s also one of my favorites all year long.

The CARNATION, scientifically known as dianthus caryophyllus. The name dianthus roughly translates to “flower of love”. This flower is one of the world’s oldest cultivated flowers and has been revered for centuries. The history dates back to ancient Greek and Roman times when it was used in art and décor. Christians believe that the first carnation bloomed on earth when Mary wept for Jesus as He carried His cross. There are many meanings but the most widely accepted are fascination, distinction and love.

At LaRosas carnations have always been a popular flower choice. Not only are they inexpensive , but are long lasting and have a wonderfully sweet and fresh fragrance.

There are many meanings but the most widely accepted are fascination, distinction and love. Below are the different meanings of carnations based on their colors and traits.
Carnation (General) - Fascination, Woman’s love
Solid Color Carnation - Yes
Striped Carnation - Refusal
Red Carnation - My heart aches for you, passion
Pink Carnation - I’ll never forget you, woman’s love, always on my mind
Purple Carnation - Capriciousness
White Carnation - Innocence, pure love
Yellow Carnation - You disappoint me, rejection


Also, let’s touch base on another one of my favorites, after all it is National Ice Cream Month designated by President Ronald Reagan in 1984. A tradition in our family during the month of July (ok June and August too) is making homemade ice cream. I have many fond memories of summer vacations spent in Texas with my grandparents and going to their church ice cream socials on Sundays. Below is a creamy vanilla ice cream recipe with a traditional cooked custard base that is an all-time favorite in our family. I found this to be very easy to make (I do double the batch for our ice cream maker) and everyone loves it.

Ingredients:

2 eggs
1 cup sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
2 ½ cups whipping cream
2 cups half and half cream
4 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions:
First mix well the first five ingredients. Then in a heavy saucepan cook over medium-low heat stirring constantly until the mixture is thick enough to coat a metal spoon and reaches at least 160 degrees F. (For me this takes about a hour since I make a double batch) Remove from the heat, cool quickly by setting the pan in ice and stirring the mixture. Cover and refrigerate overnight. When ready to freeze, pour custard and vanilla into the cylinder of your ice cream freezer and follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Here’s a unique and fun combination to celebrate these summer’s treats.

For more information just give us a call 1.800.944.7441 or vist our web site at www.larosasflowers.com

LaRosa's Flowers
O'fallon - Belleville Illinois
The flower people since 1962