You know how helpful indoor plants can be for your health. But while you have potted myriad plants in and around your house, you may still be in two minds about keeping a few plants in your bedroom, probably because you are worried that bedroom plants can be harmful at night as they emit carbon dioxide and absorb oxygen.

 

However, research suggests that the carbon dioxide released by plants is too less to be harmful to humans and the oxygen they absorb is pretty minuscule.

 

On the contrary, plants help you sleep better, suppress airborne germs, release water vapor, and remove indoor pollutants and chemicals from the air. So here are some plants that help you sleep better every night.

 

LAVENDER

According to the National Sleep Foundation, lavender helps your body relax by lowering your blood pressure and heart rate

 

Lavender is also a wonderful agent of space-clearing, warding off negative energies, and stagnation with its high energy aroma. As the flowers dry out, you can create wreaths or bundles to hang on your bedroom door and even your front door.

 

Caring For Lavender

• Keep your lavender plant near a south-facing window if possible.
• Water the plant lightly whenever the top of the soil inside the pot feels dry. Make sure to not over-water because lavender roots are particularly prone to root rot due to excess water.
• Some varieties of lavender can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide; so make sure to choose a smaller variety for indoor use.

 

JASMINE

Jasmine plants make for an excellent addition to any bedroom With its delectably sweet fragrance and gorgeous white flowers. They can also lift your mood, calm you down, alleviate stress, and gently lull you to sleep

 

It is highly recommended for help with depression, stress, fatigue, and anxiety. In fact, studies have shown that inhaling jasmine oil transmits signals to the limbic system – a region of the brain that regulates emotions as well as impacts the nervous system.

 

Studies have shown that subjects who inhaled the scent of jasmine while sleeping experienced deeper sleep, less movement throughout the night, and overall better quality of sleep.

 

Caring For Jasmine

• A jasmine plant should ideally be kept in a room with cooler temperatures, near a south-facing window.
• Give it a plant support or trellis to help it grow.
• Allow no more than 3–4 hours of sunlight for your jasmine.
• Fertilize with indoor plant fertilizer in the spring and keep the soil moist (not soggy).
• Prune the plant thoroughly in early spring to control size.

 

ROSEMARY

Rosemary has been considered a memory booster for centuries in ancient medicine. Practitioners today recommend rosemary essential oil for supporting the nervous system and circulatory health, improving concentration, and relieving stress.

Rosemary can improve your focus, boost your memory, and relieve stress,  and can help you get better sleep. It is also a commonly used herb for cooking purposes

 

Rosemary essential oil also helps regulate your mood and make you feel uplifted. A rosemary plant in the bedroom can help improve air quality and encourage better sleep. What’s not to love

 

Caring For Rosemary

• Often sold in small 6″ pots, rosemary can be grown as an annual plant indoors.
• It can grow about 3 feet tall and wide; so make sure to prune in order to control size.
• Water the soil when it feels dry and use a slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
• Rosemary plants require about 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

 

 

SNAKE PLANT

Don’t let its name scare you. Snake plants are actually an amazing addition to your bedroom. The plant can filter harmful toxins from the air you breathe, remove carbon dioxide from the air, and release oxygen all night long, helping you sleep better and wake up feeling energized.

 

Snake plants are especially recommended for those with allergies and breathing issues such as asthma, It removes toxins from the air.

 

Research suggests that these plants are highly effective in removing harmful toxins like benzene and formaldehyde from indoor areas. 

This is an extraordinarily resilient plant, considered almost impossible to kill.

 

Caring For Snake Plants

• Snake plans don’t require a lot of light and are relatively low-maintenance plants.
• Occasionally, dust the plant to clean it and water every once in a while.
• You don’t even need to fertilize it.

 

SPIDER PLANT

Spider plants are known to purify and detox the air you breathe when you’re indoors. It does this by filtering out airborne pollutants. They can remove 90% of the cancer-causing chemical formaldehyde from the air.

 

A NASA study showed that just like snake plants, spider plants can eliminate 90% of the potentially carcinogenic chemical formaldehyde from the air. The plant also absorbs unpleasant odors and fumes and is known to promote good sleep.

 

Caring For Spider Plants

• Spider plants are very resilient and very low-maintenance, needing only occasional watering.
• Try hanging them near a window in a hanging basket.
• The plant grows rapidly and looks beautiful cascading out of its basket.
• It only needs a moderate amount of indirect sunlight and thrives with minimal care.

 

ENGLISH IVY

The NASA Clean Air Study found that English ivy can reduce the amount of mold spores in your home environment. 

So keeping an English ivy plant in the bedroom or elsewhere can help people with mold allergies who experience mild to severe symptoms.

English Ivy helps if you have mold allergy, but keep it out of reach of kids and pets.

 

It is also a poisonous plant and so make sure  to keep the plant out of the reach of kids and pets who may be attracted to the leaves and berries. The sap from the plant can also cause skin reactions in some people.

 

Caring For English Ivy

• Keep your English Ivy plant in a shady spot where it gets indirect light.
• Also be sure to keep it away from AC vents and drafty areas.
• This plant is known to grow vigorously; so it’s important to control its size by pruning regularly.
• Water the plant when the soil feels dry to touch.

 

GARDENIA

One of the most exquisite flowering houseplants, gardenia is often used as an ornamental shrub. Studies indicate that crocetin, the active carotenoid compound of gardenia, can significantly improve the quality of sleep.

Gardenia can improve the quality of sleep by mimicking the activities of mood-enhancing drugs.

 

Research also suggests that the effects of gardenia mimic those of potent psychotropic drugs. This means a better sleep and an enhanced mood.

 

Caring For Gardenia

• Gardenia plants love sunlight, so place them in front of a window.
• Keep the soil moist but well-drained.
• Add enough manure to keep your gardenia nourished.

 

VALERIAN

A perennial flowering houseplant, valerian has beautiful, scented flowers. It is said that the Roman philosopher Galen prescribed valerian as a cure for insomnia. Currently, it is used as a primary ingredient in products that have sedative effects.

 

Recent findings, in fact, back Galen’s theory, as it has been proved that inhaling the scent of valerian can increase the duration of quality sleep

 

Caring for Valerian

• Grow the plant next to a window or in a well-lit room.
• Make sure the plant gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day.
• Water the valerian every 2 days.

 

Once you’ve had a great night’s sleep, you’ll be more focused, productive and in your peak flow of energy. At the office you can bring a small money tree, some succulents or a jade plant to your desk to further enhance the prosperous plant energy in your life all day long

You can also read on HOW TO CHOOSE A PLANT FOR EVERY ROOM IN YOUR HOME

Adding a  little bit of greenery goes a long way by transforming a space and can breathe new life into a room. It’s one of the best and easiest ways to upgrade your home even without having to spend a fortune on new furniture or overpriced décor accents. 

But not all houseplants are created the same and that means they all won’t thrive in any old place

 

To pick the right plant for a specific spot in your home, you’ll have to keep two things in mind, which are  plant care and your home’s aesthetic. 

Some certain houseplants have different needs when it comes to sun exposure and humidity levels; so you won’t want to put a plant that needs full sun in a windowless bathroom or an air plant in your sun-drenched living room when it prefers indirect light. 

 

Additionally, you don’t want the plant to be so obvious and ruin a whole room’s décor. A cactus in a serene bedroom?, That doesn’t quite say peace and tranquility. But fortunately, there are more than enough houseplant varieties to suit any design style for every room in your home, from your living room to your child’s bedroom.

 

Kindly join us as we look at plants for different part of a home.

 

LIVING ROOM

The living room is your respite from the outside, as well as your cozy collaboration space with friends and family. Make a statement in a space that gets a lot of foot traffic. 

 

Choose plants based on the type of sun exposure your living room gets. For general reference, there are four kinds of exposure: bright, direct light (full sun); bright, indirect light (partial shade); medium, indirect light; and low, indirect light.

 

RECOMMENDED PLANTS AND CARE TIPS :
Bird of paradise: bright light to full sun; water weekly, increasing watering intervals with increased light
Rubber tree: low light to full sun; water weekly, increasing watering intervals with increased light
Philodendron: bright to low, indirect light; water weekly
Begonia: low light to full sun, but prefers bright light; water weekly, increasing watering intervals with increased light
Cactus or succulents: bright light; water monthly, or whenever it starts to shrivel

 

KITCHEN

The kitchen is a source of water and, although it’s not as humid as the bathroom, it’s more humid than the rest of the house, 

Counter space is also limited, so hanging things will be optimal. 

Another good option are  potted herbs on your windowsill, which are both decorative and useful, just grab a couple of sprigs to sprinkle onto dishes.

 

RECOMMENDED PLANTS AND CARE TIPS :
Ferns: moderate to low, indirect light; water weekly; high humidity
Air plants: bright to moderate, indirect light; daily spritzing; high humidity
Herbs: full sun; regular watering when dry (usually every few days)

DINING ROOM

For the dining room, we will suggest the same lineup of plants you’d choose to display in the living room, that’s because both rooms are places where family and friends congregate. 

 

Mix things up: If you chose a rubber tree for the living room, try a begonia in the dining room. Either way, make the space feel special by selecting greenery that’s eye-catching and ready to impress.

 

RECOMMENDED PLANTS AND CARE TIPS :
Bird of paradise: bright light to full sun; water weekly, increasing watering intervals with increased light
Rubber tree: low light to full sun; water weekly, increasing watering intervals with increased light
Philodendron: bright to low, indirect light; water weekly
Begonia: low light to full sun, but prefers bright light; water weekly, increasing watering intervals with increased light
Cactus or succulents: bright light; water monthly, or whenever it starts to shrivel

 

BEDROOM

Your bedroom is meant to be a restful sanctuary, so add a bit of greenery to create a peaceful atmosphere. “Plants have been shown to boost moods, decrease stress and anxiety, and filter toxins,” researchers says. 

 

For the bedroom, we recommend varieties that can improve indoor air quality. But don’t go overboard with your selections, an uncluttered space is a calmer space. One or two plants, max, will suffice.

 

RECOMMENDED PLANTS AND CARE TIPS :
Snake plant: bright to low, indirect light; water monthly
Rubber tree: low light to full sun; water weekly, increasing intervals with increased light
Spider plant: moderate, indirect light; water weekly

 

BATHROOM

The bathroom is a spot in your house that has a distinctly different temperature and environment than any other room. Go with tropical plants for this space, since the atmosphere in the bathroom is similar to what these varieties are used to, low light levels, high humidity, and warm temperatures. 

 

“Think of the environment that the space itself provides as a helping hand to keep your houseplants healthy and happy,” 

 

RECOMMENDED PLANTS AND CARE TIPS :

Ferns: moderate to low, indirect light; weekly watering; high humidity
Air plants: bright to moderate, indirect light; daily spritzing; high humidity
Pothos or philodendrons: moderate, indirect light; water weekly; regular humidity

 

KID’S ROOM

We always say It’s never too early to show the kids about the wonders of nature. Having a plant in the bedroom can spark creativity and teach responsibility. Colorful, responsive plants will be key in this mission.

 

Just make sure the plants are kid-friendly and you wouldn’t want to place a spiky cactus in the room, so opt for a succulent instead.

 

RECOMMENDED PLANTS AND CARE TIPS :

Begonia or Fittonia: low light to full sun, but prefers bright light; water weekly, increasing watering intervals with increased light
Neon pothos: bright to low, indirect light; water weekly
Succulents: bright light; water monthly, or whenever it starts to shrivel

 

HOME OFFICE

Pick a plant you wouldn’t mind staring at when you’re searching for inspiration or creativity. Plus, if you believe in certain superstitions, Marimo moss balls and jade plants are thought to bring good luck.

 

We recommend Marimo moss balls (they’re not moss, but a spherical form of algae) for rooms that get low to medium light; and a jade plant or begonia for a home office with medium to bright light.

 

RECOMMENDED PLANTS AND CARE TIPS :

Begonia or Fittonia: low light to full sun, but prefers bright light; water weekly, increasing watering intervals with increased light
Marimo moss: low to medium light; it doesn’t require much maintenance other than a swirl every other day, and a change of water every week
Jade plant: bright light; water monthly, or whenever it starts to shrivel

 

FRONT PORCH

Make a good first impression,  we recommend begonia, mint, basil, chamomile, or ferns. 

Mint and basil give off an inviting scent, while begonia and chamomile have beautiful flowers that provide a warm welcome. 

 

If you have a place to hang plants that’s shaded, always hang ferns, they love the shade and a moist atmosphere, Otherwise, in the sun, hang basil, mint, begonias, or chamomile, and don’t forget to water daily in the summertime heat

 

Sunny locations can dry plants out, so check the soil regularly and keep in mind that hanging baskets dry out faster than pots do. And watch out for outdoor pests, too.

 

RECOMMENDED PLANTS AND CARE TIPS :

Begonia: low light to full sun, but prefers bright light; water weekly, increasing watering intervals with increased light
Mint, basil, chamomile: bright light; when the temperature is greater than 78 degrees, water daily; on days less than 68 degrees, water once a week; water every other day otherwise; deadhead the chamomile
Ferns: moderate to low, indirect light; water weekly; high humidity

 

Now you have seen our recommendations of indoor plants or house plants for different part of the house, we would love to see yours too in the comment section.

 

In a previous blog post, we explored ten plants that supposedly bring money and good fortune home or office space. 

Now, let’s take it a step further by delving into the essential care tips that will ensure these indoor plants thrive and flourish. 

 

Indoor plants do not only add greenery to your surroundings but also offer numerous health benefits, such as purifying the air,  reducing stress and so much more.

 

Join us, as we dive into the care of indoor plants and learn how to keep your leafy companions happy and healthy.

 

Understanding Light Requirements

Different indoor plants have varying light needs. While some thrive in bright, indirect light, others prefer low-light conditions. Here’s a brief overview of the light requirements for the plants mentioned in our previous blog post:

 

• High Light Plants: Money Tree – Rubber Plant – Jade Plant – Chinese Money Plant, and Hawaiian Ti Plant.
• Medium Light Plants: Lucky Bamboo, Orchids, Peace Lily, and Swedish Ivy.
• Low Light Plants: Pothos or Devil’s Ivy.

 

Watering Wisely

Proper watering is crucial for the well-being of indoor plants. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the plants to wither. The general rule of thumb is to allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering again. However, some plants may have specific water requirements. For instance:

Money Tree, Rubber Plant, Jade Plant, and Chinese Money Plant

(Allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry between watering).

Orchids: (Water sparingly, allowing the roots to dry out slightly between watering)

Peace Lily (Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged).

Pothos or Devil’s Ivy (Water when the top inch of soil is dry).

 

Humidity

Many indoor plants, especially tropical ones like orchids and peace lilies, thrive in high humidity. If you live in a dry climate or your home has low humidity, consider these tips:

 

• Group plants together to create a microenvironment with higher humidity.
• Mist the plants regularly, especially during dry seasons.
• Use a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles to increase local humidity around the plant.

 

Temperature

Most indoor plants prefer average room temperatures between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Avoid placing them near drafty windows, heating vents, or air conditioning units that can cause temperature fluctuations.

 

Pruning and Grooming

Regular pruning helps keep indoor plants looking neat and encourages healthy growth. Remove dead or yellowing leaves, spent flowers, and leggy stems. For plants like the Pothos, trimming helps promote bushier growth.

 

Fertilizing

Indoor plants benefit from occasional feeding. During their active growing season (usually spring and summer), use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormant period (fall and winter).

 

Pest Control

Keep an eye out for common indoor plant pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. If you spot any, promptly isolate the affected plant and treat it with natural or chemical remedies to prevent the infestation from spreading.

 

Repotting

As indoor plants grow, they may outgrow their containers. Repot them into slightly larger pots with fresh potting mix every 1-2 years or when you notice roots starting to circle the root ball.

 

Conclusion:

Caring for indoor plants can be a rewarding experience that adds beauty and tranquility to your living spaces. By understanding the specific needs of each plant and providing them with the right amount of light, water, and attention, you can create a thriving indoor garden. 

 

Remember to tailor your care routine to each plant’s requirements, and don’t hesitate to experiment and learn as you go. With proper care, these indoor plants will not only bring joy and positivity but also contribute to a healthier and more vibrant environment in your home or office. 

 

Happy gardening!

We know most people spend money to make more money, and some invest in various schemes with the hopes of making profits. People put up a great deal of work to achieve money and all these efforts are crucial in becoming more successful .

 

Are you aware that there are a number of plants or indoor plants that are believed by many to attract money to your home or offices and even bring good luck and fortune.

 

Surprised too, right?. I know this is going to excite all the plant dads and mum out there or plant lovers looking to get a new plant for their home or offices.

 

Without wasting much time, kindly join us as we look at 10 plants that supposedly attract money and bring good luck and fortune to your homes or office space.

 

First of all, according to Feng Shui (an ancient Chinese practise of arranging pieces in living space to create balance with the natural world and also claims to use energy forces to harmonize individuals with their environments) there are various plant that are classified as goodluck plant and bring prosperity, good fortune and love to you and your environment.

 

Reason why some plants are called Money tree or Money plant. Feng Shui also considers Lucky bamboo, Rubber plant, Orchid plants, some indoors fern and palms to also bring 

goodluck. 

 

MONEY TREE

The botanical name for money tree is Pachira aquatica, also known as Guiana chestnut and Malabar chestnut. It grows naturally in the tropics in Central and South America.

 

It is believed to bring good luck and good fortune because of its green palmate leaves, smooth bark, and elongated blossoms. In Feng Shui the ancient Chineses practice, Pachira is important and useful for attracting money 

The stem contains five leaves each, and the number five is significant to practitioners because it represents the elements.

 

Growing Pachira or Money tree is easy and less stressful as it does not require much light and it can thrive in partial shade and moderate temperatures. 

It is  also advised not to fertilize Money tree regularly during the first year.

 

LUCKY BAMBOO

In many Asian countries, lucky bamboo is believed to bring good fortune and money back home and you can find them anywhere from gift shops to supermarkets or mart.

The botanical name for lucky bamboo is Dracaena sanderiana

 

Dracaena sanderiana  is simple and easy to grow and maintain. It can only grow in water, so you would make sure the roots are kept wet at all times. 

Overall, lucky bamboo is a perfect houseplant that thrives on neglect.

 

RUBBER PLANT

In Feng shui, Rubber plants are regarded as lucky because circular leaves represent money, luck, and success. It is also believed to attract money and prosperity when it’s  placed at the entrance of your house or office. And it is used as aids in the removal of pollutants from the air.

The botanical name for Rubber plant is Ficus elastica. 

 

 To grow a rubber plant as a houseplant is very simple,  just make sure it gets some indirect sunshine. Avoid overwatering by using a well-draining potting mix.

 

ORCHIDS

Orchids are actually one of my favorite house plants, most Feng Shui plants are just green-leaved types of shrubs or trees. So, orchids really stand out among them as the most attractive of all the “lucky plants” available.

 

Orchids are not just beautiful to look at, they are believed to enhance luck when it comes to the family and they symbolize happiness, better relationships, and enhanced fertility according to Feng Shui. They are also a symbol of love and beauty in many cultures.

PEACE LILY

Peace lilies are a perfect addition to any room as it helps clean the air and evoke a sense of harmony. In Feng Shui, it is assumed that peace lilies help to bring about good luck and fortune

The botanical name for Peace lily is Spathiphyllum

 

Peace lilies have elegant large green leaves and brilliant white flowers which  help to create a pleasant atmosphere in any room. 

Most people describe peace lilies as a “good luck plant for purifying the air.”

 

HAWAIIAN TI PLANT

According to early Polynesians, the Hawaiian ti plant is said to have magical properties and it suggests that having this plant might bring you good fortune and money to your home or office.

The botanical name for Hawaiian ti plant is Cordyline minalis.

 

Hawaiian ti plant doesn’t like sitting in continual dampness, but  in a well-draining potting soil. Also, keep in mind that this indoor plant cannot withstand temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 C). To keep the plant thriving, place it under filtered sunlight.

 

Note: There is a belief that if you are growing a ti plant with two stalks, it will make you lucky and bring love to your life as well!

 

SWEDISH IVY

This plant is a perennial from Southeast Africa that is commonly planted as a good luck plant. The botanical name for Swedish ivy is Plectranthus verticillatus

 

Glamour spur flower, Swedish ivy, money plant, and creeping charlie are some of its other names. Despite the fact that it is rarely used as a houseplant, it is believed as one of the most effective plants for attracting money to your home.

 

Swedish ivy can be grown inside in hanging pots or outdoors as a ground cover. If you’re growing it as a houseplant, make sure it’s at a height where its branches may readily spread. 

 

Keep in mind that placing the plant in direct sunlight might cause the leaves to burn.

 

Fun Fact: Some people buy lottery tickets with this plant in their arms!

 

JADE PLANT 

In Feng shui, plants that produce round or have circular leaves can bring good luck. The Jade plant also has this feature, and it is believed that the Jade plant brings good luck.

It’s usually given as a gift during new business openings.

The botanical name is Crassula ovata.

 

The Jade plant is a perfect succulent houseplant that can live for years with proper care. 

Water only when the soil is dry, and provide it with several hours of direct sunlight.

 

POTHOS or DEVIL’S IVY

In many Asian countries, people believe pothos is one of those good luck plants that bring fortune and money to home or office.

Apart from that, pothos can be an excellent decorative houseplant that purifies the air and removes toxins.

The botanical name is Epipremnum aureum

 

Growing and caring for pothos is super easy, as it can thrive on neglect and never requires much attention. Place the plant in indirect sunlight and water moderately.

 

CHINESE MONEY PLANT

Chinese money plant is a popular choice for indoor plant growers who want to attract positive energy and wealth to homes. It has attractive round leaves that can add appeal to any decor.

The plant does well in temperatures above 13 C (55 F). Keep it near a west-facing, bright window, away from direct sunlight. Water the plant only when the soil goes dry.

The botanical name is Pilea peperomioides

 

Now you’ve seen our 10 plants that are believed to attract  money to  your home and offices.

We would like to know which of these plants you would be getting to add to your home or plant collections.

 

Fresh flowers symbolize one’s love, affection, and intentions toward someone, and are the type of gift which say much towards expressing those feelings without words.

We all love flowers because they genuinely bring joy to people and improve the overall ambience of a space just by being beside them, looking at them, or touching them, even for men.

Understandably, nobody likes when our flowers eventually start to wilt or die, especially when it’s sentimental or from someone very special we care about because we want them to last a bit longer to still have the joy and message the flowers bring.

But there are ways you can help the flowers last longer.

Here are some things to follow to help the flowers last a bit longer.

• IMPORTANT CARE TIPS
• PICKING THE RIGHT VASE
• WHY SHOULD STEMS BE TRIMMED 
• HOW TO ADD WATER TO A VASE
• BEST PLACE TO KEEP FLOWERS TO MAKE THEM LAST
• HOW OFTEN SHOULD THE WATER BE CHANGED

 

IMPORTANT CARE TIPS

• Firstly, you need to get a vase. Clean the vase thoroughly with soap and water. 

If it’s an old vase, you will have to wash the inside of the vase with hot water and salt to kill any bacteria from the vase.

 Any lingering bacteria will make the flowers wilt faster.

Generally, you would need to make sure the vase is thoroughly clean and bacteria-free at all times.

• After cleaning the vase, fill the vase to two-thirds with fresh lukewarm water and then add your flower food or other substitutes to the vase with water and mix it.

You can top up the water the next day after receiving your flowers rather than changing the water completely, which will help the flowers benefit from the flower food for longer, or use other substitutes to replace the flower food when you run out of them

• Next, unwrap your beautiful bouquet and remove any foliage or bad leaves as it will sit below the waterline and build up debris.

If your bouquet has roses in it or it is a rose bouquet, you will discover some discolored outer petals around the rose. They are called the guard petals, they protect the inner petals from sun and dust

You can gently remove the outer discolored petals so the inner petals are showing instead.

• Once you are done removing the foliage and outer petals, trim the bottom of the stem (the stick of the flower) at an angle not straight. This will enable the stem to suck enough water properly from the vase. In essence, you are increasing the area through which the stem can absorb the water, and cutting at an angle also helps prevent the stem from pressing against the bottom of the vase which would block the stem from absorbing the water.

Trim the stems at 2 to 3 cm and also wash the stems before putting the flowers in the vase, make sure they are sitting properly in the vase.

• From the 3rd day you can change the water completely and do that regularly. Flowers love fresh water just as we humans do.

Avoid direct sunlight touching the flowers to prolong the flowers life and remove any wilted or dead flowers or petals. Apart from the wilted or dead petals not letting the flowers look attractive it will also spread mold to others 

 

PICKING THE RIGHT VASE

The type of vase you choose can also determine how long your flowers last. If the flowers are sitting properly and comfortably, it will help the flowers breathe and suck water well 

but if they are not sitting properly, it is going to stress the flowers and cause them to die.

Go for a vase that is half the height of the bouquet. If the bottom of the bouquet is heavy, use a narrower vase, but if the top of the bouquet is heavy then use a wider vase. 

Remember to make sure your vase is clean before use. Leave the vase to dry naturally, because using a towel can reintroduce bacteria which may cause your flowers to wilt quickly

 

WHY SHOULD STEMS BE TRIMMED 

Flower stems dry out most times and they will be thirsty on arrival. Remember to cut about 2-3 cm from the bottom of the stems at a 45-degree angle. 

That will stop the stems from resting on the bottom of the vase and allow flowers better water uptake to the buds from the stems.

 Remove any foliage that will sit below the waterline, as this will build up debris in the vase.

 TOP TIP: cut the stems with sharp scissors, and cut thick-stemmed flowers such as amaryllis with a sharp knife.

 Blunt scissors can crush the stems and prevent the flowers from sucking water properly.

 

HOW TO ADD WATER TO A VASE

Avoid using hot or cold water, this can shock delicate flowers. Fill the vase two-thirds with fresh lukewarm water, flowers will drink this more quickly.

If needed, leave the filled vase to sit to allow the water to reach room temperature and let any air bubbles escape.

Add your flower food or homegrown substitute. Flowers food contains sugar to feed the flowers and bleach which slows the growth of algae and bacteria. 

Algae stop the stems from drinking water.

 

BEST PLACE TO KEEP FLOWERS TO MAKE THEM LAST

Fresh flowers last longer in a controlled or air-conditioned environment. To prevent flowers from drying out and wilting, keep them away from hot places and heat sources.

Avoid exposing the fresh flower to direct sunlight or on top of radiators. If you place them near a window, the flowers can quickly get damaged. 

TOP TIP: keep your flowers away from the fruit bowl, especially if it contains apples. Apples and other fruit give off ethylene gas which causes flowers to wilt.

 

HOW OFTEN SHOULD THE WATER BE CHANGED

Top up the water every other day and change it immediately if you notice the water has turned cloudy. Even with flower food, 

Bacteria builds up in the vase and can block the stems, preventing the flowers from drinking water properly. 

Remove any dead or wilting stems from the arrangement, clean the vase with hot water and salt with soapy water and rinse thoroughly before refilling.

 

As much as fresh flowers make us happy and loved, they need attention and care in return.

Yes they are cut flowers, but that doesn’t mean they are dead. They are still very much alive and they need attention, care and love from us to keep them alive and it is not just about caring for them, but also fully understanding what it means to take care of them.

 

Let us know in the comment sections other care tips that will be useful for caring for flowers.

 

Valentine’s Day as we all know is a day that is set aside to celebrate love and affection between people, be it your boyfriend, girlfriend, mother, sister, brother, friend, or even your co-workers. And you do not have to be in a relationship to celebrate valentine’s day as you can celebrate it with friends and family or by yourself.

 

One of the beautiful things about valentine’s day are the gifts. Gifts are a perfect way to express one’s love and affections without words most times. 

There are varieties of gifts that are perfect for valentine’s day, from fresh flowers which are the most popular gifts for valentine, to chocolate, to wine, to gift set, to perfume.

Any of these are guaranteed to put a smile on your loved ones face.

 

In past years,  most men do get boxers and singlets on valentine’s day while the rest don’t get anything at all, But we all know and can confirm that men give more gifts on valentine’s day than women does 

 

And there has been a debate on this for long  that men need to be given more valuable gifts as much as they give, than getting boxers and singlets almost every year.

 

We spoke to a few men in Nigeria about their first time receiving flowers as gifts on valentine’s day, because fresh flowers are the most popular and most thoughtful gift to give anyone. and these is what they had to say.

 

DANIEL 28, LAGOS

I’m not a very romantic person when it comes to gifts, so I try not to be in a situation where I get to receive gifts except when it’s important. I just don’t know how to explain it, but receiving gifts unexpectedly gives me some kind of panic.

 

Late last year, I met this pretty amazing girl. Her name was Michel, things got really fast and interesting that we couldn’t stay away from each other. Then we decided to move to the next level and It was going smoothly. 

 

She started getting me gifts. I didn’t complain at first because I didn’t want to hurt her feelings.  Then one day I told her the reason why I don’t really like receiving gifts, after some back and forth, she agreed to stop getting me gifts regularly.

 

On Valentine’s Day, I was having a bad day. The long traffic I faced before getting to work that day was terrible and I almost missed a meeting with an important client which made my bosses angry at me. I was just dragging myself throughout that day, just wanting to get home to rest.

 

Closed from work late that day, and I forgot it was valentine’s day to get Michel a gift,

When I got home, I walked into the bedroom and saw a bouquet of red roses and a black box on the bed with a red ribbon and a note beside it. 

 

I smiled when I picked the flowers and they immediately melted my heart because I never imagined that I would be getting flowers  

And I opened the box. It had my favorite wine in it and a perfume with a black  leather wallet.

 

 I sat on the edge of the bed and opened the note. It was one of the coolest things anyone had ever said to me, it stated

 “Hey baby, hope this makes you smile and soften your hard guy heart a little bit. I love you now and always. Thank you for doing this with me. Happy valentine’s Day my love”

 

I immediately picked my phone and called her to thank her because that made me happier and I was glad she sent me that and the message was so thoughtful.

 

That evening, I drove out to look for a gift to get for her and took her out for a fancy dinner at one of her favorite restaurant in Lekki 1 

 

DAMI 30, LAGOS

 

It was Valentine’s Day, and it was a Monday. Mondays are always filled with long Zoom meetings and emails. Valentine’s Day added to the annoyance of this particular Monday.

 

I just recently became a single man,so I wasn’t thrilled because I didn’t have a girlfriend with whom to express my feelings or exchange gifts. I’ve never received a Valentine’s Day gift before.

 

My day was going stressfully as I expected. from one zoom meeting to another while still replying to emails. I was working in the head office of one of the largest banks in Marina Lagos 

 

Then I got a call that I had a package downstairs to be delivered to me. I had to ask the delivery guy to confirm if the package was for me because i didn’t place any order and i was very single so i wasn’t expecting any gift from any one, 

He confirmed that the package was for me and I told him to wait for me at the reception.

 

 

He came to the front desk and i saw a bottle of wine and a box of chocolate with a stem of white rose and he said “these are for you sir” 

 

If it wasn’t my full name and details on the card, I would have not believed they were mine. It came with a note that said

 “HAPPY VALENTINE MY GUY, THANK YOU FOR BEING PART OF MY PREVIOUS YEAR, IT MEANS SO MUCH TO ME……. EFEMENA”

 

It came from my friend, the gesture made my entire week and now i go out of my way to be that sweet to my friends too. 

 

EBUKA 33, LAGOS

The first and only time I got flowers was last year’s valentines day. And it was by mistake from a stranger 

I was in one of our branches in Ikeja that morning and it was valentines day, so the atmosphere was filled with love and laughter. 

 

Naturally, I am a very jovial person. Known to be alway happy, so on that day I was very happy because of the public show of love of my colleagues from their spouses or dates.

I was going from one desk to another, cheering people that got gifts and eating out of their cake or chocolate. I love cakes 

 

That afternoon, I was working on some documents on my system when I got a call that I had a package that I should come down to pick up. I happily rushed down but he was not in the building.

I called him back, he was somewhere in Obanikoro and I gave him my address and I went upstairs to wait. I started thinking about what the gift might be and who must have sent it.

 

When the rider arrived, he called me to come down to pick up. I went down to meet him and to my surprise they were red roses and red velvet cupcakes. 

 

I was shocked, took it up to my office and my co-workers were all smiling at me as I walked to my office.

I got into my office and I immediately called my girlfriend because the message stated “From your love. I will love you forever “,  but she said it wasn’t from her and that she can’t send me flowers because flowers are for women. She even made fun of me wanting flowers as a valentine gift.  

Luckily for me, I haven’t opened the cake or started eating it.

 

After speaking to my girlfriend, I did a little thinking of who must have sent me flowers and called me my love, I wasn’t getting any clue.

I called the rider, but he wasn’t picking, so I called the company where the flowers came from and I explained to them the situation.

 

I think they went through their document and found out it was a mistake. They apologized and said that they are going to send a rider to pick the package up, and I said no problem.  I was so very happy that i havent started eating the cake because I would have had to pay for it.

 

I sat down waiting for the rider after the call because we had closed and i just reminisced on how i felt receiving a gift as i normally don’t get gifts from people and fresh flowers at that. 

What I felt was shock mixed with happiness. 

 

I went online to confirm if men receive flowers because I believe I will genuelly love to have that feeling again. I found out that it is normal for men to receive flowers too nowadays.

 

ABIDEEN 27, ABUJA

I got fresh flowers as a valentine gift for the first time from my dad last year. That was not my  first time getting fresh flowers as a gift, but the ones from my dad made me feel different as I normally do when I get fresh flowers. 

 

I was very close to my mum. I am the last child out of 3 boys and we don’t really get along, we fight more than communicate. Even with my dad.

 

I was different from them in all areas, what was fun for them was irritating to me and I was very strong headed on things I believed in and loved and they hated it.

It was just my mum that truly understands me, and we all got used to that pattern.

 

When my mum died, it was very difficult for me as no one to relate with and I became really angry with life, family and everyone that I had to change my environment.

 

I quit my job and moved to Abuja from Lagos. I moved in with a friend that stays at Aminu kano in Abuja and she was a therapist.

I explained everything to her honestly and truthfully the way it was and she helped me with a solution.

 

The relationship between me and my family became a little bit friendly and understanding, especially with my dad because I needed his support as I was job searching and needed cash.  

 

On valentine’s day last year, i was on my way home from an interview and i was very tired when i got a call from a strange number, i didn’t pick because it was noisy outside and i was very very tired to talk to anyone.

 

Few minutes later, I got a text that he had a delivery for me, and I replied that he should wait for me because I was close to the house and there was no one to pickup on my behalf at that time.

 

I got to the gate and i called the delivery man that i was outside, i saw a man walking down with a box of white roses and tiny white flowers in it and i said to myself in my head “so beautiful”

 

But to my surprise, he walked up to me with the box of flowers, wine, chocolate and cupcakes and asked if I was “DEEN” and I said yes.

No one calls me Deen except my dad. Knowing who my dad is, fresh flowers is the last thing he would give to anyone because he sees them as a waste of money, that is why he never gave my late mum flowers.

 

He said these are for you, I paused for a bit to think who might have sent them before I asked who it was from, then he said they were from Mr Paul Adejohnson, I thanked him and went inside.

 

On my way to the room, I called my dad but he told me he was in a meeting and that he would call me as soon as he was done.

 

I opened the note inside the bag that had the chocolate and it stated “Deem my beloved, i know today is valentines day, but i just want to use this opportunity to tell you that i love you and i am always here for you when you need me. With love from your loving paa.”

I was quiet for a few minutes, reflecting on how we used to shout at each other and how we treated each other after the death of my mum and begin to regret some of my actions.   

 

When my dad called back, I was already in tears. Before he could say anything, I started apologizing for being a strong headed child and thanked him for all the love and support.

He consoled me and assured me that all will be fine from then on and I asked him of my brothers.

I will say that was the start of a new true family relationship for us.

 

 

 

Let us hear it in the comment section your first time getting flowers.

 

For a very long time, fresh flowers have been seen as a thing of beauty, love, appreciation and a thoughtful gift to give to anyone, be it romance, apology, to let someone know you are thinking of them. Fresh flowers are also used for home decoration and for all kinds of events.

 

Recently, in Nigeria we see people with fresh flowers almost everywhere, especially on social media where we see people buying flowers, receiving flowers, sending flowers e.t.c, this was not how it was many years back because for some reasons, we Nigerians believed flowers were for the westerners, while some only see them in movies or say they prefer other gifts to flowers But those days are gone. 

 

Fresh flowers are now widely appreciated among Nigerians for the beauty, the thought towards it, the feeling it brings, the memories and also the proven benefits of  flowers around us.

 

We recently spoke to 5 women in Nigeria on why they love flowers and the responses were amazing which led us to ask men how they feel about receiving flowers and if they would like it and why. This is how they replied.

 

HENRY 29, ABUJA

Yes of course, I would like to be given flowers to because I also want to feel what makes all these girls shout aww when they get flowers.(laughing) 

Every time a girl gets flowers, she’s genuinely happy and it’s so beautiful to see. We men deserve such happiness too. 

 

Late last year, a close female friend of mine at work received flowers at the office, they were yellow roses with a box of cupcakes 

Before the flowers arrived , she was telling me how mad she was at her husband because of what he did the night before and he had been trying to apologize.

So when the flowers came, she went from being moody  to happy and immediately  called her husband to resolve the issues. And I was like “so flowers are this powerful.”

So, yes i would like to be given flowers to because i want to experience the power of flowers 

 

DENNIS 33, LAGOS

Definitely, I would like to be given flowers, why not

You see, Flowers are my thing and I know few people might see it as strange for a guy to like flowers, but I do. 

I love flowers because it warms the heart and that means the sender is thinking about you in a way that only flowers can express. 

 

I got to experience the joy of flowers from a very young age. Whenever my dad got flowers for my mum, I saw how happy it made her feel.

On my 20th birthday, my mum got me a bouquet of roses mixed with lilies and a million star and a bottle of wine. Roses and Lilies then became my favorite flowers, I remember how that made me feel.

From then on, the love of fresh flowers and plants started coming to me.  

 

Now, I will proudly say I am a plant dad (smiling)  and I love having  fresh liles in my parlor. 

The smell from the lilies helps me relax after the long busy day at work and we all know how Lagos traffic can be.

 

I think we need to start educating men in general to loosen up, they should allow themselves to be loved and be shown love in all ways possible and that things like flowers does not make one gay or less masculine.

Everyone including men should at least receive flowers even once in their life  because most people get their flowers when they are dead during their funeral, mostly men.

 

According to a songwriter Godw3in on his song NOW, he said that all the love and flowers you have to give me, give it to me now that I am alive to feel and see them and appreciate them. Not when i’m dead 

So please let me receive all my flowers now that i’m alive to smell and feel them 

 

PASCAL 3O, ABUJA

Yes we know flowers are beautiful and they are a thoughtful gift to give to someone but for me as a guy, I wouldn’t know what to do with the flowers. Because of this I will say no.

 

Flowers are expensive and I don’t like to waste something expensive or misuse it. Had it been I know what to do with flowers I wouldn’t have minded getting flowers as a gift. I just hate to waste things, especially expensive ones. 

 

I am only saying no because I wouldn’t know what to do with the flowers when I get them or how to care for them and things like that, but I will really appreciate the gesture.

 

LEONARD 35, ABUJA

With all of my heart, (laughing), 

Flowers are different from what we usually get and that will be something I will have in my memory till I die because that’s next level love right there.

I love to be spoiled with love too.(smiling).

 

We’ve been made to believe by society that flowers are for ladies only. I don’t think that should be so. 

For example, when a man and a woman die, people carry flowers to their graves, but when they are alive, just the lady is allowed to get flowers by the society. That is isnt right.

 

Why is it acceptable to give flowers to someone that is not alive to appreciate them, but it’s the reverse when the person is alive. It  doesn’t make any sense to me.

 

JASON 32, LAGOS

 

I do get flowers for all my girlfriends, my mum and sisters every occasion and I dare not miss sending them flowers if not i would be in a serious trouble

 

I see how that makes them feel, I love it, I love making them feel cherished and loved . They do deserve it actually, But what about me, 

 

I also want to experience the joy and happiness of receiving flowers too. I want to feel loved and pampered too

 

Being a man in lagos with all those toxic masculinity can be so stressful and we want to feel loved and cherished without asking 

 

So , I’d love to be given flowers too because life na 1 and I want to enjoy it to the fullest way possible

 

Now over to you guys, let us know in the comment section if you would love to be given flowers and why.

Waiting excitedly to see those comments.