Florafino's E-News

9th annual Southeastern Ohio Bridal Prom & Pageant Showcase

2011-12-28T08:05:00.000-08:00

Yes Florafino's Flowers Will be here!

Stop by and visit our exhibit and view and hold our beautiful wedding bouquets and see what specials we have in store!

You are invited to join us for the ninth annual Southeastern Ohio Bridal Prom & Pageant Showcase – the original, the classiest, the largest, and the most organized expo of its kind that is designed. Hosted again at the Muskingum County Conference & Welcome Center

The event will take place Saturday, January 14 th, 2012. We run a first-class event, covering everything from delicious samples, flowers, door prizes, and fashion shows… to live entertainment, demonstrations, and unparalleled hospitality.

JUMBO Amaryllis ARE in!!!

2011-10-11T11:48:00.000-07:00

Tips:Quick

Planting Period: October until the end of April.
Flowering Period: Late December until the end of June.
Flowering time is 7-10 weeks.
Larger bulbs produce more flowers.
Always store un-planted bulbs in a cool place between 40-50 deg. F.

Amaryllis-One of a Kind

Of all flowering bulbs, amaryllis are the easiest to bring to bloom. This can be accomplished indoors or out, and over an extended period of time. The amaryllis originated in South America's tropical regions and has the botanical name Hippeastrum. The large flowers and ease with which they can be brought to bloom make amaryllis popular and in demand worldwide. The amaryllis comes in many beautiful varieties including various shades of red, white, pink, salmon and orange. There are also many striped and multicolored varieties, usually combining shades of pink or red with white.

Preparation for Planting

The base and roots of the bulb should be placed in lukewarm water for a few hours. Remember, if you cannot plant the bulbs immediately after receiving them, store them at a cool temperature between 40-50 degrees F.

Planting

Plant bulbs in a nutritious potting compost, many are available pre-mixed. Plant the bulb up to its neck in the potting compost, being careful not to damage the roots. Press the soil down firmly to set the bulb securely in place after planting.

Placement and Watering

Plant the bulb, or place the potted bulb in a warm place with direct light since heat is necessary for the development of the stems. The ideal temperature is 68 to 70 degrees F. Water sparingly until the stem appears, then, as the bud and leaves appear, gradually water more. At this point, the stem will grow rapidly and flowers will develop after it has reached full growth.

Flowering Period

Bulbs will flower in 7-10 weeks as a general rule. In winter the flowering time will be longer than in spring

Set up your planting schedule between October and April with this in mind. To achieve continuous bloom, plant at intervals of 2 weeks for stunning color in your home or garden.

After-Bloom Care

After-Flowering. After the amaryllis has stopped flowering, it can be made to flower again. Cut the old flowers from the stem after flowering, and when the stem starts to sag, cut it back to the top of the bulb.
Leaf Growth and Development. Continue to water and fertilize as normal all summer, or for at least 5-6 months, allowing the leaves to fully develop and grow. When the leaves begin to yellow, which normally occurs in the early fall, cut the leaves back to about 2 inches from the top of the bulb and remove the bulb from the soil.
Bulb Storage. Clean the bulb and place it in a cool (40-50 deg. F), dark place such as the crisper of your refrigerator for a minimum of 6 weeks. Caution: Do not store amaryllis bulbs in a refrigerator that contains apples, this will sterilize the bulbs. Store the bulbs for a minimum of 6 weeks.
Plant Again. After 6 weeks you may remove bulbs whenever you would like to plant them. Plant bulbs 8 weeks before you would like them to bloom.

"Roses and Quotes"

2011-08-17T10:55:00.000-07:00

And I will make thee bed of roses, And a thousand fragrant posies.
Marie-Antoinette, Queen

Bread feeds the body, indeed, but flowers feed also the soul
The Koran

Where flowers bloom so does hope.
Lady Bird Johnson

The World is a rose; smell it and pass it to your friends.
Persian Proverb

What's in a name? that which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet.
Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

Take time to smell the roses.
Gardening Cliches

Earth laughs in flower.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

I'd rather have roses on my table than diamonds on my neck.
Emma Goldman

True friendship is like a rose: We don't realize its beauty until it fades
Evelyn Loeb

He who wants a rose must respect the thorn.
Persian Proverb

We can complain because rose bushes have thorns,
or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.
Abraham Lincoln

Wedding Season!

2011-06-01T07:32:00.001-07:00

Secretaries Week "Fun Facts"

2011-04-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

Secretary week is April 24-30 and Administrative Professional Day April 27

Surprise your Secretary with Beautiful flowers, gift/candy basket, plants and more

check out our website www.florafinos.com or call 740-452-8285 and ask for our "in house" specials!

add a "Thank You" Balloon or "Great Job" to put that extra smile on your secretary's face!

National Secretaries Week was created in 1952 through the efforts of Harry F. Klemfuss, a New York publicist. Working in conjunction with the National Secretaries Association, later known as the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), Klemfuss wanted to encourage more people to consider careers in the secretarial/administrative support field.

The official period of celebration was first proclaimed by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Charles Sawyer as "National Secretaries Week," which was held June 1–7 in 1952, with Wednesday, June 4, 1952 designated National Secretaries Day. The first Secretaries Day was sponsored by the National Secretaries Association with the support of corporate groups.

In 1955, the observance date of National Secretaries Week was moved to the last full week of April. The name was changed to Professional Secretaries Week in 1981, and became Administrative Professionals Week in 2000 to encompass the expanding responsibilities and wide-ranging job titles of administrative support staff.

Send your "Easter Lily"

2011-04-05T10:26:00.000-07:00

An Easter Lily is a wonderful Gift for the Easter Season. It smells wonderful and just the presence of an Easter lily is so amazing and cheerful it will light up any room.

Caring For Easter Lilies Indoors:

Choose a sunny or bright location so the plant will receive plenty of light during the day. Keep away from heat sources (like a heat register) since the plant prefers being cool at night.
Water the plant well each day.
Once the plant blooms and the leaves begin to yellow, keep watering until ready to transplant outdoors (allow the leaves to die naturally before pruning them from the plant).

Transplanting Outdoors:

When all danger of frost has passed in the Spring and the soil can be worked, plant the bulb 6 to 8 inches deep in the soil. Choose a location where the plant will receive lots of sun and make sure the soil is well-draining. Once planted, top the soil with about an inch or two of mulch to help keep the roots cool during the hot summer.
The lily may bloom in the Fall of the same year it is planted but usually it will not bloom until late Spring of the following year (typically May to June).

GREEN FLOWERS!!!

2011-03-10T06:58:00.000-08:00

GREEN HYDRANGEAS, NATURAL GREEN ROSES, GREEN DIANTHUS, GREEN BELL OF IRELAND, COLOR ENHANCED GREEN CARNATIONS AND NATURAL GREEN CARNATIONS! VERY BEAUTIFUL!!!!

"March" means bring on the "Shamrocks"

2011-03-02T10:40:00.000-08:00

Shamrock plants come in a wide variety of species. Varieties include those with deep burgundy foliage with white or pink flowers to green foliage as well. Shamrock plants form a mound like appearance by continually sprouting new shoots. One thing to be aware of, is that generally within 2 months of receiving your Shamrock plant, the plant will appear to be dying and actually seem dead. Don't throw it out! It is a bulb and goes into a dormant state.

Shamrock plants prefer low light levels in most cases. Some varieties like higher levels, so be sure to follow the tag for your specific variety. If your plant is stretching or becomes lanky in appearance, it is probably not receiving enough light.

Shamrock plants prefer to have their soil somewhat moist at all times. However you do not want the soil to be soggy, so be careful not to over water. Generally, if the soil does dry out, this houseplant will spring back from a wilted state quite quickly. But do not make a habit of under watering the plant. If the foliage begins to yellow, you may be over watering the plant.

If you're Shamrock plant has not bloomed, you can try to cut back water levels on the plant to force it into a dormancy state. Then in 2 to 3 months begin to increase the water levels.

Think Spring!

2011-02-19T09:27:00.000-08:00

Spring indicates a season of new beginnings and delights after a long winter. It is an ideal time for weddings and nature trips, as numerous flowers are found everywhere throughout the season. For students and researchers, spring is the best time to study the exciting names and varieties of spring flowers. The names of spring flowers are as appealing and intoxicating as the fragrance of some of them. The flowers are found in varied colors, sizes, and shapes. Spring flowers make beautiful decorations, striking centerpieces, and enhance the romantic feeling of weddings.

Valentines QUIZ!

2011-02-01T09:39:00.001-08:00

IT is TIME to Enter a Chance to win $25 off a purchase of $50 or more for Valentines Day flowers!

1. What is the old fashion English name for a carnation?

2. Spring time Daffodil is known as...?

3. What Country is the leading exporter of flowers?

4. Botanical name of a Peruvian Lily?

5. St. John Wart is used in the flower shop all the time by another name. What is it?

Email your answers to toritess@gmail.com and we will post the winner on Florafinos facebook page on February 11! IT COULD BE YOU! Good Luck!

Valentines "2011"...Think "COLOR"

2010-12-30T07:44:00.000-08:00

Our Rose Colors and Meanings guide contains helpful hints about the meaning associated with the colors of roses and other rose information. As one of the most enduring symbols for love and appreciation, it's no surprise that roses are among the most admired and evocative of flowers.

Rose Color Meanings

* Red- Love, Passion, Respect, Courage

* White- Innocence, Purity, Secrecy

* Yellow-Joy, Friendship

* Yellow with Red Tip- Friendship falling in Love

* Coral-Desire

* Orange- Enthusiasm

* Light Pink- Grace, Gladness, Admiration

* Dark/Hot Pink-Thankfulness

* Lavender- Love at First Sight, Enchantment

* Green- Abundance, Bounty

Florafino's Flower's can help you this 2011 Valentines Day. By choosing the color rose you need to express to your loved one what you really need to say. From choosing one color to two to three or a lovely garden mix, we can help you communicate what you are feeling this Valentines Day.

For Blogger SPECIAL.... Call by February 1st and Receive 10% OFF Your Valentine Order.

Promo Code: blogval11

Christmas Joy

2010-11-26T12:57:00.001-08:00

This Christmas Season...

Send holiday cheer with Christmas flowers. A hand-delivered bouquet

is a great way to add magic to the holidays. With a large selection of

bouquets and other gifts, you’ll be able to find something for everyone.

Even the Scrooge on your list is sure to be delighted by a Christmas

flower delivery.

Flowers and plants are a beloved part of so many Christmas traditions,

from mistletoe to festive red Poinsettias. Florafinos has a wide selection

of holiday flowers for any occasion. We can even deliver mini trees and

large outdoor arrangements. If you’re looking for a gift for a holiday

host, table decor complete with candles, will brighten any feast.

So make merry this season, and let Florafinos take care of the flowers.

Christmas flowers from Florafinos really make the holidays more beautiful.

Coming UP! Thanksgiving and Christmas 2010

2010-10-20T07:02:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving

November 25t^h 2010

-Our warm and welcoming centerpieces consist of autumnal tones for your Thanksgiving table

-Express Autumn's rich moments of Beauty and Color with Flowers for a friend, mother, grandmother, or yourself

Just Around the Corner…

CHRISTMAS

-Get Prepared for your Christmas decorating by calling Florafinos to

help you decorate your home or business this year,

room 1 wreath to the whole house

-Christmas flowers are such a

beautiful affectionate way to

add magic to the holidays.

-Go online at www.florafinos.com to Shop from our expansive selection of unique Christmas gifts for all your loved ones, from fresh arrangements, Poinsettias, Gift/Fruit Baskets, Wreaths plus more, stop by at Florafinos to see Grave Sprays, Amaryllis Bulbs, Garland, Swags, Figurines, Ribbons plus more!

Yes "WE" Do SYMPATHY

2010-08-04T10:23:00.000-07:00

Birthday Flowers

2010-07-15T06:15:00.000-07:00

Hoping to send a birthday surprise that's bright and beautiful? A gift that will be a true delight when delivered to someone's home, and an eye-catching display at their workplace? Then there's nothing quite as magnificent as a bouquet of fresh, colorful Birthday flowers. After all, Birthday flower arrangements are "one size fits all." Whether the recipient is a good friend, a spouse, a beloved family member or an office mate, a Birthday flower delivery will always say, "This is your day – and I'm thinking of you."Would you prefer to send a more personalized bouquet of flowers for a birthday. Consider adding a balloon, a box of luscious chocolates or even an adorable teddy bear. Florafino's has the perfect gift for birthdays of all ages; celebrating a 1st, 16th, 21st, 40th or 50th birthday is a very special occasion so send flowers today!

Hanging Gardens

2010-05-11T10:28:00.000-07:00

Hanging plants are a great way to add a splash of color to your porch or patio. Fuchsia, morning glory, ivy geranium, petunia and begonia are just a few of the many annuals that are especially well-suited for growing in hanging baskets. Because the sides of the hanging basket are exposed to air, which can dry out the growing medium, annuals grown as hanging plants need special attention when it comes to watering. With the proper care and attention, you'll be able to enjoy your annual hanging plants for as long as possible.

1.-Situate your hanging basket in a location that will provide your plant with the appropriate amount of sunlight for its plant type. Place "Full Sun" plants in a location where they will receive six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. Hang "Partial Sun" plants in a location that receives up to six hours of filtered sunlight each day.

2.-Water your annual hanging plants generously to prevent their growing medium from drying out. Water the plants from the top until the water drains through the hanging basket to ensure that the moisture is reaching the roots of the plants.

3.- Fertilize your annual hanging plants every other week with a water-soluble fertilizer like Blooms Plus, Miracle Grow or Grow More. Make sure to follow the directions on the fertilizer package when fertilizing your hanging plants.

4.-Deadhead flowering hanging plants by pinching off the spent blossoms to encourage your hanging annuals to produce more blooms.

5.-Prune discolored, diseased or dead foliage from your annual hanging plants, as needed, to keep them looking green and healthy. Sharpen and sterilize your pruning shears before pruning your hanging plants.

Ready for SPRING?

2010-02-18T12:02:00.000-08:00

Snow crocuses get their name, as they are the earliest of spring flowers. They often burst into bloom, while snow is still on the ground. These hardy flowers will begin to grow with a warm spell in late winter or early spring. If it snows again before they bloom or during bloom, that's okay. They will be unharmed. It only takes a few days growth to blossom into the first bright colors of the year.

Plant crocuses singly, or in groups. We do not recommend planting a large number of them close together, as they will rapidly multiply. In a year or two, that small group will become a major clump of attractive plants, regardless of how many you plant together. Fortunately, Crocus tolerates overcrowding.

Plant Crocus corms in the fall. Select a sunny location where the soil is not too wet or soggy over winter and during spring. Most importantly, select a spot where you can see them from a window of your house. You don't want to miss the first show of the year!

A Weekend to Remember-This Valentines Day

2010-01-12T08:51:00.000-08:00

SUNDAY February 14, 2010 is Valentines Day

Don't Let Sunday stop you this year. We Deliver all week long for Valentines Day and on SUNDAY. So order for that someone special early.

Find perfect Valentine's Day gifts for everyone in your life. For a friend to say thank you for being in my life and being there for me, for a co-worker just to say thank you, for your mother for caring for you your whole life, for your wife to say I love you and for the love and support you have given me, for your sister for always listening to me when needed the most, for a nurse to say thank you for the care you have given me, for your father for the love and strength he showed you, for your brother for always standing by your side, for you grandparents for spoiling you over the years, now its time to spoil them:). Valentines day is just not for all loved ones but for ones that have showed you love, care, strength, support and help through your whole life.

Send Someone Flowers, Chocolates and Balloons this Valentines Day not just for love and romance "but all means do" but for those who have cared for you and loved you in others way.

JUMBO AMARYLLIS

2009-10-21T11:55:00.000-07:00

Planting
Plant bulbs in a nutritious potting compost, many are available pre-mixed. Plant the bulb up to its neck in the potting compost, being careful not to damage the roots. Press the soil down firmly to set the bulb securely in place after planting.

Placement and Watering
Plant the bulb, or place the potted bulb in a warm place with direct light since heat is necessary for the development of the stems. The ideal temperature is 68 to 70 degrees F. Water sparingly until the stem appears, then, as the bud and leaves appear, gradually water more. At this point, the stem will grow rapidly and flowers will develop after it has reached full growth.

Flowering Period
Bulbs will flower in 7-10 weeks as a general rule. In winter the flowering time will be longer than in spring. Set up your planting schedule between October and April with this in mind. To achieve continuous bloom, plant at intervals of 2 weeks for stunning color in your home or garden.

After-Bloom Care
After-Flowering. After the amaryllis has stopped flowering, it can be made to flower again. Cut the old flowers from the stem after flowering, and when the stem starts to sag, cut it back to the top of the bulb. Leaf Growth and Development. Continue to water and fertilize as normal all summer, or for at least 5-6 months, allowing the leaves to fully develop and grow. When the leaves begin to yellow, which normally occurs in the early fall, cut the leaves back to about 2 inches from the top of the bulb and remove the bulb from the soil. Bulb Storage. Clean the bulb and place it in a cool (40-50 deg. F), dark place such as the crisper of your refrigerator for a minimum of 6 weeks. Caution: Do not store amaryllis bulbs in a refrigerator that contains apples, this will sterilize the bulbs. Store the bulbs for a minimum of 6 weeks. Plant Again. After 6 weeks you may remove bulbs whenever you would like to plant them. Plant bulbs 8 weeks before you would like them to bloom.

Sweetest Day October 17, 2009

2009-10-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

Sweetest Day is celebrated each year on the third Saturday of October. Although often thought of by many as a second Valentine’s Day, Sweetest Day is actually a day meant to celebrate all the people who make your life special. It’s an occasion to make someone happy, a chance to celebrate and give gifts to relatives, friends, and associates. Sweetest Day observance originated in Cleveland in 1922. Herbert Birch Kingston, a philanthropist and candy company employee wanted to bring happiness into the lives of orphans, shut-ins and others who were forgotten. With the help of friends, he began to distribute candy and small gifts to the underprivileged.

Primarily a regional observance celebrated in the Great Lakes region and the Northeast, Sweetest Day is gradually spreading to other areas of the country. People tend to take the Sweetest Day tradition with them when they move. Ohio is the top state for Sweetest Day sales, followed by Michigan and Illinois. Texas, California and Florida are among the top 10 states in sales.

Why Do Leaves Change Colors?

2009-09-08T09:25:00.000-07:00

Every autumn we revel in the beauty of the fall colors. The mixture of red, purple, orange and yellow is the result of chemical processes that take place in the tree as the seasons change from summer to winter.

Tree and plant leaves contain pigments that give them their color. Three pigments are involved in fall color:
~Chlorophyll — gives leaves their green color.
~Carotenoids — provide the yellow, orange, and brown colors
~Anthocyanins — give the red and purple colors. In contrast to the other two pigments, anthocyanins are produced in the autumn, in response to bright light and excess plant sugars in the leaf cells.

During the growing season, most tree leaves are green because they are full of chlorophyll. Plants use chlorophyll to capture sunlight for photosynthesis, the process that enables them to manufacture their own food. The amount of chlorophyll is so high during the summer that the green color masks all other pigments present in the leaf. As the days grow shorter in the fall, chlorophyll production slows down and eventually stops. The carotenoids and anthocyanins that are present in the leaf then become visible.

Certain colors of leaves are characteristic of particular species of trees.

~Oaks turn red, brown, or russet;
~Hickories turn golden bronze;
~Dogwood turns purplish red;
~Beech turns light tan;
~Red maple turns brilliant scarlet;
~Sugar maple turns orange-red;
~Black maple turns glowing yellow;
~Sourwood and black tupelo turn crimson;
~Aspen, birch, and yellow-poplar turn golden yellow.

Choosing your "Right" Wedding Season

2009-07-02T07:28:00.000-07:00

Weddings are a time in your life when you want everything to be perfect. You want to choose time of the year to get married that fills all your needs. Wedding seasons can have an impact on any wedding.

Fall Weddings
Fall weddings are filled with color because of the changing of the leaves and it is leading up to Halloween and Thanksgiving. The weather is a bit cooler and outdoor weddings are less common. The beautiful changing colors as a backdrop to a ceremony are just beautiful.

Winter Weddings
Wedding seasons include winter. This is not a popular season for weddings, but some people do like the idea of having a wedding around the holidays. The thing that you have to remember about a winter wedding is that it is going to be cold and you may have to deal with the snow and wet weather.

Summer Weddings
Summer weddings are more popular because you can choose from many different dress styles and you could have the wedding outdoors or indoors. It is possible to have theme weddings such as beach weddings, tropical weddings or even country weddings. When you are thinking about the different wedding seasons, summer is usually the time the first one to come to mind.

Spring Weddings
When you are thinking about the best wedding seasons, spring time always comes to mind because the flowers are in bloom and it is never too hot for fancy dresses and tuxedos. You can easily have a wedding outdoors or indoors in the springtime as well as the summer. This is the time when almost every flower you want for your wedding is in season and you can choose any color you want.

Between the wedding seasons, you have to choose from, spring and summer are the most popular. Many times a winter wedding is planned as a destination wedding to somewhere warmer, while spring, summer and fall weddings can be planned at home. When you are planning your wedding date, you need to consider the weather at that time of the year, if you can get the flowers you want and if it is the best time for your guests to travel. In most cases, brides and grooms will choose spring or summer for their weddings.

"Go Green" with Green Flowers

2009-05-29T10:06:00.000-07:00

Green is a natural color of the planet. Green flowers? Leaves are green, yes, and grass is green. But flowers? Yes, there are green flowers, a surprising variety of them, in fact. But why, you might ask, would one want green flowers. Green can be considered a neutral color in a garden, smoothing the transition between color schemes or diluting too strong a hue. Against yellow or reddish foliage, they stand out without clashing. Have I convinced you yet?

List of Green Flowers Typically Available

-Green Hydrangea

-Green Carnation

-Green Rose
-Green Button Mum

-Green Hypericum

-Green Trachellium

-Green Bells of Ireland

-Green Anthurium

-Green Orchids including: Dendrobiums, Cymbidiums, Phalenopsis, lady slipper orchid

-Green Dianthus

-Green Rununculus

-Green Fuji Disbuds

At Florafinos we love green! So lots of green is always available.

"Forcing" Spring into Bloom From your frontyard

2009-03-25T08:01:00.000-07:00

An easy way to bring some spring color indoors is to force some branches of a spring blooming shrub. It's really simple, just cut a few branches from your favorite spring blooming shrubs on a day when the temperature is preferably above freezing.

Almost any shrub that blooms in the spring is a candidate to force into a blooming centerpiece for the home. Try experimenting with the types of shrubs planted in your yard. After a couple of weeks, the branches will burst into bloom and this is a sure way to get your spring fever in full swing.

Some Shrub Options:
-Forsythia

-Flowering Quince

-Viburnum

-Lilac

-Azaleas

-Magnolias

-Pussy willow

-Cherry Tree Branches

Make sure you cut each branch all the way to the main stem. You can always shorten the branches later if they are too long for the vase. Bring the freshly cut branches inside and immediately put them in water. Have the decorative vase or container ready for the branches. You will need the pruners, a hammer and cutting board or an appropriate surface to mash the branch ends. You will also need plastic wrap or paper towels and a mister.

It's TULIP Time!

2009-03-02T12:16:00.000-08:00

Tulips are a wonderful gift to give for a Birthday, Mothers Day or even just a Thinking of You. Typically a 6 inch Tulip Plant can be cared for and enjoy inside before planting outside for next years bloom. I'm going to tell you how. Tulips are stunning showstoppers that work equally well in a shaded flower bed or for use in a more formal gardens. Though they look as delicate as orchids, Tulips are hardy bulb plants that will return year after year when cared for correctly.

-Once you get your new Tulip home place it in bright indirect light away from heat sources, such as TV's or heat ducts. Heat will speed up the natural flowering process shortening the life span of your plant.

_Temperature should be 65 degrees no more than 70 degrees, so you can enjoy your tulip longer.

-Tulips are usually potted in a sandy soil which provides excellent drainage for your plant.

- Water your plant every couple of days.

-Fertilizing is not necessary.

-Once your Tulip has finished flowering you can plant your bulbs outdoors come spring. Pot forced Tulips will not flower again for two season when planted outdoors.

Love still blooms even when the economy is not at its finest.

2009-01-05T11:49:00.000-08:00

This Valentines day is Saturday February 14, 2009.
Celebrate the whole week and send flowers early,
February 9th-13th.

Traditions says that you send a dozen red roses or a vase of lilies, but just know that there are other options to consider such as:

-Vase of colorful Alstromeria lillies.
The meanings of Alstromeria lilies are friendship and devotion. As a symbol of devotion, Alstromeria lilies can say to a companion or loved one that you will always be there for them and that you trust in your lasting bond. The depth of meanings for Altromeria lilies is a compliment to their beauty, and the message that these flowers send is profound in its authentic simplicity.

-Vase of Gerbera Daisies. The Meaning of a gerbera daisy include innocence and purity, and daisies are also a classic symbol of beauty. However, the gerbera variety holds an added meaning of cheerfulness, which stems from the assortment of colors available. An assorted bouquet of gerbera daisies can lift the spirit and sending one is an ideal way to brighten this Valentine's day.

-Vase of Carnations. The meanings of carnations include fascination, distinction, and love. Like many other flowers, different messages can also be expressed with the flower’s different color varieties. Light red carnations, for example, are often used to convey admiration, whereas the dark red version expresses deeper sentiments of love and affection. White carnations are associated with purity and luck, and pink carnations are often given as a sign of gratitude. With all these colors in one bouquet tells her about love, fascination, purity, and gratitude.

With all these different choices, the meaning of flowers simply mean's you care enough to let the person you love know you love them. Happy Valentines Day!

The DO'S and DONT'S of POINSETTIA care

2008-12-13T11:08:00.000-08:00

Here are the DO's of poinsettia care
• DO place your plant in indirect sunlight for at least six hours per day. If direct sun can't be avoided, diffuse the light with a shade or sheer curtain.
• DO provide room temperatures between 68 - 70° F. Generally speaking, if you are comfortable, so is your poinsettia.
• DO water your plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.

• DO cover your plant when transporting it from church or your office to home
• DO fertilize your plant AFTER THE BLOOMING SEASON with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.

And here are the DON'Ts of poinsettia care
• DON'T place plants near cold drafts or excessive heat. Avoid placing plants near appliances, fireplaces or ventilating ducts or the top of a television.
• DON'T expose plants to temperatures below 50° F. Poinsettias are sensitive to cold, so avoid placing them outside during the winter months.
• DON'T over water your plant, or allow it to sit in standing water. Always remove a plant from any decorative container before watering, and allow the water to drain completely.
• DON'T expose your plant to chilling winds when transporting it.
• DON'T fertilize your plant when it is in bloom.

Christmas Open House

2008-11-01T07:09:00.000-07:00

Florafinos Christmas Open House is on
November 22 4-8PM and November 23 12AM-4PM

We’re excited to bring you a host of new items this year!

Amaryllis Bulbs are IN! Big and Beautiful we have colors from red, white, pink and green. Jumbo Bulbs with 2-3 stalks and 3-4 blooms per stalk! Awsome!

-A new gift line from Transpac International with fun snowman and women to choose from!

-Fun and upscale glassware from Accent Décor to make different or even unusual arrangements that speak of fun and to the inner soul.

-Gourmet goodies including chocolate covered biscottis, tea biscuits and teas, Ghirardelli hot chocolate (to be used in our hot chocolate mug specials), chocolate spoons, sugar stirrers, crackers, cheese, and more. All for use in our many different gift baskets which will be available

-Mouthwatering goodies from the “Mississippi Cheese Straw Factory: Asiago cheese straws, (the original Italian masterpiece) Original Lemon straws, (delightfully tart), and Mud puppies (bite size cookies rich with chocolate chips, flaked oats and pecans!!YUMM

-Health minded products to sooth the aching feet of the holidays and everyday from Smith and Van diver; intense moisturizing shea butter cream, gift packs for the footsies, and fun fizzing cupcakes that dissolve in the bath to sooth the aching body and mind…

- New lines of Quality silk products from 3 different manufacturers, something new for every taste and budget!! Stems, wreaths, swags, arrangements, baubles and bows.

-Our new organic Bamboo pots which are made from bamboo fiber and are 100% natural; no chemicals or artificial components (sounds good enough to eat!), in an array of colors and sizes. Come check them out!!!

-New Root candle line, I love it, in addition to our oldie but goodie line of Swan Creek candles (both made here in good ol” Ohio!!

- Oodles of wonderful Holiday plants including Italian cypress vines, Rosemary cones, Creeping rusica vine, kissing balls, ivy wreaths(yes, ivy formed into wreathes that may be hung on the wall or used as a centerpiece on a table, also the ever popular “Poinsettias” in a multitude of colors and price ranges.

- Annnd “Hammonds”, “authentic candy canes” I think I might be most excited about these, because they bring out the kid in me and all of us! As seen on “Good Eats”, these canes are made the old fashioned way and are hand crooked!

Come check ‘em out!

"Fall" in for Fall

2008-09-08T11:16:00.000-07:00

"Mums" the Word

A very popular plant for late season color is Fall mums, sometimes called "Garden mums" or "Hardy mums". Fall garden mums are available in a wide selection of colors, flower types... shapes and sizes. Fall garden mums are a low maintenance easy to grow plant that can be kept in containers or grown in beds. They are drought resistant and generally free of insect and disease pests.

Planting

Most Fall mums are purchased and planted from late August into September. Fall mums prefer to be planted in an area that receives full sun, but most cultivars can get by with a half day of direct sunshine. For ultimate growth, plant your new fall garden mums in fertile well drained soil. Poorly drained soil is the leading cause of winter mortality.

Watering

Fall garden mums should never be allowed to wilt... especially newly transplanted plants. Check your fall garden mums every couple of days for watering until you become familiar with their needs, particularly during dry spells. Be sure to thoroughly water-in your new transplants.

Summer Time is HERE

2008-06-30T11:46:00.000-07:00

There are so many blooms out there that are just ripe for the picking and are screaming to be arranged. Flowers reflect the freshness and warmth of summer and it always nice to have a flower arrangement at home. Certain flowers only bloom in the summer and it is best to feature them in your summer flower arrangements.
Here is a list of summer flowers that you can use in flower arrangements:
-Sunflower. Representing the brightness of the summer season, sunflowers are considered the primary summer flowers. These big, eye-catching, and vibrant flowers only bloom completely during the summer. They are great for big and elaborate arrangements.

- Aster. Aster attracts bright and colorful butterflies in the summer. These flowers come in beautiful shades of white, pink, blue, and purple. According to flower myths and traditions, aster signifies patience, variety, and delicacy.

- Sweet Pea. You can add sweet pea to your flower arrangement to give it a nice, sweet scent.

- Daisy. This summer flower denotes innocence, gentleness and purity. Sometimes called "the marker of summer", the daisy is also called the "day's eye" because it opens up and closes along with the sun.

- Lily. The sensitizing effect of lilies will never fail to lighten your mood or bring a smile to your face so add them in your flower arrangement.

- Snapdragons. Snapdragons make beautiful cut flowers. They are great hung from a basket or kept in a tall, slim vase.

Make the best of summer by putting summer arrangments in your house, garden, and office with these summer blooms. They will not only beautify your room, they can lighten up your mood as well.

Mood-boosting Blooms

2008-05-12T10:07:00.000-07:00

Improving mood and boosting energy may be as simple as getting flowers. They smell dreamy, flowers increase life satisfaction, certain mixed color arrangements can trigger specific emotions. When you receive flowers there is a quick mood lift, and within a week you can get a rise in compassion and kindness and a drop in sadness and anxiety. Especially in the workplace, where you can feel more enthusiastic and energetic than the others, just with flowers on your desk or in the office. For energy bold tones boost spirits, bright primary colors like red, yellows and blues are beautiful together but when you mix them with purples and greens the unexpected pairing is playful and stimulating. For a calming sense, cool clear colors like light green, misty blue and pale lavenders resemble nature at its best like the sea and sky that give you a sense of constancy that may help reduce stress. Flowers are great to have around in any situation, when your sad bright colors with boost your playfulness, when your stressed cool colors will help you relax, and when your happy anyway a fun colored arrangement with give you more energy.

Easter Lily Care

2008-03-20T07:43:00.000-07:00

In spring, Easter lilies fill our homes with bright blooms and fragrant aromas. While the flowers seem to quickly come and go, there are some guidelines that may extend the life of your lily.

It is important to leave the plant indoors until the last frost, usually sometime after April. Keep the plant in a sunny location, but away from direct sunlight, heat, or heavy drafts. Easter lilies prefer cooler temperatures, usually around 60-65º during the day, and 55-60º during the night. Be sure to water the plant if the surface of the soil feels dry. Empty the saucer regularly to avoid having the lily sit in water. Also keep in mind that the Easter lily is highly toxic to cats.

Have a Happy Easter!

From all of us at FLORAFINO'S.

St. Patricks Day March 17 2008

2008-02-29T08:38:00.000-08:00

There are literally hundreds of types of oxalis and several of them make very nice indoor blooming plants. The variety most commonly grown as shamrocks for St. Patrick's Day is Oxalis acetosella. It is a three-leaf clover with pure white blooms and a compact growth habit. Another wonderful variety for indoors is Oxalis deppei with red blooms and quartered leaves that have a dark zone near the center of each leaf. There is a variety that has huge maroon leaves and pink blooms and another with delicate yellow flowers. Most oxalis have 3 or 4 divisions to the leaf, but they can have up to 9 parts.

What are the light requirements for shamrocks?
All oxalis need lots of light to grow and bloom well. This can even be full afternoon sun in the winter time, but not in the summer. If you are using artificial light, try to provide at least 12 hours each day.

How much water do they need?
They need to be kept just barely damp. Whenever possible, let them dry slightly between waterings.

Do they have any special temperature requirements?
Shamrocks and other oxalis prefer cool temperatures, especially while in bloom. Keep them in a cool room at night (between 50-65º) and avoid letting them get any warmer than 70-75º during the day. Warmer temperatures will encourage them to go dormant earlier.

Do shamrocks need much humidity?
They do fine with average household humidity. Mist occasionally or place them on a humidity tray.

Sweet Valentine

2008-02-07T10:34:00.000-08:00

Every February, across the country, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones. The holiday is named after two among the numerous Early Christian martyrs named Valentine. The day became associated with romantic love in the circle of Middle Ages when the traditon of courtly love flurished.
Nothing says it is Valentine’s Day better than red roses. The meaning of Valentine’s Day flowers with red roses is love. It is an ideal, but unoriginal, way of telling her that you love her without saying a word. You have to have the mindset of what type of flower arrangement, including color and type of flower, would personalize her best. When choosing flowers for this lover’s holiday, do keep in mind the type of person that you are buying for. Roses come in a variety of colors and meanings. While the red rose is all for love, the yellow has a meaning of friendship and the pink is all about happiness.

Give a bouquet to your special valentine. She will know instantly that you thought of her first on this holiday and hopefully her sentiment is the same for you. You both will be bursting with love and this day will be forever remembered. Now we have discussed the red rose as an option for Valentine’s Day. It is a flower that has been given over and over again and has lost some of its love appeal. Consider a sunflower for the person in your life. The meaning of this Valentine’s Day flower is admiration. Your special someone will feel adored by you all day long. A tulip given on Valentine’s Day has a meaning of the perfect lover. Now that is a desired compliment.
The meaning of Valentine’s Day flowers can be what ever you would like. The person receiving them will get an overwhelming feeling of appreciation that you thought of them on this day. No matter what type of flower you give her, one thing is for sure, she will love the thought behind this gift that speaks ever so loudly to the heart without ever saying a word.

Cyclamen Plant Care

2008-01-23T10:20:00.000-08:00

Water:
~ When leaves are present, the plant is actively growing. Water whenever the soil feels dry. Avoid getting water on the crown of the plant.
~ As the flowers begin to fade, gradually allow the plant to dry out for 2-3 months. It's going into a dormant stage (see below) and any excess water will cause the tuber to rot.
~ New growth will probably start to appear around September. At this point, resume watering and feeding. Bring it back indoors before the cold weather.
Humidity:
~ High humidity, especially during winter, is crucial. Keep the cyclamen on a tray of water with a layer of pebbles or something else to form a shelf for the cyclamen pot to sit on. Do not let the cyclamen itself sit in the water.
Fertilizer:

~ Feed with a low-nitrogen fertilizer every couple of weeks while in full leaf.
Light:
~ Give cyclamen bright, indirect light in the winter. While your plant is dormant during the summer, keep it out of bright light.
Temperature:

~ Cyclamen do not like heat, but they are not frost hardy. Do not expose to temperatures below 50 degrees F. Avoid drafts as well as hot, dry air.
Dormancy Period:
~ Cyclamen generally go dormant for the summer. They don’t like the lack of rain and excess heat, so they take a siesta. By April cyclamen start getting tired and the leaves will begin to yellow and die. When they go fully dormant depends on their growing conditions. If they are houseplants and the heat is kept high, they’ll peter out more quickly. On the other hand, some don’t ever appear to go fully dormant. During the summer, dormant cyclamen can be kept indoors, in a cool, dark spot with good air circulation or outdoors, in a shady spot. If you put yours outdoors, be sure to turn the pot on its side to keep the rain out. If the soil gets too wet during dormancy, the tuber will rot. A little water isn’t going to do any harm, but you don’t want the soil to remain wet. You can repot with fresh soil and a slightly larger pot while the plant is dormant.
Begin watering again in September. By then you’ll probably be seeing new growth starting.
Make sure you bring the pot back indoors before a frost.

Bulbs, Bulb's, and more Bulb's

2008-01-18T08:47:00.000-08:00

There is nothing quite as beautiful as seeing

your spring flowering bulbs burst into color after the long cold winter. You can add beauty and color almost anywhere in your landscape or home with a little time, planning and effort in the fall. Back in September Florafinos potted Crocus, Daffodils, Hyacinths, and Grape Hyacinths.

For those of you who don not know what a crocus bowl is...

~It's crocus bulbs in a ceramic container that have holes punched around the sides, reminiscent of a strawberry jar. This gives you a ball of crocus blooms

~Beautiful crocus bloom indoors during the winter!

~Great for any occasion or just to cheer someone up.

Valentines Day is Thursday Feb 14th!

Wedding News

2008-01-09T12:27:00.000-08:00

Book you wedding flowers now for 2008.

Stop By January 12 down at Secrest Auditorium for the 2008 wedding show to see Florafino's display on all the hottest colors, trends, and bouquets.
www.coz.org/secrest.cfm- Secrest Auditorium

For more about the show- http://www.whiznews.com/prom.php

Need Advice on Wedding flowers? Your welcome to stop by anytime at Florafino's to view our books and pictures and speak to one of our designers to get what your looking for, and we'll help you visualize and get the right look, colors and flowers for your wedding.

New Year Notes

2008-01-09T12:05:00.000-08:00

First of all, happy and healthy New Year to all.

Still have bulbs to plant? As long as the ground is workable you can get them into the ground. For those of you forcing bulbs inside, like tulips and hyacinth's, make sure they have had enough cold weeks before you begin forcing them, typically anywhere between 10-15 weeks is sufficient. Indoor bulbs, if your amaryllis have flowered all ready make sure you fertilize the remaining plant and keep it actively growning until summer.