February Flowers and Other Gardening Tips

By Dr. Leonard Perry, Extension Professor
University of Vermont

February is for lovers. So, why not show someone how much you care by sending a bouquet or floral arrangement this Valentine's Day... or any day this month.

Although traditional, long-stemmed red roses are not the only way to express love and friendship on Valentine's Day. Sweetheart or miniature roses are slightly less expensive than tea roses but are available in the same range of colors from red and pink to white and yellow, and even pale lavender and peach.

Or ask your florist to make an arrangement with a red and white color scheme by mixing carnations and rose buds with tulips, daisies, and baby's breath. Another alternative is to give your sweetheart a potted azalea, cyclamen, or cineraria.

If you are yearning to take a trip to Florida this winter, but just can't afford it, then why not bring Florida to you. Visit your local greenhouse and bask in the warmth. Then select a few tropical plants like a Chinese evergreen, peace lily, or weeping fig to brighten up your home.

Outdoors, prevent ice and snow from building up on trees and shrubs by brushing snow off branches after a heavy snowfall. Keep a close watch on landscape plants located under eaves as snow may slide off the roof and land on these woody ornamentals and break the branches.

Take advantage of the mid-winter sales that many garden centers and greenhouses hold this time of the year. Foliage plants, seeds, bulbs, and pottery are often available at discounted prices.

If you haven't placed your seed order, do it soon. March--which is the month to start most transplants--will be here before you know it.