Growing Tropical Plants

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-545 -- More Projects »

Floral designer and instructor Ardith Beveridge offers advice on growing tropical plants in the home.

Tropical plants need high humidity, a lot of sunlight, a warm environment and a lot of water. Therefore, they are fairly high-maintenance.
Keep tropical plants in a plastic container rather than a terra-cotta container. Plastic will hold the moisture in better.
Never let tropical plants sit in water. A good drainage system is very important.

Figure A

Figure A--Ponytail palms are low-maintenance and can tolerate a level of neglect because they store water in their large root balls. To determine when it's time to water, lift the plant to see if it feels light. If it does, give it a drink. These plants will survive under various sunlight conditions.

Figure B

Figure B--The bloom on bromeliads looks much larger than it actually is. The tiny flower is hidden within the foliage, which mimics the look of a bloom. Bromeliads come in a variety of colors. They need a lot of sunlight and high humidity.

Figure C

Figure C--Hibiscus flowers will last for only one day, but the plant will bloom continuously. Use caution when tending to the plants, because the flowers will stain clothing. Place hibiscus plants in a sunny area and spray with a mist of water once or twice a day. Remove blossoms and place in a bowl of water to use as a centerpiece.

Figure D

Figure E

Figure D--The blossoms on gardenias are sensitive and will turn brown if touched. Mix silk flowers in with a real plant if the plant is not currently blooming.

Figure E--A mock orange plant will blossom and produce fruit at the same time. It needs warmth, humidity and sun. Resources
Designing with Silk Flowers
This is one in a 12-volume series of videotapes.
Floral Communications Group, Inc.
13200 Lincoln St., N.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55434
Toll-free: 888-757-5776
Website: www.floralcommunications.com

Floral Designing Through the Seasons
This is one in a 12-volume series of videotapes.
Floral Communications Group, Inc.
13200 Lincoln St., N.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55434
Toll-free: 888-757-5776
Website: www.floralcommunications.com

Wedding Design
This is one in a 12-volume series of videotapes.
Floral Communications Group, Inc.
13200 Lincoln St., N.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55434
Toll-free: 888-757-5776
Website: www.floralcommunications.com

Designing With Fresh Flowers
This is one in a 12-volume series of videotapes.
Floral Communications Group, Inc.
13200 Lincoln St., N.E.
Minneapolis, MN 55434
Toll-free: 888-757-5776
Website: www.floralcommunications.com
Guests
Ardith Beveridge
Floral Designer and Teacher / Director, Koehler & Dramm
Minneapolis, MN
Phone: 612-362-3102
E-mail: Abeveridge@koehlerdramm.com
Website: www.koehlerdramm.com
Also in this Episode

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-545

• Growing Tropical Plants
• Chewy Chocolate Brownies With Nuts
• Smokin' Foods
• Tip of the Day