A Flower For Every Day September

Although Etyngium giganteam flowers earlier in the summer, it is in September when it loses its colour substance and becomes a whitened ghost. The great gardeners of the beginning of the century appreciated this prickly subject, which has all the soft colour and good contour of an eryngitim when it first comes out but becomes white and papery instead of fading. The famous Miss Willmott of Warley loved it so much that it is sometimes known as "Miss Willmott's Ghost" and the late Gertrude Jekyll loved it too. It is a biennial and sows itself generously, but with its long tap-roots it must be moved before it gets too big.

The Floriculture Of Pests and Disease Problems

The most serious insect pest on poinsettias is the white fly. Mites, mealy bugs, thrips, and fungus gnats can also create problems. A clean, weed-free greenhouse and a pest control program reduce insect problems. Botrytis is a problem in the propagation area. Poinsettias are also very susceptible to three major root rot diseases, Pythium, Rhizoctonia, and Thielaviopsis. Well-timed fungicide applications reduce losses caused by fungi.

The French Period Or Grand Era Floral

The French period or the Grand era was influenced by the French monarchy beginning with Louis XIV. The emphasis during this period was on classic form. Floral designs were refined and elegant compared to the often overdone flamboyance of the earlier Dutch Flemish arrangements. Fan-shaped, round, and crescent-shaped designs were favored. Other designs featured in the Grand era were tall designs as well as small casual bouquets. Roses were very popular along with all the spring bulb flowers—lilacs, lilies, and the newly introduced gladiolus.

Containers, including vases, urns, and flasks, were very ornate and made of porcelain, metal, or glass. Shell and leaf-shaped dishes and baskets or bowls were also characteristic of this period.