April Showers bring May Day Cones and Flowers

Ok, folks. We may have let May Day slip our minds in all the excitement over the Nature Lady and Lollipop, but these adorable cones are just as precious in the afternoon sunlight as they are in the morning (should you be tempted to recreate one and, in true May Day tradition, leave it anonymously on the doorknob of someone you're crushin' on).

Flowers in Season, December 18 - 24

Christmas Cactus

Schlumbergera

Native to Brazil and the South American rainforests and not actually a cactus, the Christmas Cactus is named so due to its ability to thrive during the holiday months and the custom of decorating a cactus instead of a tree in warmer countries where cultivating evergreens is not possible.

Due to their popularity, Christmas Cacti have been bred to bloom in a variety of different colors, and are a wonderful way to add a little nontraditional holiday cheer to your home.

Flowers in Season December 11 - 17

Amaryllis

Hippeastrum

don't these remind you of peppermints?

Native to the Andes mountains of Chile and Peru, the amaryllis was discovered in 1867 and soon became popular with floral enthusiasts the world over due to its large, vibrant petals and tall stems. The word amaryllis originates from the Greek word amaryssein - perhaps a reference to the common star-shaped marking in the center of the blooming flower.

Also known as belladonna, naked lady, St. Joseph's staff and the March lily, the amaryllis stands for radiant beauty, pride, and determination. It is also associated with the astrological sign Sagittarius, which is characterized by a passion for travel and adventure.

To learn how to grow amaryllis from bulbs, check out our tutorial here.

Expert Advice from Elizabeth: Paper Whites

Today's Expert Advice is about forcing bulbs!

Paperwhites are easy to force into bloom indoors. Unlike other Narcissus species, Paperwhites do not require chilling to promote bloom. The bulbs begin to grow as soon as they are planted, with flowers appearing in 3–4 weeks.

Start with your potting soil and any container you wish to use - we love these simple pots, which are easy to find at any garden store.

Paperwhite bulbs are usually purchased in a garden center - don't worry about looking for a specialty shop. Your local store should have them!

These bulbs have been planted about one week. They must be watered every other day.

This is what a blooming paper white narcissus looks like! These were set in water with no soil for about two weeks - just set the bulbs in the vase and change the water as often as needed.

image via Pinterest

 I love the natural country feeling of this basket of moss and bulbs. This would be a perfect centerpiece for the holidays!