Can you believe that it is almost 2022? A time to possibly make some new year’s resolutions, or at least we can think of a few things that we’d like to try and improve upon in the coming year.
Did you know that many years ago, back in Roman times, it was a custom to give your friends and neighbors a sweet gift of honey or figs, to symbolize a good start for the coming year? Giving a plant could be a lovely gift with a similar idea: something that is fresh and alive, with hope and growth for the new year. It seems a common thread in many cultures that the new year should begin with giving or receiving a growing plant to symbolize a fresh start and rebirth.
In the past almost two years, our homes have become our place of rest, work, and sanctuary. We have been spending a lot more time at home, and I know that many people have been doing home improvements and adding special things to their homes to make them more restful and relaxing. And guess what, that includes plants!
Not only are plants beautiful to look at, and a lovely touch to interior design, but they are also a great way to add freshness to our homes, improve air quality (you’d be surprised at how many easy-care plants are known for their ability to clean the air), and also, they are something that bring peace and tranquility just by the act of caring for them and checking them each day.
It’s fascinating to read about various plants and what they mean. Sending someone an African violet gives the message of protection and spirituality. The lovely and useful aloe plant is good not only for minor burns, but is the plant that gives the message of healing, luck and protection.
For someone who is into the beauty of the Zen flow of life, give a bamboo plant. This lovely plant is easy care, and represents growth and versatility. In its natural habitat, bamboo grows very quickly, and is useful for so many things. Next time you’re out shopping, just take a look at all the things that are made from bamboo, everything from cutting boards to clothing and sheets! Bamboo also represents luck. Chrysanthemums offer protection. The ever-elegant gardenia plant brings love and peace, making it a favorite plant for wedding bouquets.
A basil plant sends the message of love and wealth. A chili pepper speaks of fidelity. The beautiful and exotic ginger plant conveys the message of success and power to the recipient.
If you like the idea of a plant message for the new year, but can’t find just the plant you’re looking for, express yourself in a different way with a practical but symbolic gift. Look to the bounty of certain plants: curry gives the message of protection. Buckwheat and cashews symbolize the promise of money. Cinnamon means success and spirituality. Gift someone with an unusual gift like this, wrapped up with a bow and a card explaining the message, and your friend will remember the gift as truly “one of a kind”!
Thank you to our friends at YTW for their great work each and every week. Happy New Year to you all! Gardeners, visit www.yorktonhort.ca for hort society news. Along with the group, Keith and I send our news year’s wishes to you as well. We hope that you have hope and optimism for a happy, healthy year ahead! God bless!
Have a great week!
