How to Give Orchids for Mother's Day

Orchids inspire more loyalty and passion than almost any other flower type. An exotic, primarily tropical and hauntingly beautiful species, the potted orchid makes an amazing Mother's Day gift.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ribbon

1. Find orchids for sale. Unlike cut flowers and ordinary houseplants, orchids aren't always guaranteed to be found at florist shops and supermarket flower kiosks. They are a bit more exotic, so you may need to look farther afield by calling florists and garden centers in your area to find a place that sells orchids.

2. Look at the plastic care tab that is usually inserted into the soil at the base of plants for sale. Decide whether you think the recipient can handle the watering schedule and has sufficient light or darkness in her house to accommodate the plant. All orchids are different, and if you have time, you can find one with needs that suit the recipient's green thumb.

3. Check the leaves for discoloration, which can mean the orchid developed a fungus while in the store. You don't have to be an expert to do this. Simply look at the plant compared to surrounding plants and assess how healthy it looks.

4. Tie a ribbon around the container in which your selected orchid is potted (although it's perfectly acceptable to give an orchid "as-is"). Do not attempt to wrap the orchid plant in wrapping paper or a box. Orchid blooms are very delicate and can be knocked off easily.

5. Ask the store from which you buy your Mother's Day orchid to give you a paper grocery sack. Fold the top of the sack down until the bag is half its original height. Place your orchid in the sack, and it will stay upright on the floor of your car.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to give another Mother's Day gift in addition to your orchid, consider a CD of classical music, or give a copy of a best-selling book.
• Check the price tags on the orchids before you make your final selection. You'll find that these plants can range in price from reasonable to unbelievable.
• Don't buy your orchid too early if you plan to hand-deliver your gift. If you do, prepare to give it care until Mother's Day.

[orchidlover]

on 4/12/2008 Great article! We have gathered our best selling orchids for mother's day and have written an article about mother's day orchids that you can read here:
http://www.1888orchids.com/Articles.asp?ID=153
Enjoy,
Philip Estenson