Issue #235 - December 10, 2009
The DO's and DO NOT's of Fresh Wreaths A fresh balsam wreath is a hallmark of the holidays, and we have a wide variety of sizes and decorative touches to choose from. In order to maximize the vitality and freshness of your wreath, Estabrook's recommends adhering to the following DO's and DO NOT's. DO NOT place your wreath between a glass storm door and your front door. This will cause the air around the wreath to heat up considerably and will cause browning. DO place your wreath in a cool spot, avoiding the hot sun. The balsam fir reacts favorably to cooler temperatures and will keep its vibrant green color and fragrance much longer. DO NOT hang your wreath indoors for a prolonged period or near a heat source. If inappropriately placed in your home, your wreath will dry out and become a serious fire hazard. DO hang your wreath outdoors. Your wreath likes cooler weather and the decorations you'll find at Estabrook's are weather-resistant. Also remember that even fresh greens have been known to "spill" needles. If you find your wreath shedding slightly, this is completely normal. By following these simple instructions, you'll be able to enjoy your wreaths all season long! Mail Order Wreaths Share a piece of Maine with friends, family or anyone who enjoys Christmas beauty with Mail Order Wreaths from Estabrook's. This week is your last chance to order. Your choice of ribbon, cones and berries, a personalized gift card and FedEx shipping anywhere in the contiguous U.S. is included for $45. Order your wreath online today! Christmas Cactus Care Guide While the poinsettia remains the most popular of holiday houseplants, a healthy Christmas Cactus in full bloom is a great gift idea for that special gardener. Along with a bounty of blooms, send these tips for keeping the plant looking its best: Location Most blooming plants will keep their blossoms longer in cooler temperatures. Keep the plant in a well-lit location away from heat vents, fireplaces or other sources of hot air. Soil Well-drained soil is a must for Christmas Cactus. Use a commercially packaged potting mix for succulent plants or mix your own by combining two parts plain potting soil with one part clean sand or vermiculite. Watering Watering seems to be the source of most problems with the Christmas Cactus. Water thoroughly when the top half of the soil in the pot feels dry to the touch. Discard the excess water, then do not water again until the top half becomes dry. The length of time between waterings will vary with the air temperature, amount of light, rate of growth and relative humidity. Light While the Christmas Cactus can adapt to low light, more abundant blooms are produced on plants that have been exposed to high light intensity. Keep your plants in a sunny location indoors. Pruning Pruning your Christmas Cactus after blooming will encourage the plant to branch out. Remove a few sections of each stem by pinching them off with your fingers or cutting with a sharp knife. These sections can be rooted in moist vermiculite to propagate new plants.	Become a Fan!   Follow Us! Decorate your home with the colors and fragrance of the holiday season Balsam & Fraser Fir Christmas Trees Poinsettias Fresh Greens Holiday Baskets Decorate indoors with flowering houseplants that will add beauty beyond the holidays. We have a great selection of Cyclamen and African Violets! Looking for something extra special this season? Drop by our Holiday Design Center and have our experts craft you a personalized wreath or arrangement. From the ultimate garden solution to perfect gifts, you're sure to find something great in our emporium! Bring the fragrance of the holidays home with Colonial Candles
Estabrook's - Open 7 Days a Week - (207) 846-4398 - www.estabrooksonline.com