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Using only the stars to guide their canoes, early Polynesian voyagers who settled in Hawaii were some of the first people to create and wear leis. Little did they know that hundreds of years later, the tradition of wearing and giving leis would be stronger than ever!

A Brief History of the Lei

Initially, the first Polynesian settlers on Hawaii wore leis in order to make themselves more beautiful, distinguish certain groups from others, and as a sign of affection. When someone from another town would visit, presenting them with a lei was a way of symbolically welcoming them as a part of the group.

The Maile lei is one of the most significant leis in Hawaiian culture. Among its many uses, the Maile lei was most commonly used when worshiping the gods or given from one chief to another as a symbol of peace in times of war. For that reason, maile remains one of the most popular lei materials still used today. Continue Reading…

Many people have a bit of a love-hate relationship with tropical flowers. While many people are enticed by their unique beauty and fun colors, they’re also a bit skeptical to grow them. That’s why we’re here to set the record straight! Once you try growing these flowers, you’ll realize that “tropical” is in no way a synonym for “difficult.”

Defining “Tropical Plants”

Don’t let the word “tropical” scare you. In most cases, a tropical plant simply needs a good amount of water and a warm environment to grow in. See? That’s not that scary! If you have a sunroom or ledge that receives a lot of warmth, you’re well on your way to nurturing a tropical flower.

Best Tropical Flowers to Grow in North America

Anthurium

Looking like a cross between a poinsettia and an orchid, anthurium plants add an instant pop of color into any room. More than that, they’re a great conversation starter!

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Nothing ruins a sunny summer day spent out on your porch like the constant buzzing of bees or the bite of a mosquito. But before you assume your garden is the problem, we’re here to tell you that it might actually be the solution — you just have to know what type of flowers to grow!

Plants and Flowers That Repel Bugs

Lavender

While us humans love the relaxing scent of lavender, bugs don’t care for it. In fact, they try their best to avoid it at all costs! If you’re looking to deter moths, fleas, flies, and mosquitoes from entering your home, try planting bushels of lavender at entryways around your house.

Chrysanthemums

If hard shell bugs are a problem by you, add chrysanthemums to your garden. These colorful little flowers repel everything from roaches and Japanese beetles, to bed bugs, spider mites, and ticks.

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Feel like it’s time to update your home’s look, but you’re not sure where to start? Forget the hardware store — turn to the Great Outdoors for your inspiration! Indoor plants make functional decorations that add color and life to your home, while simultaneously cleaning the air.

Bring the tranquil nature of a garden inside this season by growing these indoor plants in your bedroom, kitchen, living room- any room!

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You probably know that February 14th is Valentine’s Day — but do you know what August 5th is? Unbeknownst to many, August 5th is National Friendship Day!

With so many days dedicated to romantic love and family, it can be easy to forget that showing your friends you appreciate them is just as important as expressing love to your boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse. In honor of this day for platonic love, we’re sharing a few flowers that are more than just beautiful — they’re highly symbolic of true friendship! Continue Reading…

Plants — they’re alive, colorful, scented, and did we mention just plain beautiful? While many people are aware of the many decorative benefits of plants, few realize that they have the ability to improve your mental and physical health.

Whether you live in the “Concrete Jungle” or the vineyards of Northern California, every home can benefit from bringing the great outdoors inside.

They Reduce Stress Levels

Have you ever noticed that the minute you step out into a lush forest or beautiful park, you instantly feel at ease? It’s not your imagination — people actually feel calmer when surrounded by greenery. Continue Reading…