Lydia Noyes, Author at 1800Flowers Petal Talk

13 Creative Ideas for Celebrating Valentine’s Day with Your Sweetheart

Are you stuck in a rut when it comes to romance? This Valentine’s, it’s time to get creative.

“Celebrating Valentine’s Day should be considered a privilege,” says Nancy Fagan, relationship expert and founder of the Relationship Resolution Center in Plano, Texas. “You need to let the holiday serve as a reminder that you are lucky to have someone special to share your life with.”

Ideally, Valentine’s activities should allow you to spend time together in an unexpected way. The goal is to create a bonding experience between the two of you.

Fagan believes, however, that you’re doing your relationship a disservice if you only celebrate each other when the calendar calls for it. “Couples can easily build a strong foundation by putting effort into shared experiences,” Fagan says. “But think beyond an annual holiday. I recommend scheduling monthly experiences designed to keep couples connected. It’s an important way of keeping an intimate bond strong.”

If you’re struggling to think of what to do with your significant other this Feb. 14 (and beyond!), let these 13 ideas for celebrating Valentine’s Day inspire you.

1. Have an indoor picnic

This Valentine’s, take dinner to the floor with an indoor picnic. Spread out a blanket and dig into some gourmet cheese and wine, then follow that with a dinner of homemade pizza or surf and turf. Just a simple change in routine can spice up the evening and make the holiday memorable.

For dessert, serve a “heartbreakingly” delicious Belgian chocolate heart filled with sweets. It’s perfect for sharing — just take turns using the mallet included with this gift to break it into smaller pieces and reveal all the goodies hiding inside.

2. Learn a new skill together

Life can get monotonous, so why not take this Valentine’s as an opportunity to learn a new skill together. You can enroll in classes that teach you everything from salsa dancing to rock climbing to photography.

Try to choose an activity that can extend beyond the holiday. “When learning a new skill, look to see if there are groups nearby that have monthly meetings,” Fagan suggests. “That can help further develop the new skill and keep the connection strong.”

celebrating valentines day couple cooking together

3. Cook a gourmet meal at home

Sure, an evening out can be fun, but on Valentine’s Day? That’s when the restaurants really gauge you. Make V-Day extra memorable this year by bringing the fine dining to your kitchen.

If you’re not entirely confident in your culinary skills and would prefer to keep the cooking to a minimum, consider ordering a pre-made meal. A filet mignon dinner for two or duo of sockeye salmon and black truffle almond green beans will give you a five-star dining experience without any of the hassle of going out or making food yourself.

4. Master an escape room

Do you love solving puzzles together? Amp up the stakes this Valentine’s Day by conquering an escape room.

You get extra points if the escape room is scary.

“Any activity that causes an adrenaline surge will chemically bond people,” Fagan says. “There’s something about frightening experiences that make people feel bonded. It also causes people to touch because of the anxiety.”

When you get home, feed each other some juicy and delicious chocolate-covered strawberries. It’s the perfect way to celebrate your escape from the room (and to keep the romance going).

5. Make a memory jar

Celebrate how far you’ve come as a couple by filling a jar with special memories. These can include tokens from previous dates and milestone moments. “This works well if you’re in the habit of saving receipts, fliers, and all things related to your relationship,” Fagan says.

Plan ahead for next Valentine’s by starting a new jar to enjoy together a year from now. Add items over the next 12 months, attaching a short note to each so you don’t forget its significance. Then, next Feb. 14, review the jar one memento at a time and relive your happy memories from the past year.

You can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere for a home spa day by dimming the lights, playing romantic music, and lighting scented candles.

Nancy Fagan

Relationship expert

6. Create a couple’s vision board

For well-established couples, celebrating Valentine’s Day can serve as an opportunity to reflect on where you are and where you want to go. One way to do that is creating a vision board that you can display in a place you will see it often. You can write directly on it, browse old magazines for inspiration, or print out pictures that represent the goals you’re working toward.

“A vision board is like a climbing wall,” Fagan says. “Take time to discuss your goals for yourself and the marriage, and then create a master plan for how each person can achieve their goals and the goals for the marriage. Just like the rock-climbing couple who stands in front of the wall and plans how they will navigate it, you need to do the same for your relationship.”

7. Have a paint-and-sip at home

Turn your living space into a creative haven for Valentine’s by setting up easels, laying out canvases, and grabbing some art supplies. “You can choose a theme or let your mind run wild as you sip your favorite beverage,” Fagan says. Wine, sangria, bloody marys, mocktails — everything is on the table. “You’ll have an opportunity to enjoy an artistic journey together as you create meaningful and collaborative works of art.”

celebrating valentines day dessert tasting

8. Host a private dessert tasting

Wine tastings are overdone. This Valentine’s, consider putting on a dessert tasting from the comfort of your home. Use it as an opportunity to explore things you don’t eat every day, such as tiramisu, apple galette, chocolate-covered cherries, a cheesecake assortment, or even a tray of gourmet dessert bites. “Take the time to enjoy each bite with your partner,” Fagan says. “You can share your impressions as you savor the simple pleasure of enjoying diverse flavors together.

9. Have a themed movie night

Watching a movie in street clothes? So passé. Spice things up for Valentine’s by picking a theme and going with it. So, for example, if you’re planning to watch “The Great Gatsby,” dress in 1920s attire and serve each other sparkling wine from custom glasses. More interested in mob movies? Pop in “Goodfellas,” get decked out in your gaudiest duds, and have an all-you-can-eat pasta night.

10. Enjoy a home spa night together

“Who doesn’t love to be spoiled? You can create a cozy and intimate atmosphere for a home spa day by dimming the lights, playing romantic music, and lighting scented candles,” Fagan says. This creates the perfect opportunity to take sudsy baths and then give each other massages as you indulge in decadent treats like chocolate truffles.

11. Start a book club for two

If you and your partner share a love of reading, Valentine’s Day can be an excuse to gush over a good book. Pick a title at least a month in advance and read it before the holiday. You can discuss the themes and characters over a charcuterie board of favorite treats.

Alternative idea: Choose a movie that will get you thinking, and come ready to discuss it. It’s your choice whether you watch the movie in advance or on Valentine’s. If you watch it together, make sure you have a bucket of popcorn ready.

12. Host a mystery cooking challenge

Bring some drama into your holiday plans with a dinner challenge. Take a trip to the grocery store and each choose one oddball ingredient, and then the other person needs to design a dish around it. (It’s permissible to purchase additional ingredients to make it easier.) Once you return home, make your recipes together. You can end the evening by enjoying the fruits of your creativity as you relax with a glass of wine.

13. Recreate your first date

Do you long to relive the past? Then go back and experience the magic of your first date all over again. “I suggest meticulously recreating the details, from the venue and the menu to the activities and ambiance,” she says. “Take time to share anecdotes and reminisce about all your first impressions of each other, and you might just recapture some of the magic of those early moments.”

17 Types of Succulents That Will Thrive in Your Home

types of succulents with woman holding succulent plant

Succulents are known for their thick, fleshy leaves. After all, the word “succulent” comes from the Latin “succulentus,” which translates to “juicy.” Most of these plants originated in arid conditions, where they needed to hold onto as much moisture as possible, and now can be found along coastlines, high alpine ridges, deserts, and even tucked into tall tree branches in rainforests.

Cacti belong to this family, as does aloe vera and the jewel-green jade plant. While different types of succulents vary in size, growing style, and temperature requirements, they all have evolved to maximize water retention. As such, the quickest way to kill one is by overwatering.

Why are succulents so popular?

Succulents’ surge in popularity — among boomers and millennials alike — is due in part to economic realities. As housing prices continue to climb, more people find themselves renting or moving frequently, and investing in expensive décor doesn’t make sense when you don’t see yourself in your home or apartment for several years.

Succulents, in contrast, are cost effective, easy to propagate, and some of the hardiest house plants around. They offer an easy way to brighten up your home, and most will continue to thrive even when put through a cross-country move.

Another part of succulents’ appeal is their ease of maintenance. They do well indoors because of consistent air temperatures and a predictable watering schedule. In fact, succulents thrive when left alone, and many are almost as easy to care for as an artificial plant.

In addition, because many of these plants are relatively compact, you can scale your succulent arrangement to fit the size of your space. Display them in tiny pots on the kitchen counter, or even the refrigerator, or invest in a multi-plant plant stand for the back patio.

17 types of succulents to grow at home

Convinced that succulents are the type of house plants for you? If you are, let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular types of succulents.

types of succulents with Common houseleek (Sempervivum tectorum) growing in the garden. S

1. Hens and chicks (Sempervivum tectorum)

Popular for a reason, hens and chicks is cold hardy, fast-growing, and drought and heat-resistant. The plant produces clusters of tiny “chicks” around the mother plant that are easy to propagate. Depending on the variety, hens and chicks can stay small or quickly overtake a space. They do best in well-drained soil and thrive in containers.

types of succulents with White Panda Plant Kalanchoe Tomentosa

2. Panda plant (Kalanchoe tomentosa)

This fuzzy grey-green succulent is a Madagascar native known for the brown spots on its leaf tips. Give it medium-bright light and let the soil dry out between watering, and it should thrive. Panda plants tend to be slow growers, meaning you can keep them in the same pot long term.

types of succulents with Sedum morganianum

3. Donkey tail (Sedum morganianum)

A showstopper that’s known for fleshy leaves that grow on round tendrils, which cascade over their container, this succulent tends to be more fragile and is better for experienced growers. Give it lots of light and well-drained soil, and protect it from anything that could bump it and knock off its delicate leaves.

types of succulents with Blooming houseplant Christmas cactus Schlumbergera

4. Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii)

Despite its name, the Christmas cactus is perfect indoor décor all year long. It lacks the spikes of its namesake and instead grows flat, glossy leaves that drape over the container. Water it more frequently than most cacti and keep it near a bright window. With some gentle care, you’ll get abundant pink blooms throughout the winter.

types of succulents with Flaming Katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)

5. Flaming Katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)

Like the Christmas cactus, Flaming Katies produce bright pink flowers in winter. The blooming season tends to be short lived, but deadheading the plants should maximize flower production. Be gentle around the leaves, as they tend to be brittle.

types of succulents with Cactus Mammillaria bombycina on stony ground in autumn

6. Pincushion cactus (Mammillaria spinosissima)

Native to Mexico and Central America, the pincushion cactus is among the most popular cacti for beginners. Most will stay as small as their pot but can reach over a foot tall in the right conditions. These spikey plants produce delicate pink flowers that turn into an edible berry.

7. Snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata)

Snake plants are known for their tall, vertical green leaves with yellow variation on the edges. They thrive off minimal attention and are a perfect starter succulent. Place them in a spot with low to medium indirect light and refrain from overwatering, and your plant can attain a height of up to 5 feet tall.

types of succulents with Aloe Vera Plant growth in farm

8. Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)

As beautiful as it is functional, aloe vera is a squat succulent with thick, fleshy leaves. Cut one of them off, and you can use the sap inside as a soothing salve for burns and rashes. Like many types of succulents, aloe vera is hard to kill so long as you avoid overwatering.

types of succulents with string of pearls

9. String of pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)

Small, fat leaves encircle dangling stems on the string of pearls, making this succulent’s name obvious. Less obvious is the fact that it’s actually in the daisy family. Though delicate, the plant is easy to propagate and ideal for hanging baskets placed in bright, indirect light.

types of succulents with Close up beautiful green pink Kiwi Aeonium in a botanical garden

10. Aeonium (Aeonium arboretum)

A popular choice in succulent planters, aeoniums grow waxy leaves in a rosebud pattern. These plants branch out quickly by forming offsets from single flowerheads. Dozens of varieties are available, ensuring that bringing a few into your living space will add visual interest. Most are cold hardy and can thrive in the ground or containers.

types of succulents with Haworthiopsis limifolia

11. Fairy washboard (Haworthiopsis limifolia)

Known for its spikey green leaves and distinct white lines, the fairy washboard grows slowly and requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for a windowsill or small table. Ensure it has bright light and well-drained soil, and this 4-inch stunner should thrive.

types of succulents with Geldbaum Crassula ovata

12. Jade plant (Crassula ovata)

Commonly called the money tree or lucky plant, jade succulents have thick, fleshy leaves that range from dark green to red at the tips. Some get top heavy, so consider pruning or keeping them in a heavy pot. Most are resilient enough to handle a little neglect, making them ideal for beginners.

types of succulents with Acercamiento planta cebra jardin

13. Zebra haworthia (Haworthiopsis attenuata)

The bright white stripes on this jewel-green succulent make it striking in any composition. Staying around 5 inches tall, the zebra haworthia thrives in terrariums. Otherwise, keep it in a space with bright light, and let the soil dry out between waterings.

14. Echeveria (Echeveria elegans)

From dusky pink to palest blue, the echeveria comes in an array of show-stopping colors. Each leaf grows in a tight rosette, making it ideal for wide containers. Consider keeping your echeveria indoors as these plants are not frost tolerant and are sensitive to temperature changes.

15. Sedum (Sedum)

This low-growing evergreen perennial is actually a family of 600 species. It’s an excellent ground cover in USDA zones 3 and lower. Sedum can also be grown in containers as a trailing plant. Keep it in a bright space, and wait for the soil to dry out between waterings. One plant can quickly propagate into many, making sedum an excellent value.

types of succulents with Angel Wings cactus

16. Bunny ear cactus (Opuntia microdasys)

As cute as a cartoon character, the bunny ear cactus will often grow two matching pads that resemble ears. In nature, it can reach up to 2 feet high. However, lower-light conditions indoors will restrict its size to a more manageable level.

types of succulents with Ponytail palm beginning to flower

17. Ponytail palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)

Despite their name, ponytail palms belong in the succulent family. They grow slowly but can top 4 feet indoors (and well over 15 feet outside!). The plants produce tufts of leaves on top of thick, woody trunks with a swollen base where they store water. That’s the reason for its other common name — elephant’s foot. Due to its forgiving nature, this mini tree is an excellent indoor choice for beginners.

6 Ways to Celebrate Pride Month

June is filled with celebrations, including graduation, Juneteenth, and Father’s Day, but the entire month itself is also a celebration — that of Pride and the LGBTQIA+ community as a whole.

While Pride today is associated with parties and parades, the origins of Pride Month are anything but celebratory. The first Pride March took place June 28, 1970 in New York City, on the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising. This bloody riot occurred when New York City police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in Greenwich Village, and arrested employees and patrons. The conflict led to six days of city-wide protests and inspired gay rights movements worldwide.

celebrate pride month with a pride flag at a pride parade

Over the past five-plus decades, participation in Pride events has swelled from those original 3,000 marchers to millions across the globe. Pride today takes place throughout June and is celebrated through parties, parades, education workshops, benefit concerts, and more.

Whether you personally identify with the LGBTQIA+ community or support it as an ally, you can show you care in many ways during the month. We spoke to Jackie Lacey, director of education and industry relations at the Floriology Institute, and the team leader for the 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. LGBTQIA+ employee resource group; and Sophie Mona Pagès, a queer BIPOC relationship expert, to share suggestions about how to celebrate Pride Month this June.

1. Educate yourself

If you want to celebrate Pride Month in the best way possible, it helps to know why it exists in the first place. “Look for education on the subject; learn why we even celebrate Pride,” Lacey suggests. By gaining a historical perspective, he believes, you can give the month, and the cause, the respect it deserves. Pagès agrees. “Knowledge is power, and Pride Month is usually the perfect time to seek out information about the history of the LGBTQIA+ community,” she says. “Make time to explore the information available and research all there is to find, as it helps celebrate the voices who made all this possible and those who are still trying to make it possible in their own contexts.”

Sending others Pride-themed cookies, gift boxes, or rainbow roses is a great way to open the door for sharing education and embracing the Pride colors.

Jackie Lacey

Team leader, 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. LGBTQ+ employee resource group

2. Volunteer your time

One of the best ways to support the LGBTQIA+ community is through a gift of your time. “Whether you’re a community member or an ally, there will always be places that need your help,” Lacey says.

“LGBTQIA+ businesses, centers, and organizations are always in need of more support than they have, so look into where you can donate what you can. The community is maintained through our mutual support of one another, and that’s one of the greatest principles to celebrate this month!”

3. Elevate LGBTQ+ voices

If you’re an ally of the queer community, then use Pride Month as an opportunity to elevate the voices within it.

“Whether it’s your favorite artists or that one queer-owned candle business whose TikToks you can’t stop watching, take this month as an opportunity to share and celebrate members of the community,” Pagès explains. “It doesn’t matter what following or influence you have or whether you’re going to share it with one friend or everyone in your circle — offer them the gift of being seen!”

A photo of celebrate pride month with a pride gift

4. Send Pride-themed gifts

Don’t let the distance from LGBTQIA+ loved ones prevent you from celebrating Pride. Consider mailing a gift to make someone smile. “Sending others Pride-themed cookies, gift boxes, or rainbow roses is a great way to open the door for sharing education and embracing the Pride colors,” Lacey says.

This is an excellent opportunity to get creative and tailor each gift to the recipient’s taste. Maybe a punny Bee-themed support box will be appreciated, or a Love Yourself personalized blanket.

5. Put on a fundraiser

Pride Month creates the perfect opportunity to support causes that matter to the community. If you want to make more than just a personal contribution, consider putting on a larger fundraiser. Lacey suggests starting an LGBTQIA+ art drive.

Creating an art drive, he explains, can directly benefit the LGBTQIA+ community, as every purchase made provides something that others can appreciate and use. “Many of those that identify as LGBTQIA+ members are very artistic and creative,” Lacey says. “Art shows allow an opportunity to share stories about the artist and create awareness within the communities they are part of.” Top donors could receive a Pride-themed token of appreciation, such as a rainbow-hued circle of friends soapstone statue.

Social media makes it easier than ever to connect with the larger community to find potential participants. Or, plug into an event that’s already taking place in your area. “Here in Jacksonville, Florida, there is an opportunity every first Saturday during the summer months for artists and farmers to rent a booth and sell their creations,” Lacey says. “You could easily coordinate a group of artists to sell their work and maybe even have some proceeds go to an LGBTQIA+ community group.”

celebrate pride month with kaleidoscope roses — Kaleidoscope Roses

celebrate pride month with you are awesome treats pail — You Are Awesome Treats Pail

celebrate pride month with tins with pop pride — Tins With Pop® Pride

6. Host a party

Despite the historical hardships that Pride Month commemorates, June is a time for celebrating the diverse LGBTQIA+ community, Lacey says.

“I recommend you host a Pride party in your space for LGBTQIA+ youth or adults,” he says. “Embrace the rainbow and join some friends for your own Pride night.” You can keep things feeling festive with Pride-themed snacks, such as popcorn, cake pops, and cookies .

And if you don’t all live near one another, make it a virtual party. “The internet makes it possible to see your loved ones at the click of a button,” Pagès says. “Take this opportunity to organize a little event online where members of the LGBTQIA+ and their allies can get together and have some fun.

“The possibilities are literally endless! You can binge LGBTQIA+ movies, look up and sign petitions relating to LGBTQIA+ issues, share your stories, wins, and dreams, or have a dance party.”

7 Best Gifts for Teachers for Teacher Appreciation Week

gifts for teachers with teacher teaching young students

Besides you — and maybe including you — who spends the most time with your children? The answer is likely their teachers.

Educators put in long days working to shape the next generation, spending far more time at their jobs than just the hours between the morning and afternoon bells. The best ones can make an immeasurable impact on the lives of their students, and their hard work deserves to be acknowledged.

The perfect time to show these instructors how much you appreciate them and their efforts is during Teacher Appreciation Week, which this year is May 6-10.

Here is a curated list of the most meaningful gift options for teachers, taken from the advice of educators themselves.

1. Brighten their day with a floral bouquet

Nothing freshens up a school desk — or any workspace — better than a bouquet of fresh flowers. Choose an early spring variety, such as tulips, to match the season, or opt for a green plant that can serve as a reminder of your gratitude for years to come.

2. Make education easier with classroom supplies

Teachers face many challenges, one of which is a lack of basic classroom supplies. “In many underfunded districts, teachers have to purchase classroom supplies out of their own pockets,” explains Sarah Marier, a high school social studies teacher. “A great idea for Teacher Appreciation Week would be to ask for a wish list from your teacher and request donations on their behalf, or give them a gift card to purchase supplies they need.”

Students don’t realize how special gifts are when they celebrate the education behind them.
Alex Beene, Nashville high school teacher

3. Provide an opportunity for midday pampering

A little planning can go a long way toward making teachers feel appreciated. If you work in the school system, consider setting up some midday pampering during Teacher Appreciation Week.

“The school or PTA/PTO can show appreciation for teachers by treating them to one or two special lunches throughout Teacher Appreciation Week,” says Melissa Jones, who has been a teacher for more than two decades. “One year, the parent volunteers set up a smoothie and relaxation lounge where we could go and customize a smoothie and then get a 15-minute chair massage from a professional they hired. It was a wonderful treat and gave us an extra energy boost.”

If arranging for mid-day relaxation isn’t feasible, a spa day gift box makes for a thoughtful substitute.

4. Give meaningful gift cards

Avoid the struggle of figuring out exactly what teachers want by going the gift card route. Not only does this let each educator choose their present, but it still allows you some room for creativity.

Alex Beene, a high school teacher in Nashville, will never forget one student’s token of appreciation that came in gift card form.

“I received a gift card to Starbucks for $32 with a card attached. The note explained that the reason the gift card amount was ’32’ was because the student had scored a 32 on her ACT (good for the 97th percentile) and was so thankful for my help in getting there,” Beene says. “I was overwhelmed; I don’t think students realize how special gifts are when they celebrate the education behind them.”

5. Share something just for them

Bring a smile to your favorite teacher’s face every day with a personalized gift they can keep on their desk. Choose something practical — a pencil holder, paper note cube, or coffee tumbler with their name on it — or go for something unique, such as this teacher-themed gift box that comes with a frame, handmade soap, candle, and artificial succulent.

gifts for teachers with Girl giving teacher a gift

6. Gift some sweet treats

Dealing with rowdy students every day requires a lot of energy, so make sure your favorite teacher has a few treats on hand whenever they need an energy boost. Choose from boxes of gourmet cookies or specialty chocolates to show your appreciation. Themed gift baskets of baked goods or sweet and salty selections are always welcome, especially when there’s enough to share with the whole family.

You can even play off the “apple for the teacher” trope with an orchard-themed gift basket filled with fresh apples, roasted nuts, and dried fruit.

7. Present personalized notes

Sometimes, the simplest gifts have the most meaning. Teachers will forever treasure a heartfelt card that expresses your appreciation.

“The best gifts I’ve received for Teacher Appreciation Week are cards with thoughtful notes in them,” says Elizabeth Manly, an elementary school teacher. “I’ve saved all the cards I received throughout the years that tell me specifically why the parents appreciate me or why they’ve enjoyed having their child in my class. A thank you is nice, but a more meaningful note brightens my week.”

Great gifts for teachers

Any teacher would appreciate a lovely basket of flowers to dress up the classroom or bring home and enjoy. Our Teacher Appreciation collection features colorful arrangements and blooms that are perfect for showing teachers how important they are in their student’s lives, plus some unique gifts to make them feel truly special.

gifts for teachers with Thank You Assorted Roses — Thank You Assorted Roses

gifts for teachers with Simply Chocolate® Youre Amazing Personalized Box — Simply Chocolate® You’re Amazing Personalized Box

gifts for teachers with Teaching Touches Lives Personalized Crystal Apple Keepsake — Teaching Touches Lives Personalized Crystal Apple Keepsake

7 Ways to Honor Nurses During National Nurses Week

The past few years have been rough for health care workers. From navigating a global pandemic to combating chronic staffing shortages, nurses have been working harder than ever to keep us healthy.

National Nurses Week (May 6-12) is the perfect opportunity to show these health care heroes how much their selfless service means to you.

Here is a list of ways to honor nurses — with some input from actual nurses and their advocates — to serve as inspiration.

1. Write a thank-you note

Nurses devote their lives to serving others, so expressing your gratitude can go a long way toward making them feel valued. Take the time to write a heartfelt card and send it to a nurse you know who’s made a difference. Make the sentiment extra sweet by adding a “Thank You Healthcare Workers” popcorn tin.

2. Send a flower bouquet

The reality for nurses is that they are frequently exposed to sickness and sadness. Cheer them up with an infusion of life and color in the form of fresh flowers. These bouquets may be used to brighten up the break room at work or taken home to enjoy.

You can opt for a traditional bouquet of roses or go the cutesy route with a “Cure-All Doggie” gift, made from white carnations.

3. Give the gift of personal pampering

On their days off, nurses need nothing more than the chance to relax.

“As cliché as self-care sounds, it is necessary. Just as you recharge a car’s battery, we must recharge our own,” Elizabeth Cantu, BSN says. “Thoughtful gifts that encourage self-care while reminding us to unwind and fill our own cup first are much appreciated.”

Be creative with your present for pampering. A soothing tea and essential oil gift set, comfy personalized lounge socks, or supplies for a home spa day are all excellent options. Another is a themed box of chocolates to help them satisfy their sweet tooth while on break.

4. Food is always appreciated

When you spend your whole shift on your feet running from room to room, you can miss meals. That’s why the gift of food is always a hit among those in the nursing profession.

A Thank You Fruit and Sweets Basket is a clear sign of your appreciation and is easy to enjoy while on the clock. Or, go even bigger by covering dinner for an evening (or several!) with a gift of a gourmet ham dinner or prime rib feast.

5. Give gift cards (or even cash!)

Let’s be frank: What health care workers really want is to be paid more. The nursing profession is grueling under ideal circumstances, and the past couple of years have been anything but.

“The best way to celebrate National Nurses Week for these wonderful people is MONEY!” exclaims Evan McCarthy, CEO of online dental lab Sporting Smiles. “Nurses have sacrificed their own health and families during the pandemic, and they deserve more than a medal for their selfless service.”

While you may not be in a position to increase the salary of a nurse you know, a present of cash or practical gift cards is sure to be appreciated.

ways to honor nurses with nurse getting flowers

6. Think practical

Sometimes the best gifts are the most useful ones. Rebecca Morrison, NP for Alberta Health Services, has plenty of ideas that fall into that category. “Most nurses could use a high-quality black pen,” she says. “Legally, we have to write in black ink, and there is nothing better than having a really nice pen to write with. Or maybe give a super-fun lanyard or badge holder that we can easily clean.”

Consider also how you can provide extra comfort for nurses during their shifts. A cozy sweatshirt, Morrison says, is always a great gift idea. “Health care facilities tend to be quite cold, especially at night, so a warm sweater to go over our scrubs would make a long night shift more pleasant.”

7. Nominate a nurse for a DAISY Award

If there’s a nurse in your life you believe goes beyond their pay grade to show care and attention to patients, consider nominating them for a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. This recognition program began in 1999 and strives to honor nurses for all the super-human work they do every day.

Anyone, including patients, family members, co-workers, and other health care staff, can nominate a health care worker for this award. The program honors nurses all year long, not just during National Nurses Week.

Depending on the care facility, DAISY Award ceremonies may be held multiple times a year. All recipients receive a personalized certificate, award pin, hand-carved “healer’s sculpture,” and an online spotlight page recognizing why they were nominated.

Thank a nurse with a gift

Recognizing the sacrifices and patience of nurses is more important than ever. Flowers, gifts, balloons, and gift baskets are some of the best ways to honor nurses and show appreciation to all the selfless caregivers you know.

ways to honor nurses cure all doggie — Cure-All Doggie

ways to honor nurses with floral embrace bouquet — Floral Embrace™ Thank You

ways to honor nurses Thank You Chocolate Covered Strawberries — Thank You Artisan Belgian Chocolate Covered Strawberries

7 Ideas for Celebrating Valentine’s Day with Your Long-Distance Sweetie

The thought of Valentine’s Day may fill you with dread if you’re in a long-distance relationship. No one wants to watch those around you get showered with love when you live far away from your partner.

You don’t, however, have to let the distance get between you.

“Long-distance relationships can work — really! — especially when both partners are on the same page about communication and use technology as a tool to have quality time together,” says Lisa Concepcion, a certified love coach and the founder of LoveQuest Coaching.

“In the era of texting and video calls, there’s something so authentic and lasting about a handwritten card or letter.

Lisa Concepcion

Certified love coach and founder of LoveQuest Coaching

“Ideally, people who are interested in remaining in long-term relationships are on the same page about living separately,” she continues. “But, ultimately, the goal of relationships is to be in one where you’re together more than apart.”

If you are in two different places permanently or for long stretches at a time, then you need to find regular ways to reconfirm your commitment to each other — and Valentine’s Day offers a unique opportunity to do just that.

“Long-distance relationships require effort and creativity,” Concepcion elaborates. “So, be a team and talk about how you want to celebrate Valentine’s Day while apart. Make sure you plan ahead — that’s an important way to keep the relationship going.”

Need some inspiration? Here are seven ways to nurture that spark from afar this Valentine’s Day.

1. Plan a virtual dinner date

Don’t let distance prevent you from dining together as a couple. “If you can’t be together for Valentine’s Day, you can still plan a ‘digital dinner date,'” Concepcion says. “In fact, many of my clients who are in long-distance relationships connect for coffee breaks via video, go walking together while on the phone, and have dinner together through video chat.”

long distance valentine with man talking on phone

You can increase the sense of intimacy by enjoying the same meal. Make a shared favorite recipe, perhaps, or opt for a luxury experience with a delivered dinner like lobster pot pie or a hearty lasagna.

Make dinner more memorable for the holiday by exchanging gifts beforehand. You can ship a Valentine’s Day bouquet directly to their door and have them wait until you’re both on a video call to look at the blooms so you both can enjoy them in real time.

2. Have a long-distance spa day

It’s possible to pamper each other even when you’re hundreds of miles apart through an at-home spa day. This Valentine’s, indulge in a long video call as you relax together with facial masks, while taking bubble baths with the same scented body wash, or even after both enjoying a “couples” massage at spas near your homes.

Enhance the cozy and connected feeling for both of you with matching spa accessories, such as personalized fleece robes and plenty of candles.

3. Celebrate for multiple days

When you’re not meeting in person anyway, there’s no reason to limit the long-distance Valentine’s Day celebration to just one day. Concepcion has seen some couples get extra creative with daily gifts.

“I had a client hide 14 love notes around his long-distance girlfriend’s condo. He lives in New York, and she lives in Miami. On Feb. 1, the day he left for a month-long work project in Spain, he told her he had special love notes hidden and to photograph them each day when she finds one. Then, on Valentine’s Day, he surprised her with gifts of flowers , delivery from her favorite restaurant, and a card that included his travel itinerary to Miami, where they would spend a week together after his work project ended.”

There’s no need to go overboard in the present department, though. Think cute and quirky, like a mini heart puzzle, romantic photo Rubik’s cube, or keepsake magnets.

long distance valentine with woman getting flowers at work

And don’t underestimate the value of gifting an old-fashioned letter. Says Concepcion, “In the era of texting and video calls, there’s something so authentic and lasting about a handwritten card or letter.”

4. Send a surprise gift to their work

If possible, send your long-distance Valentine a gift where they will receive it publicly. That way, they’ll have a moment to feel proud of your relationship even if you don’t get to spend time together physically. A workplace gift is a perfect opportunity for something indulgent they can choose to share (or not!) with lucky coworkers.

Consider chocolate-covered strawberries, chocolate-dipped cheesecake bites, heart-shaped cookie “flowers,” or truffles. If the apple of your eye doesn’t have much of a sweet tooth, then a basket of fruit will be a welcome surprise.

Ensure your face is never far from your lover’s mind with a cute or romantic photo gift.

Get creative with how you use the photos. Maybe a canvas print of your favorite photo together for their living room, or go the steamier route and select a boudoir shot to display in the bedroom. A cozy throw blanket that depicts a smiling selfie of the two of you on a date will always be appreciated, or even a set of matching mugs with goofy candids of each of you.

6. Meet halfway (literally)

Your relationship may be long distance, but you can make Valentine’s Day the exception. “Make plans to see each other,” Concepcion says. “Make this part of the fun! Maybe you can both meet in a city between where you live or a city with the cheapest air tickets and accommodations. You’re already being adventurous — go anywhere!” The final destination is less important than getting to spend quality time in person.

long distance valentine Sweetheart Romance Bouquet — Sweetheart Romance™ Bouquet

long distance valentine Donut Bouquet — Donut Bouquet

long distance valentine with personalized photo blanket — Romantic Love Photo Collage Personalized Photo Blanket

7. Enjoy an online event together

Take advantage of Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to learn a new skill together — even if it needs to be virtual. There are classes for everything from creating a succulent garden with a “plantfluencer” to making gnocchi from scratch . You’ll get all the necessary supplies shipped to (both) homes beforehand, ensuring the session is a stress-free and stimulating experience for the two of you.

24 White Elephant and Secret Santa Gift Ideas

The holidays offer a chance to reconnect with friends and family, and give us an excuse to have a little fun around the office with our co-workers, and one of the most common ways we do this is by giving gifts. But we, as humans, also like playing games, so it only makes sense that we would combine these two passions into one this time of year in the form of holiday gift exchanges. And the two most popular kinds of gift exchanges are White Elephant and Secret Santa. But where did these traditions get started, and what kinds of gifts are appropriate for each?

Here’s a closer look at these holiday classics as well as some inspiration to ensure your gift exchange is a success.

White Elephant gift exchanges

Legend has it that this party gets its name from the passive-aggressive, gift-giving habits of an ancient king of Thailand. Whenever someone left him displeased, he’d “honor” them with the gift of a white elephant. These animals may have been beautiful, but they were useless and expensive to keep. Today’s white elephant parties are a little less mean spirited, but the tradition of gifting something a little “funky” remains.

Make sure you get something that your gift getter will actually like. You might think that a ‘gag gift’ will be really funny, but it might not be.

james cooper

Christmas expert and manager of WhyChristmas.com

There are many variations on how the game is played, but the general rules remain the same. Each player brings one present, and everyone participates in a game that determines the order in which the gifts are received. This could be as simple as drawing names from a hat or as elaborate as playing bingo or another party game.

When someone’s turn is up, they get to choose a present from the community pile OR decide to steal one from someone else. (It’s up to the game host whether you unwrap presents as you receive them or wait until the end.) Sometimes there’s a limit on how many times a gift can be stolen, while others prefer to facilitate a free-for-all.

White elephant exchanges work best when gifts range from quirky to quality. Ideally, you want multiple people fighting over a few items and lots of laughs over the weirdest presents. But, above all, no one should take the gift exchange too seriously — it’s an opportunity for some lighthearted fun and mischief.

Secret Santa gift exchanges

Secret Santa is the more traditional of the two types of gift exchanges and has been around longer — but in case you haven’t heard of it, we went straight to an authority to explain more about it.

“Secret Santa is a way of anonymously giving gifts,” says James Cooper, Christmas expert and manager of WhyChristmas.com. More specifically, it involves a group of people writing each of their names on a slip of paper and putting them all into a hat (perhaps, even a Santa hat), and then each participant pulling out a name at random. Then, they buy a present for the person whose name they picked without letting the recipient know who it is from.

white elephant gift ideas with secret santa gift

Sometimes, small gifts are distributed in the weeks leading up to Christmas, with the grand finale taking place at a Christmas party. The goal is to be sneaky; you don’t want anyone identifying you as their gift giver until the big reveal.

But despite how common Secret Santa parties are today, no one really knows how the tradition started.

“It might have begun in Sweden with a custom called ‘Julklapp’ (‘Christmas knock’),” Cooper explains. “Several hundred years ago, there was a tradition where you would knock on the door of a friend or neighbor and then leave a small gift (often made from straw or wood) behind on the doorstep. The gift would include a little motto or riddle to help people work out who had left the gift.

“There’s also the legend of Saint Nicholas (the original Santa) giving money anonymously to a poor family by dropping coins into a shoe or stocking,” Cooper continues. “This means that he was literally the first ‘Secret Santa’!”

For those putting on a Secret Santa party, Cooper has some advice.

“Make sure you get something that your gift getter will actually like. You might think that a gag gift will be really funny, but it might not be,” he says. “I also recommend setting a monetary limit, so all the presents are of relatively equal value.”

Now, let’s explore some popular White Elephant and Secret Santa gift ideas.

White Elephant gift ideas under $30

Fun and whimsical, these white elephant gifts will be the highlight of your party.

white elephant gift ideas classic traditional fruitcake

Classic Fruitcake

Dive into a Christmas tradition with a fruitcake served in a decorative tin. This timeless treat is chock full of candied fruits, nuts, and warming spices for a delicious take on a holiday classic.

Christmas Tree Seed Grow Kit

The plant lovers at your party will be fighting over this clever kit that’s designed to grow a balsam fir from seed. They’ll remember your thoughtfulness every winter as they watch it grow.

Holiday Malted Milk Balls Jar

These premium chocolate candies come packaged in a holiday-themed resealable quart jar. If you’re unsure what to get, this simple treat should appeal to almost everyone.

DIY Macrame Plant Hanger Kit

Liven up a boring winter night with this DIY gift for making a classic macrame plant hanger. All necessary crafting supplies, as well as a step-by-step booklet and video tutorial, are included.

white elephant gift ideas with Apple Cider Donut Baking Mix

Apple Cider Doughnut Baking Mix

Bring the taste of the cider mill home with this kit for 12 crumbly cinnamon-spiced doughnuts. It’s perfect for beginners and expert bakers alike.

Gnome Salt-Pepper Shakers

These lovable little guys make a great addition to anyone’s home decor. They’re not only useful but they bring a touch of whimsy to the holiday table.

White Elephant gift ideas under $50

Don’t let the White Elephant theme prevent you from sharing one of these gifts. They’re memorable for all the right reasons.

Bad Christmas Movie Bingo

The family holiday gathering will never be the same after you introduce this bingo game that’s meant to be played while you’re watching made-for-TV holiday movies. Fifteen unique bingo cards mean the whole crew can play.

white elephant gift ideas with Cinnaberry Gingerbread Kringle

Cinnaberry and Gingerbread Kringle

Danish kringle wreaths are a unique holiday favorite, and these versions provide a one-two punch of the traditional flavors of the season.

Comfort and Joy Incredible Gift Box

This collection of festively flavored goodies will instantly put whoever gets it in the holiday spirit. The lucky someone will get three flavors of popcorn (including cinnamon sugar and cookies & crème!), dark chocolate wafer rolls, and yogurt-covered pretzels. The name says it all — this gift is incredible!

Rainbow Bagel Making Kit

Let the lucky recipient tap into their inner child with this unique kit that comes with supplies and instructions for making a dozen of these colorful treats.

The Couple’s Bucket List

Inspire your friends to make the most of their time this year with this fun date night activity. It provides 100 cards with prompts for serious, silly —and spicy! — activities to help their relationships grow. An excellent gift for an adults-only party!

Holiday Sweet Treats

Cookie and candy lovers will appreciate this gift of premium popcorn, shortbread cookies, chocolate-covered cherries, and chocolate truffles.

Secret Santa gift ideas under $30

These cute and thoughtful gifts will ensure your Secret Santa partner feels cared about.

Wisconsin Draper Cocktail Infusion Kit

Give the mixologist in your life some libation inspiration this holiday season with a cocktail infusion kit. This blend of orange, cherries, and bitters kicks up the flavor and adds a warming effect to whiskey, brandy, or bourbon (sold separately).

Personalized Chili Bowl

Warm up your gift partner this holiday with their own custom chili bowl. It can be personalized with any first or last name within the design.

white elephant gift ideas with choice of two teas

Choice of Two Tea Cannisters

Nothing is more warming on a chilly winter day than a hot cup of tea. Or, your Secret Santa can save these for when the temperature warms up and make themselves a pitcher of iced tea. Either way, for a person who loves tea, this is a no-brainer.

white elephant gift ideas with Personalized Wine Glass Collection

Christmas Plaid Wine Glass Collection

Spice up those holiday drinks with a customized wineglass printed with the name of your secret Santa partner.

Heritage Chocolate Assortment

Chocolate truffles may very well be the world’s most perfect candy. So won’t your Secret Santa be delighted when he or she receives this bundle containing three different flavors of these decadent treats — chocolate raspberry, milk chocolate, and dark chocolate — along with a half dozen dulce de leche-filled chocolates?! The answer is yes, most definitely.

white elephant gift ideas Personalized Christmas Metal Mailbox

Personalized Christmas Mailbox

This cute and customizable gift tin comes shaped as a mailbox and can be filled with holiday treats. Choose any name to be inscribed on the side to add a personal touch.

Secret Santa gift ideas under $50

Amp up the party with these specialty gifts anyone would be thrilled to receive.

Bakery Sampler Box

Make mornings a little easier for your gift recipient with this box bursting with scrumptious bakery staples. They’ll enjoy ground coffee, sourdough English muffins, a chocolatey scone and loaf cake, and a cinnamon roll covered in icing.

Spa Sampler Aromatherapy Gift

Help them settle into a state of deep relaxation with this soothing aromatherapy kit. It includes a rose-topped candle bath bomb, and vial of bath salt, two face masks, shea butter lotion, and more.

white elephant gift ideas Choice of Four cookie boxes

This sweet gift — or gifts, rather — has something to satisfy every taste. Choose from eight different cookie varieties, including pumpkin pecan biscotti, lemon tea cookies, and vanilla shortbread cookies.

Holiday Hot Chocolate Tin Collection

Give the warming gift of cocoa, and not just any cocoa — the finest and most popular varieties Harry & David makes. Each of the four holiday-themed canisters is filled with a different flavor: Belgian white chocolate, peppermint, milk chocolate, and caramel. Just add water or milk for an even more decadent drink.

May Your Days Be Merry and Bright Candle

Add a cheerful glow to the home with this terra cotta tea light candleholder. The replaceable candles light up the words carved on the exterior.

Merry Baking Mixes

Delight that person who loves spending time in the kitchen with a trio of baking mixes, including sugar cookie, mint brownie, and monkey bread. These make it easy for them to fill their home with the aromas and tastes of the holiday season.

Learning to Care for Your First Orchid

The orchid is a flower that exemplifies elegance. This tropical beauty worked Europeans into a hysteria known as Orchideliruim in the 1800s, during which it became fashionable to pay premium prices at auction for the blossoms.

Today, centuries of careful breeding practices have made this once-rare flower accessible to any indoor plant lover. Are you considering adding an orchid to your plant collection? This article will teach you about orchid care, as well as interesting facts about this flower, its origins, and the different types of orchids.

What is an orchid?

Having flourished since the time of the dinosaurs, orchids are considered one of the largest and oldest plant families on the planet. More than 30,000 unique species of orchids are found worldwide, and modern breeding practices have resulted in an additional 150,000 hybrids.

What sets orchids apart from most flowers is their growing strategy. Orchids don’t grow in the soil but rather are epiphytes (air plants) that root themselves to trees and rocks. There, they capture water and nutrients from the surrounding air with their exposed roots.

Today, wild orchids face environmental threats due to pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change, to the point that many varieties are at risk of extinction. For these reasons, you should avoid purchasing wild-harvested plants and only buy orchids from legitimate vendors. This lets you enjoy their beauty at home without compromising the ones that remain in the wild.

Orchid myths and color meanings

Orchids are associated with a lot of symbolism. This elegant flower has long been linked to ideas of love, thoughtfulness, and fertility. The color you choose is believed to carry certain significance, especially when given as a gift.

Blue: Peace, beauty, and tranquility
White: Innocence, reverence, and humility
Purple: Respect, admiration, and royalty
Pink: Femininity, charm, and grace
Yellow: Joy and friendship
Green: Health, nature, and financial good fortune
Orange: Pride, enthusiasm, and having fun

While this symbolism is fun to consider, the right orchid color for you will always be the one you love the most. Don’t limit your selection based on these color connotations! Instead, consider the care instructions and traits of different varieties.

Orchid varieties

Below are the three most common types of beginner-friendly orchids available.

Phalaenopsis

Considered a symbol of health and prosperity, this Southeast Asian native produces flowers in a range of colors and patterns, and tends to blossom in slightly cooler weather. It’s one of the most popular orchids due to its large flowers and ease of care, and it comes in purple, white, and blue varieties.

Dendrobium

This orchid variety hails from Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands, and is considered a symbol of wisdom and beauty. Wild dendrobiums usually bloom in the early spring to mid-summer and are available in various colors, including yellow, brown, pink, and purple.

It’s a robust grower and will send up new flower canes every year. But, unlike other varieties, you shouldn’t trim the spent flower stems of this orchid until there are three or more in a pot.

Oncidium

You can find this delicate orchid growing throughout North and South America, where it blooms from spring to fall. Oncidium is a diverse family that thrives in a vast range of habitats. Many varieties have names that sound as dynamic as their coloration, including tiger crow, wildcat, dancing lady, and ram’s head.

Pay close attention to the care instructions for your chosen variety, as they can vary significantly from one to the next.

How to care for an orchid plant

You can best enjoy orchids at home by staying mindful of their tropical origins. They do well when grown in pots of bark or moss that mimic the tree branches they call home in the wild, and most varieties need lots of filtered light. Placing them in east-facing windows is ideal, as it exposes them to early morning light that’s not too harsh. If you only have south- or west-facing windows, place a sheer or thin sheet over your orchids to protect them from the strong rays of the sun.

orchid care with woman caring for white orchid

Keep your flowers at temperatures between 65° and 90° F, being careful not to place your orchids in the path of a vent or draft. Provide them with a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20 ratio is recommended) every few weeks. Most need to be watered every five to seven days, though the roots should stay moist in between.

Alfred Palomares, VP, merchandising at 1-800-Flowers.com, offers a helpful trick to keeping orchids properly watered. “Add three ice cubes a week for a full-size orchid,” he says. “The key is to ensure the growing medium does not get dry and, at the same time, make sure the roots do not sit in water. This can lead to root rot.”

Under proper conditions, you can expect each bloom to last two months or longer before fading. Once the flower is finished, cut its stem back to about an inch above the planting line and continue watering as usual. The orchid is entering a temporary resting stage, during which it will start to stockpile energy before producing the next bloom. Care for it like normal, and the flower stalk should soon grow back.

Some orchid species, such as phalaenopsis, do best when replanted every few years. Others get stressed when their roots are moved, so make sure you understand the specific requirements for your variety before considering upgrading your pot.

How to care for cut orchids

If your orchids arrive in a box, take them out and cut one inch off the bottom of each stem on a slant with clean, sharp scissors or shears. This gives the stems more surface area to draw up water and ensures that the flowers will stay well hydrated. Orchids arriving in a vase will already be cut on an angle and shouldn’t need to be recut right away.

Fill a clean vase with water three-fourths of the way to the top, then add the packet of flower food to the water before arranging the flowers in the vase.

You can make your own food for several changes of water with this little recipe:

3/4 teaspoon household bleach
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon sugar

This recipe is for one quart of water. The bleach will keep the water clear and bacteria free, the lemon juice stabilize the acidity of the water, and the sugar will provide food for the flowers.

To keep your orchids fresh for as long as possible, follow these four simple steps:

Change the water every two to four days and add more flower food each time. If the water begins to get cloudy, change it immediately.
Recut each stem on an angle each time you change the water.
Discard any flowers that have faded and are past their prime.
Keep the orchids in a cool environment (65° F to 72° F) out of direct sunlight. At night, put them in the coolest room of the house out of the way of drafts from heating or cooling vents.

5 Green House Plants That Are Easy to Grow

If you’re looking for a way to revamp your home, consider the appeal of a green house plant. For a small investment, house plants offer a host of incredible and tangible benefits.

From acting as natural air filters to increasing productivity to helping patients recover from surgery faster, plants can do so much to improve your well-being. Research even shows that filling indoor spaces with plants can lift your mood while lowering your stress levels.

In short, if you care for a house plant, it will take care of you.

Easy-care plants to grow indoors

Not sure which indoor plant to commit to? Consider adding one of the following varieties to your home to create a personal sanctuary.

1. Maidenhair ferns will brighten up your home

The maidenhair fern is a North American native that boasts feather-like foliage in a light-green hue. While it thrives in moist, shaded gardens, it’s also an ideal indoor container plant.

Keep your fern in a shaded location and away from a direct heat source. These plants are slightly fussy about their soil quality and do best with a more alkaline pH, so consider adding ground limestone to the potting mix. They also don’t take well to being replanted, so make sure you choose a container the first time.

Maidenhair ferns need to stay moist, so plan to mist it daily in addition to watering it regularly.

2. Pothos are perfect for new plant parents

House plant novices love the pothos plant for its easy care and the big statement it makes. This tropical native loves living indoors and thrives in low-light conditions, making it ideal for anyone who lacks a green thumb. In fact, it’s renowned for surviving neglect with minimal signs of stress.

Pothos plants grow bright green, heart-shaped leaves on trailing vines that can be trimmed or left long. Many people like to display them on shelves so that their cascading leaves become part of the décor. Just keep in mind that pothos’ leaves are poisonous to both humans and pets, and should stay out of reach of small children.

You don’t need to worry much about soil quality or watering levels, although pothos should be kept out of direct sunlight. If you see signs of yellowing, withering leaves, consider increasing your watering levels.

As your plant grows, you may need to repot it into a larger container to keep the roots healthy.

3. Enjoy easy maintenance with Boston ferns

The Boston fern is beloved for its frilly foliage and low-maintenance care. It makes a perfect hanging plant because it rarely needs to be messed with. Place the fern where it will get plenty of indirect sunlight, water when the soil feels dry, and treat its leaves to a daily misting to keep everything green.

You can also use this versatile ornamental as decoration for your outdoor balcony as long as temperatures stay above 55 degrees.

4. Make a statement with calathea

Add some interest to your home décor with a statement plant like the calathea. This popular variety of prayer plant hails from the Brazilian tropics and thrives in low-light conditions. Plant enthusiasts prize it for foliage that features dramatic stripes and color variations that seem to change with the lighting.

Though some varieties of calathea have a reputation for being temperamental, amateur growers should do fine so long as they monitor their plants for signs of stress. Keep your calathea in a space with indirect light and relatively high humidity. It’s vital that you never let the soil dry out thoroughly. Placing the pot over a tray filled with water and pebbles can suffice (but watch for root rot), and you can boost the humidity further by grouping multiple plants together.

5. Add some charm with English Ivy

Capture the charm of a countryside cottage by decorating with English ivy. This climbing plant is often grown outside but does well indoors in as well.

For best results, keep it away from south-facing windows and other direct sunlight exposure, and let the soil dry thoroughly between waterings. Small amounts of house plant fertilizer will help the ivy retain its bright coloring, but don’t use any during times of temperature extremes, when the plant is already stressed.

As English Ivy is a prodigious grower, plan on frequent pruning to keep it under control. You can also start new plants from cuttings rooted in water.