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Written by Bernadette Hammelman
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Wednesday, 22 February 2012 08:44 |
Larkspur - Delphinium
This week's flower is Larkspur, also known as Delphinium. Larkspur name comes from the shape of the spur which resembles the back toe of a lark. Delphinium name comes from the Greek work "Delphis" which means dolphin. The flower represents lightness and carefree behavior. The dolphin-shaped flowers symbolize an open heart and strong attachment. Also, Larkspur is the birth flower of July.
GROWING & HARVEST
Hammelmans have been growing Larkspur for over 20 years. It is considered an annual and planted every year in early spring. Larkspur comes in a variety of colors, Three main colors which we grow: carmine (pink), dark blue and white. The plants need full sun and should be protected from winds because of the tall stalks. It is harvested in July. After the flowers open, it is cut then dried. This is one of the hardest annuals to grow, but if persistent it can yield beautiful results! This needs a vernalization period to germ and should be watered well to sprout it up. Thereafter, water but do not keep its feet wet! Good luck!
USES
Native Americans used Larkspur to make dye. European settlers would ground the delphinium to make ink. Powder from seeds were used to treat a toothache. During the Civil War, it was used to destroy the lice in hair. The most ancient use was the seeds were used to drive away scorpions.
Since Larkspur has a long stem, the flower can be arranged in vases or use the flower spikes in a hundred different ways, from potpourri to wreath making. Larkspur can even can be pressed under glass. The petals have interesting shapes when pressed. Hammelmans has dried larkspur available most of the year on their website. |
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Written by Bernadette Hammelman
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Wednesday, 15 February 2012 14:00 |
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NIGELLA
Hammelmans flower of the week is Nigella. It is also known as Love-in-the-Mist, Devil-in-the-Bush, Jack-in-Prison, Love-in-a-Tangle, and Bridal Veil. Nigella is an annual herb that has been around over 400 years. Passed down for generations from mother’s gardens to daughter’s garden. Hammelmans have been growing Nigella for over 20 years.
HARVESTING
At Hammelmans, planting starts in the spring after the last frost. Nigella has a delicate lacey green foliage that mist around the flower. It is a wonderful cottage garden plant and a great filler. After the blossoms fall off, the Nigella head turns into a striking pod which bears the plants seeds. Hammelmans always harvest at its most striking time: grass green and deep burgundy strips. It is dried very quickly to retain that luscious color.
USES
The seeds can be used as a condiment as it has a nutmeg flavor. In India, the seeds are used as a sachet to keep bugs out of clothing. The flower can be used in a fresh floral arrangement. The dried pod can be used alone or in a dried floral arrangement or wreath. |
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Written by Bernadette Hammelman
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Friday, 27 January 2012 13:45 |
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Hi! Hope everyone's winter is going well! We'd love to hear from you. Coming very soon our annual warehouse SALE!!!! |
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