.gif)
Ivy symbolizes fidelity and wedded bliss. Photo/Photoxpress - Reiku
More than any other time of year May and June stand out because of their focus on tradition and ritual. There are time-honored celebrations for moms and dads, graduations, weddings, family reunions and tea parties. Special occasions seem to inspire a connection with plants, particularly flowers and herbs. From the beginning of time plants have been a mainstay in ceremonies that connect us to each other and acknowledge our transitions and milestones. We send flowers to express love, pride, gratitude, sorrow and often, just because.
Ancient cultures used plants symbolically as a nonverbal form of communication. The Victorians brought this tradition to new heights with their "language of flowers." Symbolic herbs and flowers were combined into a bouquet that sent a coded message. It's easy for modern gardeners to tap into these traditions for all of our celebrations and it seems there is a renewed interest in incorporating these symbols into our own love affair with things from the garden.
This makes good sense from a Feng Shui pespective because fragrance is an important method for adjusting the Chi. Plant fragrances are powerful - they can evoke vivid memories in an instant and often serve as a catalyst for the transformation of our body and soul. Fragrance not only lifts your personal energy but also the vibrational level of the spaces you occupy.
Merrifield Garden Center is featuring tips for growing herbs in their May newsletter. MGC has several locations in Virginia with a huge selection of herbs and flowers that can be used for every phase of just about every celebration. If you are in the mood for a little field trip, head over to Willow Oak Flower and Herb Farm in Severn, Maryland. The farm features old-fashioned cottage style gardens sure to restore your spirit and give you some great ideas.
Here are some ideas to get you inspired:
Weddings. From bouquets to garlands to favors, brides can create a wedding day that is beautiful and meaningful. Rosemary is the most prominent wedding herb because it symbolizes fidelity, loyalty and remembrance. Ivy is a frequent guest at weddings because bride's love its heart-shaped leaves and trailing stems that symbolize friendship in marriage. Herb Companion has some unique ideas for using traditional wedding herbs.
Graduations. Your June graduate is sure to appreciate a boutonniere or corsage of carnations and roses. These are all representations of admiration, love and good luck. If your planning a party at home, head out to the garden early in the day. Bring your basket, a pair of scissors and some inspiration and collect salad goodies for a "mouth feast" as memorable as the day.
Tea Parties. Maybe you'd like to mark your special occasion with an herbal tea party. You can plan an entire event using herbs. Herbal invitations, dips, sandwiches, cakes, cookies and teas are sure to please your guests. There's nothing better than an event that delights your guests by tickling all five senses.
Father's Day. Don't forget dear old Dad on his day. How about a nice sub sandwich with some basil and oregano accompanied by a tall, cool glass of sweet tea with a sprig of mint? He's sure to feel relaxed and loved.
And finally, for you gardeners out there.................when the festivities are over, the company is gone and you are left with the joy of having shared the charms of your garden with family and friends remember this: there's lavender for your headache, peppermint for your bellyache and a nice hot herbal bath calling your name.
Comments