| Small florists rearrange sales strategy
Bernetta Playford's father opened Ralph's Hollywood Florist 72 years ago, when folks relied exclusively on local florists for bouquets for special occasions, corsages for Mom on Easter and poinsettias at Christmas. But business wilted for Playford in recent years, leading the 73-year-old to sell her Northeast Portland shop this month. On Monday, a younger friend -- and former Ralph's delivery driver -- reopened the store with plans to expand beyond plants and flowers. Ralph's is among a handful of longtime Portland florists whose owners have sold, closed, or moved out of high-cost storefronts to do more affordable business out of their homes. Smaller operators say they have been crunched by competition including grocers and national retailers Trader Joe's and Costco Wholesale, as well as pricey, profit-sharing wire services, such as FTD.
Gearing up for spring planting
Garden catalogs have been tempting plant lovers for months with exciting new colors and cultivars. If you haven't placed your orders for spring delivery yet, do it soon. Most mail-order nurseries won't ship until the appropriate planting time, so don't worry about tender plants arriving while your garden is knee-deep in snow. If you are getting cabin fever and are itching to plant something soon, order seeds. A few grow lights and either peat pots or planting trays are all it takes to get an early start on your flowers, herbs or edibles. Start with the seeds that take the longest to germinate - you don't want the seedlings to be garden ready before the soil has had a chance to warm up. No patience for seeds? You can push the season by forcing branches into early bloom in the warmth of your home.
Start your collection with long-lasting bloom
Q. At age 87, I am not sure that I have enough time left to amass a huge orchid collection, but I would like to start. Is there a rule of thumb for beginners? -- Ruth M. A. It's never too late to get involved in this delightful hobby. Once your friends find out about your new love, they will give you orchids for every special occasion. Before long, a greenhouse may be needed to hold all the plants! A good orchid to start with is the Phalaenopsis. The flowers last three months, and the plant needs only indirect light. The "moth orchid" comes in many colors, including soft pastels, vivid magentas and sunset tones, and features cascading displays. An excellent companion is a Paphiopedilum because both have similar light requirements. The "lady slipper" is most unusual looking, with its single, large waxy bloom that looks fresh even after two months.
Help! In the Garden
Here are some things to consider before hiring a lawn care company, courtesy of Gary Forrester, environmental horticulturalist with Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service: Check with companies about what services they provide. Get estimates and references from several companies. Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations. Check out the company's standard lawn care program, which may include pest control. Research any complaints levied against a company. Check with Clemson University's Department of Pesticide Regulation to see if the company has any pesticide-related violations. Also check with the Better Business Bureau for complaints. Ask about training and experience. Obtain a written service agreement.
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