Live Like The Sunflower

Perennial herb, usually 15-50 cm high, root for the taproot, stout, less branching. The majority of stems, supine or prostrate, with a section, pubescent. Leaves opposite; stipules triangular-lanceolate, separation,  leaf outline ovate or triangular ovate, base cordate, 5-10 cm long, 3-5 cm wide, the bipinnate deep cleft, small lobes ovate strip, entire or with sparse tooth surface is sparse hairs on the back puberulous along veins coat is more dense.

Umbels axillary, significantly longer than the leaves, peduncle to carry out the villous and backward pubescent, with 2-5 flowers per stem.

Capsule about 4 cm long, densely covered with short coarse hair. The seed is brown, with spots. Flowering from June to August, fruiting period from August to September.

In September the fields and roadsides of the Great Plains erupt in a blaze of yellow as the sunflowers and goldenrods (also members of the sunflower family) make their presence known to the local pollinating insects. While many sunflower species may begin blooming in July, they are not as noticeable then as later on when they have grown up and over the surrounding vegetation. There are eleven species of sunflower recorded from Kansas. 

Most of them are perennials. Only the common sunflower and H. petiolaris, the Prairie Sunflower, are annuals. Identification of sunflowers can be very complicated because they frequently hybridize and even within species there is a high degree of variability. With a little practice, however, the most common species can be readily recognized.

It was brought back to the Old World by the early European explorers and widely cultivated there also. Today it is a common alternative crop in the Great Plains and elsewhere for food and oil production. Next time you munch down on some sunflower seeds, thank the many generations of Native Americans whose careful husbandry gave us this valuable food item.

The wild cousins of those grown on the farm are still common, however, in fields, roadsides and disturbed ground throughout the Great Plains.

The Common Sunflower is a typical member of the Asteraceae, one of the largest and most successful families of plants. Within the structure we think of as the "flower", it actually has two different types of flowers - ray and disk flowers.

The ray flowers have the big, straplike structures that we see around the edge of the "flower" while the disk flowers occupy the middle of it. Within the Asteraceae, many confusing combinations of the two are possible along with the total absence of one or the other in some species!

Cherry Blossom Meanings Attached To This Beautiful Flower

The Asian cherry blossom tree is not indigenous to Japan or Asian countries. These trees are found growing in North America as well. There are many Asian cherry blossom meanings, that inspires poets to sing about their beauty. The Asian cherry blossom meaning is different in the both Chinese as well as Japanese culture. This is because these two cultures are wide apart and the significance this flower holds in both countries is different. Let us have a look at the Asian cherry blossom meaning according to the Chinese as well as Japanese culture.

Cherry blossoms, exquisite flowers that are the national flowers of Japan. Cherry blossom trees are called in Japanese. These flowers are ceremonial symbols in Japan and used for receptions like the traditional Hanami. There are many Asian cherry blossom meanings attached to this beautiful flower. We shall have an overview of the cherry blossom flower meaning according to the regions where it is so popular.


The Japanese cherry blossom meaning includes 'transient of life'. This is because the cherry blossom tree has short blooming periods and are very fragile. There is an old story attached to cherry blossoms that values sacrifice. It is said, that there is an Jiu-roku-zakura (the Cherry tree of the Sixteenth day), in the Iyo district. This tree grew on the lands of a Samurai for over a hundred years. When the Samurai became old, the tree began to die. The Samurai was very sad-looking at his cherished tree die. He was a brave and honorable man. Thus, he thought up of a way to save the tree's life. He sat under the tree and committed the ritual suicide under the tree. This act gave the essence of the Samurai's life to the tree. The tree within one hour of the Samurai's death, on the 16th day of the month, began to blossom flowers and continues to live even today. Thus, the cherry blossom tree meaning holds many spiritual beliefs. These beliefs are set in deep within the fundamental teachings of Buddha.

A fallen cherry blossom flower meaning also holds many emotional connections within the minds of Japanese. A fallen cherry blossom is a symbolic representation of a fallen Samurai. Each fallen cherry blossom is a representative of a Samurai who lost his life in battle. Kamikaze pilots used cherry blossoms as a symbol of their missions. These Japanese pilots would paint the sides of their planes with a cherry blossom. The cherry blossom meaning in their words was ephemerality of life. This was in association with the falling petals of the flowers. It represented the sacrifice of life a young Japanese made for his country. People also believed the cherry blossoms were the souls of the warriors who lost their lives in battle. This was about the cherry blossom meaning in Japan. Let us now have a look at the cherry blossom meaning in China.

The cherry blossom meaning in China signifies power. A cherry blossom in Chinese culture is a symbol of feminine dominance. It indicates female beauty and sexuality. The cherry blossom meaning in China according to the language of herbs is love. Therefore, it is given as a gift in China as a symbol of love.

Cherry blossom tattoos are very popular in Japan. The deep Japanese cherry blossom meaning makes it a favorite among the youth. There are different cherry blossom tattoo meanings according to the design. Men wear cherry blossom tattoos symbolizing Samurais. A few sport the cherry blossom tattoo meaning around the Buddhist meaning of life, that is, transition and suffering. Women wear the cherry blossom tattoo to symbolize their feminine power as believed by the Chinese.

It helps inspire women and celebrate her sexuality and use it to maintain dominance over man. Women sporting a cherry blossom tattoo are declaring their independence and change in life. Few also use cherry blossom tattoos to enhance their beauty. Cherry blossom meaning in tattoo also signifies overcoming an obstacle in life. The cherry blossom tree meaning in tattoos signifies fertility and nobility. This is because in ancient Japan, people threw parties to showcase their beautiful blooming cherry trees. And the members of the high society graced these occasions. In terms of the Chinese cherry tree meaning, these tree tattoos signified beauty, life, femininity and good luck. It is said that the cherry blossom showers a person with love and happiness, thus indicating good luck.

This was all about the cherry blossom flower meaning. For some a cherry blossom is a symbol of humanity and hope. The cherry blossom meaning in different cultures represents life and love. You too can grow a cherry blossom in your garden or wear a cherry blossom tattoo. Hope the above information on Asian cherry blossom meaning has helped you understand the importance of this exquisite flower in different cultures.

Easy Way To Grow Znnia Flowers

Znnia flowers are popular annuals native to the United States and originating from the southwest area of the country and some areas of Mexico and Central America. Accustomed to warm climates, zinnias thrive during hot, dry summers. The plants begin producing flowers in early summer and continue all the way until the first frost. Large, colorful blossoms appear in shades of white, yellow, orange, pink and red, depending on the variety. In most cases, zinnias are grown from seed, although bedding plants are sometimes available for purchase in garden centers in early spring.

Hardiness Zones: Zinnia flowers are grown as annuals in all zones in the United States and die back after the first frost of winter. Growing Difficulty: Easy What You Need: Liquid fertilizer How to Grow Zinnia Flowers: Sow zinnia flower seeds directly in the garden or set out transplants in spring about one week after the final frost of winter when temperatures have warmed to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Choose a planting location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day and has fertile, well-drained soil. Space zinnia seeds or plants 4 to 24 inches apart, depending on variety.

Cover seeds with a light layer of soil and water thoroughly to initiate growth. Seedlings will emerge in 5 to 7 days. If you're planting transplants, begin routine care immediately. If growing from seed, wait until germination occurs before proceeding with the following steps. Water drought-tolerant zinnia flowers only as needed, usually about once every two weeks unless temperatures rise above 95 degrees Fahrenheit. In this case, increase the frequency of watering to once per week or more, especially if there is no natural rainfall.

Although they tolerate dry conditions, zinnias prefer soil that's a bit on the moist side, but not soggy. Feed plants once every three to four weeks using a balanced liquid fertilizer at the rate recommended by the manufacturer to promote strong, healthy growth and flower production. Water thoroughly immediately after application to release and distribute the nutrients throughout the soil and to prevent injuring the plant's roots. Pinch the tops of zinnia plants when they are around 4 to 6 inches high to promote a bushier and more compact growth habit. Remove faded zinnia flowers as necessary to encourage further blooming and to conserve nutrients. Trim long stems to improve appearance if desired and stake tall varieties if they begin to grow too tall and flop over.

Tips for Growing Zinnia Flowers: Avoid overhead watering and apply water at soil level early in the day if possible. Zinnia flowers are susceptible to foliar diseases and wet foliage increases the likelihood of disease. Most varieties of zinnia require little pruning and are resistant to pests. If a pest infestation does occur, treat as soon as possible with an organic or chemical repellent or fungicide, depending on the problem.

Landscape Uses: All zinnia flowers make great additions to the garden bed or border, and they're also highly regarded as cut flowers for use in arrangements. Use zinnias in sunny annual beds or as edging plants. They make great companions to other warm- weather annuals and perennials including verbena and portulaca. Common zinnia flowers are sometimes planted in vegetable gardens when they're being used as cut flowers.

Growing Azaleas In Your Beautiful Garden

Azaleas and rhododendrons are shrubs for all seasons. In winter some stand out with large evergreen leaves. In spring the flowers are showy; throughout the summer and fall the leaves add a pleasing, deep green color to the garden. Some deciduous azaleas add bright fall color before the leaves drop. The spectacular spring flowers of azaleas and rhododendrons make them among the most popular garden shrubs.

Although all azaleas and rhododendrons are classed as Rhododendron by plant taxonomists, the name "azalea" is commonly used for native deciduous species and some evergreen Asian types. In general, "Rhododendron" is used for those species that have large, evergreen, leathery leaves. No sharp division can be made, and it is always correct to call any of them rhododendrons.

The terms azalea and rhododendron are used as they commonly apply. Whatever name is used, the culture required for all these plants is very similar (See Figure 1). The same cultural practices may also be applied to blueberries, pieris, heather, holly and other plants that prefer acid, organic soils.

It should be understood that the distinction between azaleas and rhododendrons is purely a garden affair. Botanically they belong to the same genus. Azaleas require exactly the same type of soil as rhododendrons. They dislike lime and thrive in almost any soil that is free of it, but especially in one which contains an abundance of humus, preferably in the form of peat. Those who live in districts in which the soil is naturally impregnated with lime or chalk should not attempt to grow azaleas outdoors until special beds have been made up for the purpose. In this case it is wise to build up the soil above the surrounding ground level and not merely to excavate the existing soil and replace with fresh. Such built-up beds must be at least 2 ft. in depth and should be prepared with good turfy peat and lime-free loam in about equal parts. When constructing rock gardens it is not at all difficult to preserve one section entirely for azaleas and other lime-hating plants.

If the soil is not impregnated with chalk or lime, it is only necessary to dig it deeply. Should it be of a harsh or heavy nature, it will be improved by liberal dressings of horticultural peat and sharp sand. Nothing in the way of manure is either necessary or desirable.

All types of azaleas are grand town shrubs, for they are as resistant to the effects of soot and grime as most hardy rhododendrons, and do not in the least object to a certain amount of shade.

Planting of the deciduous species can be carried out at any time during the dormant season, that is, from leaf-fall, usually about the end of October, till the buds begin to burst in early spring. Preference should be given to periods when the weather is mild and moist. The evergreen Japanese and Kurume azaleas can usually be purchased in small pots, and in their case transplanting is best done earlier in the autumn or later in the spring. No pruning is necessary save for the removal of faded flower trusses.

The usual, and certainly the best method of obtaining a stock of Indian azaleas is to purchase strong plants during the autumn knocked out of pots. These are well set with flower buds. Pots should be selected for those which will just take the roots without having to cramp and crush them in. Peat and loam form the compost. Very firm potting is absolutely essential, and another important point which applies to all plants growing in peat is that ample room for water must be allowed on the surface of the soil.

The most favourable position during the following weeks will be in a greenhouse or a covered frame facing north. Heat will be quite unnecessary until the advent of frosty nights. The syringe must be used at frequent intervals, and abundance of air must be admitted night and day.

Azaleas in full flower should be housed in a cool structure, as this will prolong the life of the flowers. As the plants pass out of bloom the decayed blossoms must be carefully removed, and they may then be staged in a heated house. The great point about successful azalea culture is the building up of the ensuing season's flower buds, and to this end warm conditions immediately after the flowering period will prove most valuable. The house must be kept moist and the plants syringed frequently and regularly. When the plants are well set with bud, judicious feeding with weak liquid manure will be most advantageous. Towards the end of July the plants may be placed in the open air, choosing a position with a northern aspect, away from trees, but sheltered from rough winds.

Although azaleas do not require annual repotting, the plants should be inspected every year after flowering, and for those that are not potted a surface dressing of sandy peat will be helpful.

Azaleas are not easy plants for the amateur to increase. The most satisfactory method is to strike short cuttings of half - ripened young growth in very sandy peat or even in pure silver sand in a frame with gentle bottom heat. Seed is very small and should only be covered with the finest scattering of silver sand. It can be germinated during March in a cool greenhouse.