Roses

Today, we will talk about the most romantic flower in the world: Roses.

There are over 30,000 varieties of roses. With different colours, shapes, sizes, etc. Roses keep its #1 position in the ranking of most popular flower.

But lets learn a little bit more about them

Picture via The Flower Pot's Facebook page

History:

The cultivation of roses is thought to have began in Asia around 5000 years ago. Cultivated roses weren’t introduced into Europe until the late eighteenth century. Until the beginning of the 19th century, all roses in Europe were shades of pink or white. 

But here is the question that everyone wants to know. When did roses become the symbol of romance? Well, the romantic symbol of the red rose only came from China around 1800.

Care:

Roses appreciate flower food in their water, and should have fresh water every few days (and don't forget about the fresh cut as well, about 1 inch up the stem) . Cool water is preferred, since warm water causes the bloom to open at a faster rate, and your roses won't last for too long. 

The thorns should have the sharp tips cut off, but not entirely removed from the stem itself. Like all flowers, there should be no greens or foliage submerged in water. Roses are susceptible to Botrytis.

Picture via The Flower Pot's Instagram profile

Flower of the Week: Alstromeria

This week, we are going to talk about Alstromeria.

Now, let's learn a little bit more about it.

Alstromerias at The Flower Pot

Origins

This beautiful flower is from South Africa, brought to Europe in the 18^th century. It is from the Amaryllidaceae Family, and known also as a “Peruvian Lily”. 

Colours

Because they are grown internationally, Alstromerias are available all year round. They come in a large array of colours, including white, pink, orange, salmon, yellow, red, purple and two tone in various colours.

The Flower Pot's Floral Arrangement with Alstromerias

Design

The Alstromeria is a very versatile flower and is used in every sort of arrangement, from wedding bouquets to centrepieces. The variety of bloom sizes and colours makes this a favorite for some of our designers. The flower can be used in an elegant arrangement, or a very relaxed one, which is why it is a standard in our flower fridge.  

Care and Handling 

The ideal condition for Alstromeria is cool and humid. The stem should be cut with a very sharp knife at a steep angle and never left out of water. This flower appreciates flower food in its water, which should be refreshed every few days. To get the most out of your flower, keep it away from ethylene (example: fruit). Expect a range of 5 to 14 days of longevity given ideal conditions, though this ranges from cultivar to cultivar.

Pass by our boutique this week and get a FREE Alstromeria!

Flower of the Week: Amaranthus

This week, we are going to talk about this unique looking flower called Amaranthus.

Amaranthus is a flower made of beautiful dropping spikes. It comes in two different colours: red and green. Native to North and South America, this flower can grow up to 6 feet in the wild, and is also a very long lasting plant.

Apart from making gorgeous floral arrangements and bouquets, the Amaranthus flower is also very useful in medicine, dye and in the food industry.

Many people believe that they are a symbol of imortality since its Greek name means unfading.

Photo via Pinterest

Photo via Pinterest

Flower of the Week: Lisianthus

This week we chose Lisianthus to be our flower of the week!

Known for various different names such as Texas Bluebells, Pairie Gentian and Lira de San Pedro, Lisianthus can symbolize appreciation. This makes them the perfect thank you gift.

This beautiful flower originates from Texas and Mexico. Its colour varies from purple/violet, to pink or white.

If you are planning a wedding, Lisianthus are your flowers to go for your centrepieces.

Visit us and get a free Lisianthus when you walk into our boutique!

Lisianthus from The Flower Pot

Flower of the Week: Dahlia

This week, we are going to talk about Dahlias!

This beautiful flower comes in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes. They can be yellow, purple, orange, white, red or pink with round or pointed petals. 

Dahlias are perfect for any floral design, from landscapes to wedding bouquets. Most people believe they express dignity, commitment and elegance. 

We cannot forget to mention that Dahlias are also Mexico's national flower!

Instagram

Flower of the Week: Kniphofia

This week, our chosen flower is the Kniphofia.

Also known as Torch Lilies or Red-Hot Poker, these flowers are typical from the South of Africa. They are very unique for their narrow shape, beautiful bright colours and also for the fact that they can grow up to 5 ft (1.5m) tall in the field or garden.

Kniphofias, or Tritoma in Latin, are very seasonal flowers. Turning from yellow to orange, and then to finally scarlet, Kniphofia is the perfect flower to light up your garden and home!

Want to know a fun fact about Torch Lilies? Butterflies and Hummingbirds love them! 

Kniphofia at The Flower Pot

Flower Crowns - Osheaga Special

It is finally here! After waiting for months, Osheaga weekend starts today. 

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, this amazing Montreal summer festival brings a huge variety of artists and entertainment close to you.

Source: The Gazette

Now, we are sure you've been planning what to wear for days.The perfect fashion accessory to wear to any outdoor musical festival is a floral crown. 

These decorative headpieces have their history rooted in the hippie generation and even further back to mythology. Today, they are making a comeback being seen everywhere from runaway models to festivalgoers and are a must have for Osheaga.

They are cute, girly, and are made with beautiful flowers. How can we not love them?

We selected our favourite inspirational styles for you to get inspired too!

Source: Pinterest

Source: Pinterest

Source: Pinterest

Source: Pinterest

Source: Pinterest

Flower Of The Week: Sunflowers

It is that time of the week when we choose a fitting flower as our Flower Of The Week. This week, our focus is on the Sunflowers.

We all know that this beautiful flower with amazing bright colours, seeks and follows the path of the sun. This is why it is called Sunflower. Traditionally, the Sunflower symbolizes adoration, loyalty and long-life. 

Sunflowers are extremelly unique. They come in different sizes and its colour can vary from yellow to red. 

Known as "happy" flowers, they are the perfect gift to put a smile on someone's face. 

Come visit us and get a free Sunflower when you walk into our boutique!

Sunflower at The Flower Pot

Flower Of The Week: Gladiola

This week we will talk about Gladiolas, our flower of the week and an ideal choice for all year round.

Gladiolas, or Gladiolus, are also known as the sword lily for the unique and long shape of their leaves. They come in a variety of colours including purple, orange, chartreuse and many more!

This beautiful flower can be the symbol of strength and infatuation. So, if you fell in love at first sight, Gladioli are the perfect flowers for that special person.

Visit us and get a free Yellow Gladiola when you walk into our boutique this week!

Yellow Gladiolas at The Flower Pot

The Pineapple Vase

Today, we decided to do something different; something fun! During our daily routine on Pinterest, posting and repining pictures, we came across a floral arrangement that included a pineapple as a vase. We fell in love right away and could not wait to use it as an inspiration. 

Our floral designer was just as excited as we were when we told her our idea. All we needed was a pineapple, flowers and our beautiful imagination.  

So, here is our final product. We hope you will love it just as much as we do! It is the perfect arrangement for a summer party.

Flower Of The Week: Mini Calla Lilies

Last week we talked about the Surbonne Lilies and also explained to you a little bit about the Lilies' family.

The name Calla Lily comes from the Greek Calla which means "the most beautiful".

This week it is all about the Mini Calla Lilies. This small version of Calla Lilies can also be called Coloured Calla Lilies for the obvious reason: their bright and beautiful colours. This is what differs the Mini Calla Lilies from regular Calla Lilies. 

Visit us and get a free Mini Calla Lily when you walk into our boutique this week!

Mini Calla Lilies at The Flower Pot 

Flower Of The Week: The Sorbonne Lilies

This week we are going to talk about Lilies, this beautiful flower that can put a smile on anyone's face!

The Lily name comes from the name Lilium, which refers to true. They are the symbol of purity and royalty. However, there are many types of Lilies such as Stargazer, Siberia, Robina, Yelloween and many more. Today, we are focusing on the Sorbonne Lilies.

The Sorbonne Lilies, or Oriental Lilies, are known for their trumpet format and bright colours. They are enormous flowers with an amazing smell! In oour opinion, they are the most beautiful pink Oriental Lilies.

Besides being so beautiful, the Oriental Lily has another great benefit. Its oil can be used for baths, massages and as a facial moisturizer. However, be very careful if you are a cat lover. They can be poisonous to your little kitty!

Oriental Lilies or Surbonne Lilies at The Flower Pot

Visit us and get a free Surbonne Lily when you walk into our boutique this week!

June, The Month Of Roses

June is the month of roses! Red roses have been the symbol of love and beauty for a long, long time. This beautiful flower is one of the biggest international symbols and this month was all about them!

The month is already heading to its end, but there is still time to give a rose to a loved one. Here are some of the gorgeous arrangements and bouquets with roses that we offer.

Check out our website for more details and other arrangements http://www.theflowerpot.com/

An hour, A rose

Roses For You

Roses In A Bowl

Long Statement Beauty

Easter bunnies and spring flowers

Spring has sprung and that means Easter is just around the corner!
We love this time of year.
The snow is melting, the flowers are blooming and tulips are filling the shop and having their moment of glory!
Flowers are the perfect way to celebrate this family holiday, so why not give the gift of color and cheer!
Stop by the shop or check out our beautiful selection of tulips, flowers and gifts on the website!
This week only, we have a 20% discount on 12 tulips in a vase when you order online.
Don't miss your chance!
Offer some warmth and sunshine to that special someone, just in time for your Easter and Passover celebrations!

http://conta.cc/19BYw7J

Top 5 Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day in Montreal

Just like a relationship, Valentine's Day plans can sometimes get stale over time. Planning ahead is key, because roses presented over dinner, while always appreciated, are just predictable. In case you're short on ideas, here are 5 suggestions. Pick the one best suited to you & your sweetie's personalities.

Passionate - A Visit to the Botanical Gardens

Don't understand why flowers are so evocative of passion and love? Go take your babe to check out all the exotic, sexy orchids at the Montreal Jardin Botanique. As an added bonus, it's (quite literally) steamy in there. When you get home, surprise her with a Phalaenopsis orchid from The Flower Pot, as a tangible reminder of your romantic day together.

Romantic - Calèche Ride in the Vieux-Port

What could be more classically romantic than a calèche ride during wintertime for Cinderella and her Prince? Explore the disarmingly beautiful architecture of the Old Port together in a horse-drawn carriage. Don't forget to warm up in a resto or café together when it's over, and top it off by presenting her with a classic Boxed Dozen Roses.

Outdoorsy - Explore the Morgan Arboretum

You might look goofy (but still adorable) when you bundle up in your full winter gear. See your breath and all of nature's winter bounties at the beautiful Morgan Arboretum in Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue. Don't forget to pack a lunch, a thermos of something hot, and some seed to feed the chickadees, who will sit on your outstretched hand.

Fun-Loving - Skating at Beaver Lake

Parc Mont-Royal has an outdoor skating rink with over 2500 square meters of ice, smiles and bruises at your disposal. Hold your love's frigid hand as you go around, and feel free to laugh at your girlfriend's terrible skills. Pack our Atwater Market Snacks for authentic Montreal snacking, and make sure to have a bouquet of tulips waiting for her at home, lest she still be mad at you for laughing at her (she will be).

Hardworking - A Day In

Okay, some of us work 40 hours a week, or maybe we just don't feel like leaving the house during one of the year's coldest months. Staying at home doesn't have to be mundane. Build a giant nest on your living room floor in front of the TV with blankets and pillows. Scatter rose petals and have a chilled bottle of Ice Cider and some chocolates on hand. Then, watch your favourite movies, or just talk for hours.

Happy Valentine's Day, Lovers!!

Change blows through The Flower Pot

Here at The Flower Pot, Christmas has come early. This holiday season we're treating ourselves to a makeover from Jennifer Harvey, who will be our head designer for this month, and hopefully for several months to come.

Jennifer is an award-winning floral designer who is here to make beautiful bouquets, of course, but also to overhaul our look and our social media to better reflect our personality: vibrant, knowledgable, and caring. In short, everything you would want from a florist.

As an internationally recognized certified floral designer who has worked in the industry for 14 years and managed several shops across Canada, Jennifer is ideally suited to the job. According to the owner, Herbert, Jennifer's bubbly personality has already made a world of difference, infusing the whole shop with positivity.

She's already upgraded our Christmas display with her designer's touches. Come by to check it out; we're at 1340 Notre Dame Ouest in Montreal. In the meantime, here are a few pictures for your enjoyment.

Christmas in the air

Here at The Flower Pot we're gearing up for the holidays, but we still have a few vestiges of summer in house, and we want to share them with you to bulk up your defences against the cold. Vitamin C is particularly powerful. We are of course talking about the lovely orange floral arrangement featured here and on our homepage.

A dose of vitamin C, a warm mug of cocoa, wool socks by the fire... Whatever you do, don't relax yet! If we're getting ready for Christmas, then you should too. Finding gifts for everyone is never easy but we're here to help make the hunt go smoothly. Check out our holiday gift page which is brimming with gift choices that are suitable for any budget and any personality.

For the food-lover, check out this beautiful basket filled with goodies for a Tasty Christmas.

Small budgets can still benefit from quality craftsmanship and succulent sweets with the Holiday Chocolate.

Don't forget about decorating gifts like this Christmas Spirit. This holiday centrepiece would be a great gift for any hostess. 

If you need help, advice, or even an encouraging word, don't hesitate to drop by or call us at 514-938-1234. 

Boo! It's Hallowe'en

The weather just took a turn for the colder, the leaves are nearly gone, and the days seem darker and darker. Hallowe'en is coming, we can smell it in the air. It's not all spooky though: our houses are getting warmer, we've pulled out the wool sweaters and fleece-lined leggings, and Thanksgiving's leftover mulled wine warms the hands and the heart like nothing else.

Here at The Flower Pot we like to mix it up, a bit of Hallowe'en's spooky spirit and the warmth of past Thanksgiving festivities. Take this Pumpkin Riot for example: the great pumpkin that we've carved out like a jack-o-lantern and stuffed full of bright fall flowers will warm your household décor. 

We have many great décor ideas, including the new "it" wall-art piece, photos printed on acrylic or plexiglass. The high fidelity printing makes colours pop, just like fall leaves. It's the perfect medium for a family photo hanging over a crackling fire.

Contact us by phone 514-938-1234, email, or drop by for a friendly chat and professional advice about arrangements, wall art, or gifts from your local Montreal florist The Flower Pot.

January Tidbits

Hi everyone! Hopefully you're all busy getting back into the swing of things after the holidays! Trimming waistlines, organizing closets, back to school, creating traffic in the morning again (blast!). Montreal is back to business. At The Flower Pot, we're busy preparing for Valentine's Day already with three weeks to the big day. Taking all our busy schedules to heart, here's a mixed-bag of news bytes.

-Our new and improved wedding sections are up on our website! If you are getting married in summer 2014, check out our new products here and here.

-Pantone's 2014 colour of the year is Radiant Orchid. We'll be seeing a lot of purple this year. If you want to be at the forefront of the trend, ask us how you can incorporate the color into any flower arrangement.

Don't forget to get in the groove for Valentine's Day! It's time to think about ordering some roses for your honey. Visit our Valentine's Day section for ideas and inspiration here.

Time to start thinking about...Valentine's Day!

Now that the Christmas holidays are over, it's time to start decorating and thinking of gifts for the next event!! Pinterest is a great source of inspiration for Valentine's day decoration and gift ideas.

Best of all, The Flower Pot has an account as well so we can share our Pinterest discoveries and Valentine's Day flower recommendations with you. Click here to request an invite and follow us

Have this Love in a Bag sent to your loved one's office so they'll be thinking of you all day!

If roses are more your thing, and if you're so romantic you don't wait for Valentine's Day to say "I love you", check out our White Winter Nights arrangement. It's classified as a christmas item but it could be just what you need for your Valentine.