Barany In The Garden: Botanical Beauty Doesn't End When The Snow Flies

One cold morning in early December, just recently, the old gardener's greenhouse on South 18th Avenue was covered with fragrant green leaves, withered seeds, blood-red stems, and twisted vines.

We got together to relax in the morning with good friends and we got together to create a cool Christmas composition.

Some were old masters and started right away. All the beginners needed were a few vague instructions. EGs were quick to imitate their creator. Some looked very organic and natural, others were decorated with shiny glass decorations and metal ribbons.

Before cleaning up, the head gardener happily arranged for everyone to admire, “Who wouldn’t love one of these at Christmas?”

We couldn't think of one.

For those of us who spend most of our time in the garden, it's hard to imagine why anyone wouldn't be happy to find a new plant under their tree.

The truth is that when our connection to nature decreases, it affects how we feel. Ask any gardener what he wants in January, and working with plants will be a simple joy for him. There is plenty of evidence that a planted environment can make us happier and more relaxed.

One of the most beautiful and durable New Year's gifts is a plant. If you're already a green finger collector, it's a good idea to make things easier by buying from someone you know. The best gift plants are beautiful but easy to care for.

A few Christmases ago, I introduced my son William to Tillandsia. They are known as air plants because they don't need soil to grow, they use their systems to cling to trees or rocks. Tillandsias absorb moisture and nutrients through tiny scales on their leaves. Although they look different, they are strong, flexible and resistant to many environmental conditions and require little maintenance. It's just a matter of regular engagement to keep them happy.

After learning how plants can help remove air pollution on a spacecraft, NASA has compiled a list of indoor plants that can live in space. They are one of the easiest to grow, and in addition to being beautiful, they are also very difficult to kill. Imagine how happy you would be under the tree if you survived in space. Here is the NASA list:

(Aglaonema Modetum) Chinese Aloe Vera, (Chamaedorea seifritzii) Bamboo or Cane Palm, (Chlorophytum comosum) Spider Plant, (Dracaena deremensis) "Janet Craig" Dracaena, (Dracaena fragrans "Massangeana") Giant Pool, (Dracaena dere, ( Epipyremnum) aureum) golden pothos, (Ficus benjamina) weeping fig, (Hedera helix) English ivy, (Philodendron domesticum) elephant ear philodendron, (Philodendron scandens oxycardium) heart-shaped philodendron, (Philoumphiledendronddens, Philoumphirondhilloudendum), shilumphilodendron (Mapathiphylalum ' ) Lily of peace.

If you prefer something seasonal, opt for a traditional Christmas plant.

Last Sunday I bought a new snow blower from the local hardware store. When he saw me walking out the door, he was too busy with the hat and called me the best friend he hadn't seen in a long time. I rolled up my sleeves and made room in the cart for a few packed amaryllis bulbs. Of all the bulbous flowers, amaryllis is the easiest to grow. This year, ready-made light bulbs are widely available in kits with everything you need, and even kids are guaranteed amazing results.

The ideal name "Amaryllis" comes from the Greek word "amariso" which means to shine, shine or shine. Who wouldn't want that these days?

A hardy member of the daffodil family, white paper is grown for its fragrance and makes a delicious Christmas gift. During the harsh winter months they bear many stems with 10 or 12 white flowers. Look for amaryllis in the set next to the boxes.

Everyone needs a little greenery in their lives and you don't have to look far to find the perfect gift. Plant production and sales have increased as we spend more time indoors during the pandemic. Grocery stores, large garden departments, and even hardware stores offer options.

In addition, there are four local factory outlets in Yakima that offer excellent advice and customer service. Each of these stores is a plant lover's dream:

• Cascade Garden Store, Valley Mall, Union Gap.

• Roots Nursery and Landscape, 6710 Tieton Drive.

• Plantation House, 3512 Teton Drive.

• Green Yakima, 4001 Summitview Ave.

Carol Barany and her husband John bought a 1 1/3 acre garden in Franklin Park, where they raised their three children and became head gardeners. Contact her at Florabundance14@gmail.com.