Valentine’s Day is a special occasion for couples to express their love and affection for each other. But for those who have a passion for gardening, the perfect gift is one that will enhance their outdoor living space and bring joy to their hearts.  With the arrival of spring, it’s the perfect time to bring a bit of nature into your home and start thinking about your garden.

As a nursery and garden center, we have a wide range of Valentine’s Day gift ideas that are perfect for gardening enthusiasts. Here are some of our top picks:

• Plants and Flowers: Nothing says “I love you” like elegant flowers or a lush green plant. Choose from a wide range of indoor and outdoor plants and flowers, such as roses, orchids, succulents, or herbs. They’re not only beautiful but also practical, as they purify the air and create a relaxing atmosphere in your home. Plants make great gifts because they represent growth, renewal, and beauty. You can also choose from different pots and containers to make it a more personal and thoughtful gift.

• Garden Tools: If your loved one is a gardener, why not get them a new set of garden tools? Gardeners always need the right tools to keep their garden in shape.  From trowels and pruning shears to watering cans and gloves, Canterbury Farms Nursery & Garden Center has everything they need to keep their garden looking its best. A high-quality set of tools will make your recipient’s gardening experience much more enjoyable and efficient.

• Garden Art: Garden art is a fun way to add personality and character to a garden. Choose from a range of styles, from classical to whimsical, to suit your recipient’s taste. From bird baths and feeders to stone sculptures and wind chimes, Canterbury Farms Nursery & Garden Center has everything you need to create a beautiful and romantic outdoor space.

• Garden Furniture: A garden is not complete without a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Garden furniture such as benches, chairs, and tables make great Valentine’s Day gifts. We can help you choose a style that will complement your recipient’s garden design.

• Gift Cards: If you’re not sure what to get your loved one, consider a gift card from Canterbury Farms Nursery & Garden Center. They’ll be able to choose the plants and tools they need to keep their garden thriving.  Click here to purchase a gift card online and we’ll mail it out ASAP, or stop by and see us in-person.

No matter what you choose, a visit to Canterbury Farms Nursery & Garden Center is a great way to show your love and appreciation on Valentine’s Day. With so many beautiful and unique gift options, you’re sure to find something that your loved one will love. Whether you’re looking for a gift that’s romantic, practical, or a little bit of both, you’ll find everything you need to make this Valentine’s Day a special one.  Happy Valentine’s Day!

Camellia japonica ‘Jacks’

Camellias are a beautiful and popular flower that can add a touch of elegance to any garden. With the right care and attention, you can successfully grow camellias here in central Florida and enjoy their beauty during the seasons when most other flowering plants go dormant.

The first thing to consider when growing camellias in our area is the climate. Camellias are native to Asia and prefer a cooler, more temperate climate. This can be a challenge in our area, where the weather is often hot and humid. To help your camellias thrive, it’s important to choose a location that receives at least partial shade during the hottest part of the day. This can be provided by nearby trees or a trellis or pergola.

Another important factor to consider when growing camellias is soil. Camellias prefer well-drained, acidic soil with a pH of between 5.5 and 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline, you can amend it with peat moss or sulfur. It’s also important to make sure that your camellias are planted at the right depth and that they are not too close together.

Camellia japonica ‘Christmas Beauty’

Once your camellias are planted, it’s important to keep them well-watered. They prefer consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged. Use a watering can or a hose with a gentle spray to water your camellias, and avoid using a sprinkler system.

Camellias also require regular fertilization to thrive. Use an acid-based fertilizer specifically formulated for camellias and azaleas. We recommend fertilizing your camellias in early spring, mid-summer, and again in the fall.

Camellia sasanqua ‘Autumn Rocket’

Pest control is also important when growing camellias in central Florida. Camellias are susceptible to a number of pests, including scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites. Keep an eye out for these pests and treat them promptly if you notice any signs of infestation.

Pro tip: The best time to prune Camellias is right after they are done blooming.  The plants will set the next season’s flower buds soon after the old flowers have expired.  So if you wait too long to prune, you will likely sacrifice some of your blooms for the following season.

Camellias come in a wide variety of colors and sizes, making them a versatile addition to any garden. Some of the popular varieties that we typically carry at Canterbury Farms:

• Japonica: This is the most common variety of camellia and is known for its large, showy blooms that can be red, pink, or white. Japonicas typically bloom in the winter and early spring.
• Sasanqua: These camellias bloom a bit earlier than japonicas, usually in the fall. They have smaller flowers than japonicas, but they are still quite showy. Sasanquas are known for their tolerance to heat and humidity, making them a good choice for central Florida.

Camellia flower bud

It’s important to note that camellias can take several years to reach maturity and begin blooming, so be patient and enjoy the journey of growing them. It’s also worth noting that the blooming time can vary depending on the variety, location and the weather conditions.  

When choosing a camellia variety, take into consideration the size of the plant, the color and size of the blooms, and the blooming time. With the right variety and care, you can enjoy beautiful camellias in your garden for years to come.

By: Anna Stubbendick, FCHP