Best of Orange County--Again

Fall is here and you know what that means--The Orange County Register's Best of Orange County list is out again. Once again, Visser's Florist and Greenhouses made the list for Best Florist.

Althought it's not really a surprise since we have made the list almost every year since it started, all of us at Visser's are extremely proud of this honor. We work very hard to provide the very best flowers and plants, and to give the absolute best customer service anywhere.

To all of our loyal customers that voted for us, we say thank you. We will continue to work hard throughout the year to stay "The Best of Orange County".

The Lovely Croton

For some reason, the popularity of the croton is growing like wildfire. The Croton is a tropical plant, meaning that it is native or grows best between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. Lucky for you, however, that this little beauty has been adapted to flourish indoors.

The leaves of this colorful plant actually start out green, but then develop their bright yellows, reds and oranges as a response to a strong light source. A good tip is if the existing leaves are staying green there is probably not enough light, or you are over fertilizing, especially during the summer. Fortunately, both problems are easily corrected.

Starting a Croton is easy. The best method is to go down to Visser’s Florist in Anaheim and buy one. We have them all year long, with prices starting at $2.99.

However, for the adventurous types, it is pretty easy to propagate one from an existing plant. According to the Croton Society start by cutting off a stem, at least a few inches long. Remove the lower leaves and flowers. Keep the stem wet (like in a baggie with water) until you are ready to propagate. Place cuttings in a container with water, for a couple of days in bright light, not in full sun. Next, plant the cuttings in a pot, mist the leaves, water well and seal with a clear plastic bag until it starts to root, maybe 4 or 5 days. Then repot and care for normally.

Crotons grow best in bright light and warm temperatures, but not blazing sun. Also, if the leaves turn yellow and start falling off, you are probably overwatering the plant. Finally, use a fertilizer regularly.

Los Angeles Angeles of Anaheim

OK, I know what you're thinking. Is this a sports blog or a florist blog?

Of course, it's a florist blog, but being in Anaheim we can't help but being proud of our baseball team. The Anaheim Angels (sorry, but I just can't do the L.A. thing) have clinched a spot in the playoffs, WITH THE BEST RECORD IN BASEBALL! Arte Moreno, the owner of the team, has really done great things with our team.

Also, Frankie Rodriquez, the Angel's ace in the bullpen, has set a major league record for the number of saves in one season: 58. Another great year for Frankie.

We are happy to congratulate the Angels on their accomplishments, and think this year could mean another world championship. And, don't forget, it you do need flowers, don't forget to call Visser's Florist & Greenhouses.

Gold Medal Volleyball Team

This Saturday, September 13th, the City of Anaheim is having a celebration to honor the U.S. Olympic GOLD MEDAL WINNING Men's Volleyball team. The U.S. team was the only men's team to go undefeated at this year's olympics in Beijing.

And, guess who was selected to provide the flowers and plants for the celebration. That's right, it's Anaheim's own Visser's Florist & Greenhouses.

Anaheim is the host city for the team and Visser's is proud to help them celebrate the gold medal. The celebration starts at 11:30 a.m. at the park in Gardenwalk. More details are here.

Don't miss this opportunity to see the team up close and personal.

SENDING FLOWERS TO SCHOOLS

It's September, and the kids are back in school. This time also marks the end of summer--which can be a good thing for florists.

During the Summer, with everybody on vacation, the flower industry tends to slow down. Sure it's a good time for doing a little deferred maintenance, but frankly, it's boring.

That's why, at Visser's Florist we're always glad to see those shiney yellow school buses back on the street. Now, let's get to the point of this rambling post. SENDING FLOWERS TO SCHOOLS.

I think that sending flowers to a teacher or school administrator is a great way to say thank you, or to show that you appreciate the great work. However, most schools do not accept flowers for students. Before you send little Susie a bouquet celebrating her return to school, call the school and ask if students are allowed to receive flowers. You could save yourself a lot of time. Or, just call us at Visser's, and we will find out for you.