My husband's grandfather passed away and his funeral was held yesterday. We were asked to take some flowers from the spray on top of the coffin at the graveside service, and his family being Irish, there were several green flowers in addition to some beautiful white roses and lilies. I took some Bells of Ireland in the hopes that a)there would be some seeds and b) I could press the flower--it seems waxy, so it might press well? and c) planting the seed would be a nice remembrance next year when time has healed our families pain a bit.
I know the flowers but I don't know if they will press well or not. I would think they might take extra time to dry because of the waxy thick bells. What have you got to lose? If it works great! I am wondering if the seeds would need to have come from the flowers after they were spent? They might be too immature to grow but then again-try it! Good luc I hope they will work for you.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
If I recall, Bells work best if hung upside down to dry. Many years ago I worked at a florist and I believe that's what they did with the ones that weren't fresh enough to sell. I have seen the seeds for sale in the spring so if you couldn't harvest any from these flowers you could still plant some in rememberance. I think that is a nice thought, maybe we should all set aside a piece of ground for a rememberance garden and plant flowers to remind us of our loved ones. I would plant yellow roses in honor of my mother (a true Texan) and sweet peas for my Grandmother, blackberries for my other grandmother.
My sympathies to you and your husband for the loss of your loved one.
The botanical name for Bells of Ireland is Moluccella laevis. It is an annual and should do well where you live. they just don't like hot and humid climates. In mild climates it can be sown in fall for winter bloom or in spring for for summer bloom. It is very long lasting either as fresh or dried in an arrangement. I hope yours do survive. Good luck. MB
Anyone familiar with Bells of Ireland?
Posted - Oct 14 2010 : 09:22:05 AM
