Christmas Trees 'N
Flowers
Christmas Trees
A Little History: The origin of using Christmas trees has it's roots
in Germany during medieval times. It comes from the tradition of decorating
an evergreen tree called the "Paradise tree". Others believe the first Christmas
tree was decorated by Martin Luther during the 1700's. The germans brought
the tradition of decorating the tree to America in the 1800's. The tradition
spread rapidly in America, and around the world.
Also see
Chronological
History of Christmas Trees
Types: There's short needles, long needles, varying shades of green
and aarrgh...artificial. To most families, the whole process of selecting
and decorating the tree is steeped in tradition from start to finish. The
traditional tree absolutely has to be the same kind that you have had year
after year, generation after generation. If you are looking to change varieties,
there is plenty of selection. You may wan to learn more about the different
types
of Christmas Trees
Selection and Care: If you're going out get a live tree, you are about
to have a lot of fun. There are a few things you should know as you head
out in search of the "perfect tree". Christmas trees aren't cheap. And, they
can dry out quickly. Making sure the tree is healthy and fresh is job one.
Getting one with a straight trunk is pretty important, too. Then, when you
get it home and in the room, your tree needs a little care and attention
to help it to stay fresh through the long holiday season.
More
on Selection and Care of your Christmas tree.
Flowers of Christmas
Poinsettia- Legend has it that a poor, young girl in Mexico was on
her way to Christmas eve mass. She had nothing to bring to the Christ child.
So, she picked some green plants along the side of the road. When she arrived
at the church, the plants had burst into beautiful red blooms. You guessed
it. She was carrying Poinsettias. In the 1800s, U.S.Ambassador John Poinsett,
brought the plants back with him to the U.S. He gave the plants, which would
come to be named after him, as a gift to family and friends.
Christmas Cactus got it's name as it's tiny red flower opens up just
in time for Christmas. Many people grow them as indoor houseplants. They
like the dry air of your home in the winter. They also are popular Christmas
gifts.
Mistletoe- Dating back to ancient history, Mistletoe is a sign of
peace, goodwill and love. Current tradition is for a young lady to stand
under the mistletoe awaiting her lover's kiss. Heaven help the young beau
that does not take a hint. Want to harvest some Mistletoe? Then, get out
your shotgun!
Holly is a tree or shrub with prickly green leaves and red berries.
It's green and red colors are the colors of the season. It is attractive
and used in a wide variety of decorations.
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