Mischief, of course!

As promised, we've started compiling a list of the best on-line plant dealers. The categories range from Amaryllis to Brugmansia, Begonias to Passiflora, Hibiscus to flowering tropical vines and seeds. These retailers offer excellent product, responsible packaging and shipping, courteous service and prompt problem solving. Once again, if you have a favorite seller, let us know.

For a plant lover, there's no better feeling than seeing a plant you've recently ordered, delivered and propped up against your front door. If the plant inside the package is healthy and lives up to your expectations, its a good day. On the other hand, if its not the plant you ordered or expected, or is unhealthy and poorly packaged, you're at a loss in more ways than one. Ordering plants on-line can be a dream fulfilled or a nightmare. With the holidays coming, we thought it might be a good idea to get the list going as soon as possible!

Over a period of time, after you've ordered many plants, you develop a list of on-line plant retailers you just love doing business with. We would like to invite you to share your great buying experiences with us by recommending your favorite plant vendors to other keen gardeners. So, lets get started!

Iochroma - Propagating From Cuttings


If propagating Iochroma from seed seems a daunting task. Your best bet is propagating them from cuttings. They can be a bit difficult. Iochroma cuttings are fussy little devils. They like temps around 75 degrees (in late April or May here in Florida), damp, not wet planting medium and low light conditions. Once you get a good sized plant going and have new, tender growth evident, you're ready for surgery!

So, let's get going!

Pollinating Iochroma

Pollinating Iochroma is like doing brain surgery. You need tools and a lot of patience. In their native habitat, Iochroma flowers are pollinated by hummingbirds, so consider that as you tackle this delicate task.

Supplies for pollinating Iochroma:

Small jewelry string tags (the kind used for pricing rings). Iris forceps (small, lightweight tweezers with fine points). An Exacto Knife with clean blade. Artist's paintbrush with fine sable hairs. A fine point Sharpie pen. A magnifying glass. A small tray for carrying your supplies from plant to plant. Small bottle of alcohol for cleaning your brush after each pollination procedure. A paper towel for drying your brush after cleaning.

OK. Let's pollinate!