Little Plants and Charming Pots

Firefly Impatiens

About: 

• ‘Firefly’ Impatiens are annuals and grow only 4 to 6” tall.
• They bloom in nine brilliant colors: blush pink, pink, burgundy, lavender, orange, salmon, red, violet and white.

• Virtually maintenance free; needs partial shade and consistently moist, well-drained soil.
• Use a combination of commercial potting mix and organic material (compost or manures) and a dose of slow release fertilizer high in phosphorous. Fertilize every 4 weeks.

• Gift mini impatiens in small containers, like decorative gravy boats or teacups.
• Provide instructions to replant in a larger container if the plant seems stressed or is outgrowing the container.

Baby’s Tears

• Baby’s Tears or Angel’s Tears have bright green, tiny tear drop-shaped leaves, about the size of a child’s fingernail. They seldom grow more than 4” tall.
• The leaves multiply quickly to create a ‘mat’ of foliage with tiny white flowers in mid-spring. Baby’s Tears are often sold as a houseplant, because they can become invasive outdoors.

• Grows best in moist, not boggy soil (moist sand or any commercial potting mix will do).
• It can be “contained” into whatever shape you wish. Gently pull and remove the edges of the plant. Share pieces with friends and family or use to start more plants.

• Muffin tins, teacups, teapots, gravy boats, casserole dishes and votive candleholders, all make nice homes for this precious miniature plant. It also does well in terrariums.

Oak Leaf Ivy

• The easiest and fastest growing miniature ivy, ‘Oak Leaf’ features small, dark green foliage, and looks its best when allowed to trail or climb using aerial rootlets.
• It can be trained into just about any shape, though some pruning to keep it in check might become necessary.

• Plant in commercial potting mix, and feed monthly with houseplant fertilizer when actively growing (follow manufacturer’s instructions). A north or east window is best for light requirements.
• Allow ivy to dry out between watering. Keep the foliage clean by rinsing in the kitchen sink.

• Ivy looks beautiful trailing from a decorative teacup or wrapping around the handle of a small basket or teapot.

More Planting Tips & Gift Inspiration

General Planting Tips for Little Plants: Clean and dry out containers thoroughly before planting to eliminate residues that could contaminate the soil. Without drainage holes, you must be careful not to over water. Misting your plants is a great way to keep the soil from getting waterlogged. Pour out excess water immediately.

Gifts & Creative Planter Ideas: Once planted, your mini plants make a lovely table centerpiece or the perfect present for a friend or family member. Use sweetly potted plants to decorate your table for a party, and then send your guests home with a charming handmade party favor. Also try:

• Old patterned casserole or serving dishes
• Baby shoes
• Stemware glasses
• Mini tin buckets
• Vintage lunch boxes
• Jewelry boxes
• Perfume bottles
• Trifle bowls
• Egg cups
• Small paint cans
• Baby food jars
• Candy dishes