Growing for Success | Petals, plants and play for Mother’s Day

Our popular staff member Henry certainly could not wait to get into the action, getting his gear off in our front courtyard.

He certainly got a lot of comments — funny how it caused such a big deal over such a little thing.

This weekend, however, sees a much more meaningful celebration as we recognise our mums for all the work they have done for us over the years.

From the little things they do and say every day that goes unnoticed to the big life-changing sacrifices they make out of their love for us.

Now, whatever you do, don’t go getting last weekend’s naked garden antics and this weekend mixed up — and that goes out to all the mums as well.

Over the years, traditionally, chrysanthemums have been the go-to plant when it comes to Mother’s Day, but like most things, over time, things change.

Nowadays, it seems like anything pretty in flower — or for those putting a bit more thought into it, a plant with a meaning attached to it, either in name or sentiment — fits the bill.

‘Mother’s Love’ rose is a great example of this, with its beautifully shaped soft pink flowers.

Although they are starting to go dormant, there are still enough late-season flowers hanging on to make them a very thoughtful gift.

In full flower now, the aptly named ‘Camellia with Love’ says a lot to any mum.

With their soft pink double flowers set off nicely against the glossy deep green foliage, they will continue to put on a beautiful display over the coming months.

They have a slender, upright habit and will thrive in full sun to part shade.

They also make a stunning tub plant that requires very little maintenance.

Cyclamens are one of the flowering plants that have become very popular as Mother’s Day gifts in recent years.

Their vibrant coloured flowers will continue to appear right through until the late spring heat starts to kick in.

Cyclamen can be kept inside as a floral display, but they do appreciate the occasional spell, sheltered outside on a cold, frosty night.

This seems to encourage even more flowers and prolong their growing season.

‘Daphne odora’, the old favourite common Daphne, has been in rather short supply over the past few years, so with some in stock now, they would make a thoughtful gift.

This is the Daphne with the thick, deep green leaves and beautifully fragrant small pink flowers throughout the winter months.

They love a shady position and thrive on neglect.

Hanging baskets are another idea — either covered in flowers or cascading foliage — or maybe an indoor plant.

For the brave son-in-law, how about a Sansevieria ‘Mother-in-law’s Tongue’ or a Parrotia persica, the ‘Persian Witch-Hazel’?

I’m not sure if it’s for the brave or the silly, but it’s a suggestion, if you’re game.

If you’re not sure about plants, why not a lovely, stylish ceramic planter or a novelty pot?

There is also a whole range of garden ornaments you could consider, including wind spinners, bird baths, wall art, garden sculptures, statues and wind chimes.

For the mums that have everything they need for the garden, there are beautiful gift ideas in our gift shop: Bramble Bay scented candles and diffusers, Australian bush-inspired hand creams, soaps and candleholders from Koh Living, or our popular place mats and surface protectors from Ashdene.

When it’s all said and done though, it’s all about acknowledging and remembering our mums — and, if you’re lucky enough, being able to spend time with them.

So maybe a phone call, a catch-up, or quality family time is what would be loved and appreciated the most.

One tradition that has not changed over the years is our tradition of offering free mini golf to all mums on Mother’s Day to take on the challenge of our Laugh A Lot Mini Golf Course.

There are no strings attached; it’s just our way of saying thank you to all mums who visit us this Sunday.

With the beautiful sunny 23-degree day forecast for Sunday, what better way to enjoy it than giving the family a life lesson on the golf course — and then basking in the glory of your win while enjoying a picnic on the lawns by the lake in our Golf Gardens.

But remember — it was clothes optional last week.