Today's fact...

Plants can relieve everyday symptoms.

Plants can reduce stress levels.

So plants are vital to healthy lives.

So for first aid, try plant aid!

Make sure you have plants in the house/workplace as they are proven to aid concentration, clean the air, reduce headaches and reduce dust particles. If nothing else they look very pretty!

St Bridget Nurseries' Garden Centres have a lovely selection of indoor plants and colourful containers to brighten any indoor space.

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS...DAY 5...MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME...

Make your house feel homely and festive this Christmas by using houseplants. Particularly known for its festive cheer are Poinsettias. Poinsettias don't like sudden changes in heat, particularly drafts which is why buying from a market stall may not be the best idea. When you buy a Poinsettia make sure it is placed in a sleeve to ensure you get it home safely.

St Bridget Nurseries grow their Poinsettias in their nursery greenhouses in Exeter, Devon. This means that the plants are fresh, local and not been damaged in transportation. They’re available in a wide range of colours – such as red, salmon and cream. As an alternative to Poinsettias what about planted bowls of beautifully scented hyacinths? Both make great presents and can be gift wrapped by our staff.

What's in a name? - Flaming Katy!

Commonly known as Flaming Katy, Kalanchoes (pronounced KA-luhn-KO-e) are an easy to grow houseplant. They just need warm temperatures (between 12 and 30C) and minimum care. In a moderate climate they can even be grown outdoors (but only in pots and not in the ground). Plants are sensitive to the cold though so really in Britain it's best to keep them as houseplants as they are unlikely to survive a frost.

Kalanchoe plants look great in small pots. You may find that if you plant in a large pot, the leaves grow in size but the amount of flowers or height will grow as normal and rather slowly. If you want to re-pot your Kalanchoe it is best to do so in spring.

Like most houseplants try not to allow direct sunlight on the plant but do place plants in a well lit spot.

This picture shows a beautiful double flower head of a Kalanchoe from St Bridget Nurseries in Exeter. Both garden centres have a wide selection of houseplants and stunning pot covers to complement your home.