FLORICULTURAL TERMS

SPRAY A stem of flowers that has several clusters of florets at the tips. Examples include: pompon chrysanthemums, Cymbidium orchids, Alstromeria lilies.

DISBUD To remove buds from a flower stem, either from the sides of the stem or from the tip. If the side buds are removed, the top flower is larger and fuller. If the top bud is removed, the side buds develop more fully. Examples of side disbudding: China mum, standard carnation. Tip disbudding: miniature carnation, spray chrysanthemum.

ANNUAL A plant that completes its life cycle in one growing season. Examples: strawflower, pansy, marigold.

PERENNIAL Plant that lives more than two growing seasons. It is often dormant during the winter. Examples: chrysanthemum, Shasta daisy, perennial statice.

POTTED PLANT Most often used to refer to a blooming plant grown in pots. They are usually produced in a greenhouse and used by consumers in their homes or patio areas. Examples: chrysanthemum, cyclamen, African violet, kalanchoe.

FOLIAGE PLANT A plant produced in a greenhouse for use by consumers in their homes. The foliage is the featured part of the plant. Examples: dieffenbachia, spider plant, ferns.

BEDDING PLANT An herbaceous (non-woody) plant that was preseeded and is growing in a peat or plastic or packet container. They are usually planted in the garden for a show of color. Examples: marigolds, petunias, pansies.