FEBRUARY 17, 2012 HOUSE PLANTS

"Each day is a new start. Each moment is a new beginning."

This is so true. So why not make a new start by finding a hobby. It will certainly boost your self esteem. Make it rewarding. Make it fun. Do it alone. Last night, Rick was changing a plant in the terrarium. The glass enclosure is doing so well. I am pretty sure he would avoid putting poisonous plants in the terrariums. But I did notice he planted the carnivorous pitcher plants that were given to us.

Be careful of this next hobby or your family's house plants...

Do you have house plants? Do you grow a specific species of plants? I know someone in Rhode island who is fascinated and grows Bonsai. Caring for a bonsai is an all -consuming hobby in its own right, but it is a true art form. The same could be said for those who grow orchids. I was a member of the Manhattan Orchid Society when it was on W58 th Street some years ago.

Did you ever think you could have a dangerous or poisonous house plant within your House or apartment? Think again. During the Christmas holiday we are all fascinated by the Poinsettia. When I was a child my mother always cautioned us to watch the dogs as the plant was poisonous. The sap of the plant is mildly irritating.

A House plant that I and many others grow is the Peace Lily. It is a South American plant with simple white flowers. It resembles the Calla lilies. Remember: "The calla lilies are in bloom again."

In 2005 and 2007 more people called poison control about the hazards of this plant. Can you imagine that! The plant, like others contains calcium oxalate crystals that can bring on skin irritation, burning of the mouth, nausea and difficulty swallowing. I can't imagine an adult going over to the plant and taking a bite of a leaf. But there are children and animals that might. The other plant that contain calcium oxalates is the Philodendron. Ingestion of the leaves could lead to severe abdominals pain.

Other plants I find interesting which can lead to medical emergencies are the following:

1. Dumb Cane

2. Pencil Cactus

3. Ficus Tree

4. Christmas Cherry

The idea of any hobby is truly getting to know your hobby. I want your hobby to be happy, joyous and free. I never want it to be harmful or deadly.
Left to right photographs: Dumb Cane, Peace Lily, Poinsetta, and Philodendron.

Until tomorrow...