Plant Library

Succulents Succulents have long been among the most popular choices for indoor plants, and for good reason. They come in an impressive variety of shapes and sizes and require minimal maintenance, needing very little watering or pruning. This is due to their specialized tissues in its thickened leaves, stems, or roots to store water. Through evolution, these adaptations allow succulents to survive extended periods of drought with little to no moisture. Light Requirements Succulents thrive in bright light, so placing them in a sunny room near a window is best! Watering Requirements Succulents come from dry climates, so they don’t...

Poinsettias A holiday favourite, poinsettias are among the most popular indoor plants of the Christmas season. With over 100 varieties available, they range from the classic vibrant red to unique variegated pinks and other festive colours. The striking “blooms” you see are actually bracts—modified leaves—while the true flowers are the small yellow centres, called cyathia. Their brilliant colours develop as the plants respond to shorter days and reduced light. How We Grow On August 6th we began the growing process with rooted cuttings purchased from a propagator. These plants are carefully grown for five months under controlled conditions. On October 1,...

Hydrangea macrophylla or better know as mophead hydrangeas are grown at Niagara College by our Greenhouse Technician students. These potted hydrangeas are coined as a table top plant because they are conditioned and grown to be a annual hydrangea that is gifted during holidays during the spring months.  Generally available in Spring at the Niagara College Teaching Greenhouse. Stay up to date through our Facebook and Instagram pages for sales and other information!

Gerbera Daisy, Garvinea Gerbera At Niagara College our Greenhouse Technician Students grow Gerbera jamesonii 'Garvinae' which is commonly known as the true 'Garden Garvinea'. Native to South Africa these gerberas are grown in Canada as a spring annual.  In mid-winter, our technician team receives rooted cuttings of these gerberas for classes to continue growing, maintaining and scouting for pests and diseases. Growing Preferences ✿ Full sun - part shade ✿ Well draining/high porosity growing media or soil ✿ Water when soil is dry  ✿ Hardy to zones 7 - 10 (tender perennial) ✿ Dead head spent flowers from the base of the...