HOLIDAY 2014
VERMEER’S GARDEN CENTRE A Festive Trifle By Anna Olson
Hyacinths, Paperwhites & Amaryllis By Brian Minter
Growing Your Herbs INDOORS this Winter By Brian Whetter
684 South Pelham Rd, Welland 905-735-5744 www.vermeers.ca
Sparkling
HOLIDAY
TABLE SETTINGS
by Ruth Van Belle
BOXWOOD REG. $29.99
SALE $19 .99
PEPPERBERRY REG. $49.99
.99 9 3 $ E L A S
contents 9
Growing your Herbs Indoors this Winter
10
5 Tips for a Healthy Holiday Season
12
Stocking Stuffers for Gardeners
14
Fashions are in Full Bloom
16
Sparkling Table Settings for the Holidays
18
The Forgotten Helper
20
A Festive Trifle
22
Hyacinths, Paperwhites, & Amaryllis
2 4
A Seed by Any Other Name
28
Welcome Home for the Holidays
28 18
9
24 This publication may not be reproduced, all or in part, without written consent from the publisher and Vermeer’s Garden Centre & Flower Shop. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all content in the publication, however, the publisher will not be held accountable for omissions or errors. Note that products may vary between retailers and regions, and supplies may be limited. Pricing is subject to change and is not valid with any other offer. Home & Garden Showplace is a registered trade mark for use by its members, of which the Garden Centre Group Co-Op is an alliance member. 4 • VERMEER’S GARDEN CENTRE - 905-735-5744 - WWW.VERMEERS.CA
FROM THE
W
OWNER
elcome to the fall edition of Vermeer’s Home and Garden Showplace Magazine. It never fails to amaze me how quickly our seasons fly by. Here at Vermeer’s, we spend a great deal of time planning and preparing for the seasons ahead, and have been working on this year’s crop of poinsettias for you since late July. We strive to consistently provide you with top quality plants, and the addition of “Pink Candy”, “Nostalgia”, and “Christmas Ribbon” poinsettias to our crop of 30,000 plus plants is sure to impress.
Our calendar of events is full of workshops and seminars designed to bring family and friends together to learn and get creative in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Our design centre team understands that every spare moment of the holidays is precious, and is there to help. Let them create décor and arrangements to suit your taste and budget. On a personal note, this holiday season is filled with anticipation and excitement as we eagerly wait for the birth of our first grandchild…and so the Vermeer family keeps growing! We invite you to visit, stay awhile and enjoy all that Christmas has to offer at Vermeer’s.
It takes a hard working team to make Christmas at Vermeer’s come to life. It is our personal commitment to provide you with fantastic, friendly service. We are always excited to share ideas, inspire creativity, and bring you only the best in plants & products. Let the fragrance of fresh cut evergreen boughs guide you through our garden centre, where you’ll find the city’s largest selection of greens, branches & berries to perfect your outdoor décor. A great deal of thought and creative preparation go into each of our displays, and we take great pleasure in watching the smiles of all who see them as they walk through our doors.
HOLIDAY 2014 • 5
OF
EVENTS
We’re thrilled to announce this year’s lineup of classes & seminars! Call us at 905 735 5744 to rsvp to any of our events.
HOLIDAY HOURS
CALENDAR
November 3rd – December 23rd
Dec 24th : 9am – 4pm
Monday – Wednesday : 9am – 6pm
Dec 25th & 26th : closed
Thursdays & Fridays : 9am – 8pm
Dec 27th – 31st : 10am – 4:30 pm
Saturdays : 9am – 5:30pm Closed Sundays
FRESH & GREEN – DECORATING YOUR OUTDOOR CONTAINER WORKSHOP SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8TH, 10 AM
A fresh porch pot of Christmas greens is the perfect way to welcome holiday guests into your home. Learn from the pros to create a stunning arrangement of greens and finish your masterpiece off with ornaments, branches and bows that will match your personal décor. 10” urn insert containers will be provided at this seminar, but please bring clippers if you have them. Cost: $50, Please RSVP by phone
FRESH & GREEN – DECORATING YOUR OUTDOOR CONTAINER WORKSHOP SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15TH, 10AM
Missed it the first time? Here’s your second chance to attend this holiday favourite! If you can’t get here either of these Saturday dates, don’t forget about our Urn week, every night at 6pm from Nov 18th-23rd! Cost: $50, RSVP by phone
MINI CHRISTMAS GARDEN WORKSHOP
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15TH, 2PM
PORCH POT MADNESS!
In addition to our two Porch Pot Workshops on Sat November 8th & Sat November 15th, we’re happy to announce that we will be hosting Holiday Urn Classes on Thursday & Friday evenings at 6pm. Join us November 13, 14, 21, 27 or 28 for these fun classes to create your own urn insert masterpiece. Choose which night works best for you – and be sure to sign up early!
CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6TH, 12PM – 9PM Join us for our annual open house! We will be closed for the morning, opening at noon to reveal our Christmas wonderland! We’ll have mini demonstrations, snacks and refreshments throughout the afternoon and evening. Live music, open house specials and door prizes will run throughout the day. If you can’t make it for open house day, don’t worry, open house specials will continue throughout the weekend. For a list of our demonstrations and times please visit our website at Vermeers.ca. See you here!
Take your fairy gardens to the next level with this adorable Christmas Mini Garden workshop. Perfect for the holiday table, these dish gardens are fun & easy to create, and make an excellent holiday conversation piece. This workshop lets you create your very own Christmas garden to take home, complete with fun and funky accessories! A mini garden “starter kit” will be provided – feel free to add extras! Cost $35, RSVP by phone
LADIES NIGHT – DÉCOR QUICK FIXES, HOLIDAY STYLE & GIFT GIVING GREATS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20TH, 6-8PM
What’s hot this season? This is the night to find out! Quick, fun and fabulous fixes for all your holiday needs. Learn about instant centrepieces, fun fashion items for gifts (or yourself) and of course, new and exciting gift ideas. Door prizes, munchies, beverages & more, don’t miss out! Cost $15 per person. Please RSVP by phone as soon as possible, as our ladies nights fill up quickly!
6 • VERMEER’S GARDEN CENTRE - 905-735-5744 - WWW.VERMEERS.CA
HOLIDAY EUROS
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6TH, 10AM A fun class that lets you walk away with three lovely, compact fresh floral Christmas arrangements. Feel free to create matching euros for a beautiful display down the middle of your holiday table or make them all unique to tuck in different areas and spread holiday cheer throughout your home. They make great hostess or teachers gifts too. Learn the art of Euro making here and keep on making them at home with fresh flowers from Vermeer’s! Containers will be supplied for this workshop, but please bring clippers! Cost $50, please RSVP by phone
DESIGNER ARTIFICIAL WREATH WORKSHOP SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22ND, 10AM
Join Regina to learn the art of creating a custom wreath for your home. This workshop will teach you techniques for using sinamay and ribbon effectively in your designs, as well as using clusters and groupings to create stunning accents. Bow lessons and materials will be provided. Cost $50, please RSVP by phone
DECORATING A CHRISTMAS TREE LIKE VERMEER’S SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22ND, 2PM
Want to take your tree up a notch this season? This is the seminar for you! Learn the tips and tricks (yes, there are tricks) we use to create stunning themed Christmas trees. We’ll show you how to use sinamay, ribbon, picks and incorporate your favourite existing ornaments into a tree that will light up your holiday season! No cost, Please RSVP by phone
COME SEE THIRTY THOUSAND POINSETTIAS IN BLOOM!
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29TH, 9AM – 12:30PM For one day only, we’re opening the doors of our growing area to let you see what a sea of poinsettias really is! Learn about the unique varieties we grow and how we do it. Gerry, Ryan and Reuben will be happy to walk you through the world of poinsettias, and answer any questions you might have!
FRESH HOLIDAY WREATH
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29TH, 10AM Using fresh magnolia, boxwood, pine cones, white pine and BC cedar, we will create a unique wreath to adorn your holiday door. A beautiful bow to match your décor (bow lessons included) will finish off a wreath that will dazzle you straight through til March. Please bring clippers if you have them. Cost $50, please RSVP by phone
FRESH CENTREPIECE ARRANGEMENT SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13TH, 10AM
Make a stunning arrangement with fresh Christmas greens, cut flowers, and holiday decor to welcome in the season. Perfect as the crowning touch to your holiday tablescape, you can customize the size of this piece to fit your space. Set off with intertwining ribbon of your choice, this is a stunning way to bring the scents and sights of the season into your home. Container will be supplied for this workshop, please bring your clippers. Cost $50, please RSVP by phone If you have a group of 6 or more and are interested in a private lesson, we’d be happy to host. Call us at 905 735 5744 to arrange your group class, or to rsvp to any of our events. HOLIDAY 2014 • 7
abulous F FINDS! So much more than a garden centre, Vermeer’s is a great place to stock up on gifts for the whole family. Check out these fun ideas for stocking stuffers, décor and so much more!
BUCKHEAD BETTIES
CASSEROLE CARRIER This fantastic carrier will have you arriving in style at any holiday party. It’s soft but strong handles make it easy to transport baked goods, hot dishes dips or appetizers. Insulated to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cool, it makes a great gift for any cook on your list!
SHOELITE LED LACES
Kick it into high gear with these brightly coloured, super flashy LED shoelaces. They glow so bright you’ll never have to worry about losing a shoe in the back of the closet or under a bed again! They fit in most kid sized shoes and have an on-off feature for extended battery life. A perfect stocking stuffer.
Reclaimed Barn Board Wall Art
THE
BIG BAG
You might think a 2 & 1/2ft tall bag is a little ridiculous…
Handmade in the USA, the sayings on these beautiful wall hangings had us tearing up and laughing out loud as we chose which ones to bring to you. Each piece is unique and stunning, and is guaranteed to conjure a picture of the perfect recipient.
Until you have to cart all those Christmas presents to a family member’s house…or pack up all the kids toys, towels and sprays as you head down to the beach…or send your college student back to school with all the laundry they brought home. Then, it’s a lifesaver. Made with lightweight, foam-feel, mildew resistant material, these bags are hose-down and hang to dry friendly.
THE POCKETMONKEY!
What is this cute little wallet sized gizmo, you ask? It’s better to ask what it isn’t. This amazing multi tool is a bottle opener, a flat screwdriver, a phillips screwdriver, a micro screwdriver, a phone kickstand, a set of hex wrenches, an orange peeler, a door latch slip, a letter opener, a ruler, a straight edge and more. Plus, it looks like a monkey. A must have for the gadget lover on your list. 8 • VERMEER’S GARDEN CENTRE - 905-735-5744 - WWW.VERMEERS.CA
A
fter a lovely summer of enjoying the delights of your herb garden, it is no wonder you want to continue this bounty indoors over the dark, cold winter months. And, you have probably seen green, healthy, productive herb pots in people’s kitchens, on south-facing windowsills and strategically placed in all-year solariums. However, success during the winter season requires more than just good soil, access to sunlight and a carefully thought-out watering strategy. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your indoor herb garden – all winter long. Select the right types of herbs to grow in the winter months. Some of the hardiest varieties of plants are oregano,
GROWING YOUR
chives, thyme, sage and parsley. For better success, purchase starter herb plants rather than cultivating them from seed. Ensure that the soil used is a good potting mix which should include perlite and vermiculite. These will keep the soil loose and allow the excess water to drain away. Use the correct type of container and saucer. Clay pots and saucers may look more natural, but sometimes allow the moisture from the soil to escape faster. If the herbs are placed in a warm area, consider planting them in decorative ceramic or plastic containers. Always use pots that have adequate drainage, and a saucer that will catch the water and protect surfaces. Keep the soil
herbs
INDOORS
THIS WINTER
by Bernie Whetter
moist but never overwater. To check soil conditions, insert your finger 1 to 2” into the soil. If it is dry, water your herb plant. If it is moist, then possibly wait a day or two. The biggest challenge for the indoor herb gardener over winter is light. Place your aromatic plants in an area that gets plenty of light during the winter months. South facing windows tend to be a better location, allowing for a minimum of 6 hours of natural light per day. Place your plants at least 2” away from the window, so that the foliage does not touch the cold glass. If you do not have an adequate sunny location for your plants, you may want to consider using some artificial lighting devices to light your herbs for 14 hours per day. You don’t have to be an expert to master the art of lighting for herbs. Your local garden center has excellent products that make creating your own indoor garden very easy and offer what you need to start, maintain and then brag about your winter herb growing skills. Some of these mini greenhouse kits can fit on a small table or counter top much the same way you would display a fish tank. Grow lights are designed to stimulate plant growth by rounding out light at both ends of the spectrum to achieve optimum plant growth. Since indoor gardening is becoming more popular, most growing systems are now attractive, functional and affordable for the average person. Every two weeks, you should give your herbs some natural, organic fertilizer. You can also use insecticidal soap if any unwanted insects stop by for a visit. Lightly mist your plants or give them a light shower in your sink on a weekly basis. So, if you are growing cilantro to spice up your salsas, fresh rosemary for the roast turkey, or tarragon for that special salad dressing, growing herbs indoors can be a very rewarding experience. And remember, you can always ask for a little advice from your local garden center. We are always here to help.
The Growlight Garden from Sunblaster HOLIDAY 2014 • 9
5 for a TIPS
HEALTHY HOLIDAY SEASON
by Mandy King, CNP, BCom
Y
ou know the feeling all too well. It’s January 1st and all of a sudden your jeans are not fitting quite the way they used to. Whether it’s all of the parties, the stress of all the shopping, or just the inability to resist the sweets, the holidays can be one of the least healthy times of the year. As a nutritionist, these are some simple recommendations that I give to my clients so that come January 1st they feel good, both mentally and physically, and are not in need of a holiday from the holidays!
1 MAKE A PLAN
It’s no surprise that the holiday season will be busy, but you can stay on top of it with a plan. By late November or early December, you should have an idea of all the parties and gatherings you will be attending. Once you know your social schedule, carve out time for everything else, including your holiday shopping, cooking, and exercising. You can take the planning one step further by using a weekly meal plan. By planning out your meals, you spend less time in the grocery store and can bulk cook enough on a Sunday for most of the week.
2 MAKE TIME FOR EXERCISE
Even with a plan in place to exercise, as soon as you get busy, it’s easy to make excuses not to do it. Make sure exercise stays a priority! Not only will this help burn off any extra calories, but it also helps keep your stress levels in check. Higher stress levels can lead to emotional eating and cravings which add on unnecessary calories and weight. A great idea for 10
exercise is to go for walks or jogs with relatives or friends that might be visiting. That way, you’re turning an eating or drinking occasion into a form of exercise.
3 SNACK BEFORE A PARTY
All of the holiday parties have an array of food that can be very hard to say no to. If you snack before you go to the party, you’ll have a much easier time having just a moderate amount of food at the event. Have a snack that includes some protein and healthy fats to keep you full. If you do decide to eat at the party, focus on the foods that are fresh and colourful. The more colourful they are, the more likely they are to be plant based and nutritious.
4 FAKE THE COCKTAIL
It’s always hard to turn down a drink at a social event. A trick that I’ve used many a time is to get a glass full of water or soda water and place a lime or lemon in it, much like a vodka soda would appear. Simply having the drink in your hand is half the battle, regardless of what’s in it. Sipping on the mock-tail won’t instigate any uncomfortable questions from friends as to why you might not be drinking.
5 CHOOSE DARK CHOCOLATE
Lastly, everyone can indulge every once in a while and what better way than with some good chocolate? Instead of buying milk chocolate, look for something that is 65% or higher in cocoa content. The cocoa in chocolate is very high in antioxidants and magnesium, however a lot of this is lost in highly processed milk chocolate. With these five tips in place, you’ll be well on your way to a happy and healthy holiday season! Mandy King Bio: Mandy King, CNP, BCom, is a Holistic Nutritionist, Speaker and Founder of HEAL, a health and wellness company with the ambition to make the world a healthier place, one delicious meal at a time. HEAL offers interactive corporate wellness programs along with personalized one-on-one nutrition and online programs. Mandy is the co-author of the “21 Day Smoothie Guide”, author of the popular blog www.HealthyEatingAndLiving.ca, and loves to spread the nutrition word at her speaking engagements. FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/healthyeatingandliving.ca TWITTER: @mandyking_HEAL WEBSITE: healthyeatingandliving.ca
RAW BROWNIE RECIPE • • • • • • • •
1 cup almonds 2 cups walnuts 1/2 cup raw cacao powder 1/4 cup carob powder (can sub cacao) 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes 2 cups dates 2 TBSP maple syrup pinch of salt
- In food processor, pulse almonds until chopped, but not fully ground. - Remove almonds from food processor and place in large bowl. - Pulse walnuts until nicely ground - almost a flour consistency. - Add the coconut flakes, salt, cacao and carob powders and continue to mix. - Drop the dates in, one at a time, while the food processor is on. - Add in the maple syrup. - Add back in the almonds and pulse again just enough to mix it all together. - Place in 8x8 baking tin, lined with parchment paper, and press down firmly into brownies. - Optional: sprinkle some raw cacao on top - Place in freezer for 30 minutes to set and then keep in fridge afterwards. **Recipe is gluten free, dairy free, soy free!
HOLIDAY 2014 • 11
WINDCHIMES Stocking Stuffers FOR G A R D E N E R S
Garden Tools
Wind chimes accent your garden in a way that no other accessory can. Calm and uplifting, these chimes will provide a break from your hectic world during any season. Beautiful on the ears and the eyes, windchimes will complete your garden and your stocking.
Always a welcomed gift for a true gardener, as well-constructed garden tools will last a lifetime. Find ones that have a soft contoured handle that will fit your hand naturally to reduce hand stress. It’s always beneficial to have the correct tool on hand at all times.
Sunhat A perfect fit that is fashionable and practical, sunhats are a staple for any woman. Wide-brimmed and light, any gardener would be thrilled to find a sunhat in their stocking for those hot summer days.
Attractive BIRD FEEDER Give a wonderful bird feeder to a special gardener this Christmas. Select a durable and practical triple feeder for minimal maintenance, or a unique bird shaped house that will have all your friends and family jealous. Small enough to fit in a stocking, yet big enough for that “wow” factor you’re after. These bird feeders will attract all the birds (and not to mention eyes!) in your neighborhood. 12
GARDEN KNEELER
Save your knees and back! At the core of every Kneelo® lies a deep layer of shock absorbing EVA foam and a luxurious cushioning layer of memory foam. It is encased in waterproof, durable neoprene with a quick dry, wipe clean, nylon coating. Garden in comfort with this kneeler!
HAND
PRUNERS
One of the most used garden tools, a quality pair of hand pruners will be the perfect Christmas gift for any gardener. When it’s important to give the best, always choose a Felco pruner.
Gift Card
The perfect gift for any gardener! Let them select exactly what they are looking for. A gift that can be used throughout the year, gift cards can easily fit in any stocking or Christmas card!
THERMOMETER A traditional weather device to be appreciated in all seasons, because you know the weatherman isn’t always right! Select a well constructed thermometer that will not rust or flake and is durable for the outdoors. Know your temperature before sending children out to play!
G A R D EN
GLOVES
Durable garden gloves will keep hands safe and clean while working in your flowerbeds. Built strong to ensure that these gloves will last, no matter the terrain.
Outdoor Lantern A halo of bright light will cast a glow over your garden when used in the summer. In the winter these lanterns can be used to illuminate walkways and your home, creating a welcome entrance for any guest. Adding a flameless timer candle will be the finishing touch on this wonderful present. HOLIDAY 2014 • 13
FASHIONS FULL ARE IN
BLOOM A Written by Kim Burns
fter a steamy summer of stilettos and string bikinis, international fashion houses are opting for a cooler approach to their Fall and Winter 2014 designs. So retire that crop top and put those bootie shorts back in your closet – this season’s trends are all about cozy knits, chunky cardigans and edgy bottoms.
Get Creative With Your Look
If we could sum up the inspiration behind many of this season’s top designs in one phrase it would be “anything and everything.” Building off of summer’s youthful trends, many designers are focusing on creative color pairings, tempting textures and eye-catching embellishments. While out shopping, watch for items with quilting, exposed zippers and filmy panels. Thinking about splurging on one statement piece? Then keep an eye out for jewel-toned leathers. Bonus fashion points if you manage to snag a piece in Radiant Orchid: Pantone’s official 2014 Color of the Year.
Color Therapy
A rich purpley-pink, Pantone No. 18-3224 has been showing up on runways around the world, both as an accent hue and a bold basic. From shoes to skirts, tights to trench coats, there’s really no wrong way to wear this vibrant shade. Punch up your look by pairing this pop of color with pastels and soft greys. Hues like flint stone blue, mahogany rose and sage will help transition this bright, summery color into autumn. RA DI AN T Other color combos worth experimenting this season include: O RC HI D • Rich reds, sands and chocolate browns • Cool cobalt alongside maroon and navy • Velvety cognacs, mauves and grapes
Pretty in Prints
PANTONE
18-3224
After months of color-blocking boredom, we’re happy to report that prints are back and better than ever. Whether it’s wild animal prints or bold Bordeaux basics, patterns offer a quick and easy enhancement to almost any outfit. Struggling to find a print that you’re comfortable with? We suggest going with a simple grid pattern; grid knits are shaping up to be especially popular. 14
The Feel of Fashion
Speaking of knits, fashion-forward shoppers will be focusing a great deal of their attention on feel this season as texture is turning out to be a huge trend. Chunky knits, fluffy yarns, and baby-soft angoras are all adding an extra dimension to outwear this autumn. That being said, it’s no surprise that the cardigan has made a comeback, this time in the form of the coatigan. Not quite a coat, not quite a sweater, the coatigan provides just enough warmth for romantic autumn outings. Other textures to run your fingers through include faux fur, shearling and liquid-like scuba-inspired fabrics.
Soft Tops, Sharp Bottoms
Balancing the softness of this season’s cardigan are crisp, rock-and-roll inspired cigarette pants. Expertly tailored and subtly embellished, these bottoms add a touch of spice to any outfit. Experiment with houndstooth patterns and vibrant hues to create look that’s both trendy and unique. Are you ready for this season’s “anything goes” attitude? Then keep these in mind while your upgrading your wardrobe this winter!
HOLIDAY 2014 • 15
Sparkling Holidays TABLE SETTINGS FOR THE
by Ruth Van Belle
T
he Christmas tree is now adorned, the mantle is decorated, and the exterior of the house is glittering with festive lights and holiday greens. Your holiday trim is almost complete. The finishing touch will be a welcoming dining table that will entice your family and friends to begin a wonderful evening of holiday festivities. Your Christmas table should be reflective of your holiday style in your home. When you begin to decorate your holiday table, start with a white or bold coloured tablecloth to reflect your festive theme. Adding a runner down the center of the table will add additional color, texture or sparkle to the base of your displays.
A traditional Christmas table consists of the customary red and green, which can be conveyed with a white or green tablecloth, and bright festive red runner. Using artificial pine garland as a base, swivel it down the center of the table, then add small votive candles along the outside. Tall candelabras with red or white candles will add height to your table also. A final accent of vibrant red berries and pinecones throughout the garland will be the finishing touch. Adding a few red flowers will also make this traditional Christmas table more elegant. To create a country themed table, place a burlap runner or 3 strips of ribbon over your table cloth. Add some metal lanterns with flameless candles (on timers) onto round pieces of birch to maintain the rustic theme. Add green holiday foliage, using BC cedar because it lies flat on the table, allowing you to place pine cones, iilex berries and more votive candles on top. Finish off each place setting with a strategically placed pine cone and a bright red napkin tied with twine, burlap or ribbon. Scented pinecones can make a nice party favour for each of your guests to take home and also adds fragrances of rich cinnamon and spices to the room. Create a shimmery, icy look of winter with plenty of glass vases, candles and baubles. Using an inexpensive wall mirror in the center of the table, add an acrylic bead garland with clear Christmas lights strung through it. Decorate with various heights of apothecary jars or vases filled with shiny silver, white and even champagne coloured baubles. Other glass
16
containers can be filled with floating candles to create a soft, sparkling glow. Remember to decorate above the table by stringing glass ornaments from the chandelier with silver ribbons, decorative wire or even holiday greens. To complete your look, place a beautiful Christmas ornament on each place setting, and if you desire, inscribe it with your guest’s name or holiday year for a wonderful keepsake. Poinsettias, Christmas berries, foliage and flowers should not be forgotten when setting your festive table. Placing a line of crisp, white coloured poinsettias in decorative containers on your table creates an elegant and sophisticated display, or a single amaryllis flower atop a cake plate makes a unique floral feature. Frosty ferns and potted herbs in birch containers, accented with twine or burlap, will continue an organic and natural theme.
creates an elegant and luxurious table, while combinations of hot pink, lime greens and silvers makes for a table that is merry and bright. Incorporating these colours can be achieved by using artificial flowers and berries, holiday ornaments, birds, ribbons and Christmas figurines. How about displaying your vast array of Christmas houses in the center of the table, all nesting in artificial snow and foliage? This would make quite a conversation starter. Any of these arrangements can be done prior to Christmas dinner, and should be left on the table throughout the meal so that your guests can enjoy your decorating talents. Having a beautiful adorned table will be the perfect addition to a festive holiday as you entertain your family and friends.
2014 is the year to play up the energetic range of bright and metallic options. Jewel toned purples, blacks and gold
HOLIDAY 2014 • 17
The morning arrives, and children rush down the stairs to see what Santa has brought them for Christmas. They open their gifts, ribbons in the air, wrapping paper flying: dolls and kitchen sets for the girls, trucks and balls for the boys all thanks to Santa! But how could Santa do this all on his own? Of course he has lots of help - from magical creatures called Elves. They take care of Santa’s sleigh, making sure it is shiny and ready to fly and they feed the reindeer. Elves can speak every language in the world, so they open Santa’s mail and update the ‘Naughty and Nice’ list. Elves are special because they keep Santa in line – they make sure Santa is on time so he can fly all around the world with time to spare on Christmas Eve. They are Santa’s forgotten helpers. During the holidays, each morning children across North America jump out of bed in excitement to find where their Elf is sitting after his long journey to the North Pole the night before. There have been elves found hanging from light fixtures, driving toy trucks and there is even evidence of mischievous elves who have gotten into the flour jar! Creativity and belief is what makes this holiday tradition full of joy, love and well-behaved young children. Elves add magic to Christmas in many ways. They can add magic onto your tree just by being placed on the tree as a decoration, they can be incorporated into wreaths on front doors, and tucked in stockings to surprise little girls and boys. They sprinkle magic as guests walk through the doors during the holidays. Sometimes we forget that Christmas is a season for family, laughter, and peace. Families who have adopted this tradition into their home are reminded every morning what the magic of Christmas is all about.
The
Forgotten Helper
“
by Erin Van Raay
The elves are their friends. They make Christmas more fun than it usually is, plus it gives Santa a hand. I think we all thought Santa did everything himself. Now we know he has help. – Carol Aebersold
C
”
hristmas time is almost here and our families are getting ready for the magical night that Santa comes down the chimney to leave toys for little girls and boys. We bustle around to ensure the tree is trimmed, ornaments are hung, and cookies are baked for Santa’s arrival, with a cup of milk by the fireplace. Eager boys and girls are tucked into bed, excited to wake up the next morning and find their surprises under the tree. 18
HOLIDAY 2014 • 19
festive TRIFLE A
By Anna Olson
Get a Trifle Creative with Presentation
Y
our holiday trifle has undergone a magical makeover! Gone are frumpy, heavy trifles soaked in sweet sherry and assembled with tinned fruit cocktail. Welcome to the fashion-forward, show-stopping trifle that will garner gasps of joy when it’s brought to your holiday table.
Why Even Trifle with a Trifle? A trifle is an ideal holiday dessert because it is balanced and offers a little something for everyone: something fruity, something creamy, something crunchy, perhaps, and if you are not an expert baker it can certainly be assembled with ease. Essentially, a trifle contains all the elements of a plated dessert, but layered appealingly within one vessel.
Trifle with Your Guests’ Tastes When planning what style of trifle to serve, you can definitely cater to your guests’ and your own tastes. Love chocolate? Then use a chocolate cake layered with vanilla custard, Bailey’s and poached pears. Fancy something lighter? How about angel food cake (even store bought!) layered with tropical fruits (jn season at holiday time) and a sprinkle of Icewine and lemon curd? Need a family-friendly trifle? Then leave out the spirits and layer cupcakes (take the paper liners off!) with festive frosting, jam and fresh berries. And don’t feel that cake is essential for a trifle. I have been known to layer entire apple pies with custard and whiskey for our annual open house when I need to feed 50-60 people. My recipe for Apple Crisp & Bourbon Cream Trifle here is an adapted version of this (and just the crisp on its own is lovely).
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Now is the time to pull out that trifle bowl you were given as a wedding gift, or your great aunt’s bowl that has been stored away for a decade. If you don’t have a trifle bowl you still have plenty of options. Using a glass flower vase works perfectly – a tall vase allows you to really stack those layers Apple Crisp & Bourbon Cream Trifle and show them off. Just make sure that it can fit into your fridge and that a serving spoon can reach in easily. Another option if you lack a trifle bowl is to make individual trifles. A large trifle recipe can be cut in half and then layered into glasses. Even mason jars work for a more rustic holiday dessert (maybe for a skating party or winter cottage get-together). Whatever trifle style you wish to make, prepare for the accolades as you present this grand dessert – you will deserve them!
APPLE CRISP & BOURBON CREAM TRIFLE Not a typical trifle, this holiday dessert is made by layering chilled apple crisp with a Bourbon spiked pastry cream and toasted pecans. Makes 1 12-cup Trifle Serves 12 to 16 PASTRY CREAM: ½ cup half-and-half cream ½ cup milk 4 egg yolks ¼ cup packed light brown sugar 2½ Tbsp cornstarch 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 Tbsp unsalted butter 3 Tbsp bourbon WHIPPED CREAM & ASSEMBLY: 1 ½ cups whipping cream 2 Tbsp sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 Tbsp bourbon, plus extra for sprinkling 1 recipe Classic Apple Crisp, chilled (recipe follows) 1 ½ cups lightly toasted pecan halves Ground cinnamon, for garnish
CLASSIC APPLE CRISP One of the easier desserts to make, a crisp is also easy to personalize by using your favorite fruits, or to use what is in peak season or simply available to you. Makes 1 8-cup baking dish Serves 6 to 8 6 cups ¼ cup + ½ cup ½ tsp 1 ¼ cups 1/3 cup ½ tsp ½ cup
peeled & diced apples (any variety) packed light brown sugar vanilla extract regular rolled oats all-purpose flour ground cinnamon unsalted butter, melted
1. Bring the cream and milk up to a simmer in a saucepot. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, brown sugar, cornstarch and vanilla. Slowly pour in the hot cream while whisking and pour the entire mixture back into the pot. Whisk the custard over medium heat until it has thickened and just begins to bubble, about 3 minutes. Pour the cooked custard through a strainer and stir in the butter. Place a piece of plastic wrap directly over the surface of the pastry cream and chill completely. Once chilled, stir in the bourbon.
1. Preheat the oven to 350 °F.
2. Whip the cream until it holds a soft peak. Fold 1 cup of the whipped cream into the pastry cream. Stir in the sugar, vanilla and 2 Tbsp of bourbon into the remaining whipped cream.
The crisp will keep, refrigerated, for up to 2 days.
3. To assemble, spoon out half of the chilled apple crisp into a 12-cup trifle bowl and sprinkle with bourbon. Top the crisp with half of the pastry cream and sprinkle with half of the pecans. Top this with the remaining apple crisp, sprinkle with bourbon, and top with the remaining pastry cream and pecans. Spread the whipped cream overtop and dust lightly with cinnamon. Chill until ready to serve.
2. Toss the apples with ¼ cup of the brown sugar and the vanilla and spread it into an 8-cup baking dish. 3. Stir together the oats, the remaining ½ cup of brown sugar, flour, and the cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until evenly combined. Sprinkle this over the fruit and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the fruit is bubbling at the edges and the crisp is evenly browned. Cool 15 minutes before serving with ice cream.
ABOUT ANNA
While originally born in Atlanta, Georgia, Anna grew up in Toronto, but found her way back to the U.S. to study culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University and work in Colorado and New Orleans. Originally trained in the world of savory cooking, Anna is equally recognized for her abilities in the pastry kitchen, and values cooking with locallysourced ingredients. She is proud to call Niagara home and has lived and cooked here for 15 years. Anna’s culinary philosophy is based on a commonsense approach of cooking and baking with the seasons as well as respecting the ingredients, the technique and the process of sharing with others through food. Most of all, cooking and baking should be fun!
HOLIDAY 2014 • 21
HYACINTHS,
PAPERWHITES AMARYLLIS
&
by Brian Minter
H
yacinths, ‘Paperwhite’ narcissus and amaryllis are winter delights to enjoy in our homes when the weather has changed our outdoor gardens into cold grey bleak winterscapes. All of these ‘indoor bulbs’ are specially prepared to bloom easily indoors. The trick, however, is to create the very best conditions for optimum flowering over the longest period of time. Some of the easiest bulbs to bring to bloom are fragrant ‘prepared’ hyacinths. Coming in colours of red, white, pink, blue and purple, they are generally larger sized bulbs and produce the largest flowers. It works well to pot them up as singles or triples in 4” or 6” pots, especially if you use contemporary styled decorator pots. Most folks prefer to use either a hyacinth vase, which holds the bulbs on top allowing the roots to filter down into the water or a clear glass rose bowl with colourful rocks holding the bulbs up and in place while the roots feather down to the water below the rocks. However you choose to set them out, remember the display is half the artistic value. ‘Paperwhite’ narcissus are, perhaps, the most popular indoor bulbs simply because there’s just something about a narcissus blooming indoors that reminds us their cousins will be doing the same in our outdoor gardens come spring. The display you create with these bulbs is where the true fun begins. For one of the most beautiful presentations, I love to use tall cylindrical clear vases with colourful stones on the bottom nesting the bulbs, and water below. Shallow coloured glass containers work well too, as long as you can see the lovely white roots developing. Another great way to 22
Amaryllis display them is planted in tall thin clay pots with green moss over the soil and red huckleberry twigs placed in the pot to accent and support the stems as they grow. The trick with hyacinths and ‘Paperwhites’ is giving these bulbs a cool start (5°C or 40°F) to ensure the slow development of good roots and sturdy stems and leaves. You’ll destroy the beauty of these flowers if you let them
‘rocket’ out of the bulbs. Start them near a cool window, outside on the patio if temperatures are above freezing or even in your fridge until the roots have formed and the stems are just emerging with the flower head inside. With a cool start, they will be much more attractive, and as they grow, try to keep them as cool as you can for the longest enjoyment. Amaryllis are the granddaddy of all indoor flower bulbs, and probably the
most spectacular. It is important to start with larger bulbs, ones measuring about 28-29cm, to guarantee good flower stems. To double your enjoyment, select 30-34cm size bulbs, and you should expect two blossom stems. The colour range now available is quite remarkable, from reds, oranges, pinks and whites to bi-colours. If you want to try something a little different, quite a few species types, with unique colours (like green), flower sizes and forms, are now available. The new ‘Nymph’ series have fully double blossoms.
Paperwhite
Hyacinth
For the greatest success with amaryllis, plant the bulbs in a pot just large enough to accommodate the particular size that you have and no more. About 25-30% of the bulb should be above the soil. It’s always wise to use well drained soil to prevent root rot from over-watering. They require a well lighted, cool location and temperatures of 22-24°C, and no feeding is necessary at this point in their growing cycle. Again, it is best to bring them along slowly in order to develop compact, sturdy stems. Their leaves may or may not open easily, so don’t be concerned – what’s important is to have nice strong stems. As they begin to flower, you can extend their bloom time by keeping them cool, around 12-18°C. Some growers even put them in floral coolers to hold them back. Keep them just moist. When each stem finishes blooming, cut off the stem but let the leaves grow. Keep them in a cool window until they can go in the garden next spring. Start several bulbs in sequence to enjoy continuous blooms from Christmas until Valentine’s Day.
HOLIDAY 2014 • 23
A SEED by any other
name by R.J. McMillen
B
irds are a natural and healthy addition to any outdoor space, no matter whether that space is a garden or a balcony. They add colour and life, entertain us with their songs and their antics, and, perhaps best of all, eat many of the insects that attack our plants. But how can we attract them? There are three ways we can invite birds to our garden: by incorporating shrubs and trees that will provide shelter, by adding a water feature, and by offering seed. Sounds easy doesn’t it, but walk into the ‘Wild Bird’ section of any quality garden store and you will see a bewildering array of seed types and feeders, so how do you choose which one is right for you? The first thing you need to know is what kind of birds you want to attract. Most of us want finches, those small, sparrow-sized birds with either bright yellow (Goldfinch) or bright red (House or Cassin’s Finch) plumage. Finches like to perch above the ground, so you are going to need some kind of tube feeder with wooden or metal perches. Tube feeders come with openings above each perch to allow the birds to feed on the seed inside, and most finches – certainly all the ones with red plumage – will be attracted by Black Oil Sunflower seed. Black Oil Sunflower seeds are smaller than the Striped Sunflower seeds that appeal to larger birds such as Jays, and they have a thinner shell, which is easier for the smaller birds to crack. 24
I say “most” because the Goldfinch is an oddball in the Finch family. It has a much slimmer, narrower beak that makes it harder (though not impossible) to crack the sunflower seed shells. There are special tube feeders with very narrow slots in the side, and these are designed to hold either the Nyger seed, or the hulled sunflower seed, that the Goldfinch (and the other yellow garden visitor, the Pine Siskin) loves, while keeping the thicker-billed red finches out. Why be specific? Two reasons. Both Nyger, which is imported and irradiated to prevent sprouting, and pre-hulled sunflower are relatively expensive so you don’t want to be feeding it to everybody, and while feeding regular sunflower seed will result in a pile of discarded shells below the feeder (you can attach a tray to catch them), Nyger has very thin, light shells and hulled sunflower has none. This means that you are getting more seed and less (or no) shell for your money. It also means that hulled sunflower and, to a slightly lesser extent, Nyger seed, is the best choice for a patio or deck where you don’t want to be bothered with the shells. But if you want to attract a wider range of garden visitors, your best bet is to hang up a hopper feeder and use a good mix. For smaller birds, look for a mix with the seeds I have already mentioned, plus peanuts and, perhaps, millet. For larger birds, replace most of the Black Oil Sunflower with Striped Sunflower, and replace the millet with peanuts. Don’t feed corn unless you are feeding pigeons or waterfowl and, if you have squirrels, make sure you get a squirrel-proof feeder! Feeding birds is a hobby that gives pleasure to people of all ages, and it can add a new dimension to gardens, patios and even condo balconies. I can’t think of a better gift, either to yourself or to a loved one. About the author: R.J. McMillen is not only a gardener and a bird lover, but also an author. The first book in the Dan Connor mystery series, ‘Dark Moon Walking’ is available at bookstores across the country as well as through Amazon, and the second, ‘Black Tide Rising’, will be released in April 2015. You can find more information at www.rjmcmillen.com.
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26 • VERMEER’S GARDEN CENTRE - 905-735-5744 - WWW.VERMEERS.CA
WASHABLE SCRUBBABLE DURABLE All-new
19 Lincoln St, Welland • www.thepaintcan.ca • 905-735-1288 HOLIDAY 2014 • 27
WelcomeHome FOR THE HOLIDAYS by Sarah Pell
‘T
is the season to welcome friends and family home for the holidays! We all want to create a warm and inviting entrance to welcome our guests. No matter your style, size of your home, or budget, there are great ways to dress up and deck out your entrance for the holidays this year! The first question to ask yourself when starting to decorate is ‘How do I envision my home for the holidays?’ Do you imagine Christmas in a snowy covered cabin? Surrounded by fresh greens, birch poles, ilex berries (real or artificial), and sugar cones? Create this look easily by using natural elements in garlands around the door, wreaths on windows, and lanterns. But don’t forget the burlap! Burlap is easy to use and ties the look together. Birch poles in containers add great height and a spectacular focal point, and with the addition of some berries and fresh greens you’re on your way to a natural winter wonderland. Or perhaps you’re a bit more glam? Gold, silver and platinum own the show in this style. Lots of glitter equals a jaw-dropping front entrance! Don’t forget to use warm white lights in urns and around doors to help the glitter really shine at night. Glittered twigs in urns really steps up the style factor - while shiny, matte, and glittered balls adorning garlands and wreaths makes for an unforgettable entrance. Perhaps you consider yourself a DIY-er or crafty Cathy? Fantastic! Take a look around your home for items that can be repurposed into Christmas décor. An old picnic basket filled with greens takes on a whole new role. Paired on a bench with a draped blanket creates a sweet entrance that makes guests reminisce about memories of winters past. How about an old pair of skates tied to a vintage sled, leaning by the doorway? Childhood memories will start to flood the minds of visitors. Consider decorating items that otherwise may be bare: mailboxes look wonderful with a swag of fresh greens and a ribbon, benches can be draped with greens and oversized outdoor-safe ornaments, and outdoor light fixtures adorned with a wreath or bow. Do you love the warm glow of candles and the lights of the Christmas tree lighting up the house? What could be more welcoming than lanterns lit up at night lining the steps and
28 • VERMEER’S GARDEN CENTRE - 905-735-5744 - WWW.VERMEERS.CA
welcoming your guests! Look for artificial candles that don’t pose a fire hazard and often come with built in timers. Set them once and they light the way all season long. If you’re tired of candles, try filling lanterns with shiny balls, or even strings of mini lights, pine cones or berries. Maybe simplistic is more your style? Not the creative, crafty type? No problem. One of the most show-stopping styles is a simple boxwood wreath, whether round or square hung with a simple beautiful red ribbon. No bells, whistles or baubles here: hanging wreaths on each window and door creates quite a show! Christmas is a time of welcoming friends and family into your home for laughter, love and good times. Let the memories start on the outside with easy and impressive outdoor décor! Happy Decorating! HOLIDAY 2014 • 29
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VERMEER’S GARDEN CENTRE & FLOWER SHOP 684 South Pelham Rd., Welland 905-735-5744
www.vermeers.com