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The gift of flowers is often used for expressing gratitude, love and appreciation. Receiving a gift that so often one does not buy for oneself is always welcomed. However, if one were to actually buy flowers for oneself (or make it clear to loved ones how appreciated they actually are!) the calm spread by the consistent appearance of flowers in the home or office is universal.

In cultures all over the world, the presence of flowers connote joy, reflection, sincerity, even a holy presence.  Keeping flowers a constant in one's life, as the western Europeans do, aids calming, peace of mind and even if momentarily, a tranquil spirit.

Whether it is a flowering orchid plant in the kitchen, or lavish bouquets spread throughout the home, the presence of botanicals can enhance the lives of the entire family. Look to the entryway, kitchen counter, dining room and kitchen tables, master bedrooms and bathrooms.  Do not forget the kids' rooms. If anything, the children will appreciate the diversity and variety of plants and cut flowers as much as or even more than the adults. Naturally, this tranquility can then be spread to the decks, balconies and garden as well.

Here are some tips for including plants and cut flowers into your home throughout the year:

1. Be seasonal—everyone welcomes a touch of the seasons in the décor of the home.

2. Keep the water of cut flowers meticulously clean for best longevity of the flowers. Change and cut the stems when necessary, and use floral preservative or a touch of bleach in the water for antibacterial cleanliness.

3. Keep strong floral scents away from eating areas. A florist can advise on this.

4. Keep flowers away from direct air flow (heaters, air conditioners, direct sun) and indirect heat for greater floral longevity. Keep them cool, if possible.

5. Recut stems if you bring your flowers home “dry” and not in water, before placing them into a vase.

6. Celebrate the holidays—every holiday has a certain type of bouquet that is welcomed on the holiday table, from autumn colors for Thanksgiving to more traditional blooms for Mother's Day. Coordinate the flowers to the day.

7. Try not to over water plants. Many plants have met their demise with too much "love". Learn about the plant at hand and care for it accordingly.

With experience one will be able to ascertain the best flowers and plants work for any particular home, office or environment, and watch that stress melt away, and the healthy glow of tranquility develop.

Lynn Jawitz of Florisan, LLC, is creating a whole new Garden of Eden for the world to see, one impeccably arranged bouquet at a time.  More than a florist in the traditional sense, Lynn is a floral architect combining the best of English and Dutch traditional designs to create a lush wonderland of floral fantasy. To learn more about Lynn Jawitz, please visit http://florisanllc.com/