Our Favorite Herbs to Grow in West Michigan and Why- Part 1 of 2

West Michigan's diverse climate and rich soil create an ideal environment for cultivating a variety of herbs. Here, we share our top picks for herbs to grow in this region, highlighting their culinary uses, health benefits, and unique characteristics.

Johnny Jump Up Violets

Description and Uses: Johnny Jump Up Violets, also known as heartsease, are delightful flowers with tri-colored blooms in purple, yellow, and white. These flowers are edible, adding a splash of color and a mild, sweet flavor to salads, desserts, and beverages. They can also be crystallized for cake decorations or infused in syrups and teas.

Health Benefits: Rich in vitamins C and E and antioxidants, these violets have anti-inflammatory properties that benefit skin health and immune support. Historically, they have been used to treat respiratory issues and skin conditions.

Fun Fact: Johnny Jump Up Violets were a favorite of William Shakespeare and are often mentioned in his plays and sonnets.

Borage Flowers

Description and Uses: Borage flowers, also known as starflowers, are striking blue, star-shaped blossoms with a mild cucumber-like flavor. They are a refreshing addition to salads, cocktails, and garnishes and can be candied or frozen in ice cubes.

Health Benefits: Known for their high gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content, borage flowers help reduce inflammation and improve skin health. They also support adrenal function and relieve stress.

Fun Fact: Historically, borage was believed to bring courage and comfort, and Roman soldiers drank borage-infused wine before battle.

French Thyme

Description and Uses: French thyme is characterized by its small, aromatic, gray-green leaves and delicate pink or lavender flowers. It's a staple in French cuisine, used to season meats, soups, stews, and vegetables, imparting a warm, earthy flavor with subtle minty and lemony undertones.

Health Benefits:French thyme contains thymol, which aids in respiratory health, digestion, and has antimicrobial properties. It is also rich in vitamins A and C and antioxidants.

Fun Fact: In ancient Greece and Rome, thyme symbolizes courage and was used in baths and incense to promote strength and vigor.

Rosemary

Description and Uses: Rosemary is an evergreen herb with needle-like leaves and blue, pink, or white flowers. Its robust, pine-like flavor with hints of citrus and mint enhances roasted meats, vegetables, breads, and sauces.

Health Benefits: Rosemary is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, such as carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, which support immune function, improve digestion, and enhance memory and concentration.

Fun Fact: Rosemary was believed to improve memory in ancient Greece and Rome, where students wore rosemary garlands while studying.

Chamomile

Description and Uses: Chamomile features small white petals and yellow centers, resembling daisies. It is commonly used in herbal teas, providing a soothing, apple-like flavor that promotes relaxation and sleep.

Health Benefits: Chamomile boasts anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and antioxidant properties. It alleviates digestive issues, reduces stress and anxiety, and soothes skin irritations.

Fun Fact: Chamomile was revered by ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for its healing properties and used in rituals and medicine.

Sweet Basil

Description and Uses: Sweet basil is known for its broad, glossy green leaves and delightful aroma. Its sweet and slightly peppery flavor with hints of mint and clove is essential in Italian cuisine, used in pesto, salads, sauces, and garnishes.

Health Benefits: Sweet basil is rich in essential oils, antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like calcium and magnesium, contributing to overall health and immune support.

Fun Fact: In ancient Greece and Rome, basil was associated with love and protection, and in India, it is considered a sacred plant in Hinduism.

Opal Basil

Description and Uses: Opal basil is known for its deep purple leaves and captivating aroma. It offers a flavor profile similar to sweet basil, with a slightly spicier, more robust taste. It adds vibrant color and flavor to salads, pesto, and cocktails.

Health Benefits: Opal basil is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, and essential oils with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Its anthocyanins support cardiovascular health and combat oxidative stress.

Fun Fact: Opal basil was developed in the 1950s by crossing different basil varieties to combine desirable traits.

Cinnamon Basil

Description and Uses: Cinnamon basil features small, glossy green leaves and beautiful purple stems and flowers. Its flavor is reminiscent of cinnamon with a hint of sweetness and spice, enhancing fruit salads, desserts, teas, and meat dishes.

Health Benefits: Cinnamon basil contains essential oils such as cinnamate, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is also rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and minerals like calcium and iron.

Fun Fact: Cinnamon basil is traditionally used in Mexican and Asian cuisine, adding a unique twist to traditional recipes.

Growing these diverse and versatile herbs in West Michigan not only enhances your culinary creations but also provides a wealth of health benefits. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these herbs will thrive in West Michigan's climate, adding beauty, flavor, and wellness to your home and kitchen.

Part 1 of 2

Blooming Benefits: The Power of Live Plants and Flowers in Your Office and Showroom Spaces

In the fast-paced world of business, finding ways to create a welcoming and productive environment is essential. One effective strategy is incorporating live plants and flowers into your office and showroom spaces. At She Is GR Co., we recognize the positive impact of greenery and blooms, and here are several compelling reasons why they should be a part of your workspace:

Enhanced Productivity: Studies have consistently shown that having plants in the workplace can boost productivity and creativity. Research published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that employees working in green spaces were 15% more productive than those in barren environments.

Air Quality Improvement: Live plants act as natural air purifiers, removing harmful toxins and improving indoor air quality. This can lead to reduced absenteeism due to respiratory issues and a healthier, more energized workforce. Plants such as Monstera Deliciosa and Banana Trees, featured on She Is GR Co.'s website, are known for their air-purifying properties.

Mood Enhancement: Being surrounded by nature has a positive effect on mood and well-being. Plants and flowers can reduce stress, anxiety, and fatigue, creating a more relaxed and enjoyable work atmosphere for employees and visitors alike.

Visual Appeal: Live plants and flowers add aesthetic value to your space, making it more inviting and visually pleasing. They can complement your interior design style, create focal points, and leave a lasting impression on clients and customers.

Now, let's explore some fun facts about specific plants that you can incorporate

into your office or showroom:

Monstera Deliciosa: Also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, Monstera Deliciosa is famous for its large, unique leaves with natural leaf holes (fenestrations). It is low-maintenance and adds a tropical vibe to any space, making it a popular choice for offices and showrooms.

Banana Tree (Musa spp.): Banana Trees are not only visually striking with their broad, lush leaves but also contribute to better indoor air quality. They thrive in bright, indirect light and can bring a touch of the tropics indoors.

Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): With its striking vertical leaves and air-purifying prowess, the Snake Plant remains a fantastic choice for adding greenery to your workspace. It's resilient and requires minimal care, making it ideal for busy environments.

Orchids (Orchidaceae family): Orchids are elegant flowering plants that come in a variety of colors and patterns. They symbolize beauty and luxury, making them perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your office or showroom.

Philodendron (Philodendron spp.): Philodendrons are versatile plants available in different varieties, from trailing vines to compact bushes. They are known for their air-purifying qualities and can thrive in various light conditions.

In conclusion, incorporating live plants and flowers into your office and showroom spaces offers numerous benefits, including enhanced productivity, improved air quality, mood enhancement, visual appeal, and a sustainability statement. She Is GR Co. encourages you to embrace the power of nature and create inspiring, inviting environments that promote well-being and creativity. Join us in bringing the beauty of greenery and blooms into your workspace today!

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Unique Flowering plants that you can grow in Michigan

Embracing Michigan's Unique Blooms:

A Green Thumb's Guide to our favorite plants to grow in Michigan!

Hey plant enthusiasts and flower lovers!

Welcome to the lush world of Michigan blooms, where our ever-changing seasons and diverse landscapes provide the perfect canvas for cultivating an array of stunning flowers. Whether you're a seasoned horticulturist or just starting to flex your green thumb, Michigan offers a bounty of unique blooms that thrive in our distinct climate. Let's start on your floral journey through some delightful additions to your garden, featuring Torch Lily, Liatris, Banana Flowers, Hibiscus, and Moon Flowers and more!

Torch Lily (Kniphofia uvaria):

Get ready to turn heads with the Torch Lily! This showstopper boasts striking vertical spikes of vibrant, torch-like flowers, bringing a touch of drama to your Michigan garden.

Find a sunny spot with well-drained soil, and let this beauty work its magic during our warm summer months.

Liatris (Liatris spicata):

Say hello to the "Blazing Star" or "Gayfeather" – a native wildflower that paints Michigan landscapes with bursts of purple beauty. This friendly perennial is all about soaking up the sun in well-drained soil, offering a treat for your eyes and becoming a hotspot for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.

Banana Flowers (Musa spp.):

Yes, you heard it right – Bananas in Michigan! Well, almost. Certain banana plant varieties can thrive during our warmer months, adding a delightful twist to your garden. While they might need a little winter TLC, the promise of homegrown bananas makes them a quirky and delightful addition to your green space.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus spp.):

Meet the Hibiscus – a true summer charmer! With its stunning, tropical-looking flowers available in various hues, these plants bring a burst of brilliance to Michigan gardens. Whether perennial or annual, these beauties are easygoing – just plant them in well-drained soil and let them soak up the sunlight.

White Bird Of Paradise Flowers

Meet the botanical icon – the White Bird of Paradise. With its large, banana-like leaves and striking white blooms, this tropical stunner adds a touch of the exotic to your green space. While it thrives in warm, tropical conditions, it adapts well to containers, making it a versatile choice for your Michigan garden.

Quick Cultivation Tips: Ensure optimal growth by providing bright, indirect sunlight, particularly if kept indoors near a sunny window. Use well-draining soil and water when the top inch is dry to prevent waterlogged roots. While not suited for Michigan's outdoor climate, the White Bird of Paradise can thrive when moved outdoors in the summer, shielded from harsh sunlight and winds. Foster healthy foliage and flowering by feeding it with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). For maintenance, trim damaged leaves to encourage new growth, but exercise caution as the sap can be irritating.

Orange Bird Of Paradise Flowers

The Orange Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is a tropical plant originating from South Africa, known for its distinctive orange and blue bird-shaped blooms. With banana-like leaves on long stalks, this plant adds architectural elegance to summer gardens and indoor spaces. Thriving in bright sunlight and well-draining soil, the Orange Bird of Paradise can reach heights of up to 10 feet in outdoor conditions and proper year-round care, bringing a burst of vibrant orange hues and creating a visually striking and tropical atmosphere.

Moon Flowers (Ipomoea alba):

For those who appreciate a touch of magic, say hello to the Moon Flower.

These fragrant, white blossoms unfold in the evening, filling your garden with a delightful scent. Planted in well-drained soil and basking in the full sun, Moon Flowers adds enchantment to your outdoor space. The flower typically opens at night but sometimes

you can catch them still open early in the morning!

Lambs Ear Flower & Plant

The charming Lambs Ear, a delightful addition to your green haven. With its soft, velvety foliage and clusters of tiny, fuzzy flowers, this plant brings a unique texture to your garden. Known for its adaptability, Lambs Ear thrives in various conditions and is particularly well-suited for Michigan gardens. Now, let's explore some quick cultivation tips to ensure this plant graces your space with its distinct beauty.

Quick Cultivation Tips: Lambs Ear loves bright, indirect sunlight, making it a perfect candidate for both indoor and outdoor settings. Provide well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots, and water when the top inch becomes dry. This versatile plant is well-suited for Michigan's outdoor climate, with its hardiness allowing it to withstand various weather conditions. Enhance its growth by feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). For upkeep, occasionally trim any spent flowers or damaged leaves to encourage fresh growth, maintaining the plant's overall health and appearance.

Golden California Poppies

Meet the vibrant Golden California Poppies, a burst of sunshine for your garden. With their striking golden-orange petals and delicate, fern-like foliage, these poppies add a cheerful touch to any landscape. Native to California but adaptable to various climates, including Michigan, these poppies are a fantastic choice for adding a splash of color to

your garden.

Quick Cultivation Tips: Golden California Poppies thrive in full sun, so choose a sunny spot for planting. They prefer well-draining soil and don't require excessive watering, making them resilient in various conditions. With their natural adaptation, these poppies can brighten up your Michigan garden, bringing a taste of the West Coast to the Midwest. Encourage continuous blooming by deadheading spent flowers regularly. Watch as these golden beauties sway in the breeze, adding warmth and vibrancy to your

outdoor space.

Red Alaskan Poppies

Now, let's turn our attention to the bold and dramatic Red Alaskan Poppies. Known for their eye-catching scarlet-red blooms and finely-cut, silvery foliage, these poppies are a showstopper in any garden. While native to Alaska, their adaptability makes them a striking addition to gardens in Michigan and beyond.

Quick Cultivation Tips: Red Alaskan Poppies thrive in full to partial sun, showcasing their vivid red blooms against the backdrop of silvery-green foliage. Plant them in well-draining soil and water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering. Despite their Alaskan origins, these poppies can acclimate well to Michigan's climate, bringing a bold burst of color to your garden. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong blooming and encourage a continuous display of their stunning red hues. Watch as these captivating poppies create a dynamic and bold statement in your garden landscape.

Yucca Foliage & Flower

The resilient Yucca plant, a rugged beauty that effortlessly blends architectural elegance with hardiness. With its sword-like, evergreen leaves, the Yucca creates a visually striking silhouette in your Michigan garden, adding year-round greenery to the landscape. This hardy succulent, thriving in diverse climates, surprises with breathtaking flower spikes adorned with creamy-white, bell-shaped blooms, creating a dramatic contrast against its robust foliage. The Yucca's low-maintenance nature makes it an ideal choice for a sunny location with well-draining soil, bringing both visual interest and ecological balance to your outdoor space. Witness the spectacular display of Yucca flowers in late spring to early summer, adding a touch of drama and natural beauty to your garden landscape.

Hot Pink & Lime Green Hydrangea

Enter the enchanting world of the Pink Hydrangea, a botanical gem that graces gardens with its soft, romantic hues. With large, mophead clusters of delicate pink flowers, this hydrangea variety captivates with its elegant and timeless charm. Adaptable to various soil types, the Pink Hydrangea thrives in partial shade, making it a versatile and eye-catching addition to Michigan landscapes. Its blooms can undergo color variations influenced by soil acidity, transitioning from vibrant pink to subtle shades of mauve or lavender. Embrace the beauty of the Pink Hydrangea as it effortlessly infuses your garden with a touch of grace and a burst of delicate color throughout the growing season.

Annabelle Hydrangea

Annabelle Hydrangeas, an embodiment of classic charm in the floral world. These exquisite hydrangeas, known for their spherical clusters of large, snowball-like blooms, captivate with a pristine, angelic white hue. Annabelle Hydrangeas stand as elegant symbols of purity and grace, making them a beloved choice for gardens and floral arrangements alike. With their sturdy stems and abundant blossoms, these hydrangeas effortlessly create a picture-perfect display, adding a touch of timeless sophistication to any landscape. Versatile and resilient, Annabelle Hydrangeas thrive in partial shade, making them a delightful addition to gardens in Michigan and beyond. Embrace the enduring beauty of Annabelle Hydrangeas as they lend an air of enchantment to your outdoor spaces, whether showcased in bouquets or as stunning accents in garden beds.

Magnolia flowers

magnolia flowers, where timeless beauty meets botanical brilliance. Magnolias, revered for their exquisite blossoms and ancient lineage, belong to a diverse genus that includes both deciduous and evergreen varieties. The iconic blooms, often large and fragrant, showcase an array of colors from pristine white to delicate pinks and lush purples. Among the notable species is the Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), with its glossy, leathery leaves and large, showy white flowers. Magnolias are known for their ancient origins, dating back millions of years, and their resilience has earned them a place in gardens worldwide. These flowering trees or shrubs thrive in well-drained soil and prefer a sheltered spot, making them a staple in Southern landscapes. Embrace the botanical grandeur of magnolia flowers, appreciating their timeless appeal and contributing to the rich horticultural tapestry wherever they bloom.

Burnt Orange / Red Amaryllis

Dive into the warm and fiery allure of the Red/Burnt Orange Amaryllis, a captivating bulb that brings a touch of exotic vibrancy to indoor spaces. With its strikingly bold and oversized blooms, ranging from deep reds to rich burnt oranges, the Amaryllis commands attention and infuses any room with a sense of drama and elegance. Whether perched on a windowsill or showcased as a centerpiece, the Red/Burnt Orange Amaryllis stands as a testament to nature's artistry, unfolding its magnificent blossoms to brighten the winter months. Known for its simplicity in care and stunning floral display, this Amaryllis variety provides a burst of warmth and sophistication, making it a delightful addition to your indoor garden or outdoors in the summer- Full Sun

Calla Lilies

Calla Lilies, enchanting flowers that embody sophistication and grace. With their sleek, trumpet-shaped blooms and long, slender stems, Calla Lilies emanate a sense of refined beauty. These flowers are available in a spectrum of colors, from pristine white and soft pink to vibrant hues like deep purple or sunshine yellow. Perfect for both formal arrangements and casual bouquets, Calla Lilies make a striking statement in any floral design. Whether adorning weddings, adding a touch of class to your garden, or gracing your home with a single stem in a vase, Calla Lilies are a symbol of enduring beauty and understated glamour, making them a perennial favorite for any occasion.

Prefers bright sunlight.

Michigan's diverse climate and landscapes set the stage for cultivating a garden full of unique and beautiful flowers. Whether you're drawn to the drama of Torch Lily, the charm of Liatris, the quirkiness of Banana Flowers, the tropical vibes of Hibiscus, or the enchantment of Moon Flowers, embracing this rich floral diversity lets you create a garden that mirrors the unique charm of your personalized style & vibe. Cheers to celebrating the beauty of Michigan blooms and cultivating a resilient and wonderfully green garden!