The patterns in nature are beautiful art made naturally and simply. The entire universe is singing and growing effortlessly, constantly giving life and just being, and we are worried about the way we look? About what other people think of us?
Remember you were made exactly as the flowers, and nature, perfectly yourself.
People see you way different than you see yourself. They see you in motion, they see light in your eyes, talking about things you love, experiencing your emotions. You only see yourself in the mirror or through still pictures while you are experiencing much different moments and feelings. Sometimes even thinking down on yourself so of course you won’t see your beauty then.
... Read moreWhen I first started to think about creating a peaceful and lasting tribute at a loved one's resting place, I found myself drawn to the idea of using flowers that truly embody nature's enduring beauty. That's when I discovered the wonderful world of begonias. From my own experience, these vibrant plants are just perfect for grave planting, offering continuous color and a sense of calm reflection, much like the intricate patterns we see in nature itself.
Begonias, with their lush foliage and endless blooms, are incredibly resilient. They tolerate a range of conditions, making them a practical choice for a spot that might not get daily attention. I've learned that wax begonias (Begonia semperflorens), for instance, are fantastic for their hardiness and ability to flower non-stop from spring until the first frost. They come in beautiful shades of pink, red, and white, and their glossy leaves add a lovely texture.
If you're looking for something with a bit more drama, tuberous begonias can also be considered, though they might require a touch more care. Their large, showy blooms are incredibly striking, and they thrive in shadier spots, which can be ideal for certain grave locations. I've seen some with such intricate petals, almost like miniature works of art, that truly capture the essence of what the original article beautifully describes as "nature's art."
Caring for begonias at a grave site is simpler than you might think. From what I've gathered, they generally prefer well-drained soil and a location that gets partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. Regular watering is key, especially when they are newly planted or during dry spells. I usually try to check on them weekly, giving them a good soak if the soil feels dry an inch or two down. Deadheading, or simply pinching off faded flowers, isn't strictly necessary for wax begonias as they're self-cleaning, but it can encourage even more blooms and keep the display looking tidy for longer. For tuberous varieties, it's a good practice to remove spent flowers to direct energy into new growth.
What I love most about choosing begonias for a grave is the symbolism. Their continuous bloom speaks to everlasting love and remembrance, a quiet testament to a life cherished. It's a way of bringing a piece of that effortless, constantly growing universe – that beautiful art made naturally and simply – to a place of memory. Just as we are perfectly ourselves, made like the flowers, these begonias stand as a vibrant reminder of life's ongoing beauty, even in moments of reflection and remembrance. It’s a gentle way to honor a loved one, creating a living, breathing tribute that perfectly mirrors the natural cycle of growth and beauty around us. When selecting your begonias, consider the light conditions of the grave site throughout the day. If it's a very sunny spot, wax begonias or even some sun-tolerant varieties would be best. For shadier spots, tuberous begonias truly shine. This personal touch in choosing and nurturing these beautiful plants becomes a quiet, ongoing conversation with the memories you hold dear, much like the article encourages us to see the beauty within ourselves, reflected in nature's perfect artistry.