Tree Hugging Family - Living Green

The Perfectly Green No-Cost Wedding Anniversary Gift

by Jennifer on April 14th, 2008

I read about someone who gave this gift to her sister as a 1st wedding anniversary gift, and thought it was so clever, and unique, that I’ve been storing it in my head for literally years, waiting for that darn sister of mine to get married. No one I know gets married though. That said maybe you can use this gift project.

This gift is eco-friendly, reusable, free, and utterly charming. You’ll love it I swear. All you need is a little time, patience, and luck.

So what’s this fabulous gift…

It’s rose bushes!

But not just any old rose bushes; rose bushes grown from the wedding bouquet.

This is an easy project except for the first step because you’ll need the bouquet. I suggest trying to catch it. If that doesn’t work, bribe whoever does catch it, if that doesn’t work move on to table top arrangement theft.

So you’ve got your wedding bouquet - now what? Your goal is to turn the bouquet into a bunch of nice rose bushes.

1. Take a four to six inch long clipping of the rose stems.
2. Put clean water into a clean vase and add the stems. Add clean water each day.
3. Wait. In maybe a month to six weeks you should see little sprouts starting to grow at the base of the clipping.
4. When the roots become long, maybe four inches or so, plant them in separate little pots indoors. Plant them in nutrient rich soil and water daily.
5. Change the plants out to your own garden or bigger pots once they get bigger.
6. By the 1st anniversary, you should have some nice little rose plants, or small bushes to give the bride. If you started the roses in winter that take longer, but will be ready in a year.

I’m not sure if root powder would be helpful or not in this situation. I’ve used root powder with success, but not on roses, although, I’ve heard you can on roses. You might want to ask your local nursery for advice.

This is a great gift though, because how many brides can say that they have their wedding bouquet planted in their garden or on their patio? Not many. It’s the perfect reminder of that special day.

[photos via stock.xchng]

Share This

Related Stories

7) Green Wedding GuideGreen Wedding Round UpYour Green Wedding Gift Registry - Where to Register

POSTED IN: Earth Friendly Gift Guide, Green Wedding