For homeowners of the San Francisco Bay Area, the notion that April is synonymous with spring isn’t such a big deal. It’s not as if our area experiences the kind of seasonal extremes that plague other parts of the country. Nonetheless, every April, we unleash our spring fever to gear up for National Lawn and Garden Month, and National Garden Month. The Ah Sam Floral Co. design team is excited at the prospect of inspiring our Bay Area customers to create new traditions in honor of National Lawn and Garden or National Garden Months by bringing fresh cut stems inside to admire their beauty.

So, when and how did National Garden Month begin? Well, in 2015, Agriculture Secretary, Tom Vilsack made a declaration that proclaimed that National Garden Month would be observed annually every April. But, let’s face it, it’s unlikely that many homeowners in this area have large front or back yards that need tending to, start to flourish, or look their best this time of year. Yet, that shouldn’t stop us from growing anything on a small patio or balcony. We also believe that when outdoor gardening isn’t possible, the next best thing is to bring that garden inside!

Unless you force spring bulbs to bloom, we don’t have the cold winter temperatures that are critical for bulbs that are planted in the ground. That shouldn’t stop you from filling your home with a typical sign of spring –fresh and colorful tulips. The moment you bring those spring tulips into your home, their fresh pastel hues will flood your home with so much brightness and seasonal cheer. You’ll hardly notice the lack of greens and blooms outside your window.

We love the idea of creating indoor gardens so we can enjoy the sight of green plants throughout our homes. Two of our favorite kinds to spruce up a home are dish gardens and terrariums. You don’t have to have a green thumb to enjoy an exotic-looking low maintenance collection of succulent plants. Nor do you need a large amount of sunlight to keep them thriving. In fact, the more you ignore these little succulent plants, the happier they’ll be. Use these plants as a centerpiece on a patio, balcony, or terrace table, or display them on the bathroom sink, a coffee table in the living room, or a bedside table.

Fresh spring blooms will always transform your home anywhere they’re placed! Display a chic spring bouquet on your kitchen table for a bright seasonal centerpiece. Spruce up your living room or give your bedroom a sweet and serene glow-up by bringing fresh stems into these spaces as well. This time of year, we love filling vases with pastel garden roses, spray roses, tulips, hyacinths, daisies, and snapdragons. Vibrant greenery and eucalyptus are also great additions for freshness and contrast.

As April rolls around, get inspired to come up with your own way to support and participate in National Lawn and Garden and National Garden Months. For the best spring flowers and houseplants, browse the collection at Ah Sam Floral Co.