Floramont

The summer solstice provides a chance to change direction, but the Floramont Journal is staying put right here in the South. While looking at last year's posts, there seemed to be a heavy concentration on the southern United States, with just a few references to France and Québec. Listening to one song made me realize that Floramont belongs in the South. One night, we were listening to everything from André Rieu's lovely Johann Strauss Orchestra to one of country music's most

Honoring this year's theme of celebrating a bit of Provence in the American South, let's talk about mulberry trees and their by-product, silk. Yes, they have delicious berries, which we discussed a while ago, but mulberry trees were mainly grown in hopes of establishing a thriving industry centered upon sericulture (growing silk). Which "South" are we talking about? First, let's discuss the silk industry in the South of France, Provence. Then, we will talk about attempts at a

As we wait for warmer temperatures to bring us roses, we can enjoy images of roses. Just look at this lovely stamp souvenir sheet from France! There are three roses on this particular stamp sheet, which was issued by the postal service of France in 1999. The roses are as follows: Madame Caroline Testout This rose was bred in the 1890's by Lyon-born rose breeder Joseph Pernet-Ducher, a pioneer in the world of hybrid tea roses. Who was Madame Caroline Testout, though? She was a

The Garden Club of Virginia is celebrating the Semiquincentennial, which commemorates the 250th year since the American Revolution. The celebration will occur during the annual Historic Garden Week from April 18-25 in 2026. As always, there will be a variety of historic sites along with newer homes and gardens. Details of the various tours and tickets can be found at the Garden Club's website: Historic Garden Club of Virginia 2026 Tour Schedule Tour Guidebook The cover of the

As discussed last month, there were no new resolutions set for the previous New Year. The entire year was based on kismet, and that spirit extends into this upcoming year. Meanwhile, it is fun to have goals, so rather than leaving everything to chance, this year will have a theme: Planting a touch of Provence in the American South. What does this mean? Well, some decisions will be made on the basis of bringing aspects of Provence's culture to life here in the southern United