Flowers can bring a moment of stilness and beauty into our lives, reminding us to relax. The mind escapes the hurried pace of this world as you admire the elegance of flowers swaying in the gentle breeze and soaking up warm summer rays.

Theming your yacht

 

Flowers are the perfect medium to stir deep emotions, and moods in people, and that's why it's important to hold your floral theme across the whole yacht.

You should take a few things into account when you plan your floral arrangements to make sure they enhance the beauty of open water. 

Examine the interior design, color palette, and flower arrangements of the boat carefully before making your selection. For a unifies and opulent environment, your arrangements should complement the boat's design.

Advantages of having plants on board

Introducing plants on board goes beyond simple decoration. Plants act as natural air purifiers, removing toxins and improving the quality of the indoor environment, very beneficial for enclosed spaces such as cabins and lounges. The co-founder of our floral studio, Anastasia has spent 9 years working as a stewardess on Luxury Yachts. She, like no-one else understand the specific needs and design for flower on board. With our deeo industry expertise and a base in Genoa, we cater to the unique needs of yachts. 

 

Selection of flowers

The marine environment presents unique challenges for plant life. Salty air, the movement of te boat, limited space, and strong sun exposure are just some of the factors that influence the selection and care of plants on board. 

We are guided by customer preferences and we love choosing Liguria's native or well-adapted plant species that need fewer resources. This is one of the thoughtful practices we like to adapt in our work.

Succulent species, such as alone and sedum are particulary suitable thanks to their ability to store water and withstand dry conditions.

Some aromatic plants such as rosemary, thyme, basilic, and lavender not only add a touch of greenery but also provide freshness and can also work as a natural repellents against insects and bugs. Which is great during hot summer days in the harbour!

For those who want a more tropical look, bird of paradise, dward palms or dracaenas can create an exotic atmosphere, as long as they are protected from direct wind. Orchids, surprisingly resilient, add a touch of luxury to interior spaces, while for outdoors, plants such as portulaca or lantana provide colorful and long-lasting blooms.

During more demanding voyages or in case of storms, it is recomended to have a plant to protect the most delicate plants, for example by preparing a sheltered area inside the boat.

 

Quick guide to plant care

 

Orchids

 

The orchid needs a lot of sunlight, but never direct sunlight. The ideal place is near a bright window, with a light curtain to filter the sun rays. Watering is the most important part of orchid care. The golden rule is: less is better than too much. Most orchids can stay a few extra days without problems, while too much water can seriously damage and rot the roots.

As for soil, normal garden soil is never to be used. Orchids need a light and porous mix made with tree bark.

Bird of Paradise

 

Bird of paradise loves humidity, so it should be watered regularly, but only when the soil feels dry. In fact, it is often sensitive to root rot. To kep the leaves shiny and healthy, they should be regularly misted and cleaned with a damp cloth.

An interesting characteristic of this plant, is that it goes into a dormant state during the summer.

Basil

 

Growing basil is simple. The pant prefers soft, well-drained soil that is rich in organix matter. It loves sirect sunlight and needs at least 6-8 hours os fun per day to grow healthy and full. It also needs regular watering, but without overwatering, to avoid water stagnation. Usually, 2-3 times a week is enough.

Rosemary

 

Growing rosemary is one of traditions in Italian gardens, especially in areas with a Mediterranean climate. Its rich production of fragrant branches is perfect for creating beautiful evergreens bushes for decorative purposes.

It is very important to use extremely well-drained soil, mixed with materials such as coarse sand, perlite, pumice, or volcanic stone. It is also necessary to place a layer of expanded clay, gravel, or volcanic stone at the bottom of the pot.

Sunlight is essential for the production of the essential oils that give rosemary its characteristic fragrance. It needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day.

Thyme

 

Thyme, another of native ligurian plants, loves the sun. To grow strong and aromatic plants, it needs plenty of light. 

The ideal soil should be poor and well-drained. Thyme tolerates drought very well, so it should be watered moderately, allowing the soil to dry between one watering and the next.

Succulents

Succulents are plants that have adapted to survive in dry, arid environments by storing water in their roots, stems, or leaves. These specialized water-storage tissues allow them to withstand long periods without rainfall.

Many people use the terms succulent and cactus interchangeably, but they're not the same. While all cacti are succulents, not all succulents are cacti. Cacti belong to just one family within the much larger group of succulent plants.

How Succulents Survive Dry Conditions

Over time, succulents have developed a range of clever adaptations to reduce water loss, including:

• Thick, fleshy leaves or water-storing stems
• Spines instead of leaves in many species
• Fewer stomata (tiny pores that release moisture)
• Photosynthetic stems that produce energy even when leaves are absent
• Compact growth forms, such as columns, spheres, or cushion-like shapes
• Protective waxy coatings, hairs, or cuticles that reduce evaporation and create a humid microclimate around the plant

These remarkable features make succulents incredibly resilient and well suited to hot, dry climates.

Caring for Succulents

Most succulents thrive in bright locations with plenty of sunlight. However, not every species enjoys intense afternoon sun. Some naturally grow beneath larger plants, where they receive filtered light and protection from the hottest part of the day. Species with lighter green stems generally tolerate more direct sun, while darker green varieties often appreciate some protection during the hottest hours of the day.

Good drainage is essential. Plant succulents in a well-draining soil mix, preferably one containing sand or gravel, to prevent root rot.

The golden rule of watering is simple: water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Because succulents store water in their tissues, overwatering is far more harmful than underwatering.

Cacti: The Desert Specialists

Cacti are among the most recognizable members of the succulent family. They have evolved to survive in some of the harshest environments on Earth, with thick, water-storing stems and spines that have replaced traditional leaves.

Their stems carry out photosynthesis while conserving moisture, making them exceptionally drought tolerant.

Cactus Care Tips

• Introduce your cactus gradually to direct sunlight to avoid sunburn.
• Use a fast-draining cactus potting mix.
• Water only when the soil is completely dry.
• Keep humidity low and provide plenty of light.

 

Popular Succulent Varieties

Agave

 

Agave is a striking evergreen succulent that forms elegant rosettes of broad, flexible, pale green leaves, often edged with a lighter stripe. It grows best in full sun and well-drained, slightly acidic, gravelly soil.

Aeonium

 

Aeoniums produce attractive rosettes of glossy, spoon-shaped leaves that are often tinged with red around the edges. Unlike many succulents, they appreciate more regular watering because of their relatively shallow root systems. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun but also tolerate light shade.

Crassula arborescens

 

Also known as the Silver Dollar Jade, this evergreen shrub features fleshy, silvery-grey leaves with reddish spots and edges. It prefers rocky, well-drained soil and bright light. Highly drought tolerant, it requires minimal watering, and excessive moisture can quickly lead to root and stem rot.

Echeveria

 

One of the most popular succulents, Echeveria forms beautiful rosettes of fleshy blue-green leaves. It grows well in sandy, well-drained soil and enjoys full sun or partial shade. Water only occasionally, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.

Haworthia reinwardtii

 

This compact succulent features dark green, cylindrical leaves arranged in neat rosettes and decorated with distinctive white bumps. Native to rocky habitats, it adapts well to a variety of light conditions and is particularly suited to bright, indirect light.

Kalanchoe

 

Kalanchoe is admired for its decorative foliage, which often displays attractive pale markings against green leaves. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining sandy soil. With proper drainage and moderate watering, it makes an excellent low-maintenance houseplant.

Mammillaria

 

Mammillaria is a charming clustering cactus that forms dense mounds of rounded stems covered in soft, white, feathery spines. Many species produce delicate flowers that create a beautiful contrast against their fluffy appearance, making them a favorite among cactus enthusiasts.