Perhaps this season you might consider selecting plants as gifts. Our Island abounds in lush an d beautiful flora but sometimes we are too busy to appreciate nature's loveliness. Plants are meaningful to our existence and it is important for everyone on the planet to nurture and take them seriously.

Sarah Vallis, curator of the Botanical Gardens said the following: "Plants, particularly larger plants like trees, produce oxygen for the air we breathe through their metabolism. They are a major component of our survival and remove toxins from the air.

"Plants provide a tremendous food supply of fruits, vegetables, grains and beverages such as coffee, tea and juices.

"Plants have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Bermuda's `Match-me-if-you-can' has long been used as a remedy for chest congestion by creating a poultice with the leaves. Plants are used for many of today's medicines and scientists are using plants in hopes of future cures.

"They have a psychological effect on people that is beneficial in the way of calming and soothing.'' If you would like to learn more about Bermuda's tropical plants and vines, fruits, wild herbs, tropical exotic trees, freshwater wetland, ponds and marshes buy a copy of `Bermuda's Botanical Wonderland' a field guide written and illustrated by Christine Phillips-Watlington. It is a wonderful book of knowledge to share with your family or a friend who might be a plant enthusiast. Children are delighted by the colourful pictures.

Dr. David Wingate, Conservation Officer, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Parks, wrote in the foreword of the book: "There had been no comprehensive illustrated guide to Bermuda botany since the work of Nathaniel, Lord Brittonn, published in 1918.

"All available published guides since that time have provided only superficial treatment by illustrating a few of the most spectacular exotics in colour. Here at last is a work which includes virtually all of Bermuda's flora and is illustrated in colour by a professional botanical illustrator.'' Exchanging plants is an age old Bermudian tradition. Neighbors are quick to give one another clippings of this or that. Bermuda's Garden Club is a terrific club to belong to as it is a wonderful source for exchanging plants and bulbs. One can also learn many gardening tips from the members.

We are fortunate to have nurseries like Aberfeldy and Brighton Hill. Both nurseries have experienced staff happy to advise on selection and care of plants, flowers, trees and the best planting times for everything.

Charles Darwin wrote, "A traveller should be a botanist, for in all views plants form the chief embellishment.'' Attractive gift plants designed by Brighton Nurseries.