Monthly Photo Comp October 2009 Discussion Thread..!!

another great topic ydd, lots to choose from well done :gnthb:

 

Thanks Kathy..

 

Hiya Dave

Can you please tell me which species/variety 'Scarlet' is ... I've never seen one with red leaves .... beautifully captured as one would expect from you.

 

Sorry Vicky, but I've no idea:( However I can say that when she was young 'Scarlet' spent all of her time indoors with green 'leaves' (I think they are platyclades) and didn't flourish as far as flowering was concerned. A couple of years ago I decided to try putting Scarlet outside from June until October for some fresh air and sunshine. She seems to like it as she develops a tan and produces a really impressive flush of flowers. Her 'tan' just like mine fades over winter:(

Bottom line is the red leaves seem to be due to exposure to the semi-topical climate here in east Scotland:D

Edit - You got me thinking and Googling Vicky. Found this >

The red leaves on your Christmas cactus indicate that it has experienced some type of stress. This is usually related to a lack of nutrients and being exposed to excessive bright light (like being set outdoors in the sun). Leaves contain a flavonoid called Anthocyanin, which functions to provide the colors we see in flowers and fruit. In some plants, it is also thought to protect leaves from ultraviolet radiation. (In other plants, it's thought to repel browsing herbivores!) Leaves also contain carotenoids called Xanthophylls. These also help absorb and dissipate any damaging excess light energy that cannot be harvested by the leave's chloroplasts and turned into food. The red leaves on your cactus are an indicator that it has suffered sunburn. This could be from sudden exposure to excess light, or due to the fact that is lacks the nutrients necessary to help filter out damaging ultraviolet light. Check to see that it isn't pot bound, which can effect the root's ability to take up nutrients. As long as it's not pot bound, a boost of fertilizer will probably be enough to turn the leaves back to green again

 

Well, Dave, guess I just have to accept that explanation, don't I? :dh::hehe::rotfl::lollol::luv:

 

Some good pics already, Vicky, love your herbs and "cat" pic

 

Oh, thank you Cutie ... isn't Obi (my cat from my holiday) just a cutie too ... k-l

 

What a wonderful autumnal feast of images. This is going to take a lot of very difficult consideration when voting time comes around. I luv it!

 

This is a lovely subject. My favourite time of year. I so apologise for not voting in last month's comp.. I have been so busy Real life get's in the way sometimes. Some gorgeous pics so far.:luv:

 

WoW some great pics this month, its not gonna be easy to pic the winners ..

 

some lovely photos this month everyone , dees right going to be very difficult choosing the worthy winners