Does anybody actually know when orange trees blossom in France?
I am ashamed to ask such a simple question, but my books are silent on the subject, my French contacts don't know, and my google-fu is failing me totally. I can cheat if necessary, since the book is set in the 17th century and Louis XIV reputedly insisted his gardeners kept orange trees in bloom all year round, but since the action at this point is a small village in Picardie I'd rather be natural if I possibly can. There is a sophisticated garden nearby which would undoubtedly have a manure-heated greenhouse (yuk) in which orange trees could be grown in tubs, but even in greenhouses I don't know a realistic date.
I don't need to see the trees, I only need the blossom - for a wedding. I know wax flowers were used out of season, but it would be wonderful if I could get the real thing.
Please - does anyone know?
Louise
I am ashamed to ask such a simple question, but my books are silent on the subject, my French contacts don't know, and my google-fu is failing me totally. I can cheat if necessary, since the book is set in the 17th century and Louis XIV reputedly insisted his gardeners kept orange trees in bloom all year round, but since the action at this point is a small village in Picardie I'd rather be natural if I possibly can. There is a sophisticated garden nearby which would undoubtedly have a manure-heated greenhouse (yuk) in which orange trees could be grown in tubs, but even in greenhouses I don't know a realistic date.
I don't need to see the trees, I only need the blossom - for a wedding. I know wax flowers were used out of season, but it would be wonderful if I could get the real thing.
Please - does anyone know?
Louise