After going through a recent house fire, I gained a new appreciation for the men and women who race toward danger in order to preserve other people’s lives and property. Being a firefighter is hard work.

A fire is one of those things you really can’t understand until you have been in one. Now I know how hot, dark, and scary the conditions are that these brave men and women face every day. They are truly heroes.

Creative Mixed Planting

During a recent trip to Vail, Colorado, I stopped to admire the mixed flowers in a series of planters outside of the fire station. It was only after I stopped drooling over their use of Swiss Chard as a tall central element, that I noticed the base of the planters were wrapped with fire hoses. I thought to myself that, in addition to the gorgeous combination of flowers and foliage, this reuse of materials was so clever. I had to include them in a blog post.

There were a total of three fire hose containers framing the large bay doors. There was also one large white container by the front door that was dotted with black spots to represent a Dalmatian, the classic fire house dog. Perfect for a firefighter.

All of the firehouse containers were well designed. And, after walking around Vail a few times, became some of my favorite containers. (Which is saying a lot, because every sidewalk and building in Vail is lined with gorgeous window boxes, hanging baskets, and flower pots).

Make It Yourself: Firefighter Style

To replicate this look, combine red-stemmed Swiss chard with purple Sweet Potato Vine, silver Licorice Vine, and blue Lobelia and Swan River Daisies. They also had a few yellow Dahlias mixed in. But I don’t think they are necessary for a great looking container.

A smaller version of the Dalmatian planter would make a great gift for a firefighter. Look for a white flower-pot or other container with a drainage hole. And make sure to use use black paint to create irregular black spots all the way around the container. When dry, fill with potting soil and plant one or more red flowering annuals to fill the container.

The easiest options include Bonfire, Firecracker, or Red Dragon Wing Begonias and Red Zonal Geraniums. Other good red options include Petunias, Salvia, and Impatiens, or combine red with yellow and orange using Lantana or an Ornamental Pepper plant. For a great winter holiday gift for a firefighter, use a red Poinsettia, Bromeliad, Anthurium, Amaryllis, or Caladium.

Thanks to all the firefighters out there!