RIDEGEWOOD, N.J. – Christopher Raimondi, CLP and president of Raimondi Horticultural Group, will be a featured guest on an upcoming Martha Stewart Living television show, tentatively scheduled for March 28, 2000. Raimondi will join Stewart to discuss the Ficus.
"The producers of Martha Stewart Living were interested in having me as a guest because of my work in environmental horticulture management and education," said Raimondi. "Ficus are extremely popular throughout the world. It was a great pleasure to be asked to speak about them on Martha Stewart’s show."
Raimondi brought more than 10 different Ficus species to the set. He spoke about the history, use, care and popularity of four well-known species. The discussion included information about the Ficus benjamina, or Weeping Fig, which Raimondi cited as the backbone of most house Ficus varieties. This particular variety has soft gray bark, lustrous foliage and is native to China, Australia and the South Pacific.
Raimondi also demonstrated careful pruning techniques. He spoke of the importance of proper pruning as it keeps plants healthy and full. Additional Ficus care tips he offered included watering techniques and soil choices. He also explained that Ficus grows where there are dry and wet seasons and that it is natural for them to drop their leaves in times of drought.
Raimondi founded Raimondi Horticultural Group Inc. as an interiorscape company in 1974. Raimondi is a co-chairman for the Plants for Clean Air Council and a member of and past chairman of the Associated Landscape Contractors of America Interior Landscape Council.
Raimondi teaches horticulture science at the New York Botanical Garden, the New Jersey Botanical Garden and various educational institutions. He and his employees are committed to increasing environmental awareness on the benefits of green foliage in all living spaces.
RHG is a full-service horticultural firm that provides exterior and interior landscaping, plant maintenance, holiday decorating, holiday services, plant rentals and gift baskets to commercial and residential clients. The company is based in northern New Jersey and serves the New York tri-state region.
Viewers may check Martha Stewart’s web site at www.marthastewart.com to confirm the air date of this program. For more information about the Raimondi Horticultural Group call 201/445-1299 or visit the company's web site at www.raimondihg.com.