The most popular gift to give on Mother's Day, of course, is flowers.

Bouquets of cut flowers are the number one present, but living ones are gaining popularity.

The beauty of these is that you are giving a lasting legacy of your affection towards your mother. I gave my mother an African violet about 28 years ago. It still lives today, having had many offspring, which proves just how much of an investment that was as a preteenager.

It is prudent however, to take special care in the selection of your flowers, whether they be growing or cut, as there is a secret language to be conveyed in their giving.

The meaning of flowers is as old as civilisation itself, and has been used as an expression of emotion for centuries.

The language of flowers started in the harems of the Middle East, where secrecy between lovers was essential.

Each flower had a meaning and secret messages could be exchanged.

The Victorians took this language to their hearts and produced several dictionaries of the language of flowers.

If you wanted to let your mother know that she was always in your thoughts, that she brought you great happiness and that you saw her as a graceful woman, then you would give her a bouquet consisting of rosemary, lilies of the valley and pink roses. It would not be appropriate to give red roses, however, as these are a symbol of romantic love.

To learn more about the secret meanings of flowers, tune into BBC Radio Cleveland's Ask About Gardening on Sunday between 1pm and 2pm, where Rachel de Thame, presenter on Gardeners' World, will be giving advice on plants to buy for Mother's Day.

In the meantime, here is a selection of flowers and their meanings.

Daffodil - Respect/Unrequited Love

Amaryllis - Pride/Beauty

Pink carnation - I'll never forget you

Chrysanthemum - Cheerfulness/You're a wonderful friend

Gladiolus - Generosity/Strength of character

Blue hyacinth - Consistency

Lavender - Devotion

Orchid - Love/Beauty

White rose - Eternal love/Heavenly

Violet - Modesty

Brigid presents Ask about Gardening every Sunday on BBC Radio Cleveland 95FM from 1-2pm.

Questions will be answered on the day by e-mailing cleveland.studios@bbc.co.uk, texting 07786-200995 or phoning 01642- 225511. Alternatively, send questions to brigid.press@bbc.co.uk or The Clow Beck Eco Centre, Old Spa Farm, Croft-on-Tees, Darlington, DL2 2TQ info@clowbeckecocentre.co.uk