A contact today asked for flower seeds so they could grow flowers in their rooms to brighten them.  I thought this would be a great idea but what flowers would actually grow that way in the desert?  I know some flowers grow well in direct sun, I'm just not sure if the extreme heat precludes them being able to grow even inside there.

rosemary

Hi, Rosemary -- this might be totally off base -- but two things come to mind --

1.  You might want to double check with customs(?) or maybe the USPS -- it may not be okay to send flower seeds to a different country -- due to possible contamination of the natural flora, etc. (I'm just sayin' and could be over-thinking here.)

2.  Check with your local Garden Club, Agricultural College (I think Penn State might have an extension near you?) or local Community College for advice -- or maybe a good plant nursery.

And on this note -- I saw my first crocuses today -- yeay!

 --Marilyn

Perhaps a better idea would be to send silk flowers, that green floral foam, and inexpensive pots so that the "flowers" are always in bloom. 

Last year, a SGM used to send me regular updates of the flowerbed that they had going outside their CHU.  It was mostly Sunflowers started from seeds sent to them from . . .  some supporter.   Anyways, doesn't make it right . . . just know that it HAS happened.  Marilyn is right about finding out first.  I also  agree about getting in touch with an extension office!  They are a great resource!  Your supporter said they wanted to grow them IN their rooms, which hopefully have A/C.  so that might be an opportunity to provide more than seeds but maybe decorative pots, grow lights, etc.