Guide to Gathering Flowers for a Garden Bouquet
Creating a garden bouquet can be a delightful and fulfilling experience. Follow these steps to curate a beautiful arrangement using flowers from your own garden.
1. Choose the Right Time
Early Morning or Late Afternoon: Gather flowers when the temperatures are cooler, typically early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This helps preserve the freshness of the blooms.
2. Select Your Flowers
Variety: Aim to include a mixture of shapes, sizes, and colours. This can enhance the bouquet's visual appeal. Consider using:
Focal Flowers: Large blooms like peonies or hydrangeas.
Secondary Flowers: Medium-sized flowers such as roses or lilacs.
Filler Flowers: Smaller blooms like baby’s breath or daisies to add texture.
3. Check Plant Health
Inspect for Pests and Diseases: Ensure that the flowers you choose are free from pests or diseases. Healthy flowers will last longer in a bouquet.
4. Cut Flowers Properly
Tools: Use sharp, clean scissors or garden shears to avoid damaging the stems.
Angle of Cut: Cut stems at a 45-degree angle. This increases the surface area for water absorption.
Length: Leave enough stem length to arrange the bouquet effectively, usually around 30–45 cm.
5. Prepare the Stems
Remove Lower Leaves: Strip any leaves from the lower part of the stems that will be submerged in water. This prevents rotting in the water.
Rehydrate: Place cut flowers in water immediately to keep them hydrated.
6. Arrange the Bouquet
Start with Focal Flowers: Place the focal flowers in the centre of your bouquet.
Add Secondary Flowers: Layer in the secondary flowers around the focal points.
Incorporate Fillers: Finally, weave in the filler flowers to add volume and texture, ensuring an even distribution.
7. Secure the Arrangement
Binding: Use floral tape or string to bind the stems together securely.
Water Source: If transporting the bouquet, place the stems in water or wrap them in a damp cloth to keep them fresh.
8. Display Your Bouquet
Vase Preparation: Use a clean vase filled with fresh, cool water. Adding flower food can enhance longevity.
Final Adjustment: Trim the stems again if necessary and arrange the bouquet within the vase for an aesthetically pleasing look.
FLorist tips
Gathering flowers for a garden bouquet is a simple process that can yield beautiful results. By selecting a variety of flowers and following the right preparation techniques, you can create stunning arrangements that express the beauty of your garden. Enjoy the creativity of your floral creation!
