Say It With Flowers

Dear Homeowner,

Garden flowers can do more than just brighten your landscape — they can also brighten your home.

Arrangements of garden flowers don't have to be elaborate. The simple beauty of a single rose or peony blossom floating in a clear bowl can be an attractive centerpiece.

When combining different species, look for variety in flower form, size and texture. This can be a mix of spike-flowers; round, daisy-like flowers and dainty fillers like baby's-breath.

Arrange your garden flowers in clean containers or vases that will complement the flowers, without being overbearing. You do not want a container to compete with the flowers for attention.

Select a container that's in proportion to the size of the flowers, their stem length and the size of the arrangement you plan to make. For low containers, arrangements should be 1 to 1 1/2 times as tall as the container's width. For tall containers, arrangements should be 1 1/4 to 2 times the container's height.

When you're ready to arrange your flowers, re-cut the stems under water to the desired length. A flower preservative, available from florists and garden centers, added to the vase water, will help to keep the flowers fresh-looking longer.

Always use clean water for arrangements. If flowers are displayed in vases, it's a good idea to change the water daily to prevent early wilting and browning.

Display your vases or arrangements of garden flowers in a cool location and out of direct sunlight and drafts.

For more home decorating ideas, call Sugar Pine Realty GMAC Real Estate at (209) 586-3242.