Herbs in Flowers

 

Here a bowl of market flowers is accented with stems of basil.

 

Just wanted to clarify “herbs in flowers” really does mean exactly that- that stems from an herb plant- Like Basil, shown here, do indeed mix well with flowers.  They add filler, scent and instant- somewhat unusual- but familiar-greenery to arrangements.  Lemon balm, lovage, fennel, mint and many others can help to fill out holes and add texture as well to all sorts of available market flowers.

 

 Look to nature to discover all sorts of "elements" that can take your arrangements up a notch.

 

Common weeds can set market flowers off with their unique seasonal combinations and colorings.

 

 

It always amazes me that many of the floral materials that we seek and pay dearly for are in abundance in our own backyards.  A trip to a park, playground or even roadside area can provide an armful of clippings and unique materials.

Do be careful of course for busy traffic areas and be wary of public and private property limits.  I suggest that materials be sprayed with a hose and left (in water) overnight to dry.  This should limit any pesky bugs that you might not want to invite in to your party.  Spraying somewhat drier grasses, dried florals, like spent hydrangers and seed pods with hair spray will help to keep the pod from bursting, kill bugs and act as a perservative.

 

In the fall, bittersweet, cat tails and wheat like looking weeds abound.  Armed with a sharp clipper (yes you should always keep one in your car) these are easy materials to collect.  Wild crab apple trees, rose hips (the seed pods from roses) and small branches can provide just the right elements to make your home arrangements outstanding works of art.