Vertical Flower Arrangement Tip

When you are selecting the stems to make a vertical design, study each stem carefully before you cut or buy it. Choose Trachelium when only a few of the flowers on the cluster are starting to open; irises when the buds are showing color; Phlox when most flowers have opened; Campanula when the lower buds are just opening; and Feverfew when the flowers are beginning to open.

Choose flowers which have exactly the length and width you need. If you choose stems and flowerheads that are too slender or look very regular, your design will appear very stiff and formal. Keep the container you are using in mind so you don't select material that is too long and has to be discarded or wasted. It also saves time when you are about to arrange the material if it is already the right size for your requirements.
When picking from the garden, carry a bucket of water with you so the flowers and foliage don't wilt before you have a chance to condition them. Give all the stems a good long drink in a deep container of water before arranging them on a pinholder in a shallow dish. They really benefit from this extra nourishment.