Quite the Arrangement

Grow these easy-care, long-lasting flowers for DIY bouquets

- LUKE MILLER

1 Gladiolus 

GLADIOLUS SPP., ZONES 8 TO 11

This stately flower reaches 2 to 5 feet tall and grows from a corm that can be overwintered in cold climates and replanted each spring. Eye-catching tubular flowers come in many colors, such as yellow, pink, white, purple and more, and sit on elegant spires. To ensure a longer blooming season, sow successive batches of corms 10 to 14 days apart.

Why we love it: A stalk of gladiolus looks majestic in the garden and adds height to bouquets.

2 Allium 

ALLIUM SPP., ZONES 4 TO 9

A garden with alliums, particularly a large cultivar such as the Globemaster, has instant, whimsical appeal. The showstopping flowers are a beautiful sight at peak bloom, then hold their shape to become pretty dried flowers. Some gardeners even spray-paint the dried flower heads to give them a lasting color.

Why we love it: The one-of-a-kind blooms pop in a variety of shades, including burgundy, lilac, yellow and white.

3 Cosmos 

COSMOS BIPINNATUS, ANNUAL

A popular self-seeder, cosmos is easy to sprout-and easy to spot, thanks to a plethora of bright white, yellow, orange, red or pink flowers. The three B's (birds, butterflies and bees) adore the bright blooms too. Cosmos plants range in height from 2 to 6 feet, depending on species, and are tolerant of poor, dry soils.

Why we love it: Ferny foliage adds a textural contrast to the garden and is a fine foil for clusters of flowers.

TAKE CARE These plants do best in full sun but can handle part shade. Ranunculus and some alliums prefer cool spring temps, while others can take the heat of summer. For best results, plant in amended well-draining soil with a slow-release fertilizer.