Blooming LOVELY

Creating a pretty, eye-catching display has never been easier

- ESME CLEMO

Choose your flowers

Whether you're making up a bouquet as a gift or filling a vase at home, it's tempting to select bold, high-contrast blooms, but it's easier to stick to ones of a similar shade. Opt for a mix of stiff and soft stems, and an assortment of sizes and shapes to create a layered, natural look.

Prepare stems

Snip the stem ends at a 45- degree angle and strip off any unwanted foliage or prickles. For thick, woody stems, such as shrub and tree cuttings, cut the base of the stem in half by about 2cm for better water absorption. Pop them in tepid water for a couple of hours, or overnight, in a cool, shady spot, adding cut-flower food.