As summer reaches its peak, the gardeners among us are bestowed with a magnificent gift: a vibrant array of flowers that can be carefully snipped and arranged into delightful bouquets.
But even if you don't have a green thumb, fear not, for this season abounds with flowers readily available at reasonable prices.
A Splash of Summer Colors
Anemones, lilies, gladiolus, calla lilies, iris, and dahlias are just a few of the enchanting varieties that can infuse some cool, refreshing colors into the scorching heat of summer.
It's the time when these beauties are at the peak of their glory, making it the perfect opportunity for everyone to snip a few stems or grab a bouquet from a corner market, roadside stand, or their favorite florist.
This is also an ideal moment to embrace some of the sizzling hot new floral design trends.
Floral Trends of the Season
“More and more of the people we are talking to are taking advantage of summer’s overflowing flower stands to treat themselves to fresh cut flowers each week,” Sally Ferguson the Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Director said. “For events and big parties, most Americans go to their favorite florist for special designs. But for day-to-day bouquets, especially in summertime, you’ll find more people here picking up bunches at the supermarket or flower stand and trying their own hand at floral design.”
The Quick and Casual Floral Trend
This year, the hottest trend in floral design is all about quick and casual arrangements, according to Ferguson.
Combining vibrant, high-energy colors with cool shades like blues, purples, and whites has become an immensely popular choice.
The loose and airy look, highly favored in Europe, has also started to gain traction, although many Americans still lean towards tightly-packed, low-slung designs.
Creative Floral Ideas
Here are a few creative ideas to kickstart your floral endeavors:
- Watermelon Vase for a Stylish Soiree: To create a stylish centerpiece, consider using a watermelon as a vase. Cut off the top third of the watermelon, hollow out the center to remove all the fruit, rinse the shell thoroughly, and fill it with water and your chosen flowers. A zig-zag cut across the top of the watermelon works best. If your watermelon won't stand on its own, you may need to provide some support. Asiatic lilies, crocosmia, and feathery greens are excellent choices for this unique vase, though any flower you fancy will work beautifully.
- Ditch the Traditional Vase: For a striking departure from the conventional ⅓ vase and ⅔ flowers rule, try placing your flowers right at the tip of the vase, allowing them to peek out dramatically. For an even bolder approach, assemble the flowers entirely inside the vase, with nothing extending beyond the rim. This unconventional arrangement can make a stunning statement.
- Low Floral Bowls for Dinner Parties: When hosting dinner parties, opt for low bowls filled with flowers. To keep the blooms in place, use chicken wire or water-soaked oasis within the bowl. Even a handful of loosely arranged flowers in a vase can create an elegant and inviting atmosphere for your guests.
Embrace Summer's Floral Splendor
With an abundance of flowers and the full bloom of summer upon us, take a moment to revel in this natural bounty—you've certainly earned it.
Enjoy the art of floral design, whether you're a seasoned gardener or a budding enthusiast.
Summer's beauty is here for the taking, one exquisite bouquet at a time.
FAQs - All About Summer Florals
Q: Where can I find an abundance of summer flowers for my bouquets?
A: Summer is the time when flowers are in full bloom. You can find an abundance of blooms at corner markets, roadside stands, and your favorite florist.
Q: What are the hottest floral design trends for this summer?
A: This year, the trend is all about quick and casual arrangements. Mix vibrant, high-energy colors with cool shades like blues, purples, and whites.
Q: How can I create a unique floral centerpiece for a summer party?
A: Try using a watermelon as a vase. Cut the top third off, remove the fruit, rinse the shell, and fill it with water and flowers for a refreshing and eye-catching centerpiece.
Q: Are there any unconventional floral arrangements I can try?
A: Absolutely! Break the traditional vase rules by placing flowers right at the tip of the vase or even assemble them entirely inside the vase with nothing extending beyond the rim for a unique and striking look.
Q: What's a great floral option for a dinner party?
A: For dinner parties, consider low floral bowls filled with flowers. Use chicken wire or water-soaked oasis inside the bowl to hold the flowers in place, or even a few loosely arranged flowers in a vase can create an elegant atmosphere.