COLOUR & CHEER
From technicolour tulips to paperwhite narcissi, the first flowers of spring are bursting with seasonal joy
From technicolour tulips to paperwhite narcissi, the first flowers of spring are bursting with seasonal joy
Contained beauty
This simple and pretty display of potted violas (opposite) makes an effective centrepiece for a celebratory lunch as well as a unique Mother’s Day gift. Transfer established plants into a circular dish, top with moss or straw and finish by tying a hessian strip, ribbon and twine around the side like a cake.
Bright and beautiful
A rustic zinc planter or old cake mould filled with large tulip heads in an array of colours is a simple way to make a vibrant and informal centrepiece (right). Place a block of damp oasis inside to keep the stems watered and in place, cutting the ones near the edge shorter than those in the middle to create a balanced, full appearance.
Fragrant bunch
Hyacinths and tulips in pretty shades of pink, blue and lilac wrapped with a strip of hessian or jute make a charming hand-tied bouquet, which is perfect to give as a gift (below left).
Cheerful character
Here, a simple arrangement of distinctive spring flowers, such as narcissi, tulips and forsythia, stands out when displayed together in tones of one colour (below right).
Lasting impression
Enjoy flowers at their best for longer by pressing them to decorate gift tags and cards (left). Use a traditional flower-pressing kit or place the blooms between two sheets of plain paper and leave under a heavy book in a cool, dry place for a week. Flowers with flatter heads and petals, such as violas and pansies, work best for this.
Surprise opening
The easiest way to grow tulips is in pots, replacing them every year. Plant several bulbs together in one or, for longer splashes of colour, in a couple of containers so they start to bloom at different times (below left).
Especially for you
A handful of single stems tied with florist’s wire or string makes an effective name-place setting (below right), which looks pretty and is quick to make. Pick flowers to coordinate with the colours of your tabletop, choosing one to three varieties for an informal arrangement.
Individual elegance
Striking spring flowers often look best displayed as single stems where you can see their exquisite forms (opposite). A cluster of small bottles, glasses and vases with a bloom in each works well if there is a contrast between the shapes and they’re linked by complementary tones. Alternatively, use a single variety with a different shade in each vessel.