The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Don’t like flowers? Try organic arrangemen­ts

- By Cathy Hobbs Tribune News Service

Not everyone loves flowers. So when it comes to creating an ideal centerpiec­e or arrangemen­t for areas such as tabletops large or small, there are some alternativ­es.

These days, many flower districts and floral stores can make arrangemen­ts using natural elements that serve as an alternativ­e to flowers and in many cases last longer and for some homeowners­maybeviewe­dasmore modern.

What to do

■ Consider organic elements such as wild grasses, moss or succulents.

■ Incorporat­e elements such as vegetables into your decor. Potted cabbages are a great choice and are hearty and long-lasting.

■ Incorporat­e elements such as herbs and branches; they are a wonderful alternativ­e to traditiona­l flowers.

■ Use interestin­g vessels for your arrangemen­ts. You don’t just have to place an arrangemen­t in a vase; elements such as clay pots and wood bowls are a creative alternativ­e.

■ Use vignettes. A lot of times, you can make your most powerful statement using minimal decor in a grouping.

Whatnottod­o

■ Mix too many elements together. Typically, naturalarr angements are most successful with one type of element such as solely branches or succulents.

■ Forget to water your natural arrangemen­ts. Many still need to be exposed to moist environmen­ts.

■ Forget to experiment with size and scale.

■ Ignore fragrance. In many instances, fragrance will be added bonus experience­d through the use of your natural decor.

■ Forget the power of dried or preserved natural arrangemen­ts. Many natural elements can be easily dried. Drying or preserving decorative elements is easy to do a ndservesas­a way to preserve your decor.

 ?? DESIGN RECIPES/TNS ?? A large vessel filled with moss and succulents creates a simple arrangemen­t with impact.
DESIGN RECIPES/TNS A large vessel filled with moss and succulents creates a simple arrangemen­t with impact.
 ?? DESIGN RECIPES/TNS ?? Dried flowers hung from a hook create interestin­g wall decor.
DESIGN RECIPES/TNS Dried flowers hung from a hook create interestin­g wall decor.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United States