BRING ON BLISS

with a floral & herb mix

WHAT’S NEW

This summer, florists are putting a new twist on garden-rose bouquets by combining fresh-picked herbs with blooms in a range of pinks. “Here, a variety of roses in a peachto-pink palette creates lush, eyecatching texture,” says floral designer Cathy Herrold, owner of Graci’s Flowers & Gifts in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania. “And tucking in herbs like oregano and mint adds a fresh scent—it’s perfect for a patio!”

GET THE LOOK

To start, fill a 6" vase halfway with water, then cut about 24 garden roses in coral, pink and peachy hues to 8"–10". Pop the flowers into the vase, alternating colors and sizes to form a rounded mound. Next, snip a few handfuls of herbs like yarrow and oregano to 10" and nestle them between the roses. To finish, tuck in sprigs of mint to fill in any gaps. The zesty herbs complement the flowers’ rosy scent.

INSIDER’S SECRET

The scent of mint may be invigorating for humans, but the menthol oil in the herb aggravates mosquitoes, flies and other bugs, so this bouquet will keep the pests away. To enhance mint’s insectrepelling properties, gently rub the leaves between your fingers to release the oils. Then add 6 drops of peppermint essential oil to the water. Its antimicrobial properties eradicate bacteria too!