Plants for Cutting

Adding plants to your garden that are specifically grown for cutting allows you to bring the beauty of nature indoors and create stunning floral arrangements. In this article, we'll explore some popular garden plants for cut flowers and provide a simple guide on how to create a delightful cut flower display.

Why Choose Plants for Cutting?

Endless Floral Possibilities: By growing plants specifically for cutting, you have access to an abundant array of garden flowers to use in your arrangements. You can experiment with different colors, textures, and scents to create customized bouquets that suit your style.

Cost-Effective Solution: Rather than purchasing cut flowers from a store or florist, growing your own provides a cost-effective way to enjoy fresh blooms throughout the growing season. Plus, you can always share the beauty by gifting your homegrown bouquets to friends and loved ones.

Gardening Satisfaction: Cultivating plants for cutting adds another layer of enjoyment to your gardening experience. It's incredibly satisfying to nurture these plants from seeds or bulbs and witness their growth and transformation into beautiful blossoms.

Choosing Plants for Cut Flowers:

Roses: Known for their timeless beauty and fragrance, roses make a stunning addition to any cut flower display. Select varieties that are specifically bred for cutting, such as hybrid teas or climbing roses.

Zinnias: These vibrant annual flowers are available in a wide range of colors and produce long-lasting blooms, making them ideal for cut flower arrangements. They thrive in full sun and are relatively easy to grow from seed.

Sunflowers: With their cheerful faces and impressive size, sunflowers are a delightful addition to any cut flower display. Choose varieties with strong stems and large flower heads for optimal impact.

Dahlias: Dahlias offer an abundance of shapes, colors, and sizes, making them a favorite among flower enthusiasts. They provide stunning blooms from midsummer to fall and are perfect for creating dramatic and diverse arrangements.

Creating a Simple Cut Flower Display:

Harvesting: When selecting flowers for cutting, choose those that have just opened or are showing color. Use sharp, clean pruners or scissors to cut the stems at an angle, preferably in the early morning or late evening when the plants are well-hydrated.

Conditioning: Immediately after cutting, remove any leaves that will be submerged in water and place the stems in a clean container filled with warm water. Allow the flowers to hydrate for a few hours or overnight before arranging them.

Choosing Complementary Flowers: Select a variety of flowers with different shapes, sizes, and textures to add interest and depth to your arrangement. Consider incorporating foliage, such as eucalyptus or ferns, to provide a lush backdrop.

Arranging: Start by placing the largest flowers in the center of the arrangement and gradually add smaller blooms around them. Trim the stems as needed to achieve the desired height and shape. Play with different combinations until you achieve a visually pleasing composition.

Displaying: Once your arrangement is complete, place it in a clean vase filled with fresh water and flower preservative. Position the vase away from direct sunlight, drafts, or heat sources to prolong the life of your cut flowers.

Remember to change the water and trim the stems every few days to maintain the freshness of your cut flower display. Enjoy the beauty and fragrance of your homegrown blooms as they bring a touch of nature's elegance into your home.