Flower Arrangement Basics: Annuals, Perennials, and Design Tips for Bouquets and Centerpieces

Plant Types for Cutting

• Annuals: Bloom all season; great for fresh cuts (zinnias, marigolds, cosmos).
• Perennials: Shorter bloom window; some treated as annuals in cold zones (geraniums, snapdragons).
• Biennials: Foliage first year, flowers second (foxglove, hollyhock).

Design Principles

• Use odd numbers of stems (3, 5, 7).
• Start with largest flowers (lilies, roses).
• Build symmetry; contrast textures (smooth vs. ruffled, glossy vs. matte).
• Incorporate greenery to hide mechanics.
• Cut stems at 45°; remove submerged leaves.

Seasonal Stars

• Celosia: Crests, plumes, spikes in red, yellow, pink, orange.
• Chrysanthemums: Late summer/fall color; natural pyrethrin repels insects.
• Gladiolus: Tall spikes from corms; lift in cold zones.
• Fuchsia 'Voodoo': Trailing, bicolor—great for baskets.

Baby Shower Arrangements

Pastel palette: stock, lisianthus, lilies, tuberoses, roses, sea lavender, godetia, snapdragons, alstroemeria, larkspur, dendrobium orchids. Bubble bowls add charm.