Instead of buying the occasional bunch of flowers, why not go one step further and plant ones to create elegant arrangements that will fill your home with colour
While many of us think our flower arranging is done once we have filled a vase with water, dropped our shop-bought bouquet inside, and placed it in the centre of our kitchen table, we may be missing a trick.
If you’re lucky enough to have a garden, why not grow your own flowers to create pops of colour and life around your home this summer? It may sound daunting but if you know which ones to plant, it’s a lot easier than you might think.
Gardening expert and content creator Catherine Carton is a big fan of floral décor and is encouraging people to sow seeds now in order to reap the rewards in the summer months. Literally.
“Growing your own flowers isn’t just rewarding, it’s an easy and sustainable way to fill your home with beautiful, fragrant blooms throughout the summer,” says Catherine. “With the right seeds and a little care, you can create a vibrant cutting garden that lasts well into autumn.”
Feeling more confident? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, these are the flowers she recommends that will be easy to grow and perfect for cutting:
Sweet Peas – A summer garden essential, sweet peas offer a stunning scent and delicate, colourful blooms. Sow them in a root trainer, milk carton, or directly into warm soil. Provide a sturdy support structure to encourage climbing.
Cosmos and Zinnias – These annuals are perfect for cut flower arrangements, blooming non-stop until autumn if regularly deadheaded.
Cornflowers – A classic cottage garden favourite, cornflowers also work beautifully as dried flowers, making them a great dual-purpose choice.
Dahlias – Now is the time to order dahlia tubers or divide last year’s stock. Ball and pompon dahlias, in particular, are excellent for cutting and dry beautifully for year-round décor.
Sunflowers – A showstopper in any garden! Sow now for towering golden blooms from August onwards.
Strawflowers – A fantastic choice for drying, these hardy annuals flower from early summer until the first frost, adding long-lasting texture to bouquets.
Hydrangeas – Stunning in both fresh and dried arrangements, hydrangeas add elegance to any space. When cutting, take only one-third of the flowers to ensure the shrub remains healthy. Be mindful—some varieties bloom on old wood, so avoid heavy pruning.
Lavender – Not just a fragrant delight in the garden, lavender can also be used to craft homemade wreaths for a touch of rustic charm.
Bring the outdoors in
Once your flowers are in bloom, Catherine recommends harvesting in the early morning or evening when stems are most hydrated. With regular deadheading and careful cutting, they will last longer.
For dried flower arrangements, hang the blooms upside down in a cool, dark place to preserve their beauty.
But don’t over think it. At the end of the day, it’s all about the feeling you get when you see your creations in your house.
“There’s something so special about decorating your home with flowers you’ve nurtured yourself,” adds Catherine. “Whether fresh or dried, they bring a natural elegance that store-bought bouquets simply can’t match.”
For more gardening inspiration and expert advice, visit Catherine’s website or follow her on Instagram @daintydressdiaries.
