THE JOY OF FLOWERS (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

THE JOY OF FLOWERS

8:41pm Sunday 5th September 2010

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I recently celebrated a birthday, not a special number, just another year that can’t happen again. Sadly I know so many people who look on birthdays with regret as every one means that we are one year older and there is no going back. My feelings are that we should enjoy the moment and make the most of it. I love celebrations of every kind and to receive early in the morning a lovely bouquet of pink rosebuds (my favourite colour) was a wonderful start to a special day. My love of flowers was reflected in the cards I received as well as in further floral gifts during the day.

Flowers as gifts are so versatile, how often they are used as special thanks and tributes and what pleasure they bring. They can be as spectacular or as simple as you feel the occasion merits. From the exotic displays used as part of wedding ceremonies to a posy of freshly picked flowers from your own garden.

There is a special pleasure in picking flowers that you have grown yourself. If space allows a ‘picking garden’ is ideal but if this isn’t possible try growing a few shrubs and plants that can be used to provide a blooms for indoors, roses and sweet peas being good examples. And don’t overlook foliage plants, quite elaborate displays can be made with just a few flowers and lots of cleverly arranged greenery. Or a single specimen in a slender clear vase can add the right touch where there isn’t room for anything larger.

There are so many options and it is great fun experimenting – check out what is in your own garden – the variations are limitless.