I'm cheating again for this week's In a Vase on Monday: The arrangements in this post were from about a week ago. But all these species and varieties are still blooming here, and I had the photos, so...
For the main arrangement above, I included a few cuttings of Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta). They've been stalwarts in my tiny "sunny" garden for more than two decades.
A favorite for nearly as long as Rudbeckia is 'State Fair Mix' Zinnia (Z. elegans). Plants are so easy to start from seed in the sunroom in March, and transplant to the garden in May. And this particular variety is large and tall (3-5 feet).
I grew Gladioli (Gladiolus grandiflora hybrids) many years ago, and stopped for a while. I don't remember why, but I'm glad they're back in the garden because they're excellent cut flowers, and great frames for arrangements.
I planted the Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus 'Rocket Mix') from purchased seedlings, and while I love them, I might take a break from them next year. I have limited space and sun in that little garden, and they've underperformed (small blooms) and crowded out (too tall and floppy) other plants this year.
I'll probably always make room for Cosmos (C. bipinnatus 'Sensation Mix').
Cosmos are so easy to grow from seed scattered right in the garden. And the flowers, buds, and foliage are delightful!
What can I say? Purple Coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea) are amazing native plants that must be in the garden--for so many reasons.
In addition to the main arrangement above, I potted up a few other cuttings for smaller pots:
My 'Stargazer' Lilies (Lilium orientalis) are just about finished blooming in the garden for the season. They're definitely the "stars" while they last, with their large, flamboyant blooms and lovely scent.
More Cosmos and mixed, sunny Zinnias make a great combo in a little pot.
My 'Stargazer' Lilies (Lilium orientalis) are just about finished blooming in the garden for the season. They're definitely the "stars" while they last, with their large, flamboyant blooms and lovely scent.
More Cosmos and mixed, sunny Zinnias make a great combo in a little pot.
Finally, a prematurely and accidentally broken Gladiolus bud and some 'Zowie! Yellow Flame' Zinnias are perfect toppers for this little vase. Little corner cuttings are the best.
For more floral arranging ideas from around the world, visit Cathy at Rambling in the Garden.
