Arrange flowers well

Flower arrangements should be simple and look natural. It is not necessary to see symbols in the arrangement of a few twigs and flowers. Regard  flowers as flowers, twigs as twigs and buds as buds.

         The flat arrangements, flowers stuck on corks and plastic cushions and placed in saucers look unpleasant to the sensitive eye, especially if they are put below the eye-level. The best idea for a lovely flower arrangement is to choose a tall vase of a colour that can accentuate the prettiness of the flowers. 

        Black would be the best. If a dozen long stalks of roses are put in a black lacquered vase and placed against a blank wall, the room would take on a loveliness difficult to describe. In a cream vase, place two long branches of mauve bougainvilla with their leaves removed. Avoid the mixing of varieties of flowers as the crowded bazaar look that results would only be vulgar.

            Do not keep the flowers where they receive strong winds or sun. The corner near the window side of a room is usually a good spot for flowers. The number of vases depends on the size of the room. The eye must fall on the flowers and rest there. 

            The table or the high stool on which the flower vase is kept should have simple lines. Do not keep flowers in a room that holds a cluster of paintings, printed draperies and works of art, for against a cluttered up or gaudy background the flowers lose their dignity and their character.

            Treat the flowers with respect. The part of the stalk that sinks in water should be stripped of leaves, or else the leaves rot and give off an odour. Some flowers stay alive and fresh for about a week, but the lower flowers on the stalks wilt, and hard chlorinated water can be softened by adding a teaspoon of flour or oats.

        Avoid keeping over-fragrant flowers and those with heavy pollen in the bedrooms, if you are susceptible to allergic troubles. Bougainvilla is the best for a pale-pink bedroom, because this sturdy bloom creates a youthful atmosphere. Roses in silver bowls or crystal vases look good on dining tables.