Moving into Autumn

This month I am teaching two classes at Longwood Gardens.   They are the first “in-person” classes for me since the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020.   Both classes focus on locally grown fall flowers from The Farm at Oxford and mechanics to support designs for the home with attention to sustainability.

Sustainable Structures

Willow or other pliable branches may be used to create a grid inside of a vase.

The willow grid supports these late summer garden flowers with branches extending from the grid.

Taller flowers and heavier stems need more support added to the grid inside the vase. Branches may be extended from the grid and work to hold tall-stemmed flowers and feathery grasses.

Circular vases can be tricky but can be supported with a grid of branches across the vase opening. This allows for heavy branches and tall flowers to be held securely.

A grid of crossing kiwi branches supports ranunculus, freesia, clematis, and jasmine vine with touches of fragrant lavender.

All of these mechanics may be reused and recycled. Try one with the wonderful flowers of the September season or check out the Longwood Gardens website for lots of fall classes.