FLOWER ARRANGEMENT 373

FLOWERS AS GIFTS

Flowers are important conveyors of messages whether in times
of joy, illness, or sorrow. Flowers from one's garden have a
valuable personal touch. Flowers are sent as gifts in various forms,
some of which are better than others.

Cut flowers for vase arrangements constitute the most popular
floral gifts even for messages of congratulation or consolation.

Corsages should harmonize with the dress and coloring of the
wearer. Choice flowers are always preferable for such personal
use. Roses, camellias, dendrobiums, or orchids serve well as the
dominant material; the less important lily-of-the-valley, Roman
hyacinth, delphinium, or sweet peas are excellent accompanists;
southernwood is desirable foliage. In making a corsage the larg-
est flowers should be near the center or base with smaller ones and
possibly delicate foliage near the outside; the ribbon should be
inconspicuous.

Sprays of flowers are usually arranged by florists although they
can be made by clever amateurs. Well-fortified, hardy materials
should be used because sprays are not placed in water.

Wreaths of simple design are pleasing for holiday decoration.
Wreaths are less desirable for use at funerals; however, they are
very much preferable to elaborate set pieces.

Potted plants, which are in blossom, are delightful gifts, used
singly or in groups.

HOUSE PLANTS

The modern feeling about potted plants is that only large plants
with large leaves, such as the rubber plant, count in the decorative
scheme of most living rooms. See pages 278 and 279. However,
collections of potted plants of average size are in keeping with
certain houses. See pages 10 and 380. A sun room in a Modern
house may feature a collection of potted cacti and succulents; an
old-fashioned cottage living room may have a bay window full
of plants. House plants should be arranged in orderly fashion with
consideration for line, color, and texture effects. Wire racks to
hold plant collections may be decorative; glass shelves across win-
dows are pleasing. Large plants should stand on the floor (page
10); hanging or drooping plants should be placed high.