Summer is a time of abundance. So many kinds of fresh flowers are available from so many sources, including our own cutting gardens. There are lots of ways we can use flowers in our homes and lives during the summer months.

All sorts of containers are suitable for summer floral arrangements. Take some of the small decorative tins (these are available in thrift stores). Remove the lid, and punch a hole in two opposite sides. Insert a ribbon through the holes, and tie into place so that the tin can be hung on a door knob or wall. Cut a piece of wet floral foam to fit into the tin. Add sprigs of greenery and flowers.

Check your kitchen cabinets and cupboards for ceramic or enamel containers that can be used instead of the usual vases or urns. Large serving bowls with handles work very nice. So do soup tureens. White ceramics will fit into any color scheme, and are ideal for summer use. Milk pitchers and decorative tea pots are also suitable.

Get creative when deciding on containers. Nothing says summer more than a watermelon centerpiece. This fruit makes a great container for a centerpiece for garden parties. The size of the watermelon depends on the size of the serving table. For a buffet, the centerpiece can be larger than it would for a sit down meal. In many cases a medium sized watermelon is sufficient.

Before carving the watermelon to make an opening for the flower
arrangement, first decorate the outside of the melon with decorative carvings of leaf and floral motifs using an X-Acto knife. Then, carve the top third of the melon away. If you’re really good at carving, do this in such a way that the carved edges form leaves. Next, using a melon baller or scoop, scoop out the flesh of the melon so there will be room for the flowers. Drain all the liquid out. Add a piece of floral foam, and add your flowers.

For the summer dining table, it isn’t necessary to have elaborate centerpieces. Instead, enjoy the richness of the season right from your own cutting garden. Create informal designs using assorted flowers in a mix of colors. Loosely arrange these in white ceramic pitchers.

With summer here, you won’t need to use the fireplace for several months, depending on the climate. If there is a screen in front of the fireplace, remove it. Create a large everlasting arrangement in a large basket. The tallest flowers should almost reach the top of the fireplace opening.