I've never had a cutting garden -- my flowering shrubs and occasional roses always kept me plenty busy -- but after reading this new book, I might actually change my mind.
In Flower Color Theory (Phaidon, 2021), the noteworthy floral designers Darroch and Michael Putnam, show you the way to design stunning arrangements of singular or different hues.
Even if you're the kind of person who just wants to put blooms in a vase, you'll benefit mightily from studying this book and its 175 arrangements. At the edge of each page, you'll find blocks of color, making it easy for you to figure out what to do with your larkspurs, marigolds, or pink tulips.
I particularly liked the white and green combo of rose, hellebore, tulip, ranuculus, fern, and Cavolo nero kale (page 130-131). Each arrangement lists the plants used, a brief description, and the type of color combination. ie, the combo referenced here is an "Accent Color" arrangement (Butter yellow with dark green accent), described this way: "A backdrop of dark foliage contrasts with lighter-hued florals, showcasing the flowers and emphasizing their beauty."
In the back of the book, there are sections on basic color schemes, (analagous, complementary, monochromatic, etc); a glossary of floral terms; tips, essential tools, and recommendations for vessels; suggested color palettes for seasons or special occasions; tablescape approaches, and the type of mood various colors represent.
There's also an index of flowers, an index of colors and color schemes, and perforated pages that show each arrangement, with descriptions and color bars on the back, so you can easily take them apart and to your local florist when you want to recreate the same or create something original using the same hues, blooms, or foliage.
Whatever you grow in your own garden, you will not want to be without this book.
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