Stream Corner

It follows that it is foolish to cut when transpiration is high and undesirable to cut at a time when, although transpiration is comparatively low, the blooms are still flaccid, as the rate of sap rise will still be high. The blooms must be given an opportunity to recover from the effects of high transpiration before attempting to cut.

It is basically simple and effective, for, although quite elaborate arrangements based on this principle can be devised, the less elaborate and easiest arrangements often look the best.

It would be very wrong to say that because one grows dahlias one must be an exhibitor, but equally certainly it is true to say that every grower of dahlias is a potential exhibitor. An enthusiasm for exhibiting can easily begin once the joy of growing has taken a firm grip.

As well as foliage, sprays of berries can be used; arranged to trail over the edge of the container at a suitable point, they will often add just that final finishing touch that brings the arrangement from the pretty to the really attractive. Lots of unusual material can be used, begonia rex leaves, variegated kale, and so on. It is quite good fun experimenting with all sorts of foliage.

Pompon dahlias are not always easy to arrange on their own, although a few can be used in almost any arrangement containing other dahlias. If cut with long stems and well sprayed out, with rather spiky foliage, grasses and other material, quite pleasant bowls can be made. Comparatively shallow bowls suit these rather prim little blooms best of all.

Whatever form is used, one basic principle must never be overlooked. The flowers, foliage, berries, in fact all material, must appear to spring from the same point somewhere inside the vase. The curve of foliage and flower, however exaggerated, must always spring from this point, or appear to do so, otherwise the arrangement will appear angular and awkward.