Build the Perfect Bouquet | Midwest Living

Build the Perfect Bouquet

Turn garden cuttings or store-bought blooms into showy summer centerpieces. Michael Gaffney, founder of the Chicago School of Flower Design, shares his floral-fashioning tricks.

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Use floral foam for a base.
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Make arrangements last

Drench displays Give stems a fresh cut, and soak the bouquet underwater for a half hour; a sink or bucket will do. “You need to hydrate the stems, leaves and blossoms,” Michael says. When blossoms start to droop, repeat the soak. “They’ll literally stand up.”

Seal in moisture Spray blooms and leaves with Floralife Crowning Glory, a nontoxic wax sold at flower shops. “I use it on everything,” he says.

Keep it fresh A few drops of bleach in water prevent bacteria growth.

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