David Austin roses - Arrangement

Sunset, August, 2002 by Ariella Chezar

WHEN BIG LUSH ROSES ARE IN SEASON, THEY NEED VERY LITTLE EMBELLISHMENT. From this maxim comes a summery picnic table arrangement, which uses a generous armful of chubby, old-fashioned-looking David Austin roses. These are apricot pink 'Evelyn' and pale yellow 'Golden Celebration', but any full-headed pastel roses will give a similar look. Start by placing individual roses with a bit of natural droop around the edge of the pot, allowing their heads to bob over the sides. Fill in the center rose by rose, crisscrossing stems to secure in place. Sprigs of Ivy, with their dark berries and golden leaves, provide contrast and soften the overall shape. Finish with a few green tendrils of clematis.

TIP: The rustic flowerpot used here does not hold water well. To make a terra-cotta pot watertight, nestle a plastic yogurt container inside.