Leaves, Herbs, and Co. – The Underestimated Enrichments

Just a single, simple flower stands out more when surrounded by vibrant green leaves, grasses, ferns, or herbs. You can add a personal touch to your autumn decorations with chrysanthemums or asters by incorporating branches with colorful fruits of the season. In addition, the bouquets become fuller and are easier to bind — a valuable help, especially with leafless or stiff flower stems, like gerbera or roses. Even beginners can create a lush flower arrangement this way. At the same time, the ingredients emphasize the effect of the flowers or, color-coordinated, blend harmoniously into the decoration. Herbs also release a delicate scent of summer freshness. Grasses with hanging panicles add dynamism and momentum.

You can find accompaniments in your garden or in nature. From flower beds, hedges, and shrubs come the fine ingredients that bring a bouquet to life: evergreen plants, bizarre seed heads, fruit-bearing branches, or sprawling vines — all can be used. And for those without a garden, of course, you’ll find all these ingredients at the florist.

A leaf is not just a leaf. Different shades of green, varying shapes from large to delicate: for every flower, there’s the perfect accompaniment to enhance its effect. Combining different types of leaves makes an arrangement particularly appealing. Shrubs or perennial beds can provide the essentials here. When cutting from your flower beds, make sure the leaves are fully developed. Newly sprouted leaves won’t last long in a vase! In summer, for example, the leaves of hostas, heucheras, or bergenias have a leathery texture, which ensures they last longer in the vase. Always cut only as much as you need. Herbs like rosemary or lavender need a lush foliage layer before the cold, winter months: therefore, avoid cutting after September, as the fragrant branches serve as the plants' natural winter protection.

Branches can also add a touch of charm, even when they are without leaves. With their fine branching, they create striking accents. They reach their peak in autumn: adorned with fruits and berries, they bring the allure of the season indoors. Always use a sharp garden shear when cutting, and make your cut just above a branching point. Only after that, shorten the branch to the desired length.

Fruits are also an important design and style element on their own. Rose hips or ornamental apples, casually draped around a vase, harmoniously complement the flowers of the season. They usually last for several weeks. Autumn-colored leaves also have their charm: Since they are falling from the trees anyway, there's no need to hold back.