Beauties in blossom

The right container elevates a display from plain to perfect
Finding your blossoms' perfect partner doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. For a small single bud, add a whimsical touch by going through your kitchen cup-boards-a pretty china teacup, sugar bowl, egg cup or even the mortar from a mortar and pestle duo will do.

To highlight the fluidity of a climber or multi-blooming stem, place it in an antique jug. This string of sweet peas (top left) flows like milk from this country style pitcher.

A vintage perfume bottle (cleaned with bleach and rinsed thoroughly) is a whimsical homage to a sweetly scented bloom.

Terrines or candy dishes filled with exuberant blooms offer an indulgence for the eyes rather than the palate.

A classic favourite: antique glass preserve jars are inexpen-sive and easy to find. They give a fresh, nostalgic feel to floral arrangements.

Read more in Decorating & Design and Flower Arranging