The dilemma of whether or not to leave plants looking good in the garden or to cut them for the house. Since most gardens have to little room to have a border just for cut flower the best approach is to grow suitable types in the garden bed and show restraint when cutting them.

 The best time for cutting flowers is in the cool of the early morning when plants are firm and full of water before the blooms are fully open. If flowers are cut when in bud make sure they show colour as otherwise they may not open indoors. For maximum vase life plunge the stems into cool deep water, up to their necks if you can for several hours befoe arranging them. Vase life is often prolonged by plunging the bottom inch of the stems in boiling water and transferring them immediately to the vase this helps to expel air bubbles. Cutting the stems at an angle and frequently refreshing water also helps to prolong the vase life.