June 3, 2011

Carnations Done Like I Like Them


I put together this arrangement including local carnations (from Neve Roses of Petaluma) way back in April in preparation for Mother's Day.  Did you know carnations were once so in demand for Mother's Day that in 1917 American florists united in a national campaign to encourage consumers to consider other flowers, such as "her favorite" on the second Sunday in May? Mass importation, freakish artificial dyes, and contrived designs (both retro and contemporary) continued to batter the poor dianthus through the century, contributing to it's current reviled status. And I don't think that ugly, unspeakable abbreviation so common in the industry helped, either. Tear.

While the craziness that was May interfered with me actually posting these photos in time for Mother's Day, they've already proved useful in converting quite a few carnation haters; once people see these pretty flowers designed in a natural, gardeny way that flatters their feminimely ruffled petals, and are informed of their divinely spicy sweet scent (maybe I am spoiled on this count- I can get carnations locally and they may be more fragrant as a result), they love them almost as much as I do. : )

7 comments:

  1. you've nailed it. so beautiful...i love the little dish you've used too.

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  2. Really and truly, slam dunk carnation-wise.

    Up the revolution! I'm growing dianthus in every spare gap I have in the garden, their scent makes me so happy apart from anything else!

    Thanks for sweeeet comment yesterday btw. xx

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  3. You know I love them!!! If only they all smelled good. Every once in a while, there's a mini variety at market that is fragrant. I'm joining the revolution!

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  4. I looove carnations too! you did 'em justice!! soooo sweet*

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  5. Yay! Carnation lovers unit! So true about the fragrance dilemma- perhaps if we all keep clamoring for scent the market will respond with some nice stinky varieties- both heirloom and fancy new hybrids from Holland, Germany, etc., as I think is currently happening with roses. Perhaps Belinda will have to start exporting hers :).

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  6. everything about this arrangement (carnation included) is gorgeous.
    It looks so natural, but at the same time so clean. stunning. i love it.

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  7. Sarah, that is probably the most wonderful compliment you could give!! I'm always striving for controlled chaos- party on top, business below. Like a mullet only prettier. : )

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