One of summer’s best treats is having fresh cut flowers from our gardens grace the inside of our homes and our lives. The colors, shapes and fragrances of flowers radiate a living energy that enhances a room and all the people within. A flower’s power is subtle, yet strong. They don’t take up a lot of space but they exude a life force that affects spaces and people in positive ways. Rooms feel brighter and more cheerful. For people the most important effect is that they make us feel happy. The beauty of a flower reminds us of the perfection of nature and a world larger than our own. Flowers elevate every day events to the level of celebration. They can be companions, present in the daily routines of life.

It’s easy to have a garden with flowers that can be cut and enjoyed every day of the summer. It’s not necessary to cut armloads of blossoms, often one small flower in a tiny vase is enough to bring the magic of flowers indoors. Flowers bloom in the shade and sun, although more can be grown in sunny conditions. It is helpful to know the flowering plants and how they respond to cutting.

Most annuals will bloom even more when cut than if they aren’t. Zinnias are a favorite cutting flower. They bloom and bloom if continually cut. They are also very easy to grow from seed planted directly in the garden. Poppy and larkspur seeds can be scattered in the garden in late winter, even on top of snow, and will bloom in early summer. Nasturtium seeds can be planted in March. They will bloom all summer long. Their bright flowers brighten a windowsill and a salad. Cleome will reseed itself year after year and will bloom longer if the flowers are cut. Datura, or Angel’s Trumpets, has fragrant flowers that unfurl only at dusk and last for one short night in vase, but they can be watched as they open for a truly amazing show.

Many perennials bloom for a long time, often re-blooming after their flowers are cut. Becky daisy, phlox and Black-eyed Susans offer many flowers. Ever blooming roses offer the longest bloom time for the summer garden. Even the now ubiquitous Knock Out rose is amazingly beautiful in a vase.

It’s best to cut flowers early in the morning when they are fresh and the air is cool. Vases, cups and jars can be filled with water and taken into the garden to be filled with flowers. It’s less messy than arranging flowers on the kitchen counter and reduces the possibility the flowers will never make it into a vase. Once the flowers are wilted and ready to be discarded, clean the container and bring more beautiful fresh flowers indoors. Let them grace your home and life every day this summer.