I’ve always believed that flowers are more than just plants—they can also be canvases for creativity, a source of natural beauty, and a way to connect with nature. That’s why National Floral Design Day, celebrated annually on February 28th, holds a special place for us. And this day isn’t just for professional florists; it’s a celebration for those who love flowers, gardens, and the art of arranging them.

What is National Floral Design Day?

Established to honor the birthday of Carl Rittner, the founder of the Rittner School of Floral Design in Boston - National Floral Design Day encourages people to explore the artistry of floral design. Rittner was a pioneer in floral education, and his legacy lives on through this day. For gardeners, it’s an opportunity to take step back from daily toil and focus on the aesthetic beauty of our beautiful blooms. 

What’s to Celebrate? 

We spend countless hours planting, pruning, and tending to our gardens. For gardeners, National Floral Design Day is a chance to showcase the fruits of our labor in new and exciting ways. It’s about taking the flowers we’ve grown to create stunning displays that tell a story or evoke an emotion. Here’s why this day matters:

1. Celebrating the Fruits of Our Labor
   It can be incredibly rewarding to see your flowers transformed into beautiful arrangements after months of nurturing. Whether it’s a bouquet of roses or a wildflower wreath, floral design allows us to appreciate nature’s beauty in new ways. 

2. Bringing the Garden Indoors
   Floral design also lets us bring the beauty of our gardens into our homes. A table arrangement of tulips or a vase of freshly cut zinnias can brighten any room, and remind us of the joy of gardening even in the colder months.

3. Encouraging Creativity
   Gardening is an art form, and so is floral design. This occasion inspires us to think outside the box—mixing colors, shapes, and textures to create something new. For example, try pairing sunflowers with delicate baby’s breath or combining fragrant lavender with rosemary, this can give you unexpected results and breathtaking arrangements.

4. Connecting with Others
   Sharing floral arrangements is a wonderful way to connect with family and friends as well. Whether hosting a floral design workshop or just giving away blooms, this day fosters the community spirit and spreads the love of gardening.
   
   

Tips for Gardeners 

Here are a few ways to make the most of National Floral Design Day:

1. Harvest Your Blooms
   If you have winter blooms like camellias, hellebores, or early daffodils, use them in your arrangements. Don’t forget to include foliage—ferns, eucalyptus, or even herbs like mint and thyme can add depth and texture.
   
   

2. Experiment with Containers
   Beyond traditional vases, try using mason jars, cups, or hollowed-out pumpkins from the garden as unique vessels for your floral designs.
   
   

3. Try a Theme
   Create some arrangements inspired by your personality and your garden layout. For example, a rustic wildflower bouquet or minimalist succulent arrangements can reflect your gardening style.
   
   

Just like floral arrangements need focal points, so does your garden. Try incorporating striking sculpture, brightly colored fixtures, scrubs or trees to draw the eye and create visual interest. Floral design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also about the love and care that goes into growing and arranging each bloom.

Sometimes, foliage is just as important as flowers. Pay more attention to the foliage in your garden, and consider adding plants with interesting leaf shapes, textures and colors for more depth and visual interest. For example, the distinctive silvery foliage of the Artemisia provides a cool contrast to the green foliage of other plants.

The Bigger Picture

More than just a celebration of flowers—National Floral Design Day is a reminder of the beauty and creativity that gardening brings. It encourages us to appreciate the blooms we’ve nurtured and to share their beauty with others.

Let’s pick up our gardening shears and favorite flowers this February 28th, and let creativity blossom. Take time to reflect on your gardening journey, and use floral design as a way to celebrate the artistry of nature and the joy of planting.