I’m back to share this month’s grocery-store-style bouquet — a thoughtful little gift from my husband. This time, though, the bouquet didn’t come from a store at all. We didn’t visit a florist; instead we clipped a dozen giant wild irises growing in our backyard boxwoods. Rather than spending the usual $3–$5, we spent nothing and brought a burst of spring indoors. Here they are brightening up the sunroom:
Those little green glass votive holders are actually from last month’s grocery-store flowers, still going strong a month later. I love how the green glass pairs with the purple irises — the contrast feels fresh and cheerful.
One of the best things about this bouquet is the scent. The irises give off a lovely, sweet fragrance — think lavender-sugar cookie — and many of the stems still have buds, so the arrangement will get fuller and even more fragrant over the next few days. It’s a simple pleasure that keeps improving.
We’re grateful to the previous homeowner who planted those bulbs years ago. Each spring they come back big and lovely without any special care from us — no fertilizing or fussing required. Snipping a few blooms and arranging them in a vase is free, easy decorating that adds real warmth to our home.
Curious about past bouquets? Check out our first grocery-store bouquet from January, or see February, March and April for more budget-friendly floral inspiration.