A vintage tin can (or a colourful modern aluminum container) makes a classic basket for summertime blooms. Simply punch two holes near the rim of the can and run wire through each, pinching back the ends so the handle doesn't come off. A handful of delicate lilies-of-the-valley, as shown here, fill a small can with charm, but pick blooms of a larger scale if you use a bigger can.

Care and conditioning tips for cut flowers
People often hesitate to buy fresh flowers because they think they can't get them to last more than a couple of days. Some flowers are shortlived, but most commercially grown flowers will last at least a week if treated right. Commercially-grown flowers are specially treated after cutting, which means they will last longer than varieties cut from the garden.

Conditioning is the term florists use to mean getting the flowers ready for arranging. By following these few simple steps you can get extra life and pleasure from your flowers.

Buy flowers from a reputable outlet, and choose blooms with firm petals or with buds that show a degree of colour to ensure the flowers will develop fully.

Ensure the flowers are well wrapped for protection and, if the flowers are to be kept out of water for some hours, ask the florist to cover the stem ends with damp paper, or even to "aquapack" them in their own water 'pod'.

Ask for cut flower food if it is not already supplied. This contains the correct ingredients to a) feed the flowers properly, b) keep bacteria at bay (which blocks the stem and stops water uptake), c) encourage buds to open, d) lengthen the life of the flowers. Snipping the corner off a one-dose sachet and adding it to the vase water is simple and effective - and scientifically tested to make your flowers last longer.

Use lukewarm water - there's less oxygen in it, and helps prevent air bubbles in the stem that will block water uptake. It also encourages some flowers to open up. The only exception to this is spring bulb flowers like daffodils and tulips which prefer cold water.

Use thoroughly clean vases - bacteria kills flowers.

Cut stems at an angle.This gives the stem a bigger area to take up more water, and stops it resting on the bottom of the vase and sealing itself.

Follow the care and conditioning stages outlined below to prolong the life and beauty of the flowers.

Go Country with Crockery A stoneware crock is a good container for creating a lavish bouquet. Crumple chicken wire to fill the crock and hold stems in place. Remove the leaves along the lower three-fourths of the stems to prevent leaves from rotting in the water and to allow more stems in the arrangement.

Gather Riches from the Roadside Some of the best things in life are free. For a burst of colour, combine summer blossoms with roadside gleanings. If your rustic container, such as this syrup bucket, isn't watertight, insert a widemouthed jar to hold the bouquet.