Wisteria, with blooms of purple, pink or white, is a beautiful draping flower reminiscent of grape bunches. As a live plant, gardeners either love it or hate it because once established it can become very invasive, often climbing walls, fences and taking over other trees. As a decorative accent in the home, however, wisteria can bring new life to a drab area.
Decorating With Silk Wisteria Plants
Because live blooms have a relatively short lifespan, wisteria accents are best achieved through the use of silk florals. These can be purchased in single stems, garlands or silk trees. Wisteria looks lovely draped above windows or across a mantle piece. Tie several bunches together with a large silk ribbon and hang above a bathroom or hall mirror to create a dramatic effect. Wisteria can also be used as an accent pieces above windows or above the kitchen sink.
Although wisteria is a draping flower, it's possible to use wisteria in vase arrangements. Suggested applications using the flowers to fill out the lower portion of the arrangement and droop gently over the sides of the vase. Mix colors to create a more festive centerpiece. Another method simply arranges the wisteria around the base of the vase itself much like a using a tree skirt.
Cultivating Live Wisteria Plants for Effect
For a truly beautiful outdoor effect, wisteria can be trained to grow up lattice work or an arbor way. This makes a captivating backdrop for photos or just to create a shady setting for backyard get-togethers, however it can take nearly ten years for them to produce flowers. In a time crunch for special occasions this effect can be achieved with a full infusion of artificial wisteria garland and branches.
Wisteria bonsai is another great addition to the home. These miniature trees look spectacular when in bloom and are easy enough to start from cuttings. Seedlings tend to produce mixed results. When starting bonsai wisteria allow the plant ample room to generate roots and and produce a trunk before allowing the plant to finally become root bound.
Wisteria can also be potted to curb its invasive nature and trained into small trees to decorate patios and porches.This method is considerably easier than creating a bonsai, but will still take years to mature and flower. An investment in time and patience will pay off with a beautiful reward when completed and also provide fresh cuttings for flower arrangements.
Try decorating with the many different types of wisteria and discover the many possibilities it has to offer. Artificial or live, this flower will add charm and whimsy to any home.
Beverly Hill - Beverly is an outdoor adventure writer who owns and maintains Northwest Florida Outdoor Adventure.
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